Archive for the ‘Oral Hygiene’ Category

Which Toothpaste Is Best?

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

Couple brushing teeth in the bathroomThe question all of us face while walking up and down the toothpaste aisle at the supermarket. 

With so many options to choose from, which is best? – or are they all just as good? – or does it matter? 

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What Every Mom Should Know about Pregnancy and Oral Health

Friday, September 18th, 2009

Pregnant woman in kitchen eating a salad smilingDuring pregnancy, there are many unique physiologic changes that can have a detrimental effect on oral health.  

Hormonal changes, morning sickness, poor diet, and an increased gag reflex are obstacles that can put the expectant mother at risk for tooth decay and gingivitis.  Becoming knowledgeable regarding the causes of dental disease and adopting good oral hygiene practices are even more necessary at this time.

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Is Gum Good for Your Teeth?

Thursday, September 17th, 2009

gum picDon’t tell the school teachers, but YES! 

Two ways chewing gum can aid in the cleaning of teeth:  1)  Gum actually mechanically cleans teeth as you chew, and 2) Gum acts to promote saliva which can decrease the bacteria, decrease acidity, and remineralize teeth. 

So, let me back up – Bacteria in the mouth produces lactic acid which causes a demineralization (cavity) of enamel – and gum helps fight all three!

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The Health Risks of Gum Disease

Sunday, September 6th, 2009

the viewWatch this video as Whoopie Goldberg Talks About Gum Disease on The View. 

Gum disease or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that causes loss of bone support surrounding the teeth.  The primary etiology consist of certain species of bacteria, while secondary factors include genetics, hormones, medications, smoking, alcohol, stress, diabetes, obesity, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, and poor diet. 

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Hoover Dentistry: Greystone Smile Design

Friday, September 4th, 2009

Healthcare babyThe Link Between the Mouth and the Body

New research is available showing how infection from the teeth and gums is directly related to illnesses in the rest of the body. 

Bacterial infections in the mouth can be a major factor in the development of several systemic diseases.  These new risk factors have disproven the fallacy that the mouth is a separate entity when compared to the entire body.   These findings also allow dentists and physicians to join together in treatment modalities for the betterment of their patient’s overall health.

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5 Ways to Fight Bad Breath!

Tuesday, August 18th, 2009

bad breathSeveral people have informed me that they periodically suffer from bad breath but have never been instructed on how to treat it.  Bad breath, or halitosis, can cause self-esteem and self-confidence issues, and many are embarrassed to discuss the matter at their regular dental visits.  It’s a sore subject, but the good news is that the condition is not permanent and totally treatable!   

Here are a few easy tips to bring back the “freshness”: 

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Which Toothbrush Should I Choose?

Monday, July 27th, 2009

hygieneToothbrushes are the first line of defense against dental decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, but due to claims of advertising, many people are unsure of which one to buy. 

There are two types:  manual and mechanical.  Manual toothbrushes originated in the 1600’s, but it wasn’t until 1938 that the nylon-bristled brushes we use today were invented.  Mechanical toothbrushes were created in the mid-1900’s, and in 1987, the rotary electrical brush was developed.  Research shows that there is no conclusive evidence that one is better than the other in normal situations.

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