Fluoride has been a hot topic in dental care for years. Some people swear by it, while others worry about its safety. So, what’s the truth? Let’s separate the facts from the myths. Myth: Fluoride Is Dangerous for Your Health Fact: Fluoride, when used at recommended levels, is completely safe. It’s a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, and certain foods. In dental care, fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. The American Dental Association (ADA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) all support fluoride use in drinking water and toothpaste. [...]

You’ve got laundry, work, cooking, hanging with friends - we get it! It can be hard to find time to squeeze one more thing into your daily routine. But establishing a consistent tooth-brushing routine is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Thankfully, this is one part of your routine that doesn’t take much time - and will pay off for years to come. Start by brushing your teeth at least twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, making sure to brush for at least two minutes each time. [...]

Losing a tooth. It’s a fun time to embrace the magic of childhood and of course—the Tooth Fairy herself. But when your child has a wiggly tooth, you might wonder: Is it okay to pull it out, or should we let nature take its course? The short answer? It depends. If the tooth is barely hanging on—meaning it’s dangling, twisting easily, and your child can painlessly push it with their tongue—it’s usually fine to give it a gentle tug. Just make sure your child is comfortable with it, and always wash your hands first. If there’s resistance, it’s best [...]

Keep those pearly whites . . . well, pearly white! Knowing how to brush and floss your child’s teeth is essential to keeping cavities at bay and building strong oral care habits.. When brushing, start by using a fluoride toothpaste with a pea-sized amount, and ensure the toothbrush has soft bristles that suit your child’s age. Encourage your child to brush for two minutes, covering all surfaces of their teeth—top, bottom, and along the gum line. Use gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging gums, and make sure to brush the tongue as well. For younger children, parents should guide [...]

As I type, my body responds instinctively to the cold, unforgiving Midwest winter.  My jaw clenches; my arms shivers. Don’t be fooled. I am indoors, working in a heated environment.  And yet, I can not rid myself of the chill that permeates all over. It seems, even my teeth are cold. Wait a second. Is that a thing? Can the weather affect teeth? Absolutely. Think of it this way: if you put a water bottle in a freezer, it contracts and expands. Similarly, when exposed to cold temperatures, your teeth contract and expand too. This can irritate or inflame [...]

This time of year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the year behind and setting some goals for the year ahead. More often than not, those goals include improvements in health, so why not add some resolutions to improve oral health too? Perhaps that looks like hydrating more regularly, quitting smoking, cutting back on sugar intake, flossing consistently, brushing intentionally, scheduling appointments frequently or reducing the consumption of acidic drinks. Progress is progress, so even small steps towards your goals is success. Be patient with yourself, and most importantly, be consistent; most research hypothesizes it takes 2 months [...]

Are you ever scrambling to find last minute items to fill the stocking? Trying to fill it with fun but practical gifts? If so, here are some dental suggestions that will promote good oral health but won’t break the bank.   An electric toothbrush Flavored dental flosses Animal design oral picks Mouth wash A tongue scraper A toothpaste clamp  Sugar free gum Toothpaste dispenser Whitening products A travel kit for oral health Sometimes the greatest gift we can give our loved ones is the gift of good health! If, in some small way, we can encourage healthy habits for others, [...]

Is it possible to both indulge in the holiday season and keep your teeth healthy? Absolutely. Everything in moderation, right? Here are some practical tips for choosing the best treats to enjoy. Avoid desserts and drinks that may stain your teeth like red wine, berries and specialty hot chocolates. If you don’t want to abstain, at least drink water in between to help wash away unwanted bacteria and sip your drinks with a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth. Limit sugary snacks and find some veggies, fruits and cheeses to munch on at holiday parties. Steer clear [...]

Remember, as a kid, when you would avoid a certain house, trick or treating, because you knew you’d leave with raisins or an apple or something “healthy” when you were just looking for another Twix to add to your bucket? Parents are stocking up on sweet treats, as they anticipate lots of excited, costumed kids for Halloween. Dentists are all for having fun and enjoying some sugar, but we wouldn’t be doing our dental duty without imparting important Halloween tips for keeping teeth in optimal condition. In no particular order… Limit the number of sweets(maybe a 3 candy limit [...]

On regularly scheduled dental visits, most of us can get in and out, in under an hour, teeth glistening, breath smelling minty fresh, a clean sheet, free of cavities and plaque.  But occasionally, a mouth x-ray can reveal more serious issues, causing a follow up visit or a more intense fix to be necessary.  What, exactly, is the most complicated dental procedure for most dentists (and patients)?  Most dentists would say it is the “beloved” root canal. A root canal is often discussed when a patient complains of severe tooth pain, most notably, while they are eating.  In this [...]