Oral Health Tips for Summer

Summer is here, and your family's schedule is topsy-turvy. That means getting your kids to eat right and maintain good oral hygiene can be a struggle. And with all this extra activity, there may even be a dental emergency or two. Here are a few oral health tips for summer that will help you protect the kids and their developing teeth from long-term damage and avoidable mishaps.

Keep Up That Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day and flossing daily is as important in the summer as it is in any other season. But with vacations, camp and lots of days spent at the pool, don't be surprised if you frequently need to remind your kids to brush and floss.

Now is a great time to buy new toothbrushes to replace the old, worn out or "germy" ones. In fact, you should stock up on extra brushes, as well as travel-sized toothpaste and floss for those summer trips and days out. Tossing a few disposable brushes into your hand bag is a convenient way to always be hygienically prepared.

Now's the Time for Checkups

Parents tend to schedule dental checkups in August, right before class starts. But to prevent dental problems over summer, book the kids in right after school ends. This way, the kids will have a clean bill of dental health for summer. The last thing you want is a child suffering from a toothache  while away on summer vacation.

Stock a Healthy Kitchen

Keep the summer from being an "acid attack" on your family's teeth by investing in health snacks. It's hard to limit snacking when the kids are home all day, but with the availability of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, you can stock the fridge with healthy options. Be sure to keep fruits and veggies clean and ready to grab. You'll feel better about snacking when the kids are reaching for blueberries and strawberries instead of candy and cookies. And swap out the sugary, acidic soft drinks with bottled water.

Prevent Dental Emergencies

It wouldn't be summer without lots of swimming, bike riding, volleyball and other playground activities. And while these are great fun, they can unfortunately result in a dental injury. Parents can be prepared for the worst by following these tips:

• Make sure your kids follow the "pool rules." According to the Academy of General Dentistry, many of the summer oral injuries dentists treat are due to a pool accident. Running on slippery pool decks, diving into shallow waters or bumping the pool ledge with their mouth causes many children to either chip or knock a tooth loose.
• Know what to do yourself. Getting to the dentist right away is important, there are things you can do to help. Use warm water and cold packs first, to clean the area and reduce swelling, respectively. Use gauze to stop any bleeding. Place a lost permanent tooth back in the mouth, if possible. If not, use salt water or milk to keep it moist for the ride to the dentist.
• Pack an emergency dental care kit to take along for vacation. Essentials for this kit, according to the AGD, are a handkerchief, gauze, a small container with a lid, ibuprofen and your dentist's contact information.

Summer can really throw your routine for a loop. But by following these oral health tips for summer, your kids can start the school year with great oral hygiene.

By:  Donna Plies, Colgate Care Center

http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/childrens-oral-care/article/oral-health-tips-for-summer-0714

Call us today to schedule your dental appointment and get those teeth ready for a bright summer!

North Austin:  (512) 250-5012

Central Austin:  (512) 346-8424

South Austin:  (512) 445-5811

8 Tips for a Brighter Smile

Want a brighter smile? Try these tips!

1. Avoid foods that stain
Avoid foods and beverages that are filled with sugar or are too acidic. If you're not careful, consuming these kinds of foods can damage and stain your teeth. It can be helpful to drink beverages that stain through a straw as well. This helps you circumvent those smile dulling liquids altogether! Brushing your teeth immediately after eating sugary foods may also help prevent staining. Be careful though, if a food is too acidic, you will want to wait at least thirty minutes before brushing your teeth in order to prevent enamel erosion. If you cannot brush your teeth for some reason, opt for swishing water in your mouth which is naturally filled with fluoride. (Water is not a substitution for your daily dental routine).


2. Use dental cleaners
Between brushing, use dental cleaners to minimize the food build-up between your teeth. These brushes are disposable and very handy if you find yourself away from home without a toothbrush. You can also use them to clean the areas between teeth and brace wires if you have braces. They're sold at most grocery stores and can even be found online. 



3. Try toothpaste for sensitive teeth
If your teeth are especially sensitive, try using a toothpaste created specifically for people with sensitive teeth. If you're wondering whether or not you have sensitive teeth, here's a simple way to tell: Do your teeth feel uncomfortable when they are exposed to extreme hot and cold temperatures? If so, be sure to ask your dentist for help and additional information. 

4. Regular dental checkups
This one might seem obvious, but it is so important! Be sure to visit your dentist regularly to have your teeth inspected and cleaned. Without regular dental checkups, you run the risk of facing disease and other problems in the future. Routine dental visits help prevent the advancement of such diseases and are always a good idea. 

5. Avoid chewing on hard foods
Ice cubes pose a particular threat to the safety of teeth. Never chew on ice. You could crack or chip your teeth! Be cautious when eating popcorn, nuts or any other tough to chew food. If you believe that your teeth are chipped or cracked, see a dentist immediately to prevent pain or even bacteria growth in the cracked tooth. 



6. Brush your teeth properly
Brush your teeth from the gum line moving towards the center of your mouth. This will help get rid of food bits that hide under your gums. Scrubbing side to side is always good, but don't forget to brush with an up and down motion as well. If your gums or mouth bleed while brushing, be sure to meet with a dentist or periodontist. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease, which is a major issue when left untreated. 


7. Swirl that Mouthwash
One common misunderstanding regarding oral health is that brushing is all you need for a healthy mouth. Mouthwash is often neglected in daily dental practice, but it's an essential step towards your brighter smile. Mouth wash cleans, disinfects, and reaches places your toothbrush simply cannot. Rinse twice per day when you brush those pearly whites.




8. Drink your Milk! 
In addition to providing a good source of calcium, dairy has shown to help your teeth fight cavities. If you're lactose intolerant or simply dislike dairy products, don't worry! Dark leafy greens like kale or collards, broccoli, tofu, and even almonds are all excellent natural sources of calcium.



If you have any questions regarding the health of your teeth or simply want to see a doctor, call one of our three convenient locations to set up an appointment. We are here to provide excellent service in a friendly environment.  

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

X-Rays and the Dentist

If you've been to the dentist recently, then you have most likely had an X-ray done. While they aren't taken during every visit, they are very helpful for establishing a patient's oral health as well as predicting which areas need to be focused on. Today we are going to give a brief overview of what exactly they are and why they are necessary. 

1.  What are X-rays? 

In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen was working in his lab conducting research when he accidentally discovered X-rays. Since then, science and technology have evolved to use X-rays in a beneficial manner. During an exam, a patient is exposed to short bursts of radiation. This allows the doctor to view teeth in a more thorough manner than an examination. Some people are nervous about getting X-rays, however, it is important to note that the doses of radiation are too minute to cause adverse effects. In fact, during a dental X-ray, patients are only exposed to the same amount of radiation as a short airplane flight. 

2. Do I have to get X-rays?

Whether you need to look for fractures in bone or simply to check in on teeth, X-rays are the best way to do it. Dentists rely on this technology because it allows them to perceive problems before the naked eye is able see them. Some examples include, but are not limited to: periodontal disease, bone infections, hard to see tooth decay, and even some tumors. X-rays are an important part of preventative care and are nothing to be afraid of.

3. What if I'm pregnant?
This is always a great question to ask! It is best to consult your physician before exposing yourself to small quantities of radiation. Informing your dentist of this is an absolute necessity, but there is no need to forgo X-rays altogether. With pregnant patients, a thyroid collar and a leaded apron are used to prevent radiation exposure.

Source: Mouth Healthy by the American Dental Association

If you have questions concerning X-rays and the health of your teeth, feel free to call one of our three offices to schedule a consult. We are here to address any of your concerns and to provide you with a stress-free dental experience.

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012  
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424  
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

Happy Valentine's Day!

Roses are red

Violets are blue

Watch out for gummy bears

and jaw breakers, too

Valentine's Day will be here in nearly a week! Whether you're spending the day with a loved one, having a fun party with your friends, or simply relaxing before the work week, you are sure to encounter a few yummy desserts and candies. While everyone enjoys something sweet once and again, it is always good to consider how they impact your health. Here are a few tips for keeping your mouth in good shape during Valentine's Day.

1. Not all candy is created equal. 

• Some candies are worse than others. Tough candy that stays in your mouth for a prolonged period of time such a jawbreakers and suckers can lead to cavities or even chipped teeth. The best option for this type of sweet is to opt for a sugar-free alternative. This way, you are satisfying your sweet tooth without the risk of tooth decay. 
• Also, be on the lookout for chewy candies like gummy bears, taffy, and caramel. Even though these treats are sure to satisfy, they are stubborn and tend to stick to your teeth. This makes these chewy confections more difficult to break down with saliva.  

2. Select your beverages with care.

• While they might be packed full of vitamin C, it is best to avoid drinks that have too much citrus like orange grapefruit juice. The acid from these beverages can erode away your enamel and weaken your teeth.  
• If you are wanting a soda with your meal, keep in mind that its carbonation and sugar can also damage your enamel. Sugar-free sodas are a better alternative, but water is always the best option. 
• Even though most people enjoy a nice cup of coffee in the morning, the caffeine coupled with its dark color can dry out your mouth and stain your teeth. Consume it in moderation and try drinking with a straw to avoid some of those stains. 
• If you find yourself wanting to a cold drink, try refrigerating it instead of adding ice. Chewing ice can lead to dental emergencies and isn't the safest way to go. 

3. Look out for your pearly whites.   

The best way to prevent cavities and other dental health diseases is to take care of your teeth. Remember to brush your teeth twice per day and floss once. If you decide to eat or drink anything too acidic, try waiting at least thirty minutes before brushing your teeth.



Source: Mouth Healthy by the American Dentist Association

Our aim is to treat all patients with respect and provide a stress-free experience for the whole family. If you would like to schedule a cleaning after eating Valentine's Day sweets or have any questions, feel free to call one of our three convenient locations.

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012  
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424  
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

Smoking and Oral Health

A few months ago, we discussed smoking and its relationship to adult periodontitis. Here we are going to answer a couple of questions regarding smoking and oral health. As always, please contact your doctor if you have any questions about smoking or your health.




Is smoking really that bad for me? 
Smoking tobacco products causes bad breath and usually stains your teeth. Once inhaled, the smoke particles can live inside your lungs, throat, and mouth for hours. Tobacco can cause a myriad of problems such as lung cancer, oral cancer, various gum diseases, and a more gradual healing process after dental procedures. Since the 1960's, over 20 million people in the United States alone have died due to smoking related illnesses and more than 10% of those lost their lives from being exposed to secondhand smoke.

What about cigarette substitutes? Aren't those safer?
Hookah, for example, has 100 times more tobacco than a normal cigarette making it an unsafe option. Flavored cigarettes have 500% more nicotine than most cigarettes. Even smoking tobacco from a pipe can lead to a higher risk of contracting cancers in the mouth, lungs, lips, colon, and even pancreas. The best smoking alternative is to simply stop.

How do I quit?
There are many resources for helping kick tobacco addiction. Visit smokefree.gov to read about different strategies and support options.

Source: Mouth Healthy by the American Dental Association




Once again, if you have any questions regarding your oral health, please feel free to call us at one of our three convenient locations. We are here to provide a fun and stress-free dental experience for you and your family.

North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012 
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424 
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

Fluoride and Its Benefits

What exactly is Fluoride? 
While most people don't consider fluoride in their everyday life, it has caused concern for some individuals. Even though this opinion is fairly rare, it is still good to brush up on what exactly fluoride is and some of its uses. To start, fluoride is an ion derived from the element fluorine. It is naturally found in water, usually in very small quantities.


Why Is Fluoride in My Water? 
Fluoride has been studied in conjunction with dentistry since the end of the 19th century. In 1900, fluoride was deemed as not only safe, as it was naturally found in water, food, and drinks, but even beneficial. By the mid-1940's, fluoride was added to the community water lines in an effort to protect enamel and improve global health.  



Is Fluoride Safe to Ingest? 
Cavities were once rampant in the United States before 1900 and caused concern for health care professionals and patients alike. According to the American Dental Association and numerous sources, fluoride, in small doses, is perfectly safe to consume. In general, there is about 0.7 ppm (Parts Per Million) of fluoride in the water supply. Fluoride is tasteless in this quantity and perfectly healthy.


What Does Fluoride Do to My Teeth? 
Thanks to fluoride, dental health has improved greatly by simply adding it into the community water lines. Cavities are far less common and this can be attributed to better habits that include fluoride such as brushing teeth and rinsing the mouth with water. It is also found in toothpaste and some types of mouth wash. Fluoride helps teeth fight off acidic bacteria that eat away at enamel by initiating remineralisation. Fluoride not only protects your teeth, but it promotes the growth and rebuilding of enamel to create better, stronger teeth. Helpful tip: children don't need as much fluoride as adults so it is best to limit their intake to about a pea-sized dab of toothpaste.

Source: American Dental Association.

Common Practices: 
In order to protect your enamel, it's best to avoid acidic foods and use fluoride in your every day dental routines by rinsing with water, using toothpaste with fluoride, and occasionally swishing with fluoride mouth wash. We also offer fluoride treatments in conjunction with routine cleanings, according to the Doctor's recommendations. If you feel that your enamel has been worn down or you have any questions concerning fluoride and the health of your teeth, feel free to call one of our three offices to schedule a consult. We are here to address any of your concerns and to provide you with a stress-free dental experience.


North location on Hymeadow Drive: (512) 250-5012 
Central location on Jollyville Road: (512) 346-8424 
South location on William Cannon Drive: (512) 445-5811

TMJ Disorders

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called "TMJ," are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. We don't know for certain how many people have TMJ disorders, but some estimates suggest that over 10 million Americans are affected. The condition appears to be more common in women than men.

What is Temporomandibular Joint?

The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw, called the mandible, to the bone at the side of the head - the temporal bone. If you place your fingers just in front of your ears and open your mouth, you can feel the joints. Because these joints are flexible, the jaw can move smoothly up and down and side to side, enabling us to talk, chew and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control its position and movement.

When we open our mouths, the rounded ends of the lower jaw, called condyles, glide along the joint socket of the temporal bone. The condyles slide back to their original position when we close our mouths. To keep this motion smooth, a soft disc lies between the condyle and the temporal bone. The disc absorbs shocks to the jaw joint from chewing and other movements.

The temporomandibular joint is different from the body's other joints. The combination of hinge and sliding motions makes this joint among the most complicated in the body. Also, the tissues that make up the temporomandibular joint differ from other load-bearing joints, like the knee or hip. Because of its complex movement and unique makeup, the jaw joint and its controlling muscles can pose a tremendous challenge to both patients and health care providers when problems arise.

What are TMJ Disorders?

Disorders of the jaw joint and chewing muscles - and how people respond to them - vary widely. Researchers generally agree that the conditions fall into three main categories:

1. Myofascial pain, the most common temporomandibular disorder, involves discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function
2. Internal derangement of the joint involves a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle.
3. Arthritis refers to a group of degenerative/inflammatory joint disorders that can affect the temporomandibular joint.

A person may have one or more of these conditions at the same time. Some people have other health problems that co-exist with TMJ disorders, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disturbances or fibromyalgia, a painful condition that affects muscles and other soft tissues throughout the body. 

People who have a rheumatic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may develop TMJ disease as a secondary condition. Rheumatic disease refer to a large group of disorders that cause pain, inflammation, and stiffness to the joints, muscles, and bone. Both rheumatoid arthritis and some TMJ disorders involve inflammation of the tissues that line the joints. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

A variety of symptoms may be linked to TMJ disorders. Pain, particularly in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint, is the most common symptom. Other likely symptoms include:

• Radiating pain in the face, jaw, or neck
• Jaw muscle stiffness
• Limited movement or locking of the jaw
• Painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth
• A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together

Source:  National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

If You Think You Have a TMJ Disorder

After an initial consultation, if our surgeons determine that you suffer from TMJ, initial treatment will involve immediate muscle relief with the use of a pain reliever or anti-inflammatory. Other forms of stress management involve physical therapy or the use of a temporary plastic appliance known as a splint, that moves your jaw forward relieving pressure from your jaw. In some cases, surgery, such as arthoscopy and open joint repair, are required to produce optimal results. 

The main goal at our office is to assess your pain and provide you with treatment that will enable you to have a healthier, pain-free jaw. If you think you may suffer from TMJ, call our office to schedule a consultation today (512) 250-5012.