Dupont Family Dentistry Blog

Three Alternative Valentine’s Day Treats

January 30, 2015

Filed under: Dentist Approved Treats — John Ludu @ 12:19 pm

Alternative Valentine's Day Treats

It’s February, and rose stands are popping up in mall parking lots across the country. At the grocery store, Christmas candy and New Years Eve memorabilia have been packed away. Taking it’s place; red and pink merchandise and heart shaped boxes of chocolate. Valentine’s Day is next on the list of festive holidays, and every year America braces for the next big candy craze. Now obviously, our indulgence on Valentine’s Day offers potential dental problems for the future. However, sweet treats are a part of the holiday, and the dental community knows this. While a dentist’s idea of sweet treats may be a little outside of status quo, you might be surprised at how much you enjoy these low sugar Valentine’s Day treats. Here is a list of dentist approved Valentine’s Day treats to keep the holiday spirit festive, all while keeping your dental health in check.

Berry’s and Dark Chocolate

Not only are they colorful, but berries are delicious and beneficial for your overall health. Yep, including your teeth! They can be organized into festive plate platters, or served in themed cupcake liners. If you still want your fix of chocolate, melt down high cocoa dark chocolate to dip your berries into. Dark chocolate contains less sugar than milk chocolate and contains many benefits for your heart and brain.

Bruschetta, cheese, and crackers

Another clever and delicious way to keep your mouth healthy this Valentine’s Day is to skip the sweets altogether. Cheese can be cut into festive heart shapes, and crackers or french bread can be organized into a decorative platter. To make Bruschetta, simply chop fresh cherry tomatoes, onion, cilantro, garlic, and basil together and douce with extra virgin olive oil and squeezed lemon. The content of sugar is low for this platter, and the calcium from cheese benefits your teeth’s health.

Decorative banana and strawberry smoothies

Still have a sweet tooth? Make a delicious smoothie using strawberries and bananas. To add a creamy texture, mix in nonfat Greek yogurt, or some almond milk. Yogurt is a great option because it adds protein which is essential for the body’s future development. Once you are finished blending, dress it up with whole chopped berries on the top, finely grated dark chocolate, and red and pink sprinkles for flare. A smoothy is the perfect option for those with a mean sweet tooth.

Whether you are very wary of your tooth health, or not too concerned, these options offer you a substitute from the sugar packed candies that are so often associated with Valentine’s Day. By decreasing your sugar intake, along with brushing your teeth regularly, your chances of developing a cavity or multiple cavities becomes less likely.

 

Dental Veneers: Are They Right For You?

January 16, 2015

Filed under: Dental Veneers — pts @ 4:20 pm

Dental Veneers: Are They Right For You?

The number of people voluntarily receiving cosmetic surgery continues to grow in record
numbers every year. Although vain to some, many American’s believe their personal
appearance will greatly increases their chances to thrive in society. So what aspect of
appearance does the majority pay the most attention to? Many surveys have asked this exact
question to millions of American’s across the country. At the top of the list, a perfect smile. And
cosmetic dentistry can have your teeth looking brand new using dental porcelain or resin
veneers.

What is a Dental Veneer?

A dental veneer acts like a cover over your existing tooth. First, a mold and x-ray of the mouth must be
completed to create the veneer to fit exactly over the tooth. The veneer is a wafer thin shell
made of a tooth colored porcelain or resin material. Both porcelain and resin veneers are
extremely realistic in appearance, however they have different uses for different individual
circumstances. A layer of the tooth’s enamel must be removed before the dental veneer is attached.
Dental veneers will take place of this enamel creating a brand new cover and defensive layer for the
tooth. It is bonded onto the tooth using an extremely strong adhesive that will last up to 10
years of normal wear and tear. As a patient, having dental veneers installed is like receiving a set
of brand new teeth. At least from someone else’s perspective.
Are veneers right for your

Through the course of life, our bodies naturally break down cell matter and reinvent themselves.
Just about every part of our human body is capable of rebuilding and recreating itself including
our bones. In fact, the largest bone in the body is capable of completely rebuilding itself from
new material in less than a year. However, with all of this amazing capability, the body cannot
repair the teeth in our mouth’s. Maintaining a great smile through life is no easy task. Teeth get
stained, discolored, chipped, worn down, and broken just to name a few. We’ve all got one or
more of these problems.

So how much is a beautiful smile worth to Americans. The industry has grown to over 2 billion
dollars in sales with millions of people getting cosmetic dentistry performed every year. And the
numbers climb every year due to the advancements of the technology and the affordability. If
you are tired of the stains, displacement, and chips of your teeth, having dental veneers installed may
be the right decision for you.

 

Mouth Matters | Must Know Dental Facts for 2015

December 29, 2014

Filed under: Dental Cleaning — pts @ 2:12 pm
There are many things you need to know about your teeth that can help you perfect perfect dental hygiene. As the New Year approaches, it’s a good idea to brush up (pun intended) on those important dental facts. Make improving your dental hygiene a propriety this New Year. Like grandma always said, take care of your teeth! It’s the only pair you get!
Below is an excellent infographic to help you understand the importance of keeping a clean mouth.
Some of our favorite facts include:
“The estimated cost of one cavity over a lifetime is over $2,000.”
“If you don’t floss, you will miss cleaning 35% of your tooth surfaces.”
“Egyptians used a form of toothpaste made from a mixture of salt, mint and pepper over 5,000 years ago.”
Enjoy!
Your Mouth Matters - Fun Dental Facts

The Cavity-Free Survival Guide to the Holidays

December 19, 2014

Filed under: Dental Cleaning — pts @ 3:24 pm

Cavity-Free Guide to the Holidays

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is in full force bringing lots of good times and good food. While most of the food and sweets probably taste amazing, your teeth definitely do not feel the same way about them. Because of the busy schedule during this time of the year, combined with the frequent consumption of sweets, the holidays can often take a major toll on your teeth. However, avoiding dental disaster during the holidays is not impossible! Here is a survival guide to help keep your mouth cavity free during the season!

Limit the Sugar Intake

Arguably the best part about the holiday season are all of the delicious sweets that are constantly tempting everyone. Due to the spirit of this time of year, avoiding these treats altogether might be close to impossible. If you can totally resist the temptation, more power to you. That is ultimately the best way to stay cavity-free. If you do not want to totally cut out these sweets because this time of the year only comes around once every twelve months, then simply reduce the amount that you eat. The less sugar intake that you have, the better off your teeth will be, and the more likely you will be able to end the holidays with no cavities!

Be Proactive

As we were saying, sometimes getting rid of the sugar intake altogether is not reasonably possible. If you are having a hard time reducing the amount of sugar you consume during this time of the year, then one way of counteracting this sugar is by being more proactive with your dental care. For example, if you have just ate of few treats loaded with sugar, once you are done you can brush your teeth even if it might be in the middle of the day. If you are not at home where your toothbrush is, another option of being proactive is to rinse your mouth out after eating. This will help to reduce some of the effects of the sugar on your teeth.

Follow Your Normal Regimen

While the sweets are generally the most harmful on your teeth during the holidays, they are not the only threat. Holiday parties and events often keep everyone busy. This can lead to getting home later than usual and throwing you off of your schedule, which can occasionally be reason to skip brushing and flossing. One of the most important things that you can do to remain cavity-free is to stay on schedule with your dental care. Learn more with our 10 easy ways to boost dental hygiene.

 

Keeping your teeth cavity-free during the holidays is not always the easiest task, but it is something to definitely pay attention to while you enjoy the special benefits that come with this time of the year. If you are wondering of other general ways to keep your teeth in the best condition possible, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter and we would love to help you out!

What is Oral Surgery?

November 27, 2014

Filed under: Oral Surgery — John Ludu @ 5:50 pm

Oral Surgery

If you are talking with your dentist and they suggest dental oral surgery, it might be somewhat intimidating at first. But what is oral surgery? The sound of this process seems a lot more daunting than it generally is. While there are many types of dental procedures small or large, when talking about dental oral surgery there are two common types that are often referred to. Here is a look at these two types of oral surgery that are quite frequently performed.

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Natural Teeth Restoration

November 15, 2014

Filed under: Dental Hygiene — John Ludu @ 1:09 am

Teeth Restoration

We all know the importance of taking preventative measures to make sure we don’t cause damage to our teeth. These include small things like avoiding excessively acidic, sticky or gummy foods. The decline of oral health can come from tooth enamel demineralization. Have you ever noticed small, frosty-looking white spots on the surface of some teeth? That is a representation of enamel demineralization, often caused by excessive exposure to acid.

On the other end of the spectrum is the idea of teeth restoration. Just like we avoid things that cause harm, are there ways to restore health to our pearly whites if some damage has already been done?

The short answer is yes, teeth restoration is possible! With small lifestyle changes, you can improve your oral health and see tooth enamel restoration from minor erosion. Here are some easy things you can start doing today to see improvement:

1) Start By Being Mindful Of What You Are Drinking

Your oral health is hugely dependent on the fluids in your mouth. Acidic beverages, such as soft drinks, fruit drinks, coffee and tea, can erode teeth over time. To start seeing natural teeth restoration occur,  rinse your mouth out immediately after exposing your teeth to sweets and acidic drinks.

2) Remineralize Teeth Through Your Diet

When teeth are demineralized, their pores are larger and more susceptible to damage. Foods and beverages that are high in beneficial minerals will insure your tooth pores are minimized. When mineral-rich foods are introduced to your diet, your saliva, too, will be mineral-rich and facilitate tooth enamel restoration.

3) Use Remineralizing Gel and Fluoride Toothpaste

It is incredibly important to be mindful of dietary changes that encourage teeth restoration, but aiding in the process with remineralizing gel can also become a part of your daily oral health routine. You should consult your dentist before starting a new tooth regimen, but using fluoride toothpaste can make your teeth more resistant to acid and aid restoration of teeth.

The best tip will always be to prevent the damage before it is done, but we all know that life can make perfect habits difficult. Teeth restoration can be a tedious process, but making sure you are being mindful of your oral health is key to your overall well-being and adjusting small day to day habits can have huge long-term benefits. As always, make sure you schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. Furthermore, ask any questions you have when consulting with your dentist before making any major changes to your dental routine!

Halloween Wax Lips and Teeth

October 31, 2014

Filed under: Kids Dental — John Ludu @ 6:39 pm

When Halloween comes around each year, we’re reminded of all the classic sweets we’ve come to know and love growing up (and try to resist temptation from during the rest of the year).

One of the most iconic treats that start to pop up during the season are the infamous red wax lips, or our preferred version, wax fangs! If you’ve never seem them, they’re a candy made of colored, flavored wax that look like oversized, comically shaped teeth and lips! While they may not be the most coveted Halloween candies, they surely are a staple of the holiday.

1In 1924, a confectioner with a wild sense of humor named John W. Glenn decided to use some fully refined food-grade paraffin to create the first set of wax lips. Paraffin wax is a white or colorless byproduct left over from the rise of the oil industry and use of kerosene for lighting. Candy from oil byproduct doesn’t seem like the most appealing type of candy, but Glenn found a niche market in America that really appreciated his imagination and it took off!

 

Wax lips remained popular all through the 20th century, but have since died down in popularity. The legacy of the original red wax lips created by Glenn Confections is being continued with Wack-O-Wax, produced by Concord Confections via Tootsie-Roll Industries, who acquired the patent for the lip design in 2002.
2

The formula used by Wack-O-Wax is proprietary, but many imitations can be easily found, all using paraffin wax. The product was originally intended to be a soft, chewing-gum-like treat, but because of the taste, most people exclusively use them for a fun laugh. The wax lips and teeth are typically discarded after everyone has had their fun and never consumed. While the paraffin wax used in production is technically safe to chew and eat, we suggest refraining. Chewy, sticky foods stay on your teeth longer, meaning more damage time. Also, wax like this is not digestible and can easily cause stomachaches and pains if large amounts are consumed. Enjoy them as a joke treat and take some funny pictures, but we would probably suggest straying away from actually eating them!

3These days, variations of the original wax lips have expanded to include hilariously shaped teeth and even vampire fangs, our favorite!  While wax lips and teeth are all fun and games, it can be a good reminder to what happens when one doesn’t properly take care of those pearly whites, especially during the holidays! Have fun this Halloween and remember, limiting candy intake and taking extra time to clean those teeth are quintessential to avoiding cavities!

The Basics of a Dental Restoration

October 17, 2014

Filed under: Dental Hygiene — John Ludu @ 4:12 pm

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A dental restoration is a broad term that refers to many different types of restorative dentistry procedures. While there are many reasons that dental restorations may be necessary, the procedure can be divided into two general categories: direct and indirect restorations. If any of your teeth require restoration, it is important to understand the differences between these procedures. Doing so will set proper expectations for before, during and after the restoration.

Direct Restorations procedures

Direct dental restoration refers to a technique in which a filling material is placed directly into the prepared tooth cavity. The biggest benefit of direct restorations is time. Because the materials used harden quickly, the procedure can be completed within a single office visit.  Another benefit in placing a direct restoration is that these types of restorations are typically far less invasive than indirect restoration.  There are several filling materials your dentist can choose to repair your tooth; typically an amalgam or composite substance.  The dentist will decide what material is best to repair a specific tooth based on the amount or size of the defect and location of the damaged tooth.

Indirect Restorations procedures

Indirect dental restorations most commonly refer to crowns, onlays, inlays, bridges and veneers. These types of restorations will require customized replacements made in a dental lab. After your tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression which is used to mold the replacement. Due to the lengthy process, you can expect more than one visit to your dentist before your tooth is fully restored. There are a variety of materials that are used to make these fitted restorative pieces. There are many options including gold, ceramic, and porcelain.

Why Get Restorative Dentistry?

Dental restoration is most commonly required when repairing damaged or decaying teeth. However, there are a handful of reasons why a person may seek out any one of these procedures.

Dental Pain

Dental restoration can be a great option for those who suffer from dental pain due to circumstances other than tooth decay. If you are experiencing dental pain, consult your dentist to determine the source and whether or not dental restoration is the appropriate solution.

Close Unattractive Spaces

While having large gaps between teeth won’t affect your health or wellbeing, it can be embarrassing. Restorative dentistry in most cases can be an excellent option for improving your smile and overall confidence.

Improve or Correct an Improper Bite

It may surprise you that improper bites are common among older generations due to natural wear.  Improper bites can make eating difficult. Restoration dentistry can help improve or correct improper bites.

Reduce Missing Teeth

Much like improper bites, missing teeth can make eating difficult and often results in low self-esteem. There are many restorative options for replacing missing teeth including dental bridges, dental crowns and, dentures.

Replace Old Dental Restorations

Many times old dental restorations can become damaged due to either outdated procedures or normal wear and tear.   If you are unhappy with the way an old restoration looks, replacing it with new one can be a great option.

Is dental restoration right for you? Visit us at www.devotedfamilydental.com for more information. Devoted Family Dental is Washington’s favorite family dentist!

 

Keep a Healthy Mouth this Halloween and Holiday Season

October 10, 2014

Filed under: Dental Hygiene — John Ludu @ 4:11 pm

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Halloween is the start of the sugary season! We know you are going to indulge, and by all means, you should! Just remember, moderation is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy smile. Below are our suggestions to take into consideration for both you and your kids this Halloween and through the New Year.

Moderation is Key. Like we stated before, moderation is key. It won’t be the end all be all if you eat a few pieces of candy or other sugary treats, just make sure you don’t overdo it! Set a specific “sweet time” for children to help them fight the urge to indulge in sweets throughout the day. Don’t forget to follow up your sweet time with proper brushing and flossing!   During the holiday season, cut back on drinks with added sugar as much as possible. This will help off-set the increased consumption of sugar.

Stay Away from Sticky Candy. Sugar already sticks to teeth so it is best to not make matters worse by eating gooey or sticky candy. Sticky candy such as taffys, gummy bears, and carmel take longer to be washed away by your saliva, resulting in an increased risk for tooth decay. These types of treats are also known to pull off sealants or dislodge an already loose crown or filling!

Avoid Hard Candy. The longer sugar is in your mouth, the bigger your chances of tooth decay. Sucking on hard candy involves a prolonged exposure of sugar which greatly increases your chance of developing cavities.  Chewing on or biting into a hard candy can lead to cracked or broken teeth.  If hard candy is your thing, opt for sugar free versions and be careful not to break a tooth!

Chocolate is Best. Solid chocolate may be your best option when it comes to eating sweets. Chocolate is very soluble and has an easy time washing away with your saliva.  Make sure you avoid chocolate treats with carmel or other added stickiness.

Gum Can Curb Cravings. Sugar is addictive, so it can be hard to resist this season. Choosing sugar free, ADA approved gum will not only help curb your craving for sugar but can also help reduce tooth decay. Gum increases saliva flow and helps loosen wedged food. For best results, chew sugar free gum for 20 minutes after a meal.

Eat Candy with meals. The best time to indulge in some sugary goodness is with meals or shortly after. During this period, saliva production is high, helping to minimize the acids produced by the bacteria in your mouth.

Drink More Water. Water can help wash away sugar that is clinging to your teeth, helping reduce the chances of developing cavities. Encourage your kids to drink a large glass of water after consuming candy or sweets to rinse their teeth as much as possible if a toothbrush is not available.

Brush and Floss. While brushing and flossing are important every day of the year, it is especially important during the holiday season. Make sure you and your children are brushing and flossing at least twice a day or no more than 30 minutes after a sugary binge.

10 Easy Ways to Boost Dental Hygiene

September 29, 2014

Filed under: Dental Hygiene — John Ludu @ 3:14 pm

best dental hygiene tips

Dental Hygiene is extremely important for not only your oral care, but also your overall health. Poor dental hygiene has been linked to many common illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. In fact, during a recent study, numbers suggest that people with serious gum disease were 40% more likely to also have a chronic health condition. Below are our 10 good dental hygiene tips for boosting your oral health.

Floss Daily. In 2013, 50.5% of Americans say they floss on a daily basis. That means nearly half of the U.S. population is missing 40% of their teeth’s surfaces. Flossing is high on our list of good dental hygiene tips because it is the number one most ignored dental hygiene tool and is just as important as brushing on a daily basis.

Brush Your Teeth Daily.  It is recommended by the ADA to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Your toothbrush should fit comfortably in your mouth and be easy to maneuver around, reaching all areas of your teeth and mouth.

Eat Crunchy Veggies. If it is hard to find time to brush your teeth after lunch than our 3rd suggestion in our good dental hygiene tips is just for you. Try eating low acidic fruits or crunchy veggies such as carrots or celery. These foods are natural tooth cleaning aids and can help scrub sticky food residue of the surface of your teeth. Furthermore, celery’s stringing fibers can act as natural floss, helping remove enrooted food between your teeth.

Chew Sugar Free Gum. Much like our third suggestion in our 10 good dental hygiene tips, chewing sugar free gum can help clean your teeth after meals. The stickiness of gum helps remove wedged food between your teeth and can pull plaque from the surfaces. The ADA also says that chewing gum increases the flow of saliva in your mouth, helping to neutralize acids. Saliva also carries calcium and phosphate which helps strengthen tooth enamel.

Quite Smoking. Smoking not only affects your lungs, it affects your teeth and gums as well. Nicotine and tar in cigarettes creates the perfect environment for bacteria and plaque to breed. Smoking dries your mouth by decreasing saliva flow.  Tobacco can also cause mouth sores, making you more at risk for mouth cancer.

Eat Better. Coming in at number 6 on our good dental hygiene tips list is healthy eating. Eating nutritious and balanced meals while limiting snacking can do wonders for your dental hygiene. Foods with high levels of carbohydrate such as candy, breads and chips will stick to teeth and remain on the tooth surface until brushed off. This can increase your risk of cavities.

Keep your Tools Clean. Keep your tooth brush clean by rinsing it with water after each use. Store your toothbrush upright and uncovered so it can air dry. Storing tooth brushes in closed containers encourages bacteria growth which can then be transferred to your mouth.

Replace Toothbrush. In order to have the best dental hygiene, it is recommended to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or if your bristles become frayed.

Purchase ADA Approved Supplies. There are many dental products out there to choose from but only ones with the ADA approval stamp should be trusted. This is especially true when it comes to mouth wash and even other things like sugar free gum.

Regular Dental Visits. Number 10 on the best dental hygiene tips list is your biannual dentist appointments. The ADA recommends having two dental visits a year.Having two dental visits a year helps keep your dental hygiene in check. Dental visits can also be used as an extra way to check up on your overall wellbeing as the condition of your gums can be a tall tail sign of other health issues.

As of 2013, 80 percent of the U.S. population has some form of periodontal gum disease. Periodontal disease can be easily prevented by taking the dental hygiene steps above. Take the first steps to having a cleaner, healthier mouth by making an appointment at your local dentist office today.

Visit us at www.devotedfamilydental.com today for more information about our 10 best dental hygiene tips. Devoted Family Dental is Marysville Washington’s favorite family dentist!

 

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