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How does the food we eat affect your dental health?

Posted on January 27, 2022 - 4:57 PM by admin

Having a proper diet is not only crucial to your general well-being but also your dental health.

The human body is an intricate machine that works best when provided with proper nutrition, and that includes your teeth and gums!

Did you know that certain minerals and vitamins can protect your teeth from gum disease and tooth decay while some foods may cause yellowing or discoloration of the teeth?

Keep reading to find out how diet influences oral health and what type of foods you should eat to maintain a healthy smile.

Starchy carbohydrates

One of the most prevalent oral health diseases caused by diet is tooth decay. According to Mayo Clinic, tooth decay occurs due to several reasons, including bacteria in your mouth, not cleaning your teeth well, frequent snacking, and eating processed and starchy food, such as white bread, crackers, and pasta.

Starchy carbs and sugars from food combine with bacteria in your mouth to form acid. This acid erodes your tooth enamel, causing cavities or holes in your teeth. If left untreated, cavities can cause bad breath, tooth pain, tooth abscess, to mention a few.

Eating calcium and phosphorus-rich foods can help remineralize and maintain healthy tooth enamel. In addition, opt for whole grains instead of starchy carbs, as the former are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for your teeth.

Acidic and sugary foods

Acidic foods can cause cavities and other oral problems like canker sores. Foods high in acid include citrus fruits, such as lemons, grapefruit, and oranges. Though rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, they can erode the enamel of your teeth. So limit your teeth’s exposure to these foods.

In addition, foods that contain added sugar play a role in the development of cavities. Sugar interacts with the bacteria in the mouth to become acidic. Foods high in added sugar include cakes, sugary drinks, candy, and cookies.

Although raisins and other dried fruits are considered healthy, they can also contain high amounts of sugar. What’s more, dried fruits are sticky and might get stuck between your teeth and lead to build up of plaque.

Make sure you brush your teeth well and floss twice a day to keep your teeth clean and cavities away.

Snacking and dental health

It is best to avoid frequent snacking in between meals. Snacking usually becomes an oral problem if you consume unhealthy snacks, such as sugary drinks, candy, and chips. These are foods that are rich in unnecessary sugar. As we know, bacteria in your mouth feeds on the sugars in your diet to make acids that wear down the enamel (the outermost layer of the teeth). Snacking often increases the chances of formation of acids that can wear down the enamel repeatedly.

So, if you must have snacks, go for the nutritious ones, especially the ones that are less starchy and with less added sugar.

Drinks and beverages

The same rules apply to drinks and beverages as they do for solid foods. For example, lemonade, although a popular drink, is acidic and usually contains sugar. Another drink that is acidic and contains high amounts of sugar is soda.

So, what drinks can one classify as non-harmful? Always go for drinks that are low in added sugar and are non-acidic. Also, water with fluoride is highly recommended. Why? Water washes out food particles stuck between the teeth. Most importantly, it hydrates your mouth, producing saliva to neutralize bacteria and acids.

Foods for better dental health

Lean meats, nuts, cheese, and milk are all high in phosphorus and calcium, which are all essential for strong teeth and gums. People who cannot consume milk products due to lactose intolerance can opt for green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli, also high in calcium.

Other foods good for your oral health include crunchy and firm fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, pears, and apples. Eating such foods helps to create more saliva in the mouth. This aids in washing away food particles from the crevices in your gums, teeth, and tongue.

Vegetables and fruits are also high in water content. Usually, water neutralizes any sugars that can turn into acid, which damages your teeth.

Lastly, be careful of drinks such as coffee, tea, balsamic vinegar, fruit juices, beetroot, soy sauce, dark cola, red wine, and tomato-based sauces as they can stain your teeth. They contain pigments known as chromogens. Chromogens usually attach to and stain the enamel.

Summary: Reducing the risk of oral diseases caused by an unhealthy diet

Brush your teeth twice a day to remove food particles and sugars from your mouth
Keep added sugar in your meals to a minimum by making healthy food and beverage choices.
Limit between-meal snacking
Include dairy, water, and plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet – they all play a significant role in your dental health.

Eating a healthy diet and regularly seeing the best dentist in Palo Alto, is a recipe for success!

Everything you eat, including your favorites, affects your teeth, which is why it’s crucial to visit one of the top Palo Alto dentists near you on a regular basis. Dentists are the only medical professionals who have the knowledge to address your dental health care needs.

Following a comprehensive oral examination, your dentist can recommend dietary changes to address any concerns. Schedule an appointment with your Palo Alto dentist today, and see the difference.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/
https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.healthline.com/

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How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy for the Holidays

Posted on December 28, 2021 - 1:14 PM by admin

The holiday season is here. Twinkling Christmas lights light up the night sky. Seasonal songs greet us everywhere we go. Mailboxes are flooded with sales offers.

For most people, it provides an opportune time to meet families and friends and share gifts. We play games, laugh, maybe argue a bit, but there is always plenty of food to eat. Family buffets are brimming with sweets and casseroles and meats and treats.

When you see a blueberry cobbler or a fresh-baked apple pie, you are possibly thinking more about your taste buds rather than your oral health. However, it is prudent to think about your oral health during the holidays!

Below are some tips to keep your teeth healthier this holiday season.

Avoid gummy, chewy, sugary foods.

Overindulgence is likely to happen during the holidays, but be selective. It’s easy to overdo certain snacks that can destroy our teeth.

Avoid or limit the following treats during this holiday season:

Candy canes and other sour or chewy foods
Crisps – these starchy treats can create acid in your mouth
Ice – Chewing ice can cause enamel to break down.
Carbonated drinks – Opt for a glass of water instead of Coca-Cola.
Dried fruit – This contains far more sugar than you may think

In other words, choose items that aren’t bad for your teeth, such as sprouts, vegetables, and fruits. Turkey is another fantastic holiday food option since it contains nutrients good for your teeth, such as phosphorus.

If you must eat biscuits this holiday season, try gingerbread, which contains less sugar than many other variations!

When it comes to beverages, opt for clear liquids. Red wine is known for discoloring your teeth and usually makes them feel sticky. Well, if you can’t avoid wine, try nibbling on cheese at the same time. The alkaline in the cheese usually balances your mouth’s PH level.

Up your dental health game

Do you always forget to brush or floss your teeth after a long night out? This is not the time to relax your oral health standards. Take some floss and toothbrush out with you, if necessary. This way, you’ll remember to brush your teeth right after a heavy meal or drink session.

Note: You should brush your teeth for at least two minutes and floss twice daily. This will spare you from costly dental bills after the holiday season. And if that has not persuaded you enough, try to think of how many more years of great Christmas gatherings and delicious foods you’ll be able to enjoy if you keep your teeth in good shape!

Drink plenty of water daily

The daily amount of water nutritionists recommend to drink is 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 for men.

Instead of binging on alcohol and consuming large amounts of treats during the holidays, learn to drink water in between. This special liquid can make a significant difference to your oral health. Water, especially fluoridated water, prevents tooth decay and cavities.

It is highly advisable to drink water after eating. Usually, this helps get rid of bacteria left in the mouth. It also dilutes the acid from alcohol.

The last benefit of water is its unique ability to fill you up without adding calories. If you’re still hungry after dinner and considering having seconds, drink a glass of water instead. It’s beneficial to your waistline and teeth!

Don’t open gifts with your teeth.

This may seem obvious, but when an impatient kid hands you a toy, tightly sealed in teflon-strength wrapping, your instinct is to rip it open. Resist that temptation and grab a pair of scissors.

Teeth are handy in doing many things, such as chewing and enunciating. However, they do not make good cutting tools. Using your teeth to open packages and bottles erodes the enamel and weakens the edges of your teeth. This leads to tooth breakage and cracking and probably expensive cosmetic dental work.

Schedule your post-holiday dental check-up now

It is advisable to schedule a post-holiday dental cleaning and check-up before the holidays start. Note down your appointments somewhere, as this can easily slip your mind when juggling cooking, house cleaning, seeing family, and shopping.

Generally, there is an excessive demand for dental visits during the holidays and right after; thus, booking in advance ensures you reserve a convenient appointment time. The sooner you can go for a dental cleaning and check-up, the less time your holiday indulgences will negatively impact your oral teeth.

Holiday dental care is very important.

When it comes to holiday dental care, prevention is definitely better than treatment. Developing a dental care routine is the most practical way to preserve your teeth this holiday season.

At Blue Turtle Dental, our team of dentists in Palo Alto offers the ultimate dental experience. You can relax with Netflix or connect to your preferred electronic device with our Bluetooth compatible headphones. Come in to experience the luxury and walk out with a smile only the best technology can give you!

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.cdc.gov/
https://www.healthline.com/

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Do you need a smile makeover? Here’s how your dentist can help you!

Posted on November 26, 2021 - 9:19 AM by admin

Are you dissatisfied with your smile? You are not alone. Over one-third of adults in the U.S also wish their smile appeared different.

You may not like the way your smile looks presently; however, the exciting news is that it doesn’t have to remain that way forever. Whether you wish your teeth were whiter, less chipped, or more even, there are various cosmetic dentistry procedures to help you attain the type of smile you have always yearned for.

Let’s see what it takes to get a perfect smile makeover in Palo Alto.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is all about enhancing the appearance of your teeth. Below are some of the dental issues a cosmetic dentist Palo Alto can help address:

Chipped or broken teeth
Crowded teeth
Worn enamel
Unevenly sized teeth
Gaps between teeth
Stains and discoloration

Cosmetic dental procedures are usually deemed to be elective. But cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about vanity. There are several procedures that also present restorative benefits to boost your quality of life.

How can I get a smile makeover in Palo Alto?

The first step toward achieving your dream smile is to schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist Palo Alto. They will help you ascertain precisely what needs to be done to perfect your smile.

The dentist will examine your dental health to see if you are eligible for a smile makeover or if other oral health issues must be addressed first. This entails accessing your underlying support structure, teeth, gums, and bite. Once this is done, the dentist will discuss with you the available options.

Every smile makeover is unique, and yours must cater to your personal requirements. The dentist will use dental imaging software to demonstrate how your teeth will practically look when your preferred procedure is done.

However, keep in mind, your smile makeover procedure won’t always happen in one appointment. Some procedures may require you to attend multiple dental appointments. This is something that your Palo Alto dentist will have discussed with you beforehand, though.

How the best dentist in Palo Alto can help improve your smile

When it comes to getting a smile makeover, there are several options your dentist will advise on. Below are some of the most common procedures that can improve your smile:

Cosmetic teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is among the most popular and common options when it comes to smile makeover procedures. Also referred to as “teeth bleaching,” this treatment can whiten your teeth from staining or discoloration. Remember, not everyone’s teeth can be whitened; thus, it’s advisable to consult your dentist first.

Also, whitening is not a permanent procedure. The stains will reappear if you smoke or consume staining drinks or foods. But if you stay away from these sources of staining, you might not require another whitening procedure for 6-12 months.

If you are contemplating the benefits of professional teeth whitening vs. at-home use of whitening products, here’s a useful article to help you get started.

Cosmetic dental implants

An implant is a titanium device designed to replace missing teeth. Usually, the device is surgically inserted into the jawbone where the teeth are missing. A crown (an artificial tooth) is then affixed to the implant, giving the appearance of a natural tooth.

Improved appearance & comfort
Improved oral health, like implants, does not affect surrounding teeth as a dental bridge does.
Durability, as implants can last you many years
Convenience, as implants are a permanent part of your mouth rather than a prosthetic that needs to be removed

Veneers

Veneers are thin pieces made from composite or porcelain material. They are cemented to the front of the teeth to enhance their appearance. To apply veneers, your Palo Alto dentist will get rid of the outermost layer of enamel from your teeth. Next, they will affix the veneers with a dental adhesive.

Veneers are natural-looking and may be used to fix a range of issues, including stained teeth, crooked teeth, and teeth with noticeable gaps.

Composite bonding

Dentists also repair discolored, damaged, or decayed teeth with composite bonding. When carrying out this dental procedure, the dentist will drill the decay completely and apply composite material to the teeth’ surface. The material will then be sculpted to match the shape of your other teeth. Finally, they use a special, high-intensity light to cure it.

Cosmetic teeth shaping

Also known as “enamel shaping or odontoplasty,” your dentist will modify the tooth by removing or filling some of the enamel. This procedure is usually painless and produces almost instant effects.

Cosmetic dental crowns

Crowns are specially made to fit over your tooth the dentist has prepared it. Generally, they are made out of porcelain or acrylic that has been fused to metal to endure biting pressure. Crowns are widely used in cosmetic dentistry to fix teeth that are bodily decayed, poorly shaped, chipped, broken or have had large fillings.

Are you geared up for a smile makeover?

Ultimately, you deserve to have a strong, healthy, and attractive smile that allows you to live proudly and comfortably. Get rid of broken teeth, gum recession, and stains by undertaking any of the smile makeover procedures mentioned above.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/
https://www.mayodentalclinic.com/

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Why Do Dentists Recommend Regular Dental Check-ups For Adults?

Posted on October 29, 2021 - 10:47 AM by admin

You brush twice a day, floss regularly, and use a dental rinse as recommended. So, do you still have to keep up with your dental checkups and cleaning in Palo Alto?

The quick answer is yes. It all boils down to prevention.

The mouth, according to the American Dental Association, is considered the window to your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to other ailments such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, to name a few.

How frequently should you have dental checkups and cleaning in Palo Alto?

A visit every six months is the standard recommendation for the average dental patient. However, this is dependent on several factors, and your dentist will usually advise you on how frequently you should visit.

An annual visit may be adequate for low-risk persons who maintain a decent daily oral hygiene program. On the other hand, those with underlying medical issues may need to visit more frequently, especially if they wish to keep up with their preventive dental regimen.

Below are some conditions that may necessitate more regular dental checkups:

Diabetes
Pregnancy
Smoking
Periodontal (gum) disease

Also, anyone with a weakened immune system as a result of a chronic illness is advised by dentists to schedule frequent visits.

Benefits of regular dental check-ups and cleanings in Palo Alto

Frequent dental visits for examination and cleaning play a key role in oral healthcare, as we will see below:

Keep cavity, plaque, and tartar off your teeth

Frequent dental cleanings prevent tartar from damaging your teeth, which is how cavities are formed. Most of the time, cavities do not show any early symptoms as they develop. Most of the time, the only symptom you might experience is a minor ache when the tooth is already decayed.

Unfortunately, once that happens, you will need to visit the dentist to have the cavities filled. All of this can be avoided with frequent check-ups and cleanings that take care of cavities and tartar before they become destructive.

Gum disease check

Besides causing tooth decay, plaque and tartar also harm the mouth gum tissues. Usually, tartar buildup causes an infection on the gums. This form of infection is known as gingivitis, and as it spreads, the gums tissues break down and pull away from the tooth. At this point, you may notice some soreness, bleeding, and swelling in your mouth.

Even worse, gum disease causes deterioration of the bone that keeps the teeth in place. Here, it is not surprising to see your teeth loosening and falling out, necessitating the use of advanced treatment methods by the dentist.

As you might guess, this results in several appointments, which eventually cost you a lot of money. Your money and time can be saved through regular check-ups as suggested by your Palo Alto dentist.

Keeping bad dental habits in check

Some unhealthy habits can cause dental problems. We are talking about habits such as biting your nails, grinding your teeth, brushing your teeth too hard, smoking, chewing ice, clenching your jaw, and eating particularly sticky sweets. All these can be noticed during a dental check-up, and your dentist will advise you accordingly.

Oral cancer detection

During a periodical check-up, your dentist will examine the tongue, throat, neck, and mouth areas for any potential anomalies to ascertain whether you are a risk for oral cancer.

Data from the Oral Cancer Foundation shows that one person succumbs to oral cancer every hour of the day in America. Early detection through regular dental check-ups can go a long way for the 54,000 patients diagnosed every year.

Dentists can provide advice, specific to your needs

Usually, when people have medical-related issues, they turn to the internet, a platform that is full of helpful information but also half-truths. Fortunately, top dentists in Palo Alto are qualified in their profession; hence, they can provide guidance and advice you can trust.

By paying your dentist regular visits, you can build a beneficial relationship that will help them tailor support and advice, specific to your oral needs.

What to do between each dental visit

Be sure to look after your teeth between dental visits. Here are some helpful tips for maintaining good oral hygiene at home:

Drink fluoridated water and brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily
Cut down on your sugar intake. Sugar increases bacteria growth in the mouth which eventually results in plaque.
Don’t use tobacco products
Limit alcoholic drinks

So are dental check-ups and cleaning in Palo Alto worth the effort?

During your regular dental check-ups and cleaning in Palo Alto, the dentists are concerned with more than just tooth repair, as some may think. They clean your teeth properly, examine for irregularities that could otherwise go missed and could be a symptom of broader health issues, and ensure that your gums and teeth are healthy.

Thus, you’ll be doing yourself a big favor in the long term if you stay up with regular dental cleanings and check-ups as advised by the dentist.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
https://oralcancerfoundation.org
https://www.cdc.gov/

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Need a Dentist Urgently? Contact Emergency Dental Care in Palo Alto

Posted on October 1, 2021 - 9:51 AM by admin

Regardless of how much care you take of your teeth, accidents still occur. These unforeseen situations usually referred to as dental emergencies, require you to seek out emergency dental services in Palo Alto. They need to be handled by an emergency dentist as any delays can result in permanent damage or force you to undergo more complicated and expensive treatment procedures later on.

Signs you need dental emergency care

Below are some examples that qualify a trip to an emergency dentist in Palo Alto:

Fracture or Broken teeth
A painful toothache that won’t go away
Knocked out permanent teeth
Chronic jaw pain
Unusual swelling
Bleeding gums
Tooth abscess
Something is stuck between your teeth

If you are unsure whether what you are going through is a dental emergency, contact a dentist and ask. When it comes to dental health, it’s best to be safe than sorry.

Steps to take if you experience a dental emergency

From fractures to knockout, you have some time to manage the situation until you see the dentist. Here are general steps you can follow as you wait for treatment.

Breathe deeply and assess the situation. If you are in a position to see your mouth or teeth, try and assess the situation without panicking. Did your tooth crack or fall out? If your tooth fell out, follow the next step.

Store your tooth safely. Try to salvage your knocked tooth and store it somewhere safe. Don’t forget to carry it with you when going to the dentist’s office.

Contact a dentist. Quickly search for the best emergency dentists in Palo Alto and give them a call. Set an appointment so that you can be examined and treated. During the call, explain as comprehensively as possible what transpired and what you think the issue is. The dentist will guide you on what to do next. Usually, the dentist’s instructions help you better prepare for the visit.

Going to the hospital vs. dentist for your dental emergency

Dental emergencies, like other medical emergencies, call for varying levels of care based on their seriousness. Where you go for treatment depends on the kind of dental emergency you have.

When to go to the hospital

Emergencies involving the mouth and face that call for urgent medical attention include jaw dislocations, jaw fractures, abscess, an infection that affects your swallowing or breathing, serious lacerations or cuts to the mouth, etc. These are situations where you would want to go to a hospital ER directly.

When to see a dentist

Some emergencies that are not life-threatening, per se, but still might need immediate care. If you get a permanent tooth knocked out, or break or crack your tooth, unless it is bleeding a lot, you can visit a dentist’s office.

How to avoid dental emergencies

There are several things you can do to avoid the kinds of injuries we have discussed above. Do the following to ensure your teeth remain in top shape:

Practice daily dental hygiene

Brushing and flossing frequently are crucial for oral health. Bacteria in the mouth can blend with food debris, eventually causing gum disease or tooth decay. Gum disease can potentially result in a visit to the emergency dentist.

Watch what you eat

You possibly grew up hearing that crackers, candies, starchy and sugary foods are not that good for your teeth. Soda, fruit juice, and coffee are all drinks you should drink sparingly. Sticky meals usually get stuck between your teeth and may be difficult to remove. Hard, crunchy snacks can damage your teeth, especially if you bite hard on them, resulting in a dental emergency. Thus, avoid sugary and very hard or chewy foods.

Wear a mouthguard

Mouthguards are very helpful, particularly if you play contact sports or participate in recreational activities where the possibility of dental injuries is higher.

Sealants

Sealants are generally provided as preventive care for kids; however, they are great for adults as well. Dental sealants are transparent, plastic resin coatings that even out the chewing surfaces of the molars. So, why would a dentist want to use sealants to smoothen or even out your molars? Food debris usually gets stuck in the grooves of the molars and could transform into plaque left untreated.

Schedule regular dental checkups

Frequent dental checkups help you to spot problems before they develop into a dental emergency. Although some people only need dental examinations once per year, creating a bespoke plan with your Palo Alto dentist is encouraged. A dentist can make recommendations depending on your age, medical history, and health goals. For instance, people with gum disease may require more regular visits.

Never wait to see your dentist

No one wishes to make unplanned visits to the dentist; however, don’t wait to get the help you need if an emergency happens. Emergency dentists in Palo Alto are always ready to assist!

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.webmd.com/
https://success.ada.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.healthline.com/

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Follow These Tips for a Great Back-to-School Dental Checkup

Posted on August 25, 2021 - 11:38 AM by admin

The back-to-school season is fraught with excitement and anxiety. Children and parents go through a flurry of emotions, and it is easy for them to lose sight of vital practices like booking a dental checkup.

We get it. So, let’s offer some advice on why and how you should go about preparing your kid for a back-to-school dental checkup in Palo Alto.

Why visiting a pediatric dentist before school begins is crucial.

Your kids may be ready for the looming school year in terms of clothes, school supplies, and sports equipment; however, do they have a healthy mouth or things needed to maintain it?

Scheduling a back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto is vital for the following reasons:

Dental problems are one of the biggest reasons kids miss school, eventually leading to decreased academic performance. Therefore, scheduling a back-to-school checkup is essential in fighting cavities (the most common chronic disease found in school-going kids) and preventing school absences.
The best pediatric dentists in Palo Alto are able to detect problems early. Early detection helps avert pain and gum infections. It also means less costly treatments.
It can prevent tooth damage, loss, and other dental emergencies. Usually, dental injures are one of the major causes of tooth loss and damage. Your Palo Alto dentist can provide a personalized sports mouthguard that will offer greater protection for your kid’s pearly whites.
Poor dental health can affect your kid’s overall health. There is always a direct correlation between oral infection, obesity, and asthma. Thus, booking a back-to-school dental checkup is important for your little one’s well-being.
Some schools require a pediatric dentist’s signature verifying your kid has a clean bill of oral health.

Back-to-school dental checkup tips you should follow.

As mentioned above, early detection and prevention have always been the secret to avoiding dental problems. Therefore, as a parent, you have to strive for a great back-to-school dental checkup for your kid. Here are tips to achieve that:

Plan for dental checkups early enough

To have a seamless back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto, ensure you plan early enough. Well, there is so much that goes on during the summer – camping, vacations, visiting friends and family, to name a few. But, always plan dental appointments in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.

Unfortunately, many parents visit dental offices a week before school opening. As a result, kids end up frustrated by the long queues and endless commotion. Some even miss the chance of seeing the dentist as this is usually one of the busiest seasons for the dental industry. You wouldn’t want that to happen to your kid, would you?

Teach your children to observe good dental habits

Whenever a pediatric dentist declares your kids free from dental issues, encourage them to do better. Remind them to brush and floss at least twice a day.

You can set a timer or download phone applications that encourage your kids to take oral health seriously. Some apps come with motivational tips and music that really help kids get into a great habit. For instance, Brush DJ is one such app and is freely available on iTunes.

Book your kid’s dental appointment at the right time of the day.

Pick a day where your kid is fully rested. You can choose morning appointments because this is the time your kid is most active. That said, try as much as possible not to disrupt your kid’s daily schedule.

For instance, do not book a dental consultation during their sleeping hours. Also, don’t book an appointment when they had a long, tedious day. Scheduling an appointment at the wrong time can make your kid grumpy.

Even important, ensure your kid is well fed on the appointment day. A hungry kid can be moody throughout the appointment. Thus, grab your child a snack at least an hour before the meeting. But avoid sugary snacks and remember to have them brush before seeing the dentist.

Keep calm and cheer your child on

Encourage your kid throughout the appointment so that they don’t become panicky. Don’t be nervous as your kid might notice and follow suit. Also, let your child ask the dentist any question they have concerning the appointment. Dentists know how to handle tense situations whenever they sense the kid is nervous.

Ask about sealants

While sealants are not a substitute for teeth brushing and flossing, they can be an ideal way to keep your kid from getting cavities. Administering sealants only take a few minutes and is totally a painless procedure. Besides, most insurance plans cover sealants at 100%!

In summary, there are various ways to ensure a successful back-to-school dental checkup and cleaning in Palo Alto. Taking specific measures in advance goes a long way in improving your kid’s dental health. Some of them, as you might have realized, include observing healthy oral practices. It is also advisable to take the contact details of your pediatric dentist. In the event of specific emergencies, the sports coaches and teachers will know who to call.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.health.ny.gov/
https://www.cdc.gov/
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

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Myths and Facts About the Dental Implant Recovery Process

Posted on July 29, 2021 - 7:20 AM by admin

Do you have missing or badly diseased teeth? Is it hurting your confidence? Well, getting a dental implant is a great option for replacing missing or damaged teeth. But do you know about the recovery process and the myths associated? Well, we are here to help.

What are Dental Implants?

One of the most comfortable and stable restorative options for missing teeth, implants come closest to your natural teeth, in terms of functionality and appearance.

Dental implants surgery is typically a multi-stage procedure that consists of the following steps:

Consultation – Your dentist will schedule a consultation with you to go over your requirements, your dental health, treatment plan, financial details, and what to expect during the treatment. At this point, your dentist may take teeth & jaw impressions and send a prescription for the crown and/or bridge making to a dental laboratory, based on your need.

Extraction & Grafting – If your teeth are diseased, you will need to have them extracted before the implant can be inserted. Additionally, if your jawbone is not healthy enough for the implant to adhere to, you may need bone grafting to create an adequate bone foundation for successful dental implant surgery. Remember not everybody needs extraction and grafting but if you do, the recovery process and the dental implants timeline maybe longer.

Generally speaking, if you need a bone graft, you may require several months between the grafting and the implant surgery. Depending on the complexity of work, recovery from extractions and bone graft procedures can take several days to several weeks. Follow the instructions provided by your dentist to ensure a quick recovery.

Dental Implants Surgery – The next step in the process is the installation of a dental implant anchor, made of titanium or other suitable metal, into the jawbone below the gumline.

The gum tissues are then secured over the implant and the implant is left to fuse with the jawbone – a process known as osseointegration. During this process, there may be some swelling and tenderness for a few days. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication, cold compresses, and a diet restricted to soft & cold foods to help you with the recovery process – more information on the implant surgery recovery process can be found below.

Placement of the Abutment – The next step involves the addition of an abutment, which is a post that connects the implants inserted in Step 1 to the replacement tooth (Step 3). After this procedure, the gum is allowed to heal. In case you choose a removable denture for aesthetic purposes, it can be placed over the gap caused by the missing tooth, until a permanent tooth is attached to the implant.

Placement of the Crown – Once the healing is complete, the third and final step involves the placement of the dental crown on the artificial post. This completes the dental implant procedure.

Dental Implants Recovery Process

Total recovery after a dental implant procedure varies from case to case. The recovery time could depend on factors such as the number of teeth involved, requirement for grafting, gum health, and patient history.

Generally speaking, single-tooth implant patients with healthy bones will experience minimal discomfort and will recover in no time. The more complex your procedure – the more the number of teeth extracted and implanted as well as the need for bone grafting to allow for implants – the longer the recovery.

Based on the complexity of the case, patients may experience swelling and even some discomfort post-surgery. However, they go away with proper care.

Whether your dental implant procedure was completed in one stage or multiple stages, the first 24 hours after dental surgery, you may experience swelling, bleeding, and some pain. Over-the-counter and prescription-strength medication may be used to effectively control the pain. Cold compresses and ice packs can help with the swelling.

After the initial 24 hours have passed, you can continue to take pain medication and ice packs the next few days, as needed.

One of the most important parts of the post-surgery recovery process is the diet. Patients are advised to opt for a soft diet immediately after the surgery. In case of basic dental implant placements, the patient may take from a week to 10 days to return to a normal diet. However, in some complicated cases, the patients are advised to stick to a soft diet for about six weeks after the procedure.

In addition, make sure you follow up with your dentist to ensure that you are healing properly.

While the recovery is generally smooth, there are several myths associated and this article will debunk them for you.

Myth 1: You won’t be able to brush your teeth for a week after a dental implant surgery

This is not true.

Fact: While it is very important that you avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 48 hours following the dental implant procedure, you should brush other teeth not involved in the surgery gently the same evening. You should be very careful and maintain good oral hygiene while recovering. This will involve rinsing regularly with a warm, salt water rinse, about four to five times a day, after meals.

Tip: The first 24 hours are very critical. Be careful to rinse with a warm saltwater solution and use a prescribed oral rinse. Take prescribed medications as directed.

Myth 2: You can get new teeth in a day and get back to routine right after

There’s a lot of overzealous advertising that makes people believe that they could get implants in a single session and they can get back to a normal routine right after.

Fact: In some instances, dental implants can be placed in a single sitting. Dentists can extract, implant, and place a temporary replacement tooth in the same setting. Advances in technology allow for the implants to be placed in such a way that they do not move at all during the healing process. This is absolutely critical for the implant procedure to be successful as the implant must integrate with the bone and even the slightest shift can lead to complications.

Same-day implant patients are strongly advised to comply with dietary recommendations for up to six weeks after surgery to avoid the movement of implants that can result in treatment failure.

Tip: If you are opting for same-day implants, eat soft foods and avoid crunchy and chewy foods, such as crusty bread, apples, ice cubes, carrots, steaks, and other chewy meats, during the osseointegration process.

Myth 3: Dental Implants recovery period is really long & painful

While the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone takes two to six months, the recovery period may last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, based on the complexity of your case.

Fact: Multiple extractions and implantations along with bone grafting extend the recovery period. However, single tooth implants with no bone grafting can cut the recovery period to only a few days. Same-day implants, as stated above, can also extend the period of dietary restrictions.

As far as pain is concerned, technological advancements have made dental implants surgery into a minimally invasive procedure. Your Palo Alto dentist will perform the surgery under local anesthesia and provide you with pain medications to help you tide over the recovery process. In fact, most patients report that implant surgery is less painful than tooth extractions.

Tip: Follow post-surgery instructions from your dentist to expedite the recovery process. In particular, take your prescribed medications, follow dietary restrictions, watch out for any symptoms of infection, such as fever, and follow up with your dentist to ensure you are recovering as expected.

Conclusion

While we have debunked some common dental implants recovery myths for you, several assumptions and myths abound, especially those related to implant costs, success rate, and risks. So if you’re thinking about implants, keep in mind to associate with the best! Ask as many questions as you have, and get your doubts cleared, and don’t fall for assumptions.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org
https://www.cdc.gov/

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5 Summer Dental Tips for Kids

Posted on July 2, 2021 - 9:49 AM by admin

The best summer break should not require a visit to a Palo Alto pediatric dentist, all in the name of getting some fillings! And the best way to prevent an emergency visit to the dentist is to take simple steps to take care of your child’s teeth during summer. Summer oral routine can be especially challenging as changes in daily diets and lack of routine can have a negative impact on your children’s teeth. It is easy to see how.

Sleeping in longer hours and forgetting to brush, combined with sugary drinks or sodas throughout the hot days, vacation car trips with sugary snacks or hard candy, popcorn kernels, or ice can all damage oral health. And don’t overlook the dental emergencies that might arise if your children hurt their teeth during contact sports or other summer activities.

But summer oral care does not have to be demanding. Follow our dental tips below to keep your kid’s smile shining all summer long!

Schedule your kid’s dental check-up early enough

Visit a pediatric dentist at the start of every summer. Evidently, there is no better occasion to set up one of those bi-annual dental appointments than summer, when your children are out of school and your schedule is more flexible.

Most parents wait until summer ends to schedule these appointments. Chances are they find dental offices fully booked at this time or end up being overwhelmed by the back-to-school mad rush. As such, it is advisable to plan your child’s trip to the dentist as soon as the summer begins and avoid being caught up in an unnecessary last-minute rush.

Stay on schedule

Summer vacation can disrupt bedtime routines. Regardless of how action-packed your summer gets, it’s vital to ensure your children continue to practice good oral hygiene.

Resist the temptation to allow your children to skip brushing and flossing before bedtime. Also, constantly supervise them to ensure they are brushing twice every day, for at least two minutes with dentist-recommended toothpaste. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises parents to use brushing calendars to be on top of their children’s brushing habits during summer.

Besides, it is an opportunity to spend more time with them. Brushing alongside your kids for two minutes twice a day for at least three months gives you a total of six extra hours together; thus, make the most of them!

Prepare well for sleepovers

No summer break is complete without sleepovers. Sadly, amidst all the pillow throwing and fun, your children could “forget” their brushing habits. Make sure that you pack toothpaste and toothbrushes along with their pajamas and sleeping bags. Furthermore, you can also make it a habit of calling in to ensure that your kid brushes.

It might appear ridiculous to place such emphasis on brushing. But, better brush now than plan emergency visits to a pediatric dentist later, right? Being vigilant will teach your children the significance of dental care throughout their lifetime.

Buy healthy summer beverages and snacks.

Having your children home all day means endless snacking opportunities. It is easy to flood the refrigerator with candy, chips, fruit juices, raisins, cakes, and bread. However, these foods can easily dent your kids’ teeth.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cavities (also known as tooth decay or caries) are among the most common chronic illnesses that affect kids in the U.S. Here is how cavities affects children based on their age groups:

Ages 5-11: The prevalence of untreated cavities in kids aged 5-11 years is 20%.
Ages 12-19: The prevalence of untreated cavities in adolescents aged 12-19 is 13%.

As a general tip, avoid acidic, sugary, or starchy food items. Say no to gummy candies. Such snacks stick on your kid’s teeth, invite bacteria, and cause potential tooth decay.

Alternatively, stock your pantry with fresh vegetables and fruits, and make healthy eating seem like a cool thing. Even more important, make plenty of clean drinking water available. When sending your children off to play, trade in the pricey sports drinks for cool, refreshing water.

Prevent dental emergencies

For children, most dental emergencies come about in the summer. Extended time playing outside means more adventures. And while those can be fun, children sometimes hurt their teeth when riding bikes, playing outdoor sports, or enjoying other daring activities.

If your kid has a dental emergency, ensure you take them to a Palo Alto pediatric dentist near you to treat the injury. Most importantly, always encourage your children to wear helmets and mouthguards when riding skateboards, bikes, or roller skates.

Summing it up

No matter the season you are in, early dental care is important. Creating and strictly following a dental health care routine is vital for both your kid’s short and long-term health. Observing simple tips like brushing twice a day, snacking healthy, and regularly visiting a pediatric dentist are helpful in protecting your kids’ teeth all summer and beyond.

Article resources:
Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.ada.org/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org
https://www.cdc.gov/

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Is Professional Teeth Cleaning Really Necessary?

Posted on May 18, 2021 - 12:56 PM by admin

There is a common fallacy that flossing, rinsing with mouthwash, and brushing will suffice for dental health. The truth is an at-home oral hygiene routine can only do so much for your gums and teeth.

Professional cleaning, carried out by an experienced dentist, is crucial for oral health and aesthetic appeal. If you haven’t had any form of teeth cleaning in the past one year or six months, it is high time you scheduled a trip to a Palo Alto dental clinic near you.

Deep Teeth Cleaning Vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Deep cleaning is not obligatory for every patient. Usually, it is a special kind of cleaning that focuses on getting rid of bacteria that cause gum disease. For instance, if you have gingivitis or a more severe case of gum infection, you will need deep teeth cleaning in Palo Alto.

Unlike a regular cleaning, this procedure takes two appointments. The dentist will do a partial cleaning of your mouth at each visit. But what actually happens during teeth cleaning?

First, the dentists conduct a physical exam. If they detect significant issues, they proceed to numb your mouth and then use special dental instruments to clean tartar and plaque in the gums and teeth. Additionally, the dentist will smoothen out the roots of your teeth to remove pockets of bacteria and get rid of gum disease.

Professional Dental Cleaning Is Necessary: Here Is Why.

Professional Teeth Cleaning Is Essential in Combating Gum Disease
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), deep teeth cleanings is hugely beneficial to individuals with chronic gum disease.

Gum disease affects the tissues surrounding the teeth, causing halitosis (bad breath) and possible bone loss if left untreated. The gums progressively weaken as gum disease magnifies.

Professional teeth cleaning in Palo Alto provides you with the chance to locate gum disease early, reverse the impact, and treat the issue before it degenerates. Thus, failure to meet with your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings may leave your gums more vulnerable.

Professional Teeth Cleaning Is Necessary for Cavity Prevention

Plaque is one of the primary causes of cavities. Plaque slowly builds up on the teeth, leaving behind a film-like material that attacks dental enamel. Your teeth start to decay as the enamel dissipates. Usually, this decay spurs large cavities.

Professional teeth cleaning in Palo Alto is essential to get rid of plaque and clean all those confined areas in your mouth you may not be able to clean by yourself. In other words, it is the only practical way to eliminate all the cavity-causing plaque in the mouth.

Teeth Cleaning Help You Achieve a Beautiful Smile

Everyone wants a lovely smile, yet a beautiful smile cannot be achieved only with brushing, flossing, mouth rinsing, and use of over-the-counter products.

Opt for professional dental cleanings, and you will rest knowing the dentist will conduct the procedure much more safely than any DIY method. Add to the fact that professional cleaning will remove stains and buff up your teeth, so they look that much brighter and whiter.

How Often Should You Go for Dental Checkups and Cleaning in Palo Alto?‘

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular dental visits depending on your specific case. If you are taking care of your teeth and having regular cleanings, a deep cleaning may not be essential. An annual regular dental cleaning may be enough. However, patients with a history of periodontitis or gum disease may have to visit more often for checkups and deep cleaning.

Do Teeth Cleanings Hurt?

There are some people for whom any dental visit can cause anxiety and apprehension. However, while teeth deep cleaning may cause some discomfort, your Palo Alto dentist will use anesthesia to numb the gums during the procedure.

You really shouldn’t feel pain during teeth cleaning. And in instances where your gums may feel a bit tender after the procedure, there are ways to ease that.

Teeth Cleaning Aftercare

After cleaning, your dentist will offer instructions on how to care for your teeth. Here are some common best practices for just about every teeth cleaning situation:

Don’t eat until the numbness has subsided entirely. Ensure you can feel every sensation in your gums before eating. That way, you won’t damage your gums or disrupt the healing process.

Avoid certain food. Though your gums are healing, there are some foods you shouldn’t eat. They may include challenging-to-eat foods like large burgers and steaks, acidic foods like citrus, and foods with small pieces that may get trapped in your gums, such as popcorn and nuts.

Rinse your mouth with saltwater. Your Palo Alto dentist may advise you to rinse your mouth a few times a day with salt water. This keeps the treated part clean and helps avoid infection.

Schedule a Dental Checkup and Cleaning in Palo Alto Today

Visiting your Palo Alto dentist for checkups and cleaning at least twice a year will ensure your mouth, gum, and teeth remain healthy at all times. All the best as you plan this important and necessary visit!

Article Resources:

Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:
https://www.webmd.com/
https://www.healthline.com/
https://www.health.harvard.edu
https://www.ada.org/en
https://jada.ada.org

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What are the Best Teeth Replacement Options?

Posted on April 29, 2021 - 8:12 AM by admin

A set of teeth is like a new car; shiny and bright in the beginning but often in need of spare or replacement parts as time goes by. Losing a tooth is sometimes unavoidable. In fact, few will make it through life with 32 teeth.

Let’s explore a few teeth replacement options and how they can contribute to your overall dental health.

Causes of tooth loss

There are many causes of tooth loss. Topping the list is tooth decay and gum disease.

Tooth decay occurs when food particles containing carbohydrates (sugar and starches) are left on the teeth for some time. Bacteria that reside in the mouth digest these particles, turning them into acid. This acid damages and causes cavities. On the other hand, gum disease develops when too much plaque settles on the gum line, leading to swelling and reddening of the gum tissue. If not treated early, it tears down the bone that supports the teeth.

Accidents and sports injuries are other causes of teeth loss. Tooth loss can occur due to a fracture or crack in the bone from an accident. According to American Dental Assistants Association, 5 million teeth are lost yearly in the U.S because of sports injuries.

Impact of missing teeth

In some instances, there may be little impact. Depending on where the missing tooth is located, others may not quickly notice a gap in your mouth. Usually, this is the case when the missing tooth is at the side or back of your mouth.

However, your teeth are intended to work together, so losing one or more teeth can, to some extent, impact speech, eating, and other dental problems. It becomes uncomfortable and difficult to chew food. You may find yourself having to chew at a much slower pace or on one side of your mouth. This can affect your facial and jaw muscles.

Missing teeth can also change the outline of your face since it can cause your facial muscles to sag. What’s more, your bite may change to compensate or make up for the lost teeth, and the remaining ones (teeth) might move given the extra room. Unfortunately, this can cause tooth grinding, tooth sensitivity, and difficulty in chewing in the long run.

What are the best options if you lose your teeth?

The quick answer includes implants, bridges, and dentures.

A more detailed answer:

The ideal option for teeth replacement largely depends on the scope of dental work and your smile goals. Dental clinics offer different procedures, and each calls for a different amount of time, work, and expertise, along with a different cost.

Consider the following teeth replacement options:

Dental implants

Dental implants are one of the most preferred options when you wish to replace one or more teeth.

This treatment entails surgically mounting a titanium frame or post into your lower or upper jaw. Then, a replacement tooth is mounted to the implant, which helps the tooth remain in place securely.

While treatment costs may vary depending on various factors, the cost of a single tooth dental implant falls between $3000 and $6000.

Some benefits of dental implants include:

They are permanent and durable
They have a 95 percent treatment success rate
They provide an appealing aesthetic
They feel comfortable and natural
They require little maintenance other than cleanings, checkups, and good oral hygiene
They do not need any modification of the bordering teeth
They are an excellent tooth replacement method to prevent jawbone loss

Dental bridge

Bridges are fixed dental devices that bridge the gap formed by one or more missing teeth. There are three types of bridges – Traditional, Maryland, and Cantilever – but your doctor will help you pick the best option among the three.

A dental bridge gets its support from the nearby healthy teeth on the right or left side of the gap. The teeth that provide support to the bridge are known as abutments, while the ones that cover the gap are called pontics.

The placement of a dental bridge is usually not a surgical procedure; therefore, you will remain awake throughout the treatment. But, if you are uneasy or nervous about the thought of undergoing the treatment, your dentist might offer mild sedation to assist you to relax. Additionally, your dentist will numb the area in question with a local anesthetic by injecting some medication into your gums.

One of the best parts about dental bridges as a treatment option for missing teeth is that the recovery process is minimal. Actually, you can eat normally as soon as the dental bridge has been mounted in your mouth. A large majority of patients have no difficulties adapting to the bridge.

The cost of a dental bridge will depend on several factors, such as the materials needed, the type of bridge chosen, and any dental work required before installing this dental device. When it comes to materials, the charges for an all-porcelain bridge are higher than a porcelain-fused or metal-fused bridge.

Advantages of dental bridges include:

Feel and look like natural teeth
Don’t require removal for cleaning
They are usually cheaper than dental implants
Last for many years before calling for replacement
Easy to maintain and can be flossed and brushed just like ordinary teeth

Dentures

Dentures are a perfect tooth replacement option for people who are missing many of their teeth. A full or complete denture replaces all the missing teeth in either the lower or upper jaw. On the other hand, a removable partial denture is recommended when the patient still has some teeth left.

The procedure for a partial denture consists of replacement teeth being fastened to a natural-looking pink base. Generally, your natural teeth secure the removable plastic base in place. However, some dentures have a tiny clasp that connects to natural teeth.

Although the cost varies, pricing calculators estimate the cost of dentures to range from $1,500-$3,000.

Advantages of dentures include:

They are pretty affordable and take a minimal amount of time to create.
Look and feel natural in the mouth
Easily removed for cleaning
Allow patients to eat more comfortably

Consult your dentist for the best tooth-replacement option

There are many practical options to remedy a lost tooth, regardless if it was lost via injury, decay, or gum disease. Each option has its share of advantages and disadvantages, which your dentist can help you evaluate based on your budget and specific needs. All the best as you strive to improve your dental health and restore your smile.

Consult our Palo Alto dentists for all restorative dental procedures, including implants, bridges, and dentures.

Article resources:

Information in this article has been gathered from multiple public health sources, including:

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