How Do You Diagnose TMJ?

TMJ, or temporomandibular joint syndrome, is always painful. Getting relief is needed, through your dentist’s careful diagnosis you can get that relief!

We know that when TMJ strikes the muscles and the joints in your jaw, it can hurt whenever you open your mouth or close it again. And it can interrupt your sleep and cause discomfort throughout the day.

TMJ Causes Vary

What causes TMJ suffering can vary. Typically, pain is caused by things such as:

• Bruxism, or chronic teeth clenching or grinding
• A serious injury to your teeth or to your jaw
• Jaw or teeth that are misaligned
• Chewing gum frequently

TMJ pain can be caused by any of these problems. 

How Do You Diagnose TMJ?

Treating your TMJ successfully begins with identifying it! Usually, TMJ is diagnosed through a routine dental checkup. 

Your skilled dentist will:

• Look at the way your mouth opens and closes, and your mouth’s range of motion
• Discover the areas that are causing you discomfort by touching your jaw and face area, as well as feeling and pressing on the joints of your jaw when opening and closing your mouth
• Use cone beam computed tomography or CBCT scans to reveal a detailed image in 3-D to look at your tmj joint and space 
• Utilize MRI scans in order to see the soft tissues located both in and also around your jaw joints, including any the functionality of your TMJ disc

Are There Different Types of TMJ Pain?

There are a variety of different types of TMJ pain. The most common is called myofascial pain, which comes from teeth grinding or the clenching of your jaw. 

Other types of TMJ pain can originate with trauma, including that which causes a displaced disc or a jaw that’s dislocated can create internal joint derangement.

Arthritis is another cause of TMJ pain, and if that is discovered to be the cause, your dentist and your doctor will usually collaborate together on your treatment plan.

How Do You Treat TMJ? 

The pain caused by TMJ can be treated in a number of different ways, including simple treatments such as using over-the-counter pain relief, cold compresses, and by eating soft foods that reduce the need to chew during flare-ups. 

Your dentist can also create a customized Tmj mouth orthotic  that reduces stress on your TMJ, as well as preventing continued teeth grinding or the clenching of your jaw while you sleep. This is not the same as a general flat night guard. A TMJ orthotic balances the TMJ joint space,  corrects the jaw placement by having balanced muscles to stop clenching and  can help you have better posture and breathing . 

Orthodontic treatments can be used if bite issues are the cause of your TMJ; and if necessary, oral surgery can be an option.

Our skilled dental team can diagnose the cause of your TMJ and provide the most effective treatment protocols for your situation, including:

• Spray & Stretch exercises  for your jaw
• Trigger Point Injections to relieve TMJ pain
• Heat and Cold Pack therapy
• TENS Therapy
• Appliances for pain relief
• Medication from muscle relaxers to anti-inflammatory help.

TMJ Pain Treatment is Important

Whatever the diagnosis and treatment plan, getting help with your TMJ is important to relieve your suffering and prevent worsening over time, as well as to preserve and restore your oral health. 

Learn More About TMJ Treatment

To find out more about the TMJ diagnosis and treatment options we can offer you, just reach out to us at Said Dental. Call us, today . 

How a Chipped Tooth Can Lead to a Serious Problem!

Don’t let a chipped tooth ruin your gorgeous smile! A cracked or damaged tooth can be due to biting down on something too hard, cavity damage, and other dental issues. Nonetheless, it is essential that you get dental care right away before the circumstance worsens. With proper treatment from an experienced dentist, you can restore your teeth’s beauty and regain confidence in your appearance once again!

Dental issues caused by a chipped tooth

A chipped tooth is one where a fragment of enamel has broken away, with the extent dictating the type of treatment required to repair it. The ramifications of an untreated chip can be dire, potentially leading to any number of dental problems such as…

1. Tooth decay

Cavities, small holes caused by acids created by the bacteria in your mouth eating away at tooth structures, can form if tooth decay is left untreated. If this occurs, cavities will continue to worsen until eventually compromising the structural integrity of the teeth or opening up into its pulp chamber.

Teeth are protected by an outer layer called enamel, which is the strongest material in the body. It is also what mostly comes off when a tooth is chipped. This leaves the inner, less durable layers of the tooth exposed to acids that they would normally be protected from. The result is tooth decay and perhaps, infection.

2. Increased teeth sensitivity

When tooth decay occurs, it strips away the defense of enamel that guards our inner teeth. This allows food and beverages to penetrate into the dentin where a vast number of nerve endings are located. When this happens, those with chipped teeth usually feel heightened sensitivity towards hot and cold foods/beverages. Fortunately mending the damaged tooth usually alleviates this added discomfort.

3. Cuts to soft tissues in the mouth

When a piece of your tooth snaps off, the remaining portion often has sharp edges that can cut soft tissues in the mouth such as your tongue or inside cheeks. These cuts increase one’s risk for infection, so it is important to monitor and take care of them appropriately.

4. The tooth falling apart

If a tooth has suffered substantial chipping, crowns are required to ensure its integrity. Without the correct treatment, this can lead to further breakage and even complete disintegration; especially if you chew on that side of your mouth. To protect your teeth from falling apart, it is important to seek out appropriate dental solutions as soon as possible.

Prevent problems by getting appropriate dental treatments

At Said Dental we have a variety of tools at our disposal when it comes to treating chipped teeth. Treatments like composite bonding can restore your smile during a single visit, while treatments like veneers and crowns can provide a more permanent solution.

When You Should See a Dentist About Receding Gums:

The National Institutes of Health conducted a survey about receding gums. The results show that half of the adults in America have at least one area of gum recession. This study shows how prevalent this condition is, yet many people do not know when to seek treatment. Additionally, many people do not understand the factors that contribute to the development of gum disease, how gum disease can contribute to poor overall health, and why gum disease should be addressed as early as possible.

When unaddressed, receding gums can contribute to pain, sensitivity, and the loss of teeth in severe cases. Many factors can cause gum recession, including gum disease, orthodontic treatment, and brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush. Medical conditions such as diabetes, hormonal issues, immune deficiencies, and genetics may play a part in the development of gum recession as well. Patients must understand signs of receding gums and know when to visit a dentist. Fortunately, there are several treatments for receding gums that can potentially save your teeth from further issues.

3 signs a patient needs treatment for receding gums

There are a few obvious indicators that a patient has receding gums. Some of these symptoms are visual and can be easily seen by the patient, while others are only detectable upon examination by a dentist. The condition may be localized to one area of the mouth, or it may be widespread. When patients notice any of the following symptoms, they should consult with a dentist. 

1. Sensitive teeth

One of the first signs of gum recession is teeth sensitivity. Patients may notice an uncomfortable sensation when drinking anything cold or when the air hits the teeth. This symptom comes on slowly and worsens over time. It is important to note that receding gums are not the only cause of sensitive teeth, but if you are not sure why your teeth are bothering you, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause.

When gums recede, they expose the root of the tooth. This tooth layer is much more porous than enamel, making it extra responsive to temperature changes. To treat sensitivity caused by receding gums, dentists may recommend certain kinds of toothpaste or mouthwashes. In severe cases, a dentist may place a filling over the root surface. Alternatively, the patient may undergo a gum grafting procedure to cover the recessed areas.

2. Cavities at the gum line

Not only is the root layer of the tooth more sensitive than enamel, but it is also softer. Therefore, decay forms more quickly in this area of the tooth. Patients may notice dark spots at the gum line and should have these evaluated by a dentist. Do not assume that your tooth is simply stained as you may be overlooking a forming cavity in this vulnerable area.

In the early stages, treatment for these cavities is simple. To address these cavities, a dentist places a tooth-colored filling. To prevent further decay, the dentist may recommend gum grafting for any other susceptible areas of recession. Your plan will depend upon your overall oral health as well as the current state of your gum recession.

3. Loose teeth

A significant contributor to receding gums is periodontal disease, which is also known as gum disease. This condition destroys the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. In moderate to advanced stages of the disease, gums pull away from the teeth, which can cause tooth mobility. Many patients are not aware they have the disease until a moderate or advanced stage.

To treat periodontal disease, dentists and hygienists perform a treatment known as scaling and root planing. This procedure disrupts the disease-causing bacteria beneath the gums, allowing the gums to reattach to the teeth. Treatment cannot fully reverse the destruction caused by gum disease. Instead, the goal is to halt the further progression of the disease. It is crucial to closely monitor this condition with the aid of an experienced dentist. 

Conclusion

While receding gums may not cause noticeable symptoms or aesthetic concerns for patients in the beginning stages, the condition can progress rapidly. Unfortunately, it may be impossible to reverse the damage caused by periodontal disease or other causes of gum recession if you do not treat it from the beginning.

Patients should seek treatment for gum recession as soon as possible. This condition is easiest to treat in the early stages. For those needing care for receding gums, set up a consultation with a dentist today. In the meantime, practice healthy habits such as brushing and flossing twice a day, reducing sugar in your diet, and avoiding foods and drinks that bother your gums.

 

Dispelling the myths about oral cancer

Myths:

• I cannot get oral cancer. I don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
• Oral cancer is a rare disease so my chances of getting it are very small.
• I have full dentures. I don’t need to go to the dentist regularly.
• Oral cancer is for older people. I am young so I do not need to worry about it now.
• If I should be diagnosed with oral cancer, it will be easily treated and I will be cured.

TRUTH:

Oral cancer is a very common disease affecting over 48,300 people in the United States alone, and this number continues to grow exponentially. Every 60 minutes of every day, someone in the U.S. dies from oral cancer. It is becoming an out-of-control epidemic.

The biggest concern is that two-thirds of all oral cancers are detected at a late stage of the disease, making the average survival rate 50 percent at five years. This overall oral cancer survival rate is worse than almost all cancers that are commonly known.

The goal is to detect early cancer changes in the head, neck and inside of the mouth. This is accomplished through routine oral cancer screening by a dentist for everyone 16 years and older, teeth or no teeth. The earlier oral cancer is detected, the better the chances for limited surgery intervention and a much longer survival rate.

The most important change in recent years is the link between oral cancers and the sexually transmitted human papillomanvirus (HPV). The incidences of oral cancers at the age of 30 or younger have spiked due to the spread of HPV. If a person has never used tobacco nor had a drink of alcohol, the risk of oral cancer is still high if they have had repeated exposure to HPV.

Summary:

Early detection of oral cancer is the key to reducing invasive surgical procedures and extending survival rates. Early detection is accomplished through routine oral cancer screenings for everyone, beginning at age 16 and continuing throughout the life of the patient. Risk factors still remain from excessive tobacco use or alcohol consumption, although HPV is an explosively growing risk factor for oral cancer. HPV, in the absence of other risk factors, can lead to oral cancer.

Tips To Help You Feel Calm and Relaxed at Your Next Dental Appointment

Do you put off routine dental care or much-needed dental work because of anxiety? Anxiety is how your body reacts to what you perceive to be stressful or unfamiliar situations. So that sense of distress or dread you have before an event manifests itself as anxiety. While a bit of anxiety can be useful, keeping us alert and aware in certain situations, it can also be debilitating when you are in need of dental care and delaying treatment.

Routine dental appointments allow us to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy, and avoiding this treatment can cause small problems to deteriorate your oral health, leaving you with bigger problems to deal with later.

Signs of Dental Anxiety

• Crying
• Extreme sweating
• Feeling faint
• Heart palpitations
• Low blood pressure
• Panic attacks

Dental anxiety is hard to ignore, so it’s important to recognize and address it. While dental anxiety impacts around 36 percent of the population, we can work together to make your dental visit comfortable and pleasant so you get the care you need!

Working Together

1. Schedule your visit in the morning as it tends to be the least busy time in the office. Fewer patients being treated mean less noise in the background and spending less time stressing over your upcoming appointment time.
2. Communicate with our dental team in advance about your dental anxiety. We can make your visit easier, whether by explaining what you can expect during your treatment or discussing dental sedation.
3. Bring a friend or family member with you to support and distract you and elevate your mood. They can even drive you home afterward so you can decompress and bask in the aftermath of completing a successful dental visit!
4. Relax when you get here by using noise-canceling headphones (or earbuds) to block out unnecessary stimulation. Listening to music, your favorite podcast or a meditation app can also destress you while you are here.
5. Speaking of a meditation app, listen to your favorite calming meditation while you wait in the dental chair. Beginning with your head, relax your muscles, one body part at a time, slowly moving down your body until you reach your feet.
6. Do some slow, deep breathing. Those calming breaths help ease your mind, so you feel more relaxed. Block out external stimulation by closing your eyes, then breathing in slowly through your nose, holding, and slowly breathing out through your mouth. Repeat until you feel the difference.
7. Practice some guided imagery. It is a good time to picture happy thoughts as you lie back in the dentist’s chair. Enjoy your favorite or funniest memories. Reminiscing about those wonderful moments feels like you’re reliving those moments all over again!
8. Request a break during your treatment. Work out a signal with our dentist and assistant that means “pause” so you can catch your breath and calm yourself for a moment. Knowing this can help you feel more empowered instead of helpless.

Don’t Delay, Call Today

Dental anxiety interferes with getting the dental care your teeth and gums need to thrive. Whether you’re anxious because of a past traumatic dental experience, fear a loss of control as someone is working over you, or you’re scared it will be painful, we can work together to make your dental visit great. We welcome you to call our team to address your concerns and take a confident leap by scheduling your next dental visit! Your smile will look and feel better, and you’ll be glad you did!

 

The Reason Your Teeth Are Yellow (and What to Do About It)

Common causes of tooth discoloration include:

Aging: The enamel starts fading as we grow older, exposing more of the dentin and causing yellow teeth.

Diet: Different types of foods and drinks can stain your teeth and cause them to turn yellow including certain fruits and vegetables, wine, tea, coffee, colas and sweets.

Tobacco use: Tobacco can stain your teeth if smoked or chewed on a regular basis.

Poor dental hygiene: In many cases, tooth discoloration results from poor oral hygiene, hence the importance of making sure you floss, brush and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash daily.

Medications: Certain antibiotics can cause teeth discoloration when administered to children below the age of eight. High-blood pressure medications, antipsychotic drugs and antidepressants can stain your teeth as well.

Genetics: Because of their genes, some people have comparatively brighter or thicker enamel.

Environment: Exposure to excessive fluoride can lead to teeth discoloration.

How to prevent teeth yellowing:

Simple lifestyle changes can help prevent teeth discoloration. For instance, cutting back or quitting habits like smoking and drinking coffee can minimize your chances of developing yellow teeth. Using a straw while drinking coffee/teas can also help discoloration. Practicing proper dental hygiene is also helpful.

But if your teeth are turning yellow without an apparent reason or you’ve noticed other symptoms, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Treatment Options:

Just like there are various causes of tooth discoloration, there are several different ways to whiten yellow teeth. Although do-it-yourself approaches are available, they are not recommended. Professional teeth whitening techniques are a lot safer and much more effective. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, the following treatment options can be applied to whiten yellow teeth:

Teeth whitening

Professional tooth whitening can be achieved by the take-home whitening , it can take more than 2-4 weeks depending on the strength of the agent used. Keep in mind, continued exposure to the same substances responsible for staining your teeth can cause them to turn yellow again. Fortunately, teeth-whitening effects can last long with proper oral care. The duration will, however, depend on the level of care provided. You must continue practicing proper oral hygiene because teeth whitening products are not designed to clean teeth. Floss at least once a day, brush twice daily and rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day.

Dental veneers

Although veneers are usually made of porcelain,  When installed, these customized shells cover the front part of the teeth, improving the color and shape of your teeth. Dental veneers can help fix chipped, worn, slightly crooked, poorly shaped, improperly spaced and permanently stained teeth. Apart from being an effective solution to a variety of dental problems, veneers last much longer than bonding and provide much better results.

Overall

Overall, your teeth can start to take on a yellow tinge for a variety of reasons; anything from diet to age can affect your teeth color. Luckily, there are great ways to restore the white color to your teeth and brighten your smile, such as dental veneers or professional tooth whitening services.

If you’re in the Akron- Canton  area and looking to explore options for restoring your smile, feel free to contact us or schedule an appointment online. As a leading dentist in this field, Dr. Said  is qualified to handle any concern

related to tooth whitening treatments and solutions. You’ll be in good, professional hands, and your smile is sure to sparkle!

11/30/2022

How to Care for Your Teeth During the Holidays

                                                                                                              

 

The holidays are upon us! What a whirlwind of a season, as we dash from one event to the next. Many of these events are full of rich foods and sweet treats, and there’s often no time to think about much beyond the next thing on the calendar. Whatever you do during the holidays, take care not to neglect your dental care. Here are some tips for keeping your teeth fresh, clean, and healthy, all the way into the new year!

• Make sure you’ve got healthy food in the mix. While you’re nibbling, munching, and feasting, intersperse healthy snacks with your decadent treats. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are great for your teeth, and so are cheese and whole grains.
• Take care not to overdo the sweets. This time of year, temptations are omnipresent! Popcorn balls, candy canes, and other sticky sweet treats are particularly bad for your teeth, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo them entirely. Just stick to one dessert and then brush your teeth, to reduce your risk of tooth decay.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools. Cracking nuts, pulling out wine corks, opening packages, and all the other ways you can use your teeth instead of heading to the toolbox or kitchen drawer for a more suitable tool should be outlawed. The last thing you want to do this holiday season is end up with a broken tooth, so use your teeth only for eating and smiling.
• Drink plenty of water and keep your drinks light. Water is good for every system in your body, and it can help fill your stomach so that you don’t overeat. What’s more, it’s extremely helpful in washing away bacteria before plaque can form on your teeth. If you want to drink something other than water, steer clear of sugary beverages and choose drinks that are light-colored, as well. You’ll be doing your teeth a favor by keeping them clean and white.
• Stick to your routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, even if you’re on the go. Facilitate this by keeping a toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste handy at all times, in your purse, briefcase, or car, so that you can take care of your teeth even if you’re away from home.
• Don’t wait to fix any dental issues. Even if you’re out of town, don’t let a broken tooth or lost filling go without treatment. Call a local dental office for an emergency appointment; most dentists are prepared to accept visiting patients at this time of year.
• Schedule a cleaning for after the holiday season. You want to start the new year with a gorgeous smile and a healthy mouth, right? Go ahead and make your post-holiday checkup now, so that as soon as this hectic season draws to a close, you can get back into the swing of taking care of yourself.

 

10/24/2022

Tricks for the Treats: Keep Your Smile Shining During the Holiday Snack Season

Once the Halloween candy appears on grocery store shelves and in the dish on your co-worker’s desk, you know that sweet tooth season has arrived. From the candy cavalcade of October to the hors d’oeuvres, dinners parties, cocktail hours and gift exchanges of November and December, the holiday season is overflowing with tasty treats — not to mention plenty of coffee, red wine and between-party snacks.

All of the sugars, starches and acids from these festive foods and drinks can be damaging to your sparkling smile. But with everything we’ve experienced this year, the Said Dental team isn’t about to tell you to forego all your faves. Please, treat yourself! Then remember to treat your teeth to a little extra care with these tips.

Dental Care On the Go

Whether it’s your Aunt Cathy’s pumpkin pie or your morning pumpkin spice latte, enjoying sweet and starchy foods — especially several over the course of the day — can be taxing for your teeth. That’s because these carbohydrates stick to your teeth and release small amounts of acid as they break down, causing damage to tooth enamel and over time leading to cavities.

Here are some ways to combat the effect of holiday snacking and rebalance your mouth’s pH when you’re away from home:

• Brush or floss to remove excess food particles. Even brushing without toothpaste helps! Pack a travel toothbrush for a quick refresh between parties.
• Time it right. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing. Brushing too soon could just spread the sugars and acids around your mouth instead of getting rid of them.
• Trip to the buffet. Crunchy-textured foods like raw fruits and veggies can give your teeth an extra brush while you chew. And some studies show that consuming dairy after eating can make your mouth less acidic. Crudite platter and cheese plate, here we come!
• Bring along Moon Oral Care’s stain prevention teeth wipes. These individually wrapped textured wipes are naturally flavored with peppermint and are perfect for wiping away stains from that evening glass of wine or your morning tea or coffee. (P.S.: These are a great solution if you wear aligners, too!)
• Apply WineBlock stain prevention balmto your lips and teeth before you sip. All-natural acid-blocking ingredients keep stains off your teeth while coconut oil gently moisturizes your lips.

 Maintain Healthy Habits

The best way to keep teeth healthy through the holidays is to keep doing what you do — brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily and make regular appointments with your dentist at Said Dental 

Of course, in the busyness of the season, we can all use a little help to stay on track. If you find that late nights and packed schedules are wrecking your routine, consider downloading a toothbrushing app like Brushout (for iOS) or Brush Teeth Reminder (for Android). Both will remind you to brush, time your brushing and track your progress.

 

10/06/2022

Start Your Day Off With A (Healthy) Smile!

 

If there’s one meal that can claim the title of “Sweetest Meal of the Day,” it’s almost certainly breakfast. Sugary cereals, syrup-covered waffles, oatmeal with honey, cinnamon toast (which is literally sugar poured on toast)—it’s hard to imagine another menu even coming close. But you’re trying to keep your diet as healthy as possible. What to do?

First, no need to deprive yourself of the occasional pastry or stack of pancakes. The real problem with breakfast isn’t so much sugar as it is added sugar.

• Just a Spoonful of Sugar? What’s So Bad About That?

Nothing! Many healthy foods have natural sugars. Milk contains lactose sugar, and it also contains calcium and is enriched with vitamin D-both of which are essential for strong bones and teeth. Fruits get their sweetness from a sugar called fructose, and deliciously provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber to our diets.

Even processed sugar is surprisingly low in calories. In fact, a teaspoon of white sugar has only about 15 calories. But this teaspoon is also rich in nutrients for cavity-causing bacteria. The oral bacteria in plaque use sugars and carbohydrates from food particles as a fuel source to produce acids. These acids erode enamel and lead to cavities.

Choosing breakfast foods without additional sugars, then, is an easy way to reduce the number of empty calories in your diet while safeguarding the health of your teeth. We have a few suggestions.

• Be Selective with Cereals

If the word “sugar” or “honey”  appears on the box, that’s a hint that your favorite cereal is heavy on the sugar. But there’s a more scientific way to tell just how much sugar is in that spoonful.

While the colorful packaging and playful mascots are eye-catching, check the black-and-white panel with nutritional facts found on every box. If one serving equals 27 grams, and the sugar in that serving equals 15 grams, you know you have a problem. And cereals marketed to children are especially “rich” in added sugar.

But luckily, you don’t need to give up your morning bowl. Many cold cereals are available that offer whole grains, protein, and fiber without a lot of added sugar. Spend some time in the cereal aisle comparing, or, to make life easier, there are many online sites which recommend the best (and worst) cereals in terms of sugar content.

• Use Your Judgment with Juices

Fruits are packed with important nutrients. Not only do they provide essential vitamins and minerals, they’re a great source of water and fiber. If you drink 100% fruit juice, you are getting the benefit of most of the vitamins and minerals found in fruit. (You’re also getting less of the fruit’s natural fiber, and more of the fruit’s natural sugar, so consider fresh fruit as an option occasionally.)

But when fruit juice comes with “cocktail,” or “punch,” or “ade” attached to the end of it, there’s often something else attached—added sugar. For natural fruit flavor and the least amount of sugar, stay with 100% unsweetened fruit juice.

• Search Out “Surprise” Sugars

Remember the childhood excitement of searching through your cereal box for the prize inside? Fun! What’s not so much fun? The surprises you might find when you search through the labels on your favorite breakfast items—because added sugars make their stealthy way into many of our morning favorites.

When you compare plain, Greek, and low-fat yogurts, for example, the low-fat options are often higher in added sugar. A container of low-fat yogurt can provide 19 grams of sugar—that’s a tablespoon and a half!

And while you’re at it, be sure to compare the sugar content in granola bars. Some are full of nuts and grains, and some are full of added sugar.

Going out for a breakfast smoothie? Those can contain 70 grams of sugar and more. Making your own at home might be a little more time-consuming, but if you use fresh fruit as your sweetener, you can make sure that what you’re not consuming is added sugar. If you’re on the go, check out all-fruit options at your favorite smoothie shop.

Dr. Said and our team aren’t asking you to eliminate sugar from your breakfast diet altogether. (Everyone loves a doughnut now and again.) But substituting some alternatives for your regular menu choices can reduce the amount of added sugars by tablespoons every meal. That’s another great reason to greet the morning with a smile!

03/14/2022

How Often Should I Brush My Teeth?

As human beings, we’re not perfect and know that being forgetful can happen to the best of us. In fact, July 2^nd is declared as “I forgot” day! If you are one that finds yourself forgetting to brush your teeth, you may be asking, “How often should I brush my teeth?”.

Your Dentist’s Recommendation

Let’s start here. The American Dental Association® recommends brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing and rinsing with alcohol-free mouthwash once a day, and chewing sugar free gum between meals in order to reduce the build up of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Your dentist agrees with this.

In addition, you should let a professional “brush your teeth” at least twice a year. In other words, makes sure you are seen  in a dental office at least twice a year for x-rays, cleanings and for preventative care, and as needed if you have pain or any dental or oral concerns. A healthy mouth is created from lifelong habits in good oral care, but, what if you forget?

I Forgot To Brush My Teeth!

If you forget to brush your teeth sometimes, you are not alone. We all forget things. If you do forget to brush your teeth, do it as soon as you think of it. If it becomes a habit, sadly, your teeth and gums will suffer. Often it is children who lament their forgotten habit, but it can be a problem for adults too. Here are some tips to help you remember and keep your oral care a priority.

Task it. Make it part of your every day grooming routine to brush your teeth. Wake up, use the bathroom, brush your teeth, shower. When it becomes part of a routine, it is easier to remember.

Set a timer. Use your phone to remind you when it is time to brush your teeth. Usually in the morning and evening make the most sense, but maybe with your schedule you need it to be right after breakfast and right before bed. Whenever you determine is the best time to brush, alert yourself and do it.

Remind yourself. There is a saying: “out of sight, out of mind”. Help yourself remember by setting out your toothbrush or even posting a note somewhere you are sure to see it. Keeping it top of mind will help you integrate it into your everyday habits.

Substitute sometimes. Carry sugar free gum and/or a sample size mouthwash with you in your bag or purse. When you can’t brush your teeth, take some time for a quick swish of mouth wash or pop some gum in your mouth. This is not a true substitute for tooth brushing, since it does not remove plaque, but it can help.

02/10/2022

What Your Tongue Can Tell You About Your Health!

Our tongue, it’s one of those things we all take for granted! As children we explored the world with our tongues, licking everything in sight, sticking it out at our siblings and parents just to get their reaction. As young adults we learned there was more to our tongue while exploring our first kiss and exotic foods.

But the tongue is more than just a random body part, our tongues play a key role in our ability to taste and swallow food. And believe it or not, your tongue can also provide your dentist with clues to both your oral health and your overall health.  In fact, you might be surprised what your tongue can tell you about your health. Get ready to say, “Ahhhhhhh!”

What Your Tongue Can Tell You About Your Health

 

White Coating on Tongue:
Your tongue is supposed to be a lovely shade of pink. If parts of your tongue appear to be coated with a white substance, this could be oral thrush, a yeast overgrowth that occurs inside the oral cavity. Of course, it could just be whitish from not brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth. You do that, don’t you? If the white brushes away, you’re good to go.

White Patches on Tongue:
Leukoplakia is a condition that can happen if the tongue has been irritated, such as with smoking or tobacco use. Every medical professional will advise you to quit that tobacco habit, but it’s ultimately up to you. If you see white patches, though, book a dentist appointment to be on the safe side and to rule out oral cancer.

Overly Red Tongue:
While an overly red tongue can be a symptom of a Kawasaki disease, it’s much more commonly associated with a vitamin deficiency, such as folic acid or B-12. The solution could be simply adding a vitamin supplement to your morning smoothie. That’s not so bad, right?

Irregular Red Bumpy Patches:
If your tongue looks like a roughly drawn map of irregular red and bumpy patches, this isn’t a fortune-teller sign that you’ll be going on a trip soon. You might be suffering from a high fever, in which case, taking a long journey overseas is the last thing you should be doing!

Tender, Sore Tongue:
If your tongue is overly sensitive in one spot or all over, you could have a food allergy or a developing canker sore. Don’t worry about it, unless it doesn’t go away for a time. After that, time to call in the dentist for a professional opinion!

Hairy Tongue:
Yep, sounds strange, but sometimes a protein build-up can cause small bumps to become elongated trapping food resulting in what looks like strands of hair on your tongue. Usually a good brushing or tongue scraping will take care of it, but if it doesn’t, a trip to the dentist is in order.

Your dentist is the first line of defense against both serious and benign health concerns. So, stick out your tongue at the dentist and be ready for a comprehensive oral checkup. You never know what your tongue might be telling you about your health!

Worried about your tongue or just need to schedule a dental check-up.

5 PORCELAIN VENEER CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE TIPS

                       

There’s no better way to quickly and drastically improve your appearance than by fixing cosmetic dentistry issues with porcelain veneers.

You have to take care of your veneers if you want them to last. Just as you have to clean and maintain your natural teeth in order to keep them bright and beautiful, you must also take steps to ensure that your porcelain veneers continue to enhance your smile for years to come. Otherwise you could start to see plaque and tartar buildup, staining, and other unsightly deterioration.

With proper care, your veneers can last 10 years or more and continue to look just as good as the day you got them. Here are just a few tips to help you clean and maintain your veneers in order to enjoy the greatest longevity.

 Maintain proper oral hygiene

If you already brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash after every meal, or at least twice daily, you’re on the right track to keep your dentures clean and well maintained. However, you may need some pointers from your dentist to ensure that you treat your porcelain veneers with proper care.

The biggest problem many people face is learning how to brush and floss with veneers. If you tend to be somewhat aggressive when it comes to cleaning your teeth, you could end up damaging veneers by causing chips or cracks. When veneers have been applied, your dentist can give you a tutorial on how to properly brush and floss around your new dental hardware.

 Switch up your toothpaste

In addition to changing your techniques when it comes to dental hygiene, you might want to consider switching your toothpaste after veneers are applied. The reason is because porcelain can be damaged by abrasive substances, including gritty toothpastes meant to polish away surface stains on teeth.

When your dentist chooses veneers, he/she will carefully match them to surrounding teeth so they blend seamlessly with your smile (which is why many patients undergo whitening before getting veneers). A whitening toothpaste can help to prevent your natural teeth from staining and looking different from your veneers over time. It could also help to prevent surface staining on veneers.

 Avoid potentially harmful foods

All kinds of foods could end up being harmful to your veneers, as well as your natural teeth. For example, chewing on ice or hard candy could be equally damaging to both, causing unsightly chips and cracks.

On the upside, foods that are known to stain natural teeth, such as coffee, tea, wine, blueberries, and food dyes, just for example, should not adversely affect your veneers. The only problem is that they can stain natural teeth next to veneers, causing a noticeable color difference over time, and you probably want to avoid this.

 Kick bad habits

You know that using tobacco products is bad for your health in general, but it can be particularly harmful to your oral health. In addition to the many dangers cigarettes and other tobacco products pose for your health, however, they can also cause damage to natural teeth and veneers due to yellow staining. If you want to protect the appearance of pearly veneers and avoid potential health concerns, kicking tobacco is a good plan.

 Visit your dentist regularly

You have a lot of power to preserve your veneers, as well as your natural teeth and your oral health in general. With proper oral hygiene and awareness of how different substances can damage veneers, you can take strides to keep your smile looking fantastic for years.

That said, you still need to see your dentist regularly for cleaning and examination. Even though veneers won’t suffer the same types of deterioration and decay as teeth, you still need to maintain healthy teeth and gums to support long-lasting veneers. Dental professionals not only preserve your natural smile and additions like crowns and veneers, but they can help you determine when you’re ready for replacement products.

11/30/2021

Fluoride Treatments In The Dental Office

Instead of visiting the dentist to face the drill, imagine going in for a quick and painless treatment that helps prevent cavities. Sounds pretty great, right? Learn more about fluoride and how these treatments can benefit you.

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps rebuild tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. Your body takes in fluoride in two ways: systemically and topically. Systemic fluorides are swallowed, including fluoridated water (most tap water) and dietary fluoride supplements. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the teeth via toothpaste, mouth rinses and treatments at the dentist’s office.

Benefits of fluoride treatments

Fluoride helps repair weakened tooth enamel by replenishing lost calcium and phosphate — minerals naturally present in saliva. These minerals also make your teeth more resistant to future decay.

Fluoride treatments applied by a dentist are especially good for people with a higher risk for tooth decay or erosion. If you have dry mouth, weak enamel, poor oral health or if you have crowns, ask your dentist if applying a fluoride varnish would help protect your teeth.

Fluoride treatments for kids

 Children can begin getting fluoride treatments at the dentist once their first tooth appears. However, be aware that children under two years old should still use a fluoride-free toothpaste. If too much fluoride is ingested as a young child, before the adult teeth have erupted, it can lead to dental fluorosis.

Don’t worry; the fluoride varnish applied by the dentist is safe to help prevent tooth decay in children. They only use a small amount of fluoride, and hardly any fluoride gets swallowed.

What are fluoride treatments like?

Professional fluoride treatments usually only take a few minutes. The fluoride might come in the form of a gel, foam or varnish. It can be applied with a swab or brush or placed in a tray held in the mouth for a few minutes.

After the treatment is applied, don’t eat or drink for at least 30 minutes to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride and help repair microscopic areas of decay.

Depending on your oral health, Dr. Said may  recommend fluoride treatments every 6–12 months. If you’re at a higher risk of developing tooth decay, Dr. Said might also recommend other preventive measures, such as over-the-counter or prescription fluoride mouth rinses or gels, or an antibacterial mouth rinse.

Ask Dr. Said about the benefits of fluoride treatments, and keep up your daily dental hygiene regimen. They’re both excellent ways to help maintain your strong, healthy smile.