Bright, white teeth help you to look and feel your best. While many products on the market can help whiten your teeth, there are also some natural methods for keeping your teeth white.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at how to keep your teeth white naturally.

1. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables

Apples, celery, carrots, and other crunchy fruits and vegetables help to scrub your teeth while you chew. Eating crunchy foods also increases saliva production, which helps to rinse away bacteria and food particles that can contribute to the yellowing or staining of the teeth.

2. Rinse Your Mouth with Water After Eating

After eating, it is important to rinse your mouth out with water to wash away food particles that can cause staining. However, it is important not to use mouthwash since many contain alcohol and other harsh chemicals that are damaging to tooth enamel.

3. Avoid Coffee and Tea

Coffee and tea are known for staining teeth due to the tannins they contain. If you do choose to drink these beverages, try to limit your intake and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

4. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to remove surface stains from the teeth. To use baking soda as a tooth whitener, mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to your toothbrush and brush gently for two minutes before rinsing with water.

5. Use Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can help to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth, leading to whiter teeth over time. To use coconut oil as a natural whitening agent, swish one tablespoon around your mouth for 10-20 minutes. Do this once a day and you could begin to notice results in a few weeks.

Professional Teeth Whitening Options

It is important to note that not all stains can be removed without professional dental care. If you have stubborn stains or discoloration, it is best to consult with your dentist for the most effective treatment. Here are some professional teeth whitening options that are available:

In-Office Teeth Whitening

This is a high-powered bleaching treatment that takes place in the dentist’s office. It can produce results in just one visit but may cause sensitivity in some people.

Take Home Teeth Whitening Kits

These kits come with custom-fitted trays that you fill with a bleaching agent and then wear for a certain amount of time each day. These kits work over several weeks.

No matter what method you choose to keep your teeth white, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits by brushing twice daily, flossing, and rinsing with water after meals. This will help to keep your teeth healthy and looking their best!

If you need further advice on how to keep your teeth white naturally, be sure to talk to our team on your next visit. We will be happy to provide you with personalized tips and treatments that are tailored to your specific needs. 

With the right care and attention, you can show off a beautiful smile for many years to come!

As parents, caregivers, and guardians, teaching kids proper dental hygiene is essential for the overall health and well-being of our children. Brushing their teeth not only keeps their pearly whites looking healthy and strong but also helps prevent cavities.

However, we know this is often easier said than done. In this blog post, we will share five fun ways to teach your kid to brush their teeth that will make the process easier for everyone involved.

1. Make It a Game

Instead of just telling your kids to brush their teeth, turn it into a competition. You can have them race against each other or you can see who can brush the longest.  This will help make brushing their teeth more enjoyable.

2. Use Music

Playing music while brushing can also be an exciting way to get your kids engaged in the activity. Audiobooks or sing-alongs are great options, as they will provide a distraction that makes the time go by quickly.

3. Create a Reward System

Set up a chart that rewards your child when they complete brushing their teeth for two minutes (as recommended by the American Dental Association).  You can give them stickers or other rewards when they achieve their goal.

4. Let Them Pick Out Their Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Giving your child a say in what toothbrush and toothpaste they use will make them more likely to take ownership of their dental health. They’ll be more excited to brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste that they chose.

5. Use Technology

There are a variety of apps that can help make brushing your teeth more fun. From digital timers to games, these types of tools can keep kids engaged in the brushing process.

When Should Kids Start Brushing Their Teeth?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends starting to brush your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. You should always supervise your child while they are brushing their teeth until age 8 or so, to ensure that they do it correctly and safely.

Children should start flossing as soon as their teeth are touching. This will help ensure that their gums and teeth stay healthy as well as begin to establish healthy habits surrounding oral hygiene.

Your Child’s First Dentist Visit

In addition to brushing their teeth twice a day, it is important to take your child to the dentist regularly. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time before their first birthday.

During this visit, our team will help your child get used to the dentist and make sure that their teeth are developing correctly. We will also provide brushing instructions, discuss any concerns you might have, and answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental health.

Creating Healthy Brushing Habits to Last a Lifetime

Following the tips above will help create a healthy brushing routine that your child can carry with them throughout their life. With proper dental hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, your child will have healthy teeth for years to come!

There is a lot of debate surrounding fluoride. Some people believe that it is a miracle mineral that helps to improve dental health, while others think that it is nothing more than a dangerous toxin. So what is fluoride, and where does this controversy come from?

In this blog post, we will bust the myths about fluoride and take a closer look at this controversial topic.

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a natural element that can be found in rocks, soil, and even water. It has been used for centuries to help improve dental health, and today it is added to many public water supplies.

Fluoride works by strengthening the teeth and preventing cavities. When fluoride is added to water, it helps to create a protective barrier around the teeth that helps to prevent decay.

History of Fluoride

Fluoride has been used to improve dental health for centuries. It was first added to public water supplies in the United States in the 1950s, and since then, there has been a significant decline in cavities and tooth decay.

Should You Use Toothpaste With Fluoride?

The answer to this question is a resounding yes! Toothpaste with fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. The American Dental Association recommends that everyone use toothpaste with fluoride.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Fluoride?

There are some risks associated with fluoride, but they are generally mild. The most common side effect of fluoride is dental fluorosis, which is a condition that causes the teeth to become stained. Dental fluorosis is usually only a cosmetic issue and does not cause any pain or discomfort.

In rare cases, fluoride can also cause bone fractures. This is more likely to occur in people who have kidney problems or who take certain medications. For most individuals, fluoride is not only safe but incredibly beneficial.

Common Fluoride Myths

Despite the proven benefits of fluoride, there are still many myths and misconceptions about this element. Let’s take a look at some of the most common fluoride myths:

Myth #1: Fluoride is Poisonous

This is one of the most common myths about fluoride. However, there is no evidence to support this claim.

Fluoride is safe for human consumption and has been proven to be effective in preventing cavities and improving dental health.

Myth #2: Fluoride Causes Cancer

One of the common myths about fluoride is that it contributes to cancer. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. Several studies have shown that fluoride can help to prevent certain types of cancer.

Myth #3: Fluoride Is Bad for Your Bones

This is another common myth about fluoride. However, many studies have shown that fluoride helps to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.

Myth #4: Most Individuals Absorb Enough Fluoride Naturally

Fluoride is a very important mineral for dental health, and most people do not get enough of it through their diet.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all individuals over the age of six months receive fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities and improve dental health.

Myth #5: Fluoride Is Only Effective When Swallowed

This is yet another common myth about fluoride. However, fluoride is most effective when it comes into contact with the teeth through brushing or other means. Fluoride helps to create a protective barrier around the teeth that helps to prevent cavities and decay.

If you have further questions or concerns about fluoride or the use of fluoride in your dental care, please reach out to our team!

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your gum health until there’s a problem. And by that time, it’s often too late.

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems in the United States and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of massaging your gum line and how to do it properly. We’ll also cover some other tips for keeping your gums healthy!

Why Massaging Your Gum Line is Important

Did you know that massaging your gum line can help improve your dental health? It’s true! There are several benefits to regular gum massage.

Keep Your Gums Healthy

By massaging your gum line, you can help keep your gums healthy and free from disease. Massage helps to improve blood circulation in the gums, which can help them stay healthy and strong.

Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems and can lead to several other serious health issues if left untreated. Massaging your gum line can help prevent gum disease from developing.

Remove Plaque and Tartar

Plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums over time, leading to gum disease and other dental problems. Massaging your gum line can help remove plaque and tartar from your gums, helping to keep them healthy.

Reduce Inflammation

Massaging also helps to reduce inflammation, which can be helpful if you are already experiencing gum problems.

How to Massage Your Gum Line

Now that you know the importance of massaging your gum line, let’s learn how to do it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Use gentle pressure when massaging. You don’t need to use a lot of force!
• Massage for at least two minutes each day.
• Use a circular motion, moving from the inside of your gum line to the outside.
• Be sure to massage all areas of your gum line, including the front, back, and top.

Best Methods for Massaging Your Gum Line

There are a few different ways to massage your gum line. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Use your thumb and index finger to make circular motions around the gum line.
• Massage each tooth individually, using circular motions with your thumb and index finger.
• Use a toothbrush to massage your gum line, making gentle back-and-forth motions.

How Often Should You Massage Your Gum Line?

We recommend massaging your gum line at least once a day. However, if you are experiencing any problems with your gums, you may need to do it more often. Talk to your dentist during your next visit for specific instructions.

Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Massage Their Gum Line?

There are a few people who shouldn’t massage their gum line. If you are pregnant, have diabetes, or are on blood thinners, talk to your dentist before starting a gum massage routine.

Other Tips for Optimal Gum Health

In addition to massaging your gum line, there are a few other things you can do to keep them healthy:

• Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco products.
• Avoid eating sugary foods and drinks.
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Prioritize Your Gum Health

We are passionate about providing our patients with comprehensive knowledge of maintaining their oral health. If you have any questions about massaging your gum line or how to keep your gums healthy, please don’t hesitate to ask our team during your next visit!

Do you suffer from dental anxiety? It turns out, many people do. In fact, it’s estimated that about 50% of the population has some form of dental phobia or fear. If this sounds like you, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to overcome your fears and receive the care that you need. We have put together a list containing five simple but effective strategies for overcoming your anxiety around dentistry.

Strategy #1: Find the Cause of Your Dental Anxiety

Is your dental anxiety centered around a certain procedure, like an x-ray for example? Do you have concerns about what will happen to your teeth after treatment or how expensive your care is going to be?

Oftentimes, we find that people with dental anxieties are concerned more about their own thoughts and feelings than any actual physical pain. This is important to know because you can control your thoughts and not the other way around! Finding the cause of your anxiety will allow you to implement solutions to overcome it!

Strategy #2: Educate Yourself

Educate yourself about the dental procedure, problem, or situation that makes you anxious before it happens! This means doing some research beforehand so you are more prepared for what will happen next.

For example, you might want to know what the dentist will need to do before they start any work on your teeth, how long it’s going to take and how much it will cost. Our team is always willing to answer any questions you may have so that you can approach your dental care with confidence.

Strategy #3: Find a Dental Professional That Suits Your Needs

Unfortunately, not every dental professional is created equal. The demeanor of one dentist may put you at ease while another’s demeanor causes additional anxiety!

Once you find a dental professional that suits your needs, be sure to talk to them about any fears or worries you might have. We are here to help and give advice on how to feel better during and after a visit, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Strategy #4: Consider Sedation Dentistry

For some individuals, dental anxiety is so severe that it prevents them from receiving the care they require. In this situation, sedation dentistry is a gamechanger!

Consider a dental sedative to help you feel more relaxed before your appointment. Sedatives work by slowing down the brain and body response that makes us anxious. If you think sedation dentistry may benefit you, talk to your dentist about if it is the right fit!

Strategy #5: Practice Deep Breathing Techniques

There are many things you can do to control (and overcome) your dental anxiety. One of the most effective is to practice deep breathing techniques before, during, or after a dental appointment.

Deep breathing is a great way to manage stress and anxiety in the moment as well as throughout the day. However, as with many things, deep breathing is something that you must practice! Incorporate deep breathing techniques into your daily life in the weeks leading up to your dental procedure for the best results.

We understand that dental anxiety is a very real thing that affects many of our patients. Regardless of your age, this is not something of which to be ashamed. If you are anxious about an upcoming dental visit or procedure, be sure to talk to our team! We are passionate about doing everything in our power to make your experience comfortable and stress-free.

It’s important to know what causes dental plaque so you can avoid it! In this blog post, we will talk about what causes dental plaque, how to prevent it from building up on your teeth, and the importance of brushing twice per day. We’ll also discuss why flossing is an essential part of maintaining good oral health.

What is Dental Plaque?

Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on teeth and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other dental issues. Plaque forms when you don’t brush your teeth regularly or fail to implement good oral hygiene habits.

When not removed by brushing properly, plaque hardens into tartar. Tartar is a form of dental calculus or mineral deposit that can’t be removed by brushing alone.

What Causes Dental Plaque?

There are three main causes of dental plaque:

 

• A buildup of the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease on your teeth is caused by poor oral hygiene habits.

 

• Not brushing your teeth regularly – twice a day for two minutes each time!

 

• Indulging in sugary foods and drinks leads to increased acid in the mouth. Too much sugar will cause bacteria to produce more plaque on your teeth.

 

How to Avoid Dental Plaque

So, how can you avoid dental plaque? While the only way to completely remove plaque from your teeth is a professional dental cleaning, there are several ways to prevent dental plaque between appointments.

The best way to prevent dental plaque is by consistently brushing your teeth twice a day. Be sure to practice proper brushing techniques, brushing the surface of each tooth.

Flossing also plays a crucial role in helping you avoid dental problems caused by plaque. Flossing removes food particles, debris, and bacteria from between your teeth. If left untouched, this may lead to plaque buildup in the future.

Another way to prevent dental plaque is to eat more fruits and vegetables! Not only do many fruits and vegetables help scrub the plaque off your teeth, but they also satisfy cravings, allowing you to eat less sugar. The acidity of sweet treats will accelerate the growth of dental plaque.

When you do indulge in a sweet treat, be sure to rinse well after you are finished as anything high in sugars can cause the buildup of bacteria on teeth (hello cavities!).

The Role of Dental Cleanings in Eliminating Plaque

Although it is important to practice good oral hygiene to reduce plaque on the surface of your teeth, professional dental cleanings are the only way to fully eliminate plaque.

Because of this, it’s important to make bi-annual dental exams and cleanings a priority. Not only does your dentist remove hardened tartar before it turns into cavities but they also look for signs of decay, disease, or other health concerns.

By taking the time to establish great oral hygiene habits, you can reduce the possibility of cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease – something that will continue to benefit your health for years to come.

Regardless of your age, we all wish for a bright white smile! Unfortunately, most (if not all) of us struggle with tooth discoloration and staining to some extent. Thankfully, tooth discoloration is relatively easy to prevent if you are aware of the many culprits! 

 

There are two main types of tooth staining: intrinsic and extrinsic. Most of us struggle with extrinsic stains that are caused by external influences such as dietary and lifestyle habits. There are many ways to treat extrinsic stains including both natural and professional solutions. 

 

The second type of tooth staining is intrinsic staining. Intrinsic stains form within the tooth and are often caused by medications, health conditions, or even excessive fluoride use. Intrinsic staining is a bit more challenging to address. However, there are great alternatives available thanks to modern dentistry.

 

In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the most common causes of tooth staining and how you can achieve the bright white smile of your dreams!

Common Causes of Teeth Staining

Tooth staining can be caused by a wide variety of factors. Dietary choices are perhaps the most common cause of tooth staining. Dark colored foods or beverages such as coffee, wine, soda, and even some fruits and vegetables can leave behind unfortunate stains!

 

Lifestyle habits such as tobacco use or poor dental hygiene are also contributing factors to a dull, discolored smile. Fortunately, if you are suffering from tooth staining caused by one of these external factors, there are many remedies available!

 

In some cases, however, tooth discoloration is caused by a factor that is outside of your control. For example, many medications can cause staining as well as excess fluoride that may be found in your water source. And for some patients, the cause of tooth staining is previous dental trauma or even genetics. In these situations, more extreme measures will be required to address the discoloration. 

At-Home Solutions for Teeth Staining

The majority of patients struggle with extrinsic tooth staining that is caused by factors that are within their control. For these individuals, there are several at-home solutions available! Simply recommitting to a thorough oral hygiene routine including twice-daily brushing and daily flossing can go a long way in eliminating staining. 

 

Bi-annual dental exams and cleanings will ensure that the plaque is eliminated, reducing the appearance of tooth staining. If you choose to enjoy a food or beverage that is known to stain teeth, simply rinse your mouth thoroughly with water once you have finished! This will minimize the potential for staining.

Professional Solutions to Teeth Staining

If your tooth staining is more advanced or is intrinsic in nature, you may need to resort to a professional solution. Fortunately, thanks to modern dentistry, there are many options available to you! Our dental team offers a variety of solutions including both professional tooth whitening, porcelain veneers to address pesky tooth discoloration. 

 

You deserve a smile that you are proud to show off! Be sure to ask your dentist about the best way to whiten your smile during your next visit.

More often than not, when you think of the dentist, you think of your teeth. Somehow our gums just seem to fall through the cracks. But, did you know that your gum health is just as important as the health of your teeth? 

Your gums are responsible for protecting your teeth from disease and decay. Without proper oral hygiene, your gums can quickly develop periodontitis, another name for gum disease. Some of the most common signs of early gum disease include bad breath, swollen gums, gums that bleed easily, or gums that appear to be receding from your teeth.

When caught in its early stages, gum disease is easily reversible. However, if left untreated, it can have more serious implications on your oral health. So, how do you prevent gum disease? Here are five easy ways to keep your gums healthy:

1. Floss Every Day

Flossing your teeth once every day is one of the most effective ways to improve the health of your gums. When you floss, you are removing the food and bacteria that become trapped between your teeth. When you fail to floss, this food and bacteria become plaque that will eventually lead to gum disease. 

2. Brush Your Teeth Using Proper Technique

We know we talk about brushing your teeth quite often, this is because it is an important step to achieving optimal oral health! When you brush your teeth, you must use the proper technique to protect and care for your gums. 

Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles to alleviate any unnecessary abrasion to your gums! If the bristles of your toothbrush begin to fray, or your toothbrush shows other signs of wear, replace it with a new toothbrush to avoid gum injury. 

3. Use the Right Oral Hygiene Products

There are countless oral hygiene products to choose from. From various flavors to the wide range of claims made by various products, it can be hard to make your final selection! The best oral hygiene products for gum health include toothpaste and mouthwash that contain fluoride. If you are unsure of the best products for you, ask your dentist during your next visit!

4. Protect Your Gums

In addition to instilling proper oral hygiene habits, there are other ways to protect your gums from injury, decay, or disease. Some lifestyle choices such as diets that are high in sugar or regular smoking can cause damage to your gum health. Additionally, participating in sports may pose an added threat to your gums. Take the proper precautions to prevent unnecessary damage or injury, ensuring healthy gums for years to come.

5. Visit the Dentist

There are countless reasons to visit your dentist twice a year. During your bi-annual cleaning and exam, we are not only caring for your teeth but also your gums! Unfortunately, the earliest signs of gum disease are easy to miss. However, when caught in the early stages, gum disease can be reversed through simple oral hygiene! For this reason, professional dental cleanings and exams are one of the best ways to protect and improve the health of your gums.

By implementing these five easy tips, you can make great strides in maintaining not only healthy teeth but also healthy gums!

When you think of oral hygiene, the first thought is likely your teeth. Unfortunately, the tongue is often forgotten in the quest for a healthy smile! Did you know that the health of your tongue can not only impact your oral health but your overall health as well? In this post, we will discuss a few of the ways your tongue can affect your oral hygiene. We will also share some tips for including your tongue in your daily oral hygiene routine! 

Is Your Tongue Healthy?

The tongue is a part of the body that often goes unnoticed – until something is wrong. A healthy tongue should be pink in color with tiny, uniform bumps covering the surface. These bumps are called papillae and provide a rough texture that helps us eat. Papillae also contain both taste buds and temperature receptors, helping us enjoy our food! 

If your tongue is sore, swollen, or you notice any changes in color, pattern, sensation, or appearance, it is important to schedule an appointment to eliminate any concerning health issues. So, how can your tongue affect your oral hygiene? 

Your Tongue Can Harbor Bacteria

We understand the importance of brushing our teeth to eliminate bacteria that can cause decay or disease. But brushing your teeth is only half of the job! As you are eating, bacteria settles between the papillae on your tongue’s surface. Although your teeth may be rid of harmful bacteria, the bacteria on your tongue can wreak havoc on the health of your smile! By brushing or scraping your tongue as you are brushing your teeth, you can eliminate this pesky bacteria, achieving a truly clean smile! 

Your Tongue Can Contribute to Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, is one thing that none of us wish to experience! Not only can bad breath be off-putting to friends and family members, but it can affect the taste of your favorite snack. The bacteria that is harbored in the crevices of your tongue can not only lead to tooth decay, but it can also cause bad breath! 

Taking a few extra moments to clean your tongue will help you achieve truly fresh breath every time you brush! 

Including Your Tongue in Your Oral Hygiene Routine

How exactly do you ensure that your tongue is clean and free from nasty bacteria? There are several methods you can use to clean your tongue. Most of our patients choose to brush their tongue with their toothbrushes as they finish brushing their teeth.

However, there are also special scraping tools made specifically for cleaning your tongue. It may take some practice to develop this as part of your oral hygiene routine. But, the benefits for both your oral health and your overall wellbeing are undeniable. We recommend brushing your tongue at least once a day although incorporating it into your twice-daily brushing is a great way to establish the habit!  

If you have questions about how to improve your oral hygiene by cleaning your tongue, be sure to ask our team during your next visit! 

As one of the most common oral health concerns, there is great confusion surrounding the topic of tooth cavities. What causes cavities? Are some people just more prone to this problem than others? The answers to these questions may surprise you! 

So, what is a cavity? A cavity is a form of tooth decay. The bacteria that is found in the mouth is highly acidic and interacts with plaque to eat away at your tooth’s enamel. Over time, this results in a hole in your tooth that will continue to grow deeper if you don’t receive professional care.

While cavities in their early stages are invisible to the untrained eye, they will begin to cause a toothache or pain once reaching the inside of the tooth. Fortunately, cavities are easily treatable through a process called a dental filling. Now that we know more about what a cavity really is, let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about tooth cavities.

Myth: Only Kids Get Cavities

A cavity is often the first type of oral health problem a child experiences. Because of this, many people are under the impression that only kids get cavities. However, this is simply a myth! 

Patients of every age are susceptible to tooth cavities. In fact, due to advancements in dentistry over the past 20 years, children are now at a lower risk for developing cavities than their older family members. 

Myth: Sugar is The Only Thing That Causes Cavities

This is where things get tricky. While this is mostly a myth, there is some truth behind it! The primary culprit in causing cavities is bacteria in the mouth. This bacteria is responsible for the production of the destructive acid that begins to eat through the enamel of your teeth. 

Where does this bacteria come from? The primary food groups that cause cavities are carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are naturally occurring sugars and are exist in a variety of foods including bread, rice, potatoes, and more.

So while that sugary treat certainly doesn’t do your teeth any favors, it is not the only thing that increases your chances of developing a cavity.

Myth: There is No True Way to Prevent Cavities

Unfortunately, some people are more prone to cavities than others. Some individuals are more prone to developing cavity-causing bacteria than others. Others simply have gaps in their smiles that provide more opportunities for decay. However, even for individuals with these pre-existing conditions, there are always ways to prevent cavities! 

Patients of every age can take steps towards preventing cavities by brushing their teeth thoroughly twice each day and flossing daily. However, the most effective way to prevent cavities is to visit your dentist for bi-annual dental cleanings and exams.

As we discussed previously, cavities are caused when the bacteria interacts with the plaque that accumulates on the surface of your teeth. While daily oral hygiene tasks keep this plaque at bay, the only true way to achieve a clean smile is through a professional dental cleaning!