Battle of the Brushes: Electric vs. Manual
Good oral health starts with practicing daily habits –– such as brushing and flossing your teeth. Following the recommended brush time of two minutes twice daily adds up to 1,460 minutes spent brushing your teeth each year –– or more than one full day of brushing. That’s why it’s important to find a toothbrush that feels comfortable and works best for you. Understanding the differences between manual and electric toothbrushes is key to keeping your smile healthy. Benefits of Manual Toothbrushes Plentiful options: Manual toothbrushes come in a variety of colors, sizes and bristle options. Inexpensive: The average toothbrush costs a fraction of its electric counterpart and can be found at almost any grocery store, convenience store or pharmacy. Many dentist offices offer complimentary toothbrushes during your appointments. No batteries or charging: Besides toothpaste, there’s nothing else to remember. Drawbacks: Proper technique: With manual toothbrushes, you get out what you put in. In other […]
What to Expect When Visiting Your Dental Office
Like so many industries across the world, the dental industry has been dramatically impacted by COVID-19. As a result of the pandemic, you may have had to reschedule a dental appointment. However, many states have lifted restrictions and businesses are open, including dental offices. Choosing when to return to the dentist is important and should be based on a number of factors. Consider the following before scheduling your next appointment: Preventive Dental Care is crucial to your oral health and overall well-being. During routine exams, your dentist can detect signs of many diseases including heart disease and diabetes. They can also identify early signs of oral health concerns that could become more expensive, complicated and uncomfortable if left untreated. Infection Control Policies have always been top priority for dental practices. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, updated guidelines have been set by the American Dental Association (ADA), the U.S. […]
Standard Floss vs. Water Flossers
Most people know to practice healthy oral health habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily. However, many people have questions about whether water flossing is a better alternative to traditional flossing. It’s important to understand each technique to help determine which is the better fit for you. Dental floss and floss picks Standard flossing is a simple process that uses a thin, soft piece of string to pass between teeth, gently scraping up and down to remove plaque and food particles from teeth and out from under gums. Another option is a floss pick – a plastic tool with a u-shaped end that holds a small piece of floss. There are several advantages to standard floss and floss picks: Minimal cost Easily accessible from a pharmacy or grocery store Quick and easy to use on the go Despite the pros to flossing, there are a few cons: […]
COVID-19 Stress and Oral Health
It is currently a stressful time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies show that stress not only harms your overall health, but it can harm your oral health as well. Reducing stress is important to maintaining a healthy smile and good oral health. Stress has been shown to contribute to the following oral health conditions: Bruxism (teeth grinding) Dry mouth Canker sores Tooth decay Gum disease Here are some good ways to help keep your whole mouth healthy, while you work to lower your stress levels. Stay on track with your oral health routine. Always brush two times each day for two minutes, floss once daily and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and exams to lessen your risk for cavities or gum disease. Get plenty of sleep, stay active and try relaxation techniques, like meditation, to help you de-stress. Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake and eat a well-balanced diet […]
How to fight bad breath
If you suffer from bad breath, you’re not alone. Medically known as halitosis, bad breath affects 50% of adults at some point in their lives.1 It’s a very common, yet treatable, condition. Common causes: Dental hygiene Brushing twice a day and flossing daily ensure the removal of small food particles that can build up and cause odor-producing bacteria to grow. When those particles are not removed, a colorless, sticky film of bacteria, or plaque, forms to your teeth. And, it’s not just the bacteria on your teeth that cause bad breath. Your tongue can also trap bacteria and create an odor. Gum disease Bad breath can be an indicator of advanced gum disease, which is a buildup of sticky, cavity-causing plaque. Dry mouth Saliva is important, because it naturally cleanses your mouth, removing food particles that cause bad odors. If you don’t produce enough saliva, your mouth isn’t able to […]
