October is National Orthodontic Health Month, a time to focus on the importance of orthodontic care and how it contributes to a healthy smile and overall well-being. Sponsored by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), this observance highlights the value of proper orthodontic treatment in promoting oral health. Whether you’re currently in treatment or considering braces or aligners, this month is a reminder to take care of your teeth and understand how orthodontics can ...
Bad breath, or halitosis, is something everyone experiences at some point. It can be embarrassing and uncomfortable, often leading to self-consciousness in social situations. While it is easy to blame bad breath on the garlic you had for lunch, the causes are often more complex. Understanding the underlying reasons for bad breath can help you address the issue effectively and maintain fresh breath throughout the day. 1. Poor Oral Hygiene One of the most common ...
As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brightly overhead, many of us eagerly embrace the joys of summer. From beach days to backyard barbecues, summer brings a sense of fun and relaxation. However, amidst all the outdoor activities and sunshine, it's essential to consider the potential impact of hot weather on your oral health. Contrary to popular belief, the scorching summer sun can indeed affect your teeth and gums in various ways. Let ...
April is a month that carries significant importance in the realm of healthcare, particularly for dentists and oral health professionals. It's designated as Oral, Head, and Neck Cancer Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about these often overlooked yet critical forms of cancer. We feel compelled to shed light on this important topic and emphasize the importance of early detection, prevention, and support for those affected by these diseases. Understanding Oral, Head, and ...
November is a special month for us because it's TMJ Awareness Month. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, commonly known as TMJ, affects millions of people around the world. Yet, it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. Our team of experienced and trusted dental professionals aims to help patients of all ages live healthy, comfortable lives. If any of the TMJ symptoms listed below resonate with you, call us today to schedule an initial consultation. Our goal in ...
There are a lot of things that you know you should do. Balance and rotate your tires periodically. Take your cat for his vaccines. Exercise three times a week. But in the midst of life’s busyness, all too often, these things go undone. Another thing you should do is floss your teeth. And, fortunately, this is one thing that is quick and easy to accomplish. Flossing can help prevent tooth decay and discoloration. It ...
It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health. According to the CDC, “Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.” The list of health issues linked to smoking includes: Coronary heart disease Stroke Lung cancer Cardiovascular disease Respiratory disease Cancer anywhere in almost any part of the body Difficult becoming pregnant Early delivery Stillbirth Ectopic pregnancy Orofacial clefts in infants When it comes to oral health, smoking ...
Summer is almost here, and there are several good and important ways that people prepare for it: booking vacations, summer activities for kids, working out, saving money, and eating healthier. Another way to prepare for summer is to create a plan to take care of your oral health. Neglecting your teeth for any amount of time can lead to dental decay, damage, and staining. Thankfully, there are many practical habits you can integrate into your ...
Chewing gum may not have gotten your school teacher's approval, but as long as it's sugar-free, it will get a nod from your dentist! In fact, sugar-free gum is the only item in the candy aisle that can actually improve your oral health. Adding sugar-free gum to your day can help: Increase Saliva Flow Saliva plays a critical role in your overall oral health. In addition to washing away bacteria, saliva keeps your ...
Happy Birthday, the Alphabet Song, Stayin’ Alive – what do all these songs have in common? They make great hand-washing soundtracks! Over the past year and a half, hand washing has been everyone’s focus. Why? Because it’s the best way to prevent the spread of germs (lest we forget we are in a global pandemic). How Does Handwashing Work to Fight Disease? If done correctly, washing hands rids your hands of bacteria, viruses, and ...
It’s summertime, and we’ve traded winter coats and hot cocoa for breezy linens and refreshing umbrella drinks. Unfortunately, though you might be counting down the days until your “Out of Office” is on and your feet are in the sand, because the culprits behind tooth decay and enamel damage never take a vacation. We don’t want to be the ones to rain on your parade (especially since you’ve waited all year ...
You know brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing are staples of good oral hygiene, but is brushing your tongue really necessary? In short, yes. Why is my tongue important? Though the tongue often plays second fiddle to your pearly whites, it’s actually a critical body part. Without a tongue we wouldn’t be able to speak, chew, taste, or swallow food. Your tongue is an organ made up of a group of ...
It’s that time of year where sleigh-bells are ringing, children are singing, and the last thing we tend to think about is our oral health. I mean, we’re pretty sure no one is sitting on Santa’s lap and asking for peppermint floss for Christmas. So why worry about our oral health? It is only a few months out of the year, right? Well, that is where we can get ourselves into a ...
Despite a rogue news report a few years ago, the benefits of regular flossing and brushing have generally been widely accepted. So, why do only 30% of Americans report flossing daily and even more (32%) admit to never flossing at all? Most likely it’s because while the obvious benefits of regular flossing are worthwhile – gum health and fresh breath – they’re also relatively intangible. Let’s be honest. Possessing healthy pink gums doesn’t ...
Let’s see those pearly whites! You hear it all the time, but when was the last time someone wanted to see your healthy pink gums? Though they may be destined to play second fiddle to their white, show-stealing counterparts, gums are really the unsung hero of your mouth. Gingiva (i.e., gums) is the tissue that surrounds and protects teeth, along with the underlying bone. Gums attach to the teeth, forming a seal that ...
14 of every 100 individuals age eighteen and over smoke in the United States, according to a 2017 Center for Disease Control report. This means 14% of America is lighting up! The Surgeon General has been warning people for decades, emphasizing that smoking is bad for your health. But what makes it bad for you? And in particular, what does smoking do to your teeth? You're most likely aware of how smoking affects your ...
Why You Should Stop Drinking Soda Value your pearly whites? Enjoy the appearance of your smile? Then, it is in your best interest to stop drinking soda. Soda is a delicious treat. However, many people drink soda on a consistent basis. Most individuals don't just stop with one! Some people may drink soda throughout the day to alleviate stress or to stay more alert. Drinking soda in this manner is highly likely to damage ...
