goducosmiles

Night guards for teeth grinding and TMJ: what you should know

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:00:45 GMT

Teeth grinding (bruxism) and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ/TMD) affect millions of people—often without them realizing it. A custom night guard can be a simple yet powerful solution to protect your teeth and relieve discomfort.

What Is Teeth Grinding and TMJ?

Bruxism is the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep.
TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint, causing pain, clicking, headaches, and difficulty chewing.

Stress, misaligned teeth, sleep disorders, and jaw structure can all contribute.

Signs You May Need a Night Guard

Common symptoms include:

Worn, chipped, or cracked teeth
Jaw pain or stiffness
Morning headaches
Facial or ear pain
Clicking or popping in the jaw
Neck and shoulder tension

How Night Guards Help

A night guard creates a protective barrier between your upper and lower teeth. Benefits include:

Preventing tooth wear and fractures
Reducing jaw muscle tension
Alleviating TMJ-related pain
Protecting dental restorations
Improving sleep quality

Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Night Guards

While store-bought guards may seem convenient, they often:

Fit poorly
Feel bulky
Provide limited protection
Worsen jaw alignment

A custom-made night guard , designed by your dentist, fits precisely and provides targeted support based on your bite and symptoms.

Night Guards and TMJ Relief

For TMJ sufferers, night guards can help reposition the jaw slightly, reducing strain on the joint. While not a cure, they are an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Protect Your Smile While You Sleep

Grinding often happens unconsciously, making prevention difficult without protection. A night guard is a proactive way to preserve your teeth, reduce pain, and avoid costly dental repairs in the future.

If you suspect grinding or TMJ issues, a dental evaluation can determine whether a custom night guard is right for you.

Eating and drinking with Invisalign: what you need to know

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 06:00:20 GMT

Invisalign has transformed orthodontic treatment by offering a nearly invisible, removable alternative to traditional braces. While Invisalign provides flexibility, it also comes with specific rules—especially when it comes to eating and drinking.

Can You Eat With Invisalign In?

The short answer is no . Invisalign aligners must be removed before eating any food. Chewing with aligners in place can:

Crack or warp the aligners
Trap food and bacteria
Increase the risk of cavities and staining

Always remove your aligners before meals or snacks.

What About Drinking?

Water is the only beverage you can safely drink while wearing Invisalign. Other drinks—such as coffee, tea, soda, juice, or wine—can:

Stain aligners
Cause sugar or acid buildup
Warp aligners if hot

If you do drink anything other than water, remove your aligners first.

Eating Tips for Invisalign Wearers

Because aligners should be worn 20–22 hours per day , planning meals is important:

Stick to structured meals instead of frequent snacking
Rinse your mouth or brush before reinserting aligners
Keep a travel toothbrush handy
Store aligners in their case to avoid damage or loss

What Foods Should You Be Careful With?

While Invisalign doesn’t restrict food types the way braces do, sugary and acidic foods can still increase your risk of cavities if oral hygiene slips. Limit:

Sticky candies
Sugary drinks
Acidic foods like citrus and soda

Why Oral Hygiene Matters More With Invisalign

Aligners create a sealed environment around your teeth. If food particles or plaque are trapped inside, bacteria multiply quickly. Brushing and flossing after meals is essential to avoid decay or bad breath.

The Payoff Is Worth It

While Invisalign requires discipline, the benefits are significant: fewer food restrictions, easier cleaning, and a discreet treatment option. With good habits, Invisalign can straighten your smile comfortably and effectively.

How to treat tooth decay at the gum line

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:33:12 GMT

Tooth decay at the gum line is a common but often overlooked dental issue. Because it forms where the tooth meets the gums, it can be harder to spot and more challenging to treat if ignored. Understanding why it happens and how it’s treated can help protect your smile long-term.

What Is Gum Line Decay?

Gum line decay occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate near the base of the tooth. Over time, acids produced by bacteria erode the enamel and attack the softer dentin beneath. As gums recede with age or gum disease, this area becomes even more vulnerable.

Why This Area Is So Vulnerable

Thinner enamel near the gumline
Gum recession , exposing root surfaces
Difficulty cleaning this area effectively
Dry mouth , reducing protective saliva
Aggressive brushing , which can wear enamel down

Early Signs of Gum Line Decay

Catching decay early makes treatment simpler and less invasive. Warning signs include:

Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Visible discoloration near the gums
Rough spots or grooves at the tooth base
Mild pain when brushing

If left untreated, decay can spread beneath the gums, leading to infection or tooth loss.

Treatment Options

The treatment depends on the severity of the decay:

Fluoride treatments may be used in early stages to remineralize weakened enamel.
Dental fillings are the most common solution for moderate decay, restoring strength and preventing further damage.
Root canal therapy may be necessary if decay reaches the tooth’s pulp.
Crowns may be recommended for extensive damage.
In advanced cases, gum therapy or surgical treatment may be needed.

Preventing Gum Line Decay

Prevention is always better than treatment. Key steps include:

Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Using fluoride toothpaste
Flossing daily to remove plaque near the gums
Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive or exposed roots
Managing dry mouth
Scheduling regular dental cleanings

Don’t Ignore Subtle Symptoms

Gum line decay often progresses quietly. Regular dental exams allow your dentist to detect early changes before they become painful or costly.

Protecting the base of your teeth is essential to maintaining a healthy, strong smile for life.

How to get rid of bad breath (and keep it gone!)

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:31:34 GMT

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is incredibly common—and often embarrassing. While an occasional case of bad breath after eating garlic or drinking coffee is normal, persistent bad breath can signal underlying oral health issues. The good news? In most cases, bad breath is treatable and preventable with the right habits and professional care.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

The most frequent cause of bad breath is bacteria. Our mouths are home to millions of bacteria that break down food particles, releasing foul-smelling sulfur compounds. When oral hygiene is lacking, these bacteria flourish.

Other common contributors include:

Poor brushing and flossing habits
Dry mouth (xerostomia) , often caused by medications or mouth breathing
Gum disease , which allows bacteria to hide below the gumline
Tongue buildup , especially on the back of the tongue
Tooth decay or dental infections
Diet , including strong-smelling foods and sugary snacks
Smoking or tobacco use
Medical conditions , such as acid reflux, sinus infections, or diabetes

Daily Habits That Help Eliminate Bad Breath

The foundation of fresh breath starts with excellent oral hygiene:

Brush twice daily for at least two minutes, paying close attention to the gumline.
Floss every day to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
Clean your tongue using a tongue scraper or your toothbrush—this step alone can significantly reduce odor.
Stay hydrated. Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away bacteria and prevents dry mouth.
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol can dry out the mouth, worsening bad breath over time.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips

What you eat matters. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots help stimulate saliva and naturally clean teeth. Limiting sugary foods reduces the fuel bacteria need to thrive.

If you smoke or use tobacco, quitting can dramatically improve breath and overall oral health. Smoking dries out the mouth and contributes to gum disease, one of the leading causes of chronic bad breath.

When Bad Breath Signals a Bigger Problem

Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with good oral hygiene may be a sign of:

Gum disease
Cavities
Dental abscesses
Poorly fitting dental restorations

A professional dental exam can identify and treat these issues before they worsen.

Professional Solutions

Regular dental cleanings remove hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing can’t eliminate. Your dentist may also recommend treatments for gum disease, fluoride therapies, or guidance for managing dry mouth.

Fresh Breath Starts With Healthy Teeth

Bad breath isn’t just a social issue—it’s often a health issue. By maintaining strong daily habits and keeping up with routine dental visits, you can enjoy long-lasting fresh breath and confidence in your smile.

Healthy Gums: The Foundation of a Beautiful Smile

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:25:44 GMT

When it comes to oral health, teeth often get all the attention—but your gums are just as important. Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong, beautiful smile. They protect your teeth, support your jawbone, and even influence your overall health. Understanding how to care for your gums can help you prevent problems before they start.

Why Gum Health Matters

Your gums are made of soft tissue that holds your teeth securely in place and acts as a barrier against bacteria. When plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up along the gumline, it can cause inflammation known as gingivitis. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and bone damage.

But the effects of gum disease don’t stop at your mouth. Research has linked periodontal disease to other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Keeping your gums healthy supports not just your smile but your whole body.

Signs of Unhealthy Gums

Healthy gums are firm, pink, and don’t bleed easily. If you notice bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, swollen or receding gums, or loose teeth, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. These may be early signs of gum disease—and early intervention can make all the difference.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Gums

Brush twice daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be gentle—aggressive brushing can irritate gum tissue.
Floss every day: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Rinse with mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can reduce plaque and prevent gum inflammation.
Eat a balanced diet: Nutrient-rich foods, especially those high in vitamin C and calcium, strengthen gum tissue.
Avoid tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco significantly increase the risk of gum disease.
See your dentist regularly: Professional cleanings and checkups are key to catching issues early and keeping your gums in top shape.

The Bottom Line

Your gums are the unsung heroes of your smile. By practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent gum disease, preserve your teeth, and protect your overall health. Healthy gums don’t just support your smile—they help it shine.

The Impact of Coffee on Your Oral Health

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:27:01 GMT

For many people, coffee is a daily ritual—an energy boost, a comfort, and a beloved morning companion. But while that cup of joe may perk you up, it can also have some unintended effects on your teeth and gums. Here’s what you need to know about how coffee impacts your oral health—and how to enjoy it responsibly.

Coffee and Tooth Staining

One of the most noticeable side effects of coffee is staining. Coffee contains tannins—natural compounds that cause color pigments to stick to tooth enamel. Over time, these pigments can lead to yellow or brown discoloration, dulling your smile.

Fortunately, this type of staining is cosmetic and can often be removed through professional dental cleanings or whitening treatments. You can also minimize stains by rinsing your mouth with water after drinking coffee or sipping through a straw to reduce direct contact with your teeth.

Acidity and Enamel Erosion

Coffee is naturally acidic, and frequent exposure to acid can weaken tooth enamel—the hard outer layer that protects your teeth from decay. When enamel wears away, teeth become more sensitive and vulnerable to cavities.

To combat this, avoid sipping coffee slowly over long periods. Instead, drink it in one sitting, then rinse with water. Waiting at least 30 minutes before brushing can also help, as brushing immediately after drinking something acidic can further erode softened enamel.

Coffee and Bad Breath

Coffee can contribute to dry mouth, which creates an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive. Combine that with milk or sugar—common coffee add-ins—and you have the perfect setup for bad breath.

To keep your breath fresh, drink plenty of water, chew sugar-free gum, and brush your teeth or tongue after your coffee break whenever possible.

Finding a Healthy Balance

You don’t need to give up coffee to protect your oral health. The key is moderation and good hygiene. Try limiting sugary or creamy coffee drinks, stay hydrated, and schedule regular dental cleanings to keep your enamel strong and your smile bright.

The Bottom Line

Coffee may have a few drawbacks for your teeth, but with mindful habits and routine dental care, you can enjoy your favorite brew without sacrificing your smile. After all, a little awareness—and a great dentist—go a long way toward keeping your teeth as bright as your morning cup.

Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 15:00:07 GMT

A bright, white smile can instantly boost your confidence and make a lasting first impression. Over time, however, our teeth naturally lose their luster due to age, diet, and lifestyle habits. If you’ve noticed your smile isn’t as radiant as it once was, you may be considering teeth whitening. Here’s everything you need to know before brightening your smile.

Why Teeth Become Discolored

Tooth discoloration happens for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is surface staining from foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries. Tobacco use is another major culprit, as nicotine and tar can leave stubborn yellow or brown stains.

Other types of discoloration occur beneath the surface. As we age, the enamel on our teeth thins, revealing more of the naturally yellow dentin underneath. Certain medications, trauma, or excessive fluoride exposure can also cause deeper stains that are harder to remove with over-the-counter products.

Professional Whitening vs. At-Home Options

There are two main ways to whiten your teeth: professional whitening performed by a dentist and over-the-counter (OTC) products.

Professional whitening is the safest and most effective method. In-office treatments use stronger whitening agents that deliver dramatic results—often several shades whiter—in just one visit. Your dentist carefully protects your gums and soft tissues while applying a professional-grade whitening gel, sometimes activated by a special light. The result is fast, noticeable, and longer-lasting whitening with minimal sensitivity.

At-home options include whitening toothpastes, strips, trays, and gels available at most pharmacies. While these products can help remove some surface stains, they typically take longer to show results and may not whiten as evenly as professional treatments. Custom whitening trays made by your dentist offer a middle ground—providing professional results at home with personalized fit and safety.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Yes—when performed correctly, teeth whitening is safe and effective. The most common side effect is temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation, which usually subsides within a few days. To minimize discomfort, your dentist can recommend desensitizing toothpaste or adjust your treatment strength.

It’s important to remember that whitening only works on natural tooth enamel. Dental restorations like crowns, veneers, and fillings won’t respond to whitening agents. If you’re considering cosmetic work, talk to your dentist about the best sequence for whitening and restoration to ensure a seamless color match.

How to Maintain Your Bright Smile

After whitening, you’ll want to keep your teeth looking their best. Avoid staining foods and drinks for at least 48 hours after treatment, as enamel can be more porous during this time. Incorporate good oral hygiene habits—brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental cleanings. Using a straw for dark beverages and rinsing your mouth with water after meals can also help prevent new stains.

The Bottom Line

Teeth whitening is a safe, effective, and confidence-boosting way to rejuvenate your smile. Whether you choose a professional in-office treatment or an at-home option, your dentist can guide you toward the best method for your needs. With proper care and maintenance, your brighter, whiter smile can last for years to come.

Holiday dental tips

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 17:30:00 GMT

The holiday season is full of joy, celebrations—and sweets. While indulging in seasonal treats is part of the fun, it’s important to keep oral health in mind. Here are some tips for keeping smiles bright through the festivities.

Choose Treats Wisely

Sticky candies and caramels cling to teeth, increasing cavity risk. Opt for chocolate, which washes away more easily.

Stay Hydrated
Drinking water helps rinse away sugars and keeps saliva flowing, your body’s natural defense against decay.

Don’t Skip Brushing

Busy holiday schedules can throw routines off track, but brushing twice daily and flossing once remain essential.

Balance Indulgence with Healthy Foods

Pair sweets with cheese, nuts, or crunchy veggies to neutralize acids and protect enamel.

Schedule Post-Holiday Cleanings

A professional cleaning in January is the perfect way to reset after the holiday season and start the year fresh.

Holidays are about family, laughter, and creating memories. With a little mindfulness, you can enjoy every moment without sacrificing your oral health.

The link between oral health and overall health

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:11:57 GMT

Most people think of dentistry as separate from general health, but the two are closely connected. In fact, your mouth can reveal important clues about what’s happening in the rest of your body.

Take gum disease, for example. It begins as gingivitis—red, swollen gums caused by plaque buildup. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that damages bone and tissue. Research has linked periodontitis to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s.

The connection comes down to inflammation. When the gums are infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation elsewhere in the body. This low-grade but chronic inflammation is a known contributor to many serious health conditions.

Oral health is also linked to pregnancy outcomes. Expectant mothers with untreated gum disease face higher risks of premature birth and low birth weight. Regular dental checkups during pregnancy protect both mom and baby.

Even sleep disorders like sleep apnea can be detected in the dental chair. Dentists trained in airway assessment may notice enlarged tissues or teeth grinding, both linked to poor sleep quality.

The takeaway? Oral health is whole-body health. Regular family dental visits do more than preserve smiles—they safeguard overall well-being.

Why preventive dental care matters for the whole family

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:08:09 GMT

When it comes to family dentistry, prevention is always better than treatment. Routine dental check-ups and cleanings are the backbone of good oral health, helping families avoid cavities, gum disease, and costly procedures down the road. But what exactly makes preventive care so powerful?

First, professional cleanings go beyond what brushing and flossing at home can achieve. Even the most diligent brushers miss plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which only a dental hygienist can safely remove. Regular cleanings not only keep smiles bright but also protect the gums from inflammation and infection.

Second, preventive care allows dentists to catch small problems before they become major ones. A cavity spotted early can often be treated with a simple filling. Left untreated, that same cavity may progress to the nerve of the tooth, requiring a root canal or extraction.

Preventive dentistry also supports whole-body health. Research continues to show links between oral health and systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and premature birth. Keeping teeth and gums healthy can reduce risks for these serious issues, benefiting the entire family.

For children, early visits build trust and comfort in the dental office. By starting young, kids grow up viewing dental care as a normal and positive part of their routine. For parents, preventive care means less time off work, fewer dental emergencies, and healthier smiles all around.

Ultimately, preventive dental visits are about peace of mind. Families who keep up with regular checkups know they’re taking active steps to protect not just their smiles but their overall health.

5 fun ways to teach kids about oral hygiene

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 17:10:40 GMT

Convincing kids to brush and floss can sometimes feel like a never-ending battle. But oral hygiene doesn’t have to be a chore—it can actually be fun! Here are five creative ways families can encourage kids to build lifelong healthy habits.

Turn Brushing into a Game
Set a timer for two minutes and challenge kids to brush until it rings. Brushing apps with music or animations also keep little ones entertained while they clean.

Reward Good Habits
Create a brushing chart and give stickers for each completed morning and evening session. After a week of consistency, celebrate with a fun activity.

Let Kids Choose Their Tools
Allowing children to pick their own toothbrush (with their favorite character) and flavored toothpaste gives them a sense of ownership over the process.

Brush Together as a Family
Kids love to imitate adults. Brushing together not only sets a great example but also turns oral care into quality bonding time.

Use Stories and Songs

Make up a silly song or story about fighting off “sugar bugs.” Turning brushing into an imaginative adventure keeps kids engaged.

These small strategies can make a big difference. Teaching children the importance of oral hygiene in a positive, playful way sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Easing dental anxiety for kids and adults

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 17:13:34 GMT

Dental anxiety is more common than you might think. Both children and adults can feel nervous about a visit to the dentist. Thankfully, family dentists use a variety of strategies to help patients feel calm and cared for.

For kids, the first step is creating positive experiences early. A gentle, friendly approach combined with a fun environment—like colorful walls or small rewards—helps children build trust. Parents can support this by speaking positively about the dentist and avoiding scary words like “hurt” or “shot.”

For adults, open communication is key. Many people feel more comfortable when they understand what’s happening during their appointment. Dentists often explain procedures step by step, offering breaks when needed.

Modern dentistry also provides comfort options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation. These tools help ease anxiety during longer or more complex treatments.

Simple relaxation techniques can help, too. Deep breathing, listening to music, or even holding a stress ball can make the experience more pleasant.

The most important factor? Choosing a dental team that listens and understands. At a family practice, care is personalized, and building long-term relationships helps reduce anxiety over time.

The importance of pediatric dental care

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:05:47 GMT

Good oral health starts in childhood. Establishing healthy habits early helps prevent dental problems later in life. Here’s why pediatric dental care is essential:

When to start dental visits

The American Dental Association recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday. Early visits help monitor dental development and establish positive oral care habits.

Key aspects of pediatric dental care

Brushing & flossing : Start brushing with a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Limiting sugary drinks : Juice and soda increase the risk of early cavities.
Encouraging healthy habits : Teaching kids the importance of oral hygiene sets the foundation for lifelong dental health.

The role of parents in children's oral health

Parents play a crucial role in their child's dental care. Here are some ways to ensure a healthy smile:

Supervise brushing and flossing : Young children often need guidance to clean their teeth properly.
Make dental visits fun : Choosing a kid-friendly dentist and offering positive reinforcement can reduce dental anxiety.
Promote a balanced diet : Providing healthy snacks and meals helps maintain strong teeth.
Address dental fears early : If your child is nervous about the dentist, talking about the process in a positive way can help ease anxiety.

Long-term benefits of pediatric dental care

Good dental habits in childhood lead to fewer cavities, healthier gums, and reduced dental anxiety in adulthood. Investing in early dental care sets the foundation for a lifetime of confident smiles and overall well-being. By prioritizing your child’s dental health now, you set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Understanding the impact of your diet for dental health

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 16:01:35 GMT

Your diet plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy smile. The foods and drinks you consume directly affect the strength of your teeth and gums. Here are some dietary choices that promote strong oral health:

Best foods for your teeth

Dairy Products : Rich in calcium and phosphorus, dairy strengthens enamel.
Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables : Apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally.
Lean Proteins : Chicken, fish, and eggs support tooth structure.
Nuts & Seeds : Contain essential minerals that protect against decay.

Foods to avoid

Sugary Snacks & Drinks : Lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Acidic Foods & Beverages : Citrus fruits and sodas can erode enamel.
Sticky Candies & Dried Fruits : Adhere to teeth and encourage bacterial growth.

By making smart dietary choices, you can keep your smile healthy and strong.

The connection between heart health and dental health

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 15:59:54 GMT

February is American Heart Month, making it the perfect time to explore the link between oral health and cardiovascular well-being. Research has shown that poor dental hygiene can contribute to heart disease, making regular oral care essential.

How Are Oral and Heart Health Connected?

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is caused by bacteria that inflame the gums. These bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

Signs of Gum Disease

Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Persistent bad breath
Receding gums
Loose teeth

How to Protect Your Heart Through Oral Care

Brush and floss daily to remove harmful bacteria.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup.
Avoid tobacco products, which contribute to gum disease and heart problems.
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

By prioritizing oral health, you’re also taking steps to protect your heart.

New year, new smile - resolutions for the new year

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 15:57:18 GMT

As we step into a new year, many of us set resolutions to improve our health and well-being. While fitness and diet often take center stage, dental health should not be overlooked. A healthy smile not only boosts confidence but also contributes to overall health. Here are some achievable resolutions to maintain excellent oral hygiene in 2025.

Brush and floss regularly

Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day removes plaque and prevents cavities. Setting reminders can help build consistency.

Upgrade your dental routine

Consider switching to an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at cleaning teeth and gums. Replace your toothbrush or brush head every three months.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Schedule regular dental checkups

Visiting your dentist every six months allows for early detection of potential dental issues and professional cleanings to keep your smile bright.

Limit sugary and acidic foods

Reducing sugar intake lowers the risk of tooth decay. Swap sugary snacks with healthier options like cheese, nuts, and crunchy fruits and vegetables.

By following these simple resolutions, you can maintain a strong and healthy smile throughout the year.

How to Protect Your Teeth During the Winter Months

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 22:46:19 GMT

Winter brings chilly weather and holiday treats, but it can also pose unique challenges for your oral health. At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we want to help you protect your smile all season long. Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy during the colder months.

Combat Dry Mouth

Cold air and indoor heating can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing your risk of cavities. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home.

Avoid Tooth Sensitivity

Many people experience increased tooth sensitivity in winter. If cold air or hot beverages trigger discomfort, try using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoid acidic foods and drinks.

Enjoy Treats in Moderation

Holiday sweets are tempting, but consuming too much sugar can lead to cavities. Enjoy treats in moderation and brush your teeth after indulging. If you can’t brush, rinse your mouth with water to reduce sugar’s impact.

Don’t Skip Your Dental Visit

Winter is a great time to schedule your routine cleaning and check-up. Starting the new year with a healthy smile can set the tone for good habits all year long.

Stay Warm and Healthy

Bundle up, stay hydrated, and remember that a little extra care goes a long way in protecting your teeth during winter. Schedule your winter dental appointment with Goduco Smiles today!

Why Regular Checkups Are So Important

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:18:27 GMT

A healthy smile is more than just a confidence booster; it’s a vital part of your overall health. Regular dental check-ups, ideally every six months, play a critical role in maintaining strong teeth and gums. At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health through comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans.

Preventing Cavities and Gum Disease

One of the main benefits of regular dental visits is preventing common issues like cavities and gum disease. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, which only a professional cleaning can remove. During your check-up, our skilled hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup to keep your smile healthy.

Early Detection of Dental Issues

Regular check-ups also allow us to catch potential problems before they become serious. Dental X-rays can reveal issues like impacted teeth, bone loss, or decay beneath the surface. Early detection not only saves you time and money but also prevents discomfort and more invasive treatments down the road.

Overall Health Benefits

Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even certain cancers have been connected to poor oral hygiene. Regular dental visits can help reduce your risk by keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Schedule Your Visit Today

Don’t wait until you experience pain or discomfort to see a dentist. Proactive care is the key to a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we’re here to make your dental experience comfortable and effective. Schedule your next check-up today and take the first step toward optimal oral health.

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 22:44:18 GMT

Did you know that your oral health is a window to your overall health? At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we prioritize not only your smile but your well-being as a whole. Here’s how maintaining good oral health can have a positive impact on your entire body.

The Mouth-Body Connection

Your mouth is full of bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, without proper oral hygiene, harmful bacteria can multiply, leading to infections, gum disease, and tooth decay. These conditions can allow bacteria to enter your bloodstream, potentially causing systemic health problems.

Conditions Linked to Oral Health

Heart Disease: Poor oral health has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Inflammation from gum disease may contribute to clogged arteries and other cardiovascular issues.
Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, creating a two-way relationship between oral health and diabetes management.
Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with gum disease may be at higher risk for preterm birth or low birth weight.

Preventing Health Issues

The good news is that regular dental care can reduce your risk of developing these conditions. By keeping your teeth and gums healthy through routine cleanings and check-ups, you’re also protecting your overall health.

Partnering for Your Health

At Goduco Smiles, we’re dedicated to helping you stay healthy from head to toe. Schedule your next dental appointment today and take a proactive step toward better health.

How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth: A Parent’s Guide

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:34:21 GMT

Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits from an early age sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we’re here to partner with you in ensuring your child’s dental health is a top priority. Here’s a guide to caring for your child’s teeth.

Start Early

Dental care begins even before your child’s first tooth appears. Gently clean their gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings to remove bacteria. Once their first tooth erupts, begin brushing with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste.

Teach Proper Brushing and Flossing

As your child grows, teach them to brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste once they’re old enough to spit it out. Flossing should begin as soon as two teeth touch. Make it fun by using flavored floss or floss picks designed for kids.

Encourage a Healthy Diet

Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as they contribute to cavities. Encourage water and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to strengthen teeth and gums.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Regular visits allow us to monitor their oral health and provide preventive care like fluoride treatments or sealants.

Make It a Positive Experience

At Goduco Smiles, we focus on creating a welcoming and fun environment for children. Our team ensures your child’s visits are positive, building trust and comfort for future appointments. Schedule your child’s appointment today and give them the gift of a healthy smile.

Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 22:20:57 GMT

For many people, visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety. At Goduco Smiles Family Dentist, we understand these fears and strive to create a welcoming, calming environment for every patient. If you experience dental anxiety, these tips can help you feel more at ease during your next appointment.

Communicate Your Concerns

The first step in managing dental anxiety is to communicate your feelings with your dentist. Letting us know about your fears allows us to tailor our approach to meet your needs. Whether it’s providing detailed explanations of procedures or offering breaks during treatment, we’re here to help.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing, visualization, and mindfulness exercises can help reduce anxiety before and during your visit. Taking slow, deep breaths can calm your nervous system and help you feel more in control.

Bring Comfort Items

Sometimes, bringing a favorite blanket, stress ball, or even headphones to listen to calming music can make a big difference. Familiar items can help create a sense of comfort in an unfamiliar environment.

Consider Sedation Dentistry

For those with severe dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can be an effective solution. Options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedation can help you relax while receiving the care you need. Talk to us about what options might be best for you.

Trust Goduco Smiles

Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-focused care. We’re experienced in helping patients with dental anxiety feel comfortable and supported. Schedule your appointment today and discover the difference a caring dental team can make.

The Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:38:28 GMT

A bright, white smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. If you’ve tried over-the-counter whitening products with little success, it might be time to consider professional teeth whitening at Goduco Smiles Family Dentist. Here’s why professional whitening is the best choice.

Faster and More Effective Results

Unlike store-bought kits, professional whitening treatments provide noticeable results in just one session. Our advanced whitening solutions penetrate deep into the enamel, removing even stubborn stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco.

Customized Treatment

Professional whitening is tailored to your specific needs. We consider the current shade of your teeth, the level of staining, and your desired outcome to ensure a brighter, natural-looking smile.

Safe and Comfortable

Store-bought kits can cause sensitivity or uneven results. Professional whitening at Goduco Smiles is safe and monitored by experienced dental professionals, minimizing discomfort and ensuring even whitening.

Long-Lasting Impact

With proper care, the results of professional teeth whitening can last much longer than over-the-counter options. Regular cleanings and good oral hygiene habits can help maintain your bright smile.

Ready to Shine?

If you’re ready to transform your smile, schedule a consultation with Goduco Smiles today. Let us help you achieve a radiant smile that’s as bright as you are.

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:53:56 GMT

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in preventing dental issues and ensuring a healthy smile. Many people underestimate the importance of these visits, but they offer numerous benefits that extend beyond just keeping your teeth clean.

Early Detection of Dental Problems

One of the primary reasons to visit your dentist regularly is to catch dental problems early. During a check-up, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Early detection allows for more straightforward and less invasive treatments, which can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

Professional Cleaning

Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Professional dental cleanings remove these deposits, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist will also polish your teeth, leaving them smooth and shiny and helping to prevent future plaque build-up.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not detected early. During a regular dental check-up, your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening to look for signs of the disease. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Gum Disease Prevention

Gum disease is a common condition that can lead to tooth loss if not addressed promptly. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor your gum health and provide treatments to prevent or manage gum disease. This can include deep cleanings, medication, or other interventions to keep your gums healthy.

Education and Personalized Advice

Dentists are a valuable source of information on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether it's tips on brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations, or guidance on dental products, your dentist can help you take better care of your teeth and gums.

Overall Health Monitoring

Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis can manifest symptoms in the mouth. Regular dental check-ups can help identify these signs early, prompting further investigation and potentially catching systemic health issues before they become more serious.

Building a Relationship with Your Dentist

Regular visits to the dentist help build a trusting relationship between you and your dental care provider. This rapport can make you feel more comfortable discussing any concerns or anxieties you may have about dental procedures. A good relationship with your dentist also ensures continuity of care, as your dentist will have a comprehensive understanding of your dental history and needs.

Conclusion

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being. They provide an opportunity for early detection of dental issues, professional cleaning, oral cancer screening, and personalized advice. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent dental problems, keep your smile bright, and ensure that any underlying health issues are addressed promptly. Don't wait until you have a dental problem to see your dentist—schedule your next check-up today and take a proactive approach to your oral health.

The Ultimate Guide to Achieving a Brilliant Smile: Tips from Your Dentist

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:32:49 GMT

When it comes to making a great first impression, nothing beats the power of a brilliant smile. At Goduco Smiles, we understand that a healthy, radiant smile can boost your confidence and improve your overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ll share expert tips on how to achieve and maintain that dazzling smile you’ve always wanted.

The Importance of Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is the cornerstone of a beautiful smile. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are essential habits for preventing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. But it’s not just about doing these things; it’s about doing them correctly.

Brushing Tips:

Use the Right Technique: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage your enamel and gums.
Brush for Two Minutes: Make sure you’re spending enough time on your teeth. Divide your mouth into four sections and spend 30 seconds on each.
Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly: Swap out your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

Flossing Tips:

Be Gentle: Slide the floss gently between your teeth, following the curve of each tooth. Don’t snap or force the floss, as this can injure your gums.
Use Enough Floss: Break off about 18 inches of floss and use a clean section for each tooth.

The Role of Diet in Dental Health

Your diet plays a significant role in the health of your teeth and gums. Consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.

Foods to Include:

Dairy Products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt are high in calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel.
Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery can help clean your teeth and stimulate your gums.
Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale are packed with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for oral health.

Foods to Limit:

Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth that cause cavities. Try to limit your intake of sweets and sugary beverages.
Acidic Foods and Drinks: Citrus fruits, soda, and wine can erode enamel over time. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these items.

Regular Dental Visits: Your Best Defense

Even with impeccable oral hygiene and a healthy diet, regular dental visits are crucial. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that you can’t eliminate at home, and routine exams can catch problems early before they become serious.

What to Expect During a Dental Visit:

Professional Cleaning: Our hygienists will clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup, and polish your teeth to a bright shine.
Comprehensive Exam: Dr. Goduco will examine your teeth and gums, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
X-Rays: These images help us see below the surface to identify problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhancing Your Smile

If you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your smile, cosmetic dentistry offers a range of options. From teeth whitening to veneers, we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Popular Cosmetic Treatments:

Teeth Whitening: A quick and effective way to brighten your smile.
Veneers: Thin shells that cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance.
Invisalign: Clear aligners that straighten your teeth without the need for traditional braces.

Conclusion

At Goduco Smiles, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. By following these tips and scheduling regular dental visits, you can ensure your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!

Remember, a brilliant smile starts with you. Keep smiling, and let your confidence shine!

The Importance of Flossing for a Healthy Smile

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:03:08 GMT

At Goduco Smiles Dentist, we're passionate about helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. While regular brushing is a crucial part of your oral hygiene routine, it's equally important not to overlook the benefits of flossing. In this blog post, we'll dive into why flossing is essential for your oral health and how it contributes to a radiant smile.

Removes Plaque and Prevents Cavities: One of the primary reasons to floss is to remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and cavities if not removed regularly. By flossing daily, you can effectively clean these hard-to-reach areas and prevent the buildup of plaque.
Prevents Gum Disease: Flossing isn't just about keeping your teeth clean; it also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gums. When plaque accumulates along the gumline, it can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation, known as gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe gum disease, causing gum recession and even tooth loss. Flossing helps remove plaque from these sensitive areas, reducing the risk of gum disease.
Freshens Breath: Bad breath can be a result of leftover food particles and bacteria lingering between your teeth. Flossing helps remove these particles, preventing the buildup of odor-causing bacteria and keeping your breath fresh.
Enhances Overall Health: Did you know that oral health is linked to your overall well-being? Poor oral hygiene has been associated with various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Flossing regularly can contribute to better oral health, reducing the risk of these systemic conditions.
Preserves Dental Work: If you have dental restorations like crowns, bridges, or implants, flossing is essential for maintaining their longevity. Plaque buildup around these areas can compromise the integrity of your dental work and lead to complications. Flossing helps keep these areas clean and free of debris, ensuring that your dental restorations last longer.

Now that we understand the importance of flossing let's talk about how to floss effectively:

Use Enough Floss: Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around one finger and the rest around the opposite finger.
Slide Gently: Slide the floss between your teeth using a gentle back-and-forth motion. Avoid snapping the floss, as this can injure your gums.
Curve Around Each Tooth: Curve the floss into a C shape around each tooth, gently sliding it up and down to clean the sides.
Don't Forget the Gumline: Don't neglect the area where your teeth meet the gums. Glide the floss along the gumline to remove plaque and debris.

In conclusion, flossing is a simple yet powerful way to maintain optimal oral health and achieve a dazzling smile. Make it a daily habit, along with brushing and regular dental check-ups, to keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.

For personalized oral care advice and professional dental services, schedule an appointment with us at Goduco Smiles Dentist. Your smile deserves the best care, and we're here to help you achieve it!

Tips for a brighter smile with Goduco Smiles Dentistry

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 13:15:30 GMT

As the vibrant colors of spring begin to bloom and the weather turns warmer, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate your smile and embrace a fresh start. At Goduco Smiles Dentistry, we understand the importance of a healthy and beautiful smile, and we're here to help you achieve that radiant smile you've always wanted. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and insights on how to maintain optimal oral health and enhance your smile this spring season.

Spring Cleaning for Your Smile : Just as you declutter and clean your home during spring, it's essential to give your smile a thorough cleaning as well. Schedule a professional dental cleaning and check-up at Goduco Smiles Dentistry to remove any plaque, tartar, and stains that may have accumulated over the winter months. A clean slate for your teeth sets the foundation for a brighter and healthier smile.

Refresh Your Dental Routine : Spring is a great time to refresh your dental routine and make positive changes. Ensure you're brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove plaque and food debris. Consider incorporating mouthwash into your routine for added protection against cavities and gum disease. Our team at Goduco Smiles Dentistry can provide personalized recommendations for oral care products based on your unique needs.

Brighten Your Smile : If you're looking to brighten your smile and enhance its appearance, consider professional teeth whitening treatments at Goduco Smiles Dentistry. Our advanced whitening procedures can effectively remove stains and discoloration, leaving you with a dazzling smile that exudes confidence. Say goodbye to dull winter stains and hello to a brighter, more radiant smile this spring.

Protect Your Teeth During Outdoor Activities : With the arrival of spring, outdoor activities become more common. Whether you're playing sports or enjoying picnics, it's crucial to protect your teeth from potential injuries. Wear a mouthguard during sports to prevent dental emergencies like chipped or knocked-out teeth. Additionally, be mindful of your food choices during outdoor gatherings to avoid excessive sugary snacks and beverages that can harm your teeth.

Schedule a Smile Makeover Consultation : If you've been considering cosmetic dental treatments to improve the appearance of your smile, now is the perfect time to schedule a consultation with our experienced team at Goduco Smiles Dentistry. Whether you're interested in veneers, dental implants, or orthodontic options like Invisalign, we can create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Practice Mindful Eating : Spring brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables that are not only good for your overall health but also beneficial for your teeth. Incorporate crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery into your diet as they help clean your teeth naturally and stimulate saliva production, which aids in protecting your enamel.

Stay Hydrated : Hydration is key to maintaining good oral health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're enjoying outdoor activities or spending time in the sun. Water helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids in your mouth, reducing the risk of cavities and promoting a healthier smile.

At Goduco Smiles Dentistry, we're dedicated to helping you achieve a smile that radiates confidence and health. This spring, prioritize your oral health and make positive changes to enhance your smile. Schedule an appointment with us today to start your journey towards a brighter, healthier smile this season.

Love your smile with Goduco Smile dentistry

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 22:15:00 GMT

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Caring for your child's dental health

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 21:59:30 GMT

Good oral habits start early, and at Goduco Smiles Dentist, we believe in laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Children's dental health is a priority, and we're here to guide parents in fostering good oral hygiene practices for their little ones.

As a parent, it's essential to schedule your child's first dental visit by their first birthday. This early introduction helps acclimate them to the dental environment and allows our team to monitor their oral development. Regular checkups and cleanings are crucial for preventing cavities and addressing any concerns as they arise.

Education is key, and our friendly staff at Goduco Smiles Dentist takes the time to teach children proper brushing and flossing techniques in a fun and interactive way. We believe that instilling good oral habits early on creates a foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

In addition to routine checkups, we offer preventive treatments such as dental sealants and fluoride applications to protect your child's teeth from decay. Our goal is to make dental visits a positive and stress-free experience for both parents and children.

Investing in your child's oral health from an early age not only ensures a beautiful smile but also contributes to their overall well-being. Schedule an appointment with Goduco Smiles Dentist, and let us partner with you in keeping your child's smile bright and healthy.

Transform your smile with cosmetic dentistry

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 22:01:41 GMT

Are you looking to enhance the appearance of your smile? Goduco Smiles Dentist offers a range of cosmetic dentistry services designed to transform your teeth and boost your confidence.

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that can significantly brighten your smile. Whether your teeth have become discolored over time or you simply desire a whiter shade, our professional teeth-whitening treatments can help you achieve a dazzling smile.

For those with minor imperfections such as chips or gaps, dental bonding and veneers are excellent options. Dental bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored resin to repair or improve the appearance of a tooth, while veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth, providing a natural and beautiful result.

Invisalign, another service offered at Goduco Smiles Dentist, is a discreet and effective way to straighten your teeth without the need for traditional braces. These clear aligners are comfortable, removable, and virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for adults seeking orthodontic treatment.

Cosmetic dentistry is not just about aesthetics; it's about restoring confidence and improving overall oral health. If you're considering enhancing your smile, schedule a consultation with our cosmetic dentistry experts at Goduco Smiles Dentist to explore the options best suited for you.

Giving Thanks for a Healthy Smile: Thanksgiving Dental Tips from Goduco Smiles

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 19:53:13 GMT

As Thanksgiving approaches, it's not just a time for feasting and family gatherings, but also an ideal moment to reflect on the things we are grateful for, including our oral health. At Goduco Smiles, we believe that a healthy smile is something to be truly thankful for, and we're here to share some helpful tips to keep your smile bright and healthy during this festive season.

Celebrating with a Smile

Thanksgiving is synonymous with indulgence, and while it's a time to enjoy your favorite dishes, it's also important to consider the impact on your dental health. The holiday feast often includes sugary treats and starchy foods, which can be a feast for the bacteria in your mouth as well.

Tip #1: Balance Your Plate

Try to balance your plate with vegetables and lean proteins, along with the traditional starchy and sugary foods. Vegetables like carrots and celery can help clean your teeth naturally, and proteins don't contribute to tooth decay.

Tip #2: Stay Hydrated

Drinking water, especially after eating, can help wash away food particles and reduce the risk of cavities. It's a simple yet effective way to keep your mouth clean and fresh.

Tip #3: Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum after your meal can increase saliva flow, helping to neutralize acid and clean your teeth. It's a handy trick when you can't brush your teeth immediately after eating.

Gratitude for Dental Health

This Thanksgiving, let's also remember to be thankful for our dental health and the resources we have to maintain it. Regular dental check-ups, access to quality dental care, and the awareness of good oral hygiene practices are things worth celebrating.

Tip #4: Don't Skip Your Dental Routine

Even on Thanksgiving, don't skip your regular dental routine. Brushing twice a day and flossing are crucial, no matter how full the day's schedule might be.

Tip #5: Plan Your Post-Thanksgiving Check-up

With the year coming to an end, it's a great time to schedule a check-up. This way, you can ensure your dental health is on track, and make the most of any dental benefits before they reset.

Conclusion: A Season of Smiles

Thanksgiving is more than just a day for gratitude; it's a season that brings families together, creating memories that last a lifetime. At Goduco Smiles, we are thankful for the opportunity to care for your dental health and be a part of your journey towards a healthy, confident smile.

As you gather with loved ones and enjoy the Thanksgiving festivities, remember that taking care of your dental health is part of taking care of your overall well-being. We wish you a delightful Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter, and a feast that brings happiness without compromising your beautiful smile!

Spooky Halloween Treats and Dental Health: How to Keep Your Smile Safe

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:26:19 GMT

Halloween, the time of year when ghouls, ghosts, and goblins come out to play, is a favorite holiday for many. It's a time for costumes, spooky decorations, and, of course, delicious treats. While we all love indulging in sugary goodies during this season, it's essential to keep our dental health in mind. In this blog post, we'll discuss some Halloween treats to watch out for and offer tips on how to protect your smile while still enjoying the spooky fun.

The Scary Truth About Halloween Candy

Let's face it—Halloween and candy go hand in hand. Kids eagerly anticipate filling their trick-or-treat bags with a wide variety of sugary treats, from chocolates to chewy candies. However, this sugar overload can be a real nightmare for your dental health.

When you consume sugary foods, the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid, which can erode your tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities and other dental issues. So, what are some of the spookiest candies when it comes to dental health?

Hard Candies: Whether it's lollipops or jawbreakers, hard candies expose your teeth to sugar for an extended period, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Sticky or Chewy Candies: Caramels, taffy, and gummy candies cling to your teeth, providing a feast for bacteria and increasing the likelihood of cavities.
Sour Candies: Sour candies are not only acidic but also sugary, making them a double threat to your enamel.
Sugary Chocolate Bars: Even though chocolate is less sticky than other candies, it can still contribute to tooth decay if consumed excessively.

Tips for a Tooth-Friendly Halloween

Now that we've identified some of the scariest candies for your dental health let's explore ways to enjoy Halloween while protecting your smile:

Choose Wisely: Opt for candies that are less harmful to your teeth, like dark chocolate, which has less sugar than milk chocolate.
Practice Moderation: Limit the amount of candy you consume in one sitting and encourage your kids to do the same. Set a daily candy allowance to avoid overindulgence.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help rinse away sugar and acid from your mouth, reducing their impact on your teeth.
Time It Right: Enjoy your candy as part of a meal rather than snacking throughout the day. Increased saliva production during meals helps neutralize acid and cleanse your mouth.
Oral Care Routine: Don't forget to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove any leftover candy particles and plaque.
Sugar-Free Alternatives: Consider offering sugar-free treats like sugar-free gum, which can stimulate saliva production and help clean your teeth.
Non-Food Treats: Hand out non-food items like stickers, small toys, or pencils as alternatives to candy to trick-or-treaters.
Dental Check-Up: Schedule a post-Halloween dental check-up to catch any potential issues early and ensure your smile stays healthy.

Conclusion

Halloween can be a delightfully spooky time filled with costumes, decorations, and treats. While enjoying these seasonal sweets, it's important to remember that good dental health doesn't take a holiday. By making smart choices, practicing moderation, and maintaining a robust oral care routine, you can protect your smile from the ghosts and goblins of tooth decay.

This Halloween, make it a point to balance the fun and festivities with dental health awareness. Don't let the fear of cavities haunt you—instead, let your smile shine brightly under your costume mask.

The Secret to a Radiant Smile: Regular Dental Check-Ups

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 16:29:37 GMT

Your smile is your greatest asset. It's the universal symbol of happiness and a reflection of your overall health and well-being. Yet, in the hustle and bustle of daily life, many people neglect the importance of regular dental check-ups. In this blog post, we'll explore why scheduling routine visits to your dentist is the secret to maintaining a radiant smile and overall oral health.

1. Preventing Dental Issues Before They Escalate

Regular dental check-ups serve as proactive measures to catch potential problems before they become major issues. Your dentist can identify early signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer during these visits. When detected early, these conditions are much easier and less expensive to treat, saving you both discomfort and money in the long run.

2. Professional Cleaning for a Healthy Mouth

Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach places in your mouth. A professional dental cleaning at your check-up ensures that all traces of plaque and tartar are removed, helping to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Your teeth will feel incredibly clean and fresh after a visit to the dentist, leaving you with a brighter smile.

3. Personalized Oral Health Guidance

During your check-up, your dentist can provide tailored advice on maintaining good oral hygiene. Whether it's tips on brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations, or guidance on managing dental issues specific to your needs, this personalized advice is invaluable in keeping your smile healthy.

4. Maintaining Cosmetic Dentistry Work

If you've had cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, or dental implants, regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining the results. Your dentist can ensure that your cosmetic work is in good condition and make any necessary adjustments to keep your smile looking its best.

5. Overall Health Connection

Research has shown a strong link between oral health and overall health. Dental problems like gum disease have been associated with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory infections. By maintaining good oral health through regular check-ups, you're also contributing to your overall well-being.

6. Overcoming Dental Anxiety

For many people, the fear of visiting the dentist can be a significant barrier to regular check-ups. However, today's dental offices are equipped with modern techniques and technologies designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Discuss your concerns with your dentist, and they can work with you to alleviate any anxiety you may have.

In conclusion, the secret to a radiant smile is no secret at all—it's regular dental check-ups. These appointments not only help you maintain healthy teeth and gums but also contribute to your overall well-being. Don't let fear or a busy schedule keep you from taking care of your oral health. Schedule your next dental check-up today, and let your smile shine brightly for years to come. Your future self will thank you!

5 Tips for Maintaining Excellent Oral Health

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 23:17:46 GMT

Good oral health is crucial for overall well-being, as it not only enhances your smile but also contributes to your overall health. By adopting healthy oral habits and following a consistent dental care routine, you can prevent dental problems and enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come. In this post, we'll share five essential tips for maintaining excellent oral health.

Brush and floss regularly:

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day are the foundations of a healthy oral care routine. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently clean your teeth and remove plaque. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes, covering all tooth surfaces, including the gumline. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from areas that your toothbrush can't reach, preventing gum disease and cavities.

Maintain a balanced diet:

Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Limit sugary and acidic foods, as they contribute to tooth decay. Instead, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts strengthen your teeth and bones. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day also helps flush away harmful bacteria and promotes saliva production, which protects your teeth.

Schedule regular dental check-ups:

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Dentists can detect early signs of dental issues and provide necessary treatments to prevent them from worsening. Make sure to visit your dentist every six months for a comprehensive examination, professional cleaning, and any required X-rays. Early detection and intervention can save you from more extensive and expensive dental procedures in the future.

Protect your teeth during physical activities:

If you participate in sports or other physical activities, it's crucial to protect your teeth from potential injuries. Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports or engaging in activities that pose a risk to your mouth. A well-fitted mouthguard can cushion impact and prevent tooth fractures, jaw injuries, and soft tissue damage. Your dentist can provide you with a custom-made mouthguard for maximum protection.

Avoid harmful habits:

Certain habits can have a detrimental effect on your oral health. Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as they increase the risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth loss. Limit your alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking can lead to dry mouth, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. Additionally, avoid biting or chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as it can cause tooth fractures or chips.

Conclusion:

Maintaining excellent oral health is within your reach by following these simple yet vital tips. By practicing regular brushing and flossing, maintaining a healthy diet, visiting your dentist regularly, protecting your teeth during physical activities, and avoiding harmful habits, you can enjoy a beautiful smile and a lifetime of optimal oral health. Remember, prevention is always better than cure when it comes to your teeth, so prioritize your dental care and make it a habit for a healthier smile.

Transform your smile - the power of cosmetic dentistry

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 23:20:56 GMT

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and it has a significant impact on your confidence and self-esteem. Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, achieving a dazzling smile is now more accessible than ever. Whether you have stained teeth, misalignment, gaps, or other aesthetic concerns, a skilled cosmetic dentist can help you transform your smile and boost your overall appearance. In this blog post, we will explore the power of cosmetic dentistry and the life-changing benefits it can bring.

Teeth Whitening:

If you're looking to brighten your smile and remove stains caused by coffee, tea, or tobacco, professional teeth whitening is a popular and effective option. Unlike over-the-counter products, in-office whitening treatments use powerful bleaching agents that can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one visit. The result is a noticeably whiter and more radiant smile that can take years off your appearance.

Porcelain Veneers:

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can transform your smile by improving the shape, size, and color of your teeth. Whether you have chipped, misaligned, or discolored teeth, veneers can provide a seamless and natural-looking solution. With proper care, veneers can last for many years, giving you a stunning smile that you can confidently show off.

Dental Implants:

Missing teeth can significantly impact your self-confidence and oral health. Dental implants offer a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. These artificial tooth roots are surgically placed into the jawbone and topped with lifelike crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Dental implants not only restore your smile, but they also preserve jawbone health and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Invisalign:

Crooked or misaligned teeth can be straightened discreetly and comfortably with Invisalign. This innovative orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible and can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and flossing. Invisalign offers a more comfortable and convenient alternative to achieving a straight, beautiful smile.

Smile Makeovers:

If you have multiple cosmetic concerns, a comprehensive smile makeover might be the best option for you. A smile makeover is a customized treatment plan that combines various cosmetic procedures to address your unique needs. From teeth whitening and veneers to orthodontics and gum reshaping, a skilled cosmetic dentist will create a tailored treatment plan to help you achieve your dream smile.

Conclusion:

Cosmetic dentistry has revolutionized the way we approach dental aesthetics, offering transformative solutions to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Whether you desire whiter teeth, straighter alignment, or a complete smile makeover, consulting with a skilled cosmetic dentist is the first step toward achieving your smile goals. Don't let insecurities hold you back from smiling with radiance and joy. Embrace the power of cosmetic dentistry and unlock the life-changing benefits of a beautiful, confident smile.

The importance of regular dentist checkups

Fri, 26 May 2023 00:16:33 GMT

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Many people underestimate the significance of routine dental visits, often neglecting their oral care until problems arise. In this blog post, we will discuss why scheduling regular dental check-ups is essential and how they contribute to a healthier smile.

Early Detection of Oral Issues:

One of the primary reasons for regular dental check-ups is the early detection of oral problems. Dentists can identify and address issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other abnormalities at their initial stages. Detecting problems early can prevent them from worsening and requiring more extensive and expensive treatments in the future. Dental professionals perform a thorough examination, including X-rays and screenings, to detect any signs of trouble that might not be apparent to the naked eye. By catching problems early, dental check-ups can help save your natural teeth and preserve your oral health.

Professional Teeth Cleaning:

Regular dental visits also include professional teeth cleaning, which goes beyond what regular brushing and flossing can achieve. Even with excellent oral hygiene practices, plaque and tartar can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Dental professionals use specialized tools to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains, providing a thorough cleaning that promotes healthier teeth and gums. This cleaning process also helps prevent bad breath and keeps your smile looking bright and fresh. Professional teeth cleaning during dental check-ups complements your daily oral care routine and contributes to long-term oral health.

Oral Health Education:

Dental check-ups offer an excellent opportunity for patients to receive valuable oral health education. Dentists and dental hygienists can provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, recommend suitable oral care products, and answer any questions or concerns you may have. They can also offer personalized advice based on your specific dental needs. Staying informed about the best oral care practices can empower you to take better care of your teeth and gums between dental visits, ensuring a healthier smile and minimizing the risk of oral health issues.

Conclusion :

Regular dental check-ups are more than just routine appointments; they play a vital role in maintaining excellent oral health. By detecting oral issues early, providing professional teeth cleaning, and offering valuable education, these visits contribute to a healthier smile and prevent costly and invasive treatments in the future. Don't underestimate the importance of regular dental check-ups - schedule yours today and prioritize your oral health!

SEDATION DENTISTRY AND ITS BENEFITS

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 14:27:36 GMT

Dental treatments can be a harrowing experience for some people. This may result from poor past experiences and because people expect it to hurt. Sometimes, the anxiety surrounding dental treatments can get so bad that it keeps people away from getting the dental treatment they need and deserve. This eventually contributes to poor oral health and compromises overall health.

Thankfully, we live in a time when medicine is at its pinnacle, and you have access to the best dental care in Vernon Hills, IL. Keeping in mind our motto of providing our patients with the best care in the most comfortable way possible, we introduce to you – Sedation Dentistry.

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a revolutionary approach to dental care that allows you to relax and even sleep throughout your dental procedures!

Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedative medications that can help patients with dental anxiety, fear of needles, sensitive teeth, or a low pain threshold feel more comfortable and at ease during their appointments. With several options available, including nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, IV sedation, and general anesthesia, patients can choose the level of sedation that best suits their needs and preferences.

Imagine drifting off into a peaceful slumber as your dentist in Vernon Hills, IL, performs the necessary procedures to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. When you wake up, you'll be amazed at how much work has been done in such a short amount of time - and you'll feel refreshed and ready to face the day!

Sedation dentistry allows you to get the dental care you need without having to go through the entire ordeal of sitting awake in a dental chair.

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry

The thought of undergoing dental procedures can be overwhelming and can lead to avoidance of necessary dental care. Sedation dentistry at Vernon Hills, IL, has emerged as a solution to this problem, offering patients a way to relax and feel more comfortable during their dental appointments. Sedation dentistry provides a plethora of benefits, such as:

Reduced anxiety and fear: Sedation dentistry can help patients who suffer from dental anxiety or phobia. With sedation, patients can feel more relaxed and at ease, allowing them to receive the care they need without feeling overwhelmed or frightened.

Increased comfort during procedures: Some dental procedures can be uncomfortable or even painful, even with the use of local anesthesia. Sedation dentistry can help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed, making the procedure easier to tolerate. This can be especially helpful for patients who have sensitive teeth or a low pain threshold.

Assistance for patients with special needs: Patients with physical or mental disabilities and children may have difficulty sitting still or cooperating during a dental appointment. Sedation dentistry can help these patients relax and remain still during the procedure, making it easier for the dentist to provide the necessary care.

Fewer appointments required: Sedation dentistry can allow dentists to perform more work in a single appointment, reducing the number of visits required. This can be especially helpful for patients who have busy schedules or who live far away from their dentist. With fewer appointments required, patients can receive the care they need without disrupting their daily lives.

So, if you have been avoiding the dentist because of fear, we have got you covered. Schedule an appointment at Goduco Smiles, Vernon Hills, today to ensure you are at the top of your oral health. If you have any more questions or wish to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent and compassionate dental professionals is here to assist you.

Rebuild your smile with dental implants

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 21:57:26 GMT

Dental implants have taken the world of prosthetic dentistry by storm. Dental implants are a novel way of rebuilding your smile. Dental implants can restore your smile a nd confidence, whether you are missing a single tooth or all your teeth.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are surgical screw-shaped fixtures that are fixed to the jawbone through an incision on the gums. Dental implants have three parts, a screw-shaped implant, an abutment, and a prosthesis.

Once the implant fuses/integrates with the jawbone, it forms a stable foundation for the placement of a permanent prosthesis like a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture.

The procedure of Dental Implants

After a careful oral examination, your implant dentist in Vernon Hills, IL, will suggest some x-rays, such as an OPG and CBCT. Next, they will plan your treatment and decide on the number of dental implants needed and the type of prosthesis. You will then be scheduled for your dental implant surgery.

Depending on the number of dental implants needed and the replacement area, an incision is made on the gums to expose the jawbone. Then a series of specialized dental implant drills are used to create a hole in the jawbone. The dental implant is then placed inside the hole, and the gums are stitched back.

Once dental implants fuse with bone, which usually takes up to 3 months, a prosthesis will be fabricated to be placed on the dental implants. This completes the procedure for dental implants. You will be placed on regular follow-ups to ensure your dental implants are at the top of their health and you keep smiling forever.

Advantages of dental implants

Dental implants offer a permanent tooth replacement solution to missing teeth.
They prevent bone loss and thus aid in maintaining proper facial height and proportions.
Dental implants maintain the integrity of the oral cavity.
Other healthy teeth need not be shaved or disturbed for dental implant placement.
Dental implants restore complete chewing and speech.
They offer excellent aesthetics.
They give you a complete smile which restores your confidence and self-esteem.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is convenient with dental implants. Once integrated, they are easy to maintain. All you need to do is brush twice a day and floss.

Disadvantages

The only disadvantage of dental implants is that they are extremely technique sensitive, making them an expensive teeth replacement option.

Who can opt for dental imp lants?

You can opt for dental implants without contraindications if you are generally healthy. However, suppose you have complicating systemic conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, active oral infections, and immunocompromised states such as cancer or HIV-AIDS. In that case, dental implants may be contraindicated when their success is affected. A proper examination and referral to your physician may be done before you are cleared for dental implant surgery.

Dental implants in Vernon Hills, IL, are a brilliant and permanent tooth replacement solution. If you have any more questions or wish to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us at Goduco Smile. Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to assist you and your family with a permanent and glistening smile.

HOW DOES SMOKING AFFECT OUR TEETH?

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 23:10:56 GMT

Smoking is a significant cause of many health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and cancer. However, many people do not realize that smo king also has adverse effects on their oral health, leading to a wide range of dental problems.

Empty heading

Stained Teeth

One of the most substantial effects of smoking is yellow or brown stains on teeth. The nicotine and tar in cigarettes seep into the porous enamel of teeth, causing discoloration. Over time, these stains become harder to remove, leading to a yellowish or brownish tint on your teeth.

Sensitive Teeth

Smoking can also compromise the structural integrity of your teeth and make them more sensitive to hot and cold foods and liquids. The heat from a cigarette can also damage the enamel, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.

Dental Decay

Smoking can cause a bacterial acid attack on the teeth, leading to dental decay. Chronic smokers tend to have a higher incidence of dental cavities than non-smokers. The compromised structural integrity of the teeth makes them more susceptible to decay.

Gum Diseases

Gum diseases can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems. It can also cause gums to discolor and recede, exposing the tooth's root. Smoking can also lead to inflammation of the gums and cause gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.

Canker Sores

Smokers are more susceptible to canker sores, which are small, painful ulcers that appear on the tongue, cheek, gums, roof, or floor of the mouth. These sores can make it difficult to eat and talk and can take several weeks to heal.

Decreases Taste Perception

Heavy and chronic smoking can lead to a decrease in taste perception. Smoking can damage taste buds, making it difficult to taste flavors and enjoy food.

Bad Breath

Smoking also causes bad breath, which can be embarrassing and unpleasant. Smoking contributes to the accumulation of a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, leading to halitosis.

Slower Healing

Smoking can also affect the healing process in the body, including post-dental surgery. Smokers may experience slower healing after dental extractions. They are more prone to dental infections like dry socket, which is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot that forms after a tooth extraction dislodges.

Oral Cancers

Smoking is a widely known cause of oral cancer, which can be life-threatening. Oral cancer can involve the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and other parts of the mouth. It can start as a small lump or non-healing ulcer and can quickly spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your mouth, such as a lump or a non-healing ulcer, it is crucial to see a skilled dentist in Vernon Hill, IL, to get it checked and treated immediately.

In conclusion, smoking has numerous adverse effects on your oral health, ranging from discolored teeth and bad breath to gum diseases, canker sores, and oral cancers. Eliminating smoking is the most trusted way to prevent these problems and maintain good oral health. If you are a smoker, it is essential that you consult a dentist in Vernon Hills, IL, regularly to monitor your oral health and detect any problems early. If you have any more questions or wish to schedule an appointment, please reach out to us. Our team of compassionate dental professionals is Goduco Smiles is here to assist you with healthy oral and overall health.

7 BENEFITS OF USING A MOUTHWASH

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 23:24:55 GMT

It is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene for better overall health and well-being. One of the critical components of oral hygiene is using mouthwash. Mouthwash is a liquid solution used to rinse the mouth and throat to promote good oral hygiene. While brushing and flossing are crucial components of oral hygiene, using mouthwash can provide additional benefits that help improve your oral health.

It kills bacteria and freshens breath.

Mouthwash is a great way to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. It contains active ingredients like chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride that help kill bacteria that cause bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. These ingredients disrupt the bacterial cell wall, making it easier for the body to remove them. Using mouthwash regularly can help keep your breath fresh and prevent bad breath.

Reduces plaque and gingivitis

Another significant benefit of using mouthwash is that it can reduce plaque and gingivitis. Plaque is a sticky yellowish film that forms on your teeth and gums and can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease that is caused by inflammation and leads to bleeding of the gums. Mouthwash containing fluoride can help prevent plaque buildup and reduce gingivitis by strengthening tooth enamel and preventing bacteria from adhering to the teeth.

Promotes healing of oral wounds

Mouthwash containing antiseptic properties can help promote the healing of oral wounds. Antiseptic mouthwash helps to prevent infections and reduce inflammation, which can aid in the healing process. If you have a sore or wound in your mouth, using a mouth rinse can help speed up the healing process.

Prevents cavities

Fluoride is a mineral that helps toughen tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to bacterial attack and dental decay. When used regularly, fluoride mouthwash can help prevent cavities from forming and keep your teeth healthy. Mouthwash containing fluoride can help prevent cavities.

Whitens teeth

Many types of mouthwash can help you whiten your teeth. Consult your dentist are Goduco Smiles, Vernon Hills, IL, today to learn more about whitening mouth rinses.

It helps fight off teeth sensitivity.

Mouth rinses that contain potassium nitrate help you fight off teeth sensitivity. However, it is essential to use them under the guidance of your dentist.

Improves overall oral health

Using mouthwash can help improve your overall oral health. Mouthwash can reach areas that brushing and flossing can't reach, such as the back of the mouth and the throat. It can help remove bacteria and food particles that brushing and flossing miss, reducing the risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Using mouthwash regularly as part of your oral hygiene routine can help improve your overall oral health and prevent dental problems.

In conclusion, using mouthwash is integral to maintaining good oral hygiene. It can help kill bacteria, freshen your breath, reduce plaque and gingivitis, promote the healing of oral wounds, prevent cavities, and improve oral health. Choosing a mouthwash that is right for you and using it regularly as part of your oral hygiene routine is essential. If you have any questions about using mouthwash or wish to know more about our services, please reach out to us at Goduco Smiles, Vernon Hills, IL, today. Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to assist in your journey to a fresh and dazzling smile.

Fluoride: myths and facts

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:19:10 GMT

In the mid-1940s, scientists started finding concrete evidence which linked fluoride to healthy teeth and low levels of tooth decay. Since then, numerous clinical studies and research have been conducted which prove the benefits of fluoride on oral and overall health.

However, despite the availability of a plethora of evidence, there are many misconceptions and fallacies surrounding fluoride. In this blog, we will debunk some of the most common myths surrounding fluoride.

Myth – Fluoride does not belong in drinking water

Truth – Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is already found in minute quantities in soil and water. However, its level is not optimum to provide desired benefits. Therefore, state-run programs take the initiative to add fluoride and achieve a concentration of 0.7 ppm. This is enough to provide the desired effect, which is making teeth strong and resistant to dental decay.

Myth – Fluoridated water leads to fluorosis, which makes the teeth brown and brittle.

Truth – Fluorosis occurs only when a person ingests high amounts of fluoride and does not occur at the recommended 0.7 ppm concentration. Fluorosis is rare in the states and, even if found, is typically mild.

Myth – Fluoride is a medication that is forced on the community

Truth – Fluoride is not a medication. It is a mineral that is already found naturally.

Myth – Fluoride is dangerous for children.

Truth – It is not dangerous to children when used as intended. Drinking fluoride water, using fluoridated toothpaste, and opting for preventive fluoride treatments strengthen the teeth and prevents tooth decay and loss.

Myth – Adding fluoride to water is expensive for the general population

Truth – Fluoride is the least expensive way to prevent dental decay and protect ourselves from dental ailments down the line. Dental treatments are costly and invasive. Prevention is always better and inexpensive than a later cure. This is why so many countries around the world have started adding fluoride is drinking water sources.

Myth – Fluoride causes cancer

Truth – Countless studies have shown that fluoride is not a carcinogen, and its addition to drinking water is not dangerous. Fluoride neither causes cancer nor increases the risk of cancer and other severe health disorders.

Myth – Fluoride has no role in preventing tooth decay

Truth – In the early 20 ^th century, scientists observed that communities that resided along areas of high fluoride content in the water had fewer dental cavities in comparison to people who resided in areas of low fluoride concentration. This prompted them to study and research the role of fluoride in dental health. It was found that fluoride interacts with the hydroxyapatite crystals of the teeth and forms fluorapatite. Fluorapatite is what makes the teeth stronger and resistant to dental cavities. Fluoride treatments can also be used to reverse early signs of dental cavities.

We hope this article provided you with the required insight into the world of fluoride. Dental decay is one of the most rampant dental diseases in the states, and its prevention is essential for overall well-being.

If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us at Goduco Smiles, Vernon Hills, IL, please reach out to us. Our team of excellent dental professionals is here to assist you and your family with a healthy and glistening smile.

10 reasons for tooth decay

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 17:14:17 GMT

Dental decay is a bacterial disease of the tooth which leads to the demineralization of the inorganic structure of the tooth and the destruction of the organic part. Dental decay starts from the outermost layer of the tooth, enamel, and if left untreated, will progress to involve the deeper layers, eventually reaching the pulp, which is the core of the tooth.

So, what exactly causes dental decay? Knowing the reason behind dental decay empowers you to make choices that are better for your oral and overall health. Without any further adieu, let's get started.

Improper brushing

Brushing every surface of your teeth is important to ensure they are devoid of any food debris and plaque. Use a soft-bristled nylon toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste for best results. Remember to brush twice a day, once before bed and after waking up.

Not flossing

A toothbrush cannot provide proper access to the areas between the teeth. These areas become a haven for bacterial build-up. Therefore, it is vital to floss every day to ensure the space between your teeth is cleaned.

Not rinsing properly

Rinsing after every meal helps you eliminate any accumulated food debris, which further lowers your chances of developing dental cavities.

High sugar intake

Sticky foods such as candies, a high intake of sugary foods, and an intake of processed and carbohydrate-rich foods increase your chance of developing dental cavities. These reside on the tooth surface for a long time and provide energy to the disease-causing bacteria. The bacteria will metabolize these sugars and release toxic and acidic by-products, which will lead to the formation of dental cavities.

High consumption of acidic foods and liquids

Excessive consumption of acidic beverages, such as soft drinks, colas, wines, coffee, etc., will degrade the enamel and weaken it. This makes your teeth more susceptible to bacterial attack and thus increases the likelihood of dental cavities.

Teeth grinding

Teeth grinding and jaw clenching medically termed Bruxism weakens the structural integrity of the teeth. They also lead to the development of tiny cracks and expose the inner layer of the tooth to the oral environment leading to a high risk of dental cavities.

Dry mouth

Dry mouth or Xerostomia is a condition that leads to less production of saliva. Saliva lubricates the mouth and helps wash away debris and bacteria. Saliva also contains important enzymes which fight against bacterial attacks. Lack of saliva will predispose an individual to dental cavities. A dry mouth can be a symptom of systemic diseases such as diabetes or a side effect of certain medications.

Lack of fluoride

Fluoride strengthens the teeth and makes them resistant to dental cavities. Lack or absence of fluoride will lead to higher incidences of dental cavities.

Smoking and alcohol

Smoking and alcohol consumption also weakens the teeth and can contribute to dental decay, gum diseases, and oral cancer.

Genetics

Your likelihood of developing dental cavities can also be genetically coded. Some people are naturally at a higher risk of developing cavities. In such cases, proper and timely preventive treatments at Vernon Hill, IL, become essential.

If you have any more questions or would like to learn more about the prevention of dental decay, please schedule an appointment with us at Goduco Smiles at Vernon Hills, IL, today. Our team of excellent oral health professionals is here to assist you.

What to do when your child has knocked out a tooth

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 01:54:52 GMT

Imagine your kids playing in the park when suddenly one falls face-first and knocks out a tooth. Ouch! While we certainly hope you never have to face this situation, we want you to be prepared and do your best to ensure that the tooth can be saved. Check out our tips on what you can do to save a knocked-out tooth.

So, without further adieu, let's begin.

A sudden heavy force to the jaw can completely knock out a tooth. Sometimes, the tooth may come off entirely and fall on the ground. Other times, it may still be in the mouth attached by thin gum tissue. Both scenarios are dental emergencies and must be treated swiftly. Therefore, the first thing you should do is call our clinic, Goduco Smiles in Vernon Hills, and we will schedule an emergency appointment for you right away.

A tooth can also be held firm because of ligaments and fibers. The ligaments and fibers can be damaged but still adhere to the tooth when it is knocked out. If appropriately replaced in time, the tooth can be re-implanted and saved. Therefore, it is essential not to disturb the tooth. Pick the tooth by the crown, and do not touch the roots, as you may end up disturbing the surrounding structure.

Next is storage. The best way to store a freshly knocked out tooth is to keep it in Hanks Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS), which can be easily acquired from a medical store and is generally available with the school nurse. However, in its absence, you can place the tooth between your child's cheek and gums. The saliva will protect the tooth and help keep it alive till you reach your dentist. If this is also not possible, keep the tooth in a container filled with cold milk. Try to get to our clinic as fast as possible, as time is of the essence. If your child has any other oral injuries and is bleeding, take a soft cloth or cotton and ask them to bite on it gently. This will help arrest any bleeding.

If you reach the clinic in the first hour after the incidence, the chances of successfully re-implanting the tooth are the highest. As time passes, the chances of a successful outcome may decrease as the tooth begins to lose its vitality. Once you reach our clinic, our skilled emergency dentist, Dr. Goduco, will clean the tooth and place it back into the socket. Next, they will splint the tooth with adjacent healthy teeth for support. This splint will be there for some weeks until the tooth stabilizes.

In some cases, a root canal treatment may be advised before re-implantation to ensure a successful treatment outcome. A soft diet is often recommended after this procedure to ensure the tooth is not disturbed and allowed to heal. Dr. Goduco will also cater to any other oral injuries if present during your emergency appointment at Vernon Hill, IL.

Please contact us if you have any more questions or need to schedule an appointment. Our team of excellent and skilled dental professionals at Goduco Smiles, Vernon Hills, IL, is here to assist you and your family with better oral health and glowing smiles.

TOP 5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE INVISALIGN

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 20:53:53 GMT

Do you want to straighten your teeth without going through the trouble that comes with metallic braces? If the answer is a yes, ask our cosmetic dentist at Goduco Smiles about Invisalign.

Invisalign is a novel method of teeth straightening that takes the help of clear aligners. It uses 3-D computing technology which scans your upper and lower teeth. This data is then used to create your custom clear aligners. Each set has to be worn for two weeks, then replaced by the next in line. These aligners must be worn for 22 hours daily for desirable results. Now that you have an idea about Invisalign in Vernon Hills, IL, let's look at the top 5 reasons you should choose Invisalign.

Discreet

As the name suggests, Invisalign aligners are transparent, contributing to their subtle appearance. They are virtually invisible in photographs. You won't have to worry about a prominent metallic appearance in your mouth as with traditional braces. In addition, you can wear them in social as well as personal settings without it being evident that you are getting orthodontic treatment. Invisalign keeps your aesthetics intact while carefully working in the background to give you a beautiful, well-aligned smile.

It helps you maintain good oral hygiene

Invisalign aligners are removable and do not have any fixed metallic wires and brackets. This means they can be easily removed for brushing, flossing, and rinsing, which makes practicing good oral hygiene possible. Unlike traditional braces, with Invisalign, you will not have to worry about food getting stuck between your teeth. This contributes to lower chances of plaque accumulation which ultimately leads to better oral health. Better oral health leads to fresher breath and helps you avoid stains, dental cavities, and gum diseases.

No food restrictions

One of the most significant drawbacks of traditional braces is food restrictions. You cannot consume hard food substances like nuts and chocolates, and you are also advised to keep your distance from the barbecue. This is because hard and sticky food substances can damage the brackets and wires. However, this problem is eliminated since Invisalign is made of clear plastic. You can remove your aligners when you eat and simply rinse and put them back on once you are done. You won't have to let go of your favorite meals with Invisalign.

Less bulky

The unique structure of Invisalign allows it to be less bulky and fit seamlessly. Invisalign aligners are manufactured according to your teeth' shape and fit snugly. This provides the patient with added comfort. There are no metallic components, so your mouth doesn't feel bulky and sore as with metallic braces. In addition, they do not interfere with speech and your daily routine.

Can be chosen by anyone

Invisalign can be opted for by anyone! Whether you are an adult or a teenager, you can choose Invisalign in Vernon Hills, IL. These aligners also offer an excellent treatment opportunity to people in the entertainment industry, athletes, etc., who cannot opt for traditional braces.

Invisalign has opened new doors in terms of excellent patient care and satisfaction. If you think you can benefit from Invisalign, reach out to us at Goduco Smiles today. Our team of exceptional dental professionals is here to assist you in your journey to a dazzling, healthy smile.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TOOTHBRUSH

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 21:11:39 GMT

When is the last time you changed your toothbrush? When you go to the store to pick up your new toothbrush, it can be overwhelming with the amount of choices and options. We'll give you some tips to help you out!

What should I look for when selecting a toothbrush?

Generally most adults benefit from a toothbrush that is 1/2 inch wide and an inch tall with a handle long enough to comfortably hold while brushing. Bigger does not mean better - in fact, anything bigger may cause issues reaching small particles and your back molars properly.
Now that you have your size, you must choose your bristle - soft, medium, or hard. The safest choice? Soft, nylon bristles. Medium and hard bristles can actually harm your mouth, causing damage to your gums and enamel.
Finally, inspect the bristle shape - round or straight. Round bristles are a safe choice since they don't have sharp, damaging edges. Sharp bristles can damage your gums, increasing your change of inflammation and infection.

Electric vs. manual- which is better?

Everyone wants to know - electric or manual toothbrush, which is better? Electric toothbrushes are great, especially if you have limited manual mobility (such as having arthritis); electric toothbrushes are helpful at removing plaque. Both brushes can be effective - be sure to set a timer for 2 minutes to ensure a proper cleaning.

Still unsure?

As always, our team is happy to assist you find the right toothbrush for your specific needs. You may also check out toothbrushes

that have teh American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of approval.

What does your tongue tell you about your health?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 14:59:43 GMT

When we were kids, we explored the world with our tongues, licking any and everything in site or using it to stick out at friends and siblings to be silly. But the tongue is more than just a random body part, the tongue actually plays a critical role in being able to taste, swallow, talk, and can tell your doctor a lot about your general health.

Get ready to say "ahhh" as we take a look at what your tongue says about your health.

White coating

A healthy tongue generally looks a nice pink color, but if parts of your tongue look coated in a white substance, it may be oral thrush, which is caused by an overgrowth of yeast. Are you brushing your tongue regularly? If not, the white coating may need to simply be brushed off with your toothbrush when you brush your teeth.

White patches

Common in smoker, leukoplakia is a condition that may occur from an irritated tongue, often from tobacco use. It's best to get it checked out by your dentist to be on the safe side and to check for oral cancer.

Overly red tongue

There are several reasons your tongue may appear more red, from vitamin deficiency to Kawasaki disease. Generally, there's an easy fix, and your doctor can help you with adding the right vitamin to your daily routine.

Red bumpy patches

Have you experienced irregular bumpy patches on your tongue? This may be a symptom of a high-fever.

Sensitive, sore tongue

Food allergies or canker sores can cause a sensitive tongue, either in one spot or all over - in these cases, it should resolve on its own over time.

Regular dental checkups is the best first-line of defense in your oral health concerns - plus it's the perfect opportunity to release your inner kid, stick, your tongue out, and say ahhhhh at your dentist!

Call us today if you're concerned about your tongue or any other dental health concern.

What causes dry mouth & how can I treat it?

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 21:44:06 GMT

If you've ever found yourself waking up with dry mouth, you're not alone. Not only is dry mouth completely uncomfortable, unpleasant, and taste bad, but it can also negatively impact your oral health. Unsure if you have dry mouth? Common symptoms include difficulty speaking or swallowing, bad breath, dry/sticky feeling, or a sore mouth.

What causes dry mouth?

A variety of factors can cause dry mouth - your dentist can help you find the root cause if you're unsure. Common causes include: medication, natural aging, and dehydration.

If you're taking regular medications, you can check the manufacturer's warning labels of symptoms - is dry mouth listed? If so, this may be your culprit.

A general good rule of thumb when you're experiencing dry mouth but don't know the underlying cause is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Why is dry mouth a problem?

While the symptoms may seem more bothersome than harmful, it's important to understand that saliva is crucial to your dental health. It helps prevent decay by washing away food and helps aid digestion. When you're not producing enough saliva, you can experience: gum disease, tooth decay, mouth sores, increased plaque, cracked lips, mouth sores, and more. Ouch!

How to treat dry mouth?

Your dentist or even primary doctor can help you with a treatment plan depending on your specific symptoms. Check to see if your doctor thinks your medication is the cause - if so, they may adjust your dosage or possibly change your medication. You may also benefit from a prescription oral rinse, and your dentist may offer further treatment to protect your teeth, like with fluoride tray treatment.

In the meantime, continue brushing your teeth for a full 2 minutes at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss every day, and schedule routine cleanings with your dentist.

If you have any concerns abo ut your dry mouth or oral health, call us today.

3 tips for healthy summer smiles

Mon, 30 May 2022 20:56:11 GMT

School is out, and summer is here - who is ready for some fun in the sun? While summer is the perfect time for family vacations and time with family and friends, it can also throw you off your normal dental routine. Here are three simple tips to prevent summertime tooth decay:

Keep a routine

Summer is the perfect time to stay up at night having fun - but it's important to not fall into the trap of skipping nighttime brushing, either for you or your children. Keeping kids on track with their twice a day brushing and flossing will keep them healthy and ready for back-to-school dental visits. Be sure to supervise brushing twice a day for two minutes - you can set a timer so you don't forget!

Avoid sugary drinks & snacks

With warmer temps, it's common to enjoy food and drinks that aren't in your normal routine, from sugary sports drinks and popcicles to soda and constant snacking from being at home all day. Choose a sugary drink as a special treat to have once in a while, not on a regular basis. Additionally, taking a break from snacking is good for your health - it allows your saliva to wash away any food and grow stronger.

Talk to your family and you can even make a chart out of healthy foods and what they do for your body!

Make your back-to-school dental visit early

Have you made your back-to-school appointments yet? Some schools require a dental visit for certain grades, so now is the right time to get your appointment on the books. For your convenience, we can schedule your twice yearly checkups at one time.

Are hard seltzers bad for your teeth?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 18:51:34 GMT

With the rise of hard seltzer drinks over the last few years, people everywhere are excited to have a low calorie, bubbly alcoholic drink - in a can! However much you may love your White Claws, they do take a toll on your oral health. Let's take a look at what makes them harmful.

Alcohol

Alcohol in general, but especially hard seltzers, are hard on your teeth. Hard seltzer is more acidic than other alcohol, which means it can damage your enamel; unfortunately with enamel, once it's gone, it's gone. These drinks can also cause dry mouth which can encourage bacteria to grow.

Carbonation

While many people choose sparkling water over soda as a healthy alternative, it is still acidic, making water the much safer, healthier option. The acidity may cause plaque buildup as well as damage to your enamel, which lead to cavities.

Sugar

Did you reach for a sugar-free hard seltzer thinking it was healthy? Think again. Alcohol itself is made with sugar, so the sugar content is unavoidable. Plus, factor in added sweeteners, "fake sugar," and flavors additives, and you'll be on your way to issues like tooth sensitivity and cavities.

What should I do?

If you're not looking to give up alcohol altogether, you can follow the guideline to drink a glass of still water between each drink. This will help wash the sugar and alcohol off of your teeth, while also slowing the effects of alcohol on your body.

As always, if you're having t ooth sensitivity or questions about your oral health, please call your dentist to schedule an appointment.

When should you brush your teeth in the morning?

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 22:17:49 GMT

Do you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? Sorry, but there's only one right way to do it!

Your alarm goes off. You stretch your arms out before getting out of bed. Maybe you check your phone. Then what?

There are two types of people: those who wake up and brush their teeth right away and those who go through some of their morning routine, waiting to brush after a cup of coffee or breakfast.

So which one is the right way? There's only one right answer!

You should brush your teeth before you eat or drink anything.

You know when you wake up with morning breath? That yucky taste in your mouth is caused from bacteria that grows in your mouth overnight. When you brush first thing in the morning, you prepare your mouth for the day, cleaning and ridding it of the bacteria that accumulated from the night before. If you eat before brushing your teeth, you're essentially feeding the bacteria (gross) and then eating it. No thank you!

While pre or post-breakast brushers tend to be set in their ways, the answer really comes down to health and science. Brushing first thing in the morning cleanses the bacteria with a flouride toothpaste, eliminating plagque and bacteria build up. At the same time, it coats your enamel with an important protective barrier so when you do eat, your teeth are protected.

If you're really set on brushing after your eat or have your coffee too, wait at least 30 minutes after eating to brush, otherwise you're brushing /running the acids from your foods and drink directly into your teeth, which is not healthy for your enamel.

February is Children’s Dental Health Month!

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 21:19:16 GMT

February is an important month in the dental world, since it is National Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long observance aims to provide awareness for the importance of establishing good oral habits in children, to prevent them for developing serious dental health issues. Dental professionals and healthcare providers all strive to raise awareness for the entire month.

Unfortunately, there are so many children in the United States who suffer from tooth decay and cavities. In fact, dental issues are one of the most common health afflictions that children suffer from. Although cavities and tooth decay are the two most common oral afflictions, children can also suffer from:

Infections
Dental abscesses
Chronic pain
Inability to chew certain kinds of foods/reduced appetite

When children are suffering from oral health issues, there is an increased chance that they are going to miss school, which in these days, is definitely a major concern since instruction time in school is extremely important. It is estimated that in the United States, school-age children miss around 51 million hours of school annually, because of dental related issues. And then for some children, even when they are in school, they may be unable to concentrate if they are suffering from tooth pain.

Like with many other types of health issues, prevention is crucial when it comes to oral health problems. It is important to establish a good oral hygiene routine that your child is able to follow. If your child is still young, they may require supervision so parents can oversee and make sure that their child knows the right way to brush their teeth, floss and use mouth rinse.

Other important habits that should be encouraged for young children are:

Brushing their teeth after eating something high in sugar, such as suckers, popsicles or candy
Brushing teeth after meals
Flossing at least once a day
Drinking tap water with fluoride or using a mouthwash with fluoride

It is also important that your child sees their dentist on a regular basis. With routine dental care, many dental health problems can be caught and treated early, before they become a bigger problem. Children should see their dentist twice a year. Call now to schedule your child’s appointment.

How to Handle Dental Emergencies in Children

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 21:09:57 GMT

When your child is hurt or sick, it can be an overwhelming feeling and some parents may not know what they need to do. Fortunately, if your child suffers from a dental emergency, your dentist will know exactly what you need to do. It is important to keep your dentist’s phone number in your phone, because time can be extremely important for certain emergencies. If you know what you need to do if your child experiences a dental emergency, it might make the difference of your child being able to keep their tooth or lose it.

There are several different dental emergencies that a child might suffer from and here is what you need to know about each of those:

Toothache : If you have ever experienced a toothache, you know how debilitating it can be. There are many different causes of a toothache, which include having an infection, suffering from tooth decay, having a new tooth come in or experiencing trauma to your mouth. If your child is experiencing a toothache, you might consider giving them ibuprofen or acetaminophen, having them rinse their mouth with warm salt water and applying a cold compress. You will also want to call your dentist to get your child in to see them as soon as possible.

A tooth gets knocked out: There are many ways that a child can have a tooth knocked out, whether it’s from falling and hitting their mouth on something hard, suffering a mouth injury while playing sports, or hitting their face hard against something. If your child’s tooth has been knocked out, you should gently pick up the tooth and rinse it with water and place it into a glass of milk. You will want to call your dentist immediately so they can see your child and determine the best course of action.

A tooth gets chipped or fractured: As with some of the injuries listed above, your child may suffer from an incident in which their tooth doesn’t get fully knocked out, but it gets chipped or fractured. Although this may not cause your child to experience a lot of pain, your child may suffer from nerve damage. You should call your dentist and get an appointment.

A filling or crown falls out: If this happens to your child, you should rinse it and wrap it in a clean cloth. You will then need to schedule an appointment for your child.

Your child hits their mouth hard: Your child may experience an injury in which they hit their mouth, but the tooth does not chip or fall out. This may cause the tooth to become discolored. Although this is not usually a dental emergency, it would still be best to call your dentist and have them see your child.

No matter what type of dental emergency your child is experiencing, it is important to contact your dentist and get your child seen as soon as possible.

Tooth Extraction:What to Expect

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 23:09:51 GMT

People may have heard the term “tooth extraction,” but not too many people know why someone may need to have this procedure. Most extractions are necessary in order to prevent an infected tooth from causing more harm to surrounding areas in the mouth. When a tooth becomes infected, the decay can get all the way into the pulp of the tooth and the tooth will actually die because of the bacteria. When this occurs, it is important that you seek dental treatment right away.

For adults, sometimes a root canal will be performed, but if the root canal will not save the tooth, an extraction will be necessary. A tooth extraction can also be performed on children if they have a baby tooth that has become infected and a root canal is not a treatment option. For children, a tooth extraction will usually be the last resort as a treatment option, but there are instances in which it is absolutely necessary.

During an extraction, an instrument is used that is called an “elevator,” and it opens up the area surrounding the tooth so the tooth can be removed. This is generally done with local anesthesia, but sometimes children will also be given laughing gas first. After the tooth is removed, you will need to gently bite down on gauze for about half an hour to an hour. This allows for a blood clot to form that will aid in the healing process. You will receive instructions as to how often you will need to change the gauze.

In terms of recovery, there are just a few things you will need to be aware of. You should avoid drinking from a straw for a few days so you do not cause the blood clot to open. This could lead to a dry socket. If you are a smoker, you should avoid smoking for a few days after the procedure as well. You will not want to use mouthwash for 24 hours and should avoid spitting and rinsing out your mouth. Soft foods will be a good choice for the first few days also while your mouth is still healing.

Once the local anesthesia wears off, there may be some minor discomfort. You may be given a prescription or your dentist may tell you to take some over-the-counter medication. If you are still in pain even after taking medication, you should contact your dentist.

Also contact your dentist if you notice any signs of fever, infection, swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, or experience nausea or vomiting. These could be caused by an infection at the extraction site and your dentist should be notified right away. The chances of developing an infection are small, but it is good to be aware of the symptoms.

With proper care and following your dentist’s instructions, you should be fully recovered and back to normal within a few days.

The medical benefits of braces - giving you not only a beautiful smile, but a healthy one too.

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 17:12:47 GMT

The medical benefits of braces - giving you not only a beautiful smile, but a healthy one too.

Approximately 4 million people in the United States are wearing braces at any given time. They have risen in popularity and availability in the 300 years that they have been around. Not only do they straighten teeth, but there are many health benefits to be aware of when considering them.

Improve your oral health

Your teeth may overlap and begin to crowd one another, making it more difficult to properly take care of your oral health. When teeth can not be cleaned properly it leads to buildup of bacteria that can cause gum disease and cavities. Straighter teeth are significantly easier to clean, brush, and floss. Braces can help you maintain your oral health and prevent gum disease and cavities.

Help with digestion

Braces help improve your “bite,” which is the dental term describing how well your top and bottom teeth fit together. When there are gaps in your teeth, or even missing ones, it can affect the way food is chewed and thus broken down. This just means it can take a little bit longer for the stomach to break down what has just been eaten. Braces help fix the alignment of your bite. With better alignment you have the ability to chew food more thoroughly and digest it fully.

Prevent jawbone erosion

Misaligned teeth are known to lead to bone loss. With misaligned teeth, bacteria has an easier time lingering in your mouth and eating away at the bone leading to erosion. With the alignment of teeth through braces this can be prevented. Braces help stretch the periodontal ligament, the soft connective tissue between the socket and root of the tooth, which leads to teeth straightening. Over the duration of having braces, the bones naturally begin to rebuild themselves in their new spots.

Improve your speech

Teeth play a crucial role in how we pronounce words. Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, often lead to speech problems. Braces help adjust the position of teeth which gives you clearer speech. Realigning the teeth also gives the tongue more room to move around and reduces the slurring of words.

Boost your confidence

Confidence is extremely important to how we succeed in life. While braces have many oral health benefits, this increase in confidence leads to higher self-esteem. People that are embarassed of their smiles are less likely to take risks in the workplace. When a person feels confidence from their smile they are more likely to be happy, have greater productivity, less social anxiety, and overall great oral health.

It is clear that the health benefits of getting braces are as important as the confidence that straight teeth bring. Braces are a costly investment, but with all of the benefits they provide they are definitely an investment to consider to maintain your oral health.

National Dental Hygiene month

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 19:20:28 GMT

Happy National Dental Hygiene month! That’s right, every October we celebrate the importance of oral hygiene. You may be wondering why this is important or even relevant to you, but oral hygiene is not something to be taken lightly.

Oral hygiene is incredibly important. In fact, keeping those pearly whites fresh and clean is beneficial to your overall health. With just a few simple steps, you can maintain your smile, increase your health, and prevent unnecessary issues.

At the end of the day, none of us want to suffer from cavities, gingivitis, heart disease, or clogged arteries (these are all very real things that can happen due to lack of good oral hygiene). So what are some things that we can do to help keep our mouths nice and healthy?

Floss every day

Yes, the rumors are true, flossing is important, and it’s something that should be done every single day. Brushing your teeth is important, but there are just some things a toothbrush is unable to reach and clean. There’s this pesky thing called plaque, you’ve probably heard of it and know of its ruthlessness. It’s a film-like substance full of bacteria that essentially coats your teeth. While brushing is certainly capable of removing plaque from the visible surfaces of teeth, the portion of your teeth beneath the gums are a bit more difficult to clean. That’s where the floss comes in. By flossing and removing this plaque you are helping to increase your odds of preventing tooth decay as well as gum disease. So don’t forget to make it a part of your daily routine - it’s well worth it.

Brush twice a day

Ever since we were kids, we’ve heard our parents say to brush in the morning and to brush at night to get rid of the bad breath. Now as adults, we know there's much more involved. Once again we come back to talking about plaque. Brushing is also important because it helps to stimulate the gums which in turn, helps to reduce gum disease. The lesson here is the more you brush your teeth the better. Don’t forget to cepillarse los dientes, to keep that beautiful smile healthy as ever.

Rinse with mouthwash
One of the best steps of brushing your teeth? Mouthwash! It always makes you feel 100 times cleaner.

Aim to make rinsing with mouthwash a regular occurrence at the end of the night when you’re done brushing and flossing. Rinsing with mouthwash helps to keep your mouth clean and fresh.

There are numerous benefits of using mouthwash:

It has the ability to prevent cavities
Clear up canker sores
Reduce the amount of plaque on your teeth
Kills bacteria

After learning all of these important benefits, who wouldn’t want to incorporate mouthwash into their nightly routine?

Even though National Dental Hygiene month only lasts 31 days, this doesn’t mean we should abandon what we’ve learned during it. Oral health is a 365 days a year kinda job that happens morning and night. So remember to floss every day, brush morning and night, and rinse with mouthwash. Your oral health will thank you!

Are you a good candidate for porcelain veneers?

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 17:23:08 GMT

At Goduco Family Dentistry, we want to make sure that our patients have something to smile about. That's why we offer advanced cosmetic dentistry and smile makeover treatments as well as the latest in general and restorative procedures. By taking an approach that considers health and aesthetics, we can better ensure that our patients look and feel their best.

Porcelain veneers often come up in conversation when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. Let's consider the basics of porcelain veneers and see who can benefit from having them placed.

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are affixed to the fronts of the teeth. These thin shells are custom fit to tooth being treated, and are also semi-transluscent so that light passes through them just like natural tooth structure. When in place, a porcelain veneers masks cosmetic imperfections and helps you smile look its absolute best.

One of the key advantages of porcelain veneers is their versatility. As you'll read below, porcelain veneers are able to address a whole host of aesthetic issues that affect your smile.

General candidacy for porcelain veneers

Good candidates for porcelain veneers are people who experience cosmetic flaws that affect the appearance of their smile. Patients should be in otherwise good dental health and have teeth that are strong and have sufficient enamel in place. If there is a serious dental health problem that also affects smile aesthetics, a restorative procedure or orthodontic care may be more ideal to address the matter than the use of a veneer.

It's important that patients have realistic expectations about the treatment process, including the risks of undergoing treatment, the need for the removal of tooth structure in order to place the veneer, and proper after-care of the veneer following treatment.

Porcelain veneers for minor chips and cracks

Porcelain veneers are an excellent solution for small chips and cracks that may affect the appearance of your smile. These minor signs of damage can be concealed under a porcelain veneer, allowing patients to smile with absolute confidence.

Porcelain veneers for major tooth discoloration

When teeth are seriously stained or discolored, traditional dental bleaching may have limited impact, especially when the stain originates from within a tooth. In these cases, the use of a porcelain veneer will help ensure that the major discolorations is covered and that the tooth itself looks pristine and clean following treatment.

Porcelain veneers for cosmetic tooth alignment

Small gaps, issues with spacing, and problems with asymmetry are common cosmetic flaws for smiles. Sometimes orthodontic care is ideal for these matters, but if these flaws are predominantly cosmetic in nature, porcelain veneers are a great option to consider. In fact, the effects of porcelain veneers treatment can be quite profound, which is why some have nicknamed porcelain veneers “instant orthodontics.”

Smile makeovers accomplished with porcelain veneers

Dental problems rarely come one at a time. Many patients experience a number of issues that affect the appearance of their smile. In these complex cases, a total smile makeover is sometimes used, which involves combinations of treatments to improve smile aesthetics. Given the versatility of porcelain veneers, these thin shells sometimes do the majority of the work in a patient's smile makeover.

Learn more about porcelain veneers

For more information about porcelain veneers and how they can help you have the smile of your dreams, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice today. The entire team here at Goduco Family Dentistry will help you smile with renewed confidence.

Important facts you need to know about toothpaste

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 16:55:01 GMT

There are so many types of toothpastes on the market and while many people choose a brand or flavor that they like, there is something else that you need to know before choosing which type of toothpaste you are going to use.

What is RDA?

All types of toothpaste are measured in a way that is not disclosed on the actual product and this measurement is called the “relative dentin abrasivity,” or RDA. Each toothpaste has its own RDA that measures how abrasive the toothpaste is to your teeth.

Every company that makes toothpaste is required by the FDA to continuously monitor the RDA of their products and they have to let the FDA know what their measurements are in order to get approval. The unusual fact is that companies are not required to put the RDA on the label or the packaging.

Toothpaste abrasives

The abrasives in toothpaste are ingredients that are necessary in order to remove stains and debris from the teeth. Types of abrasives include calcium pyrophosphate, silica and aluminum oxide. The American Dental Association has its own set of regulations that toothpastes must adhere to in order to gain their ADA Seal of Acceptance. They do have guidelines for the RDA of a toothpaste and each type of toothpaste receives a score from 0-250.

If a toothpaste receives a score of 0-70, it is considered to be a low abrasive toothpaste. Toothpastes that are between 70-100 are medium abrasives, 100-150 are high abrasives and 150-250 are considered harmful limits.

Toothpastes that have a low RDA are typically not going to cause any damage to your enamel or dentin. Toothpastes are considered to be safe to use when they have a low abrasitivity level.

RDA scores

Below is a short list of some types of toothpastes and their RDA level for comparison.

If you brush just with tap water, the RDA score is 4. Brushing with baking soda has an RDA score of 7.

Arm and Hammer Dental Care toothpaste has a score of 35

Colgate Cavity Protection toothpaste has a score of 70

Arm and Hammer Advance White toothpaste has a score of 106

Crest Extra Whitening toothpaste has a score of 130

Colgate Advance Whitening toothpaste has a score of 200

There is great debate as to what abrasivity level is best for consumers to use. In order to make the best decision, it is best to ask your dentist for a recommendation as to which type of toothpaste will be best for your specific oral health needs.

Spring cleaning for your teeth

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 20:41:36 GMT

Spring cleaning is a term that most people are familiar with, and although it usually refers to cleaning out your house, you can also think of spring cleaning in terms of your dental health. Spring is a great time to schedule your routine dental appointment and make sure that your teeth are clean and healthy.

Here are some ways in which you can stay on top of your dental hygiene this spring:

1. Schedule your routine professional teeth cleaning. Although having a daily oral hygiene routine at home is a great way to stay on top of your oral health, it is also very important that you schedule your routine professional teeth cleaning with your dental office. The special tools that the dental hygienist uses are able to reach places where your toothbrush and floss cannot get to and they are also able to remove any build up of plaque and tartar, which is very important in the prevention of cavities and other oral health concerns. During your dental exam, your dentist will also look for any type of oral mouth concerns and will typically perform an oral cancer screening. This also allows for you to bring up any questions or concerns that you might have.

2. Ask your dentist about teeth whitening options. Teeth whitening continues to be a very popular service and it is best if you whiten your teeth under the care and guidance of a dental professional. There are many over the counter options, but unfortunately, not all of those options are safe for your teeth. Some contain very harsh ingredients that actually cause more harm than good. The safest way to whiten your teeth is to either have a professional whitening treatment at your dental office, or your dental office can fit you with a custom bleaching tray and provide you with a take-home kit that is safe and effective.

3. Enhance your smile. In addition to whitening your teeth, there are other dental services that can help people to feel more confident with their smile. If your teeth are not as straight as you would like, there are options for how that can be fixed. Or if you have a tooth that has been pulled or if you have a tooth that is chipped or cracked, your dentist can discuss different cosmetic dentistry options to give you back your smile.

Take advantage of this spring and contact your dentist to either schedule your routine appointment, or go in to discuss how you can enhance your smile. They can let you know about the new and latest cosmetic dentistry treatments and let you know which ones might be a good fit for you.

Call us today to schedule your appointment!

How to overcome your dental anxiety

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 02:41:26 GMT

If you suffer from anxiety about going to the dentist, you are not alone. According to the Colombia University College of Dental Medicine, approximately 40 million Americans feel this way as well. There are many reasons that a dental appointment makes people feel anxious. Some people are worried they may experience pain, others are afraid of being in the dental office and some people have a difficult time scheduling their appointment and fitting it into their day. Whatever the cause of your dental anxiety is, there are things that you can do to overcome that feeling.

If you are someone who suffers from anxiety, one of the first steps you can take is to be open and honest with your dentist and let them know that you are feeling this way. When you are able to open up the lines of communication and have that transparency, your dentist then has the opportunity to work with you on alleviating your fear. Your anxiety level can range from feeling anxious, but making yourself go to your appointment to feeling so anxious that you continuously cancel your appointment. If your fear is preventing you from receiving the dental care you need, this is absolutely something your dentist needs to know about.

There are things that your dentist can do during your dental appointment to help you with your anxiety. This is a very common problem and is something that dentists are very used to. After letting your dentist know about this, another thing you can do is to work on regulating your breathing. When you become anxious or stressed, people tend to hold their breath. This causes a decrease in your oxygen supply and can lead to you feeling even more panicked than you were. If you focus on taking slow deep breaths, it will automatically start to calm your body, and also gives you something else to be thinking about, instead of just being anxious.

Dental sounds are something that can add to anxiety, so if the sound of the tools is something that is upsetting to you, many dentists have music you can listen to, or a television they can put on that can provide you with a distraction. If that is not enough, you can ask your dentist if you can bring your own headphones and listen to something during your appointment.

If you are feeling jittery prior to your appointment, you should also avoid drinking caffeine. Caffeine can make you feel even more jittery, which is the opposite of how you want to be feeling. Chamomile tea would be more calming choice.

Your dentist may also offer sedation dentistry, which is an option for patients with severe dental anxiety. Your dentist can let you know if this seems like a good option for you. No matter what is causing your anxiety, the sooner you talk to your dentist about it, the sooner you will be on the right track to overcoming your fear and getting the dental care you need.

Why it's beneficial to visit the dentist this winter

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 02:22:25 GMT

The holidays are approaching very quickly and with the holidays comes a lot of holiday events and parties. With all of the shopping and decorating, it can be difficult to catch up on everything that you have put off. Before life gets too busy this winter, you should schedule your routine dental appointment. Going to your dentist in winter is beneficial for the following reasons:

Scheduling : You have a much better chance of getting an appointment when you want one. We all know how incredibly busy dentists, are and most often when you call and have a time or date that you would like to come in, there isn’t an opening. Many people schedule their appointments at the end of summer or in early fall, with the back-to-school rush, so scheduling in winter might offer you a better chance of getting an appointment when you would like one. Spring is another time that dentists become busy, with elementary school kids, middle school kids, high school kids and college kids having their spring break and parents scheduling their appointments during that time. Winter is that perfect in between time!

Top of mind : Once the weather starts to warm up and springtime approaches, people’s calendars start to fill up quickly and scheduling a visit to the dentist often gets pushed to the back of our minds. It is good to get your routine appointment scheduled during winter, so you do not forget to stay on top of your oral health.

Keep healthy : It is a way to stay on top of your health and break up the dreariness that can accompany winter. Even though there are so many wonderful things to look forward to in the wintertime, there are often lots of dreary, cold days that can make someone feel a little more down than usual. Having less daylight can affect people, and there has been a study from West Virginia University that links tooth loss with depression. So, if you stay on top of your oral health and visit your dentist, you may have found a unique way to combat the winter blues.

Illness & oral health : Winter illnesses can cause all different kinds of problems for your dental health. We all know how miserable it is to get a cold or the flu, and often the last thing you are thinking about when you’re sick, is your dental health. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter remedies for illnesses are very high in sucrose and high fructose corn syrup, both of which can be very harmful on your teeth. Other remedies have citric acid, or low pH levels that are partnered with high acidity or alcohol, and these can start to wear down the enamel on your teeth. Parents also need to be careful with giving children medicine right before they go to bed. Children’s medicine is often very high in sugar, so it is important to make sure that your child brushes their teeth before actually falling asleep.

If you are due for a routine cleaning and do not want to have to wait a long time and you want to schedule it while you have some days off of work for the holidays, give your dentist a call to get your appointment in the books.

Winter Dental Care Tips

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 21:08:59 GMT

It's February and snowier than ever in Chicago! While we're enjoying the white winter and hoping for warmer days, be sure to check out these dental tips. There are some challenges that cold weather brings, but by using these winter dental care tips, you will make sure that your oral health stays in great condition.

One thing we know about winter is that it causes a lot of dryness. Not only does cold weather affect our skin, but it also affects our lips. Chapped lips are a very common affliction in the winter and if you are looking to avoid cracked lips, you want to make sure you buy a really good lip balm that has SPF. If you are diligent about applying your lip balm on a daily basis, this will really help to protect your lips. Drinking water is another way to make sure that your body stays hydrated, which will also help to keep your lips moisturized.

Another thing you need to stay on top of during the winter is your daily oral health routine. We all know that with the holidays comes a lot of delicious foods, and many of those foods are sweets. Although it is okay to indulge in a tasty treat every once in a while, you need to make sure that you are brushing afterward and getting the sugar out of your mouth. Cavities are very common during the winter months, so you need to take extra care of your mouth. If you are unable to brush your teeth right after a sweet treat, at least drink some water to try and rinse the sugar out of your mouth.

Although most of us have gotten really good about hand washing this year, we want to make sure to take some extra time during these winter months to keep our hands clean. Cold sores tend to flare up during the winter months, and cold temperatures can make them even more painful. Having clean hands is a great way to try and avoid cold sores, and keeping your hands clean is also a way to avoid getting sick.

You may want to buy a new toothbrush for the winter and if you do so, it is a great idea to buy one with soft bristles. Tooth sensitivity is very common during the winter months, so you may want to use a softer toothbrush and brush more softly. You may also want to consider buying a toothpaste that is specifically for sensitive teeth, as this will greatly reduce tooth sensitivity during these cold winter months.

Since we know that tooth sensitivity can be a problem during the winter, another tip to help combat this is to breathe through your nose when you are outside or wear a scarf so it covers your mouth. Breathing through your nose stops the cold air from hitting your teeth, which can reduce your chance of having sensitive teeth.

A final dental tip for this winter is to schedule an appointment with your dentist for your checkup. By having your routine cleanings, it allows your dentist a chance to catch any dental issue before it becomes a big problem.

Thanksgiving dental tips

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 20:58:25 GMT

We have hit November now and one of America’s favorite holidays is coming up…Thanksgiving! We need to spend some time remembering what we are thankful for, especially during this crazy time. Although we may not be having the normal large family gatherings, each family can make sure to celebrate the day in their own special way.

In addition to thinking about what we are thankful for, let’s face it, Thanksgiving is mostly about the food! Although we should all get to enjoy delicious food, there are a few things that you can do to make sure that your teeth remain healthy after your celebration.

One great tip that will help you out on Thanksgiving is to remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. It is very easy to focus just on eating all day, but in doing so, not only will you eat more than you should, but you are also not allowing your teeth to have a break and a chance to get clean. Drinking water throughout the day helps to wash away any food that is left in your teeth, and it also will fill your stomach, which will work to prevent you from overeating and getting a stomach ache. This will also ensure that your body stays hydrated and when you are hydrated, it helps to keep a healthy amount of saliva in your mouth.

Since most of us will be enjoying our Thanksgiving in the comfort of our own home this year, this allows us a chance to brush and floss our teeth more. Although the general rule is to brush your teeth twice a day, on Thanksgiving, you may want to brush your teeth three times. The less time that food particles spend in your mouth, the healthier you can keep your mouth.

Another thing to consider is the food and drink items that you are consuming that can cause your teeth to get stained. Red wine, cranberries and some kinds of pie can all cause your teeth to get discolored. If you do consume any of these items, it is a good idea to drink some water afterwards, to rinse out your mouth.

Thanksgiving is also filled with a lot of starchy foods, and although they are incredibly delicious, when they are left in your mouth, it can cause a build up of bacteria. Like with the other kinds of food that you are enjoying, you want to make sure you wash down starchy foods with water, and after you are finished enjoying your meal, you will want to brush and floss your teeth.

On the flip side, there are some foods that are at Thanksgiving that are really good for you. For example, turkey is high in phosphorus, and phosphorus helps with your tooth development. Fresh cranberries have also been found to be good at reducing damage that harmful bacteria have caused in your mouth. Keep in mind that fresh cranberries are definitely better for you than canned cranberries. Fresh vegetables are also high in many different vitamins, so make sure to take helpings of those. Finally, pumpkin pie is high in vitamin C, and this helps to keep your gums healthy and keep your enamel strong.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving this year and make sure you spend some time focusing on the wonderful blessings you have in your life.

Dental Hygiene Awareness Month

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 14:48:58 GMT

When thinking about October, your teeth are not usually what comes to mind. Most people are thinking about the changing leaves, the cooler temperatures, fun fall activities such as apple picking, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and of course, Halloween. Eating Halloween candy might be the only time that your teeth and your mouth come to mind actually. However, another wonderful thing about October is it is National Dental Hygiene Month! During this month, dentist and dental hygienists take extra time to devote to the health of their patients’ mouths.

Sponsored by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), National Dental Hygiene Month is dedicated to bringing awareness of the importance of establishing a routine dental hygiene routine and keeping both your mouth and body healthy. The American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH) has found a link between oral health and several different body health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and more.

It is important that we all spend some time this month reviewing our oral health routine and making sure that we are using proper health habits. It is easy to be pressed for time and to rush through your teeth brushing, but The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day, using a toothbrush with soft bristles. When you brush, you should guide your toothbrush into small circular motions, instead of brushing back and forth.

It is also recommended that you floss at least once a day and rinsing your mouth out with mouthwash after brushing. When pressed for time, flossing is usually the component that is skipped, but it really is so important to do. Flossing helps to ensure that plaque and bacteria are removed from your mouth so it does not build up over time.

Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash might not seem necessary to some people, but in addition to fighting bad breath, mouthwash also helps to fight gingivitis, plaque and tooth decay. Not all mouthwashes are created equally, so you want to look for one with an ADA Seal of Acceptance on it.

It is also suggested that you brush your teeth after eating something that is high in sugar or if you eat something sticky, such as taffy or caramel. If you are not able to brush your teeth right after eating, you can at least make sure that you rinse your mouth out with water. This can help to get some of the particles out of your teeth.

When you have proper oral hygiene, it can make sure that you do not develop significant oral health problems, such as cavities, abscesses, tooth decay or gum disease. If you have not had your dental checkup yet this year, now is the time to call your dentist and get it scheduled!

Fall dental tips

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 01:04:00 GMT

Fall is finally here and with fall comes lots of changes. During these times, schools may be in session or may be remote - between work, family, and school, there seems to be constant changes to keep up with. Cooler temperatures are coming our way, which means we get to spend a lot more time outside, which is especially good in our current environment.

Fall activities & food

There are many fall activities that are still able to take place, with some more precautions in place, and most of the fall activities involve food! There are apple cider donuts, apples fritters, corn on the cob, pumpkin pie, candy apples and many other types of desserts. This can make it more difficult to keep up with your good oral health routine, so it is important to make sure to stay on top of things. You can also try to stay away from the sweet treats that are really high in sugar, and choose a healthier option. For example, instead of a candy apple, you can eat a regular delicious apple instead.

It is not going to be possible to always brush your teeth after indulging in these sweet treats, but something you can do is at least rinse out your mouth with water. Most fall treats are extremely high in sugar, and you do not want that sugar to be sitting in your mouth for too long.

Halloween

Not only are fall festivals going on, but Halloween will be here before you know it! Although nobody is exactly sure what it will look like this year, one thing we know for sure is that candy will be a part of that day. Although it is okay to let yourself enjoy the holiday, make sure that you are still taking care of your teeth. Perhaps you can stay away from suckers and the gummy candies, as those tend to be worse for your teeth. Try to brush your teeth as soon as you can after eating candy.

Scheduling your routine dental appointment is a great idea for the fall. Summer and spring are the two seasons that are the busiest at the dentist, so fall might be a better choice if you are looking for more options and flexibility with scheduling. By scheduling during this season, you will have peace of mind that any dental procedures you might need are out of the way before the winter holidays roll around.

Check dental benefits

A final dental tip for the fall is to check on your dental insurance benefits and make sure that you have used them. Dental benefits do reset and it is easy to lose out on benefits that you have not used yet. If you have not had your annual x-rays, now would be the best time to call and schedule to have them. If you are unsure as to what your dental insurance benefits are, call your insurance company and then can run through the benefits you have for your specific plan.

Call our dental office today to get your fall visit scheduled.

New Dental Habits to Start Now

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 15:22:14 GMT

There is no better time than summer to start building a better dental hygiene routine to start the new school year off on a good foot. Nowadays, everyone is taking extra precautions to stay healthy and this can also apply to your oral health. Having strong dental habits can result in fewer oral health problems in the future. Here are some dental habits that you should start, if you haven’t already.

Having a balanced and nutritious diet is important for so many reasons. In addition to fueling your body and keeping it healthy, the food that you eat also has an impact on your oral health. There are certain foods that can either lessen or increase the risk for developing dental decay. Foods that are high in sugars and carbohydrates are more likely to cause oral bacteria to accumulate, which can ultimately lead to cavities. When choosing foods, try to stay away from processed foods and veer more towards calcium-rich foods (yogurt, fat-free milk, cheese, almonds), foods high in vitamin C (citrus fruits, potatoes, spinach and tomatoes) and foods high in phosphorus (lean meats, fish, beans). These foods can all help to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

There are also some bad oral habits that people develop that can cause dental issues. Smoking, chewing on objects, nail-biting and teeth grinding are a few of those habits that you should make a conscious effort to break. All of these habits cause excessive wear to your teeth, can lead to cavities and smoking also doubles your risk of getting gum disease. These types of habits can be difficult to break and there is no time like the present to start working on that.

Another area you can improve with your oral health routine is to commit to flossing every day. Most people have floss or floss sticks in their homes, but are usually a bit lax when it comes to flossing on a daily basis. Brushing your teeth after meals is great, but there are the small areas between your teeth where food can get stuck. Flossing is a great way to ensure that your mouth is free from any lingering bits of food that can cause tooth decay.

Finally, summer is a good time to buy new dental products. Buying a new toothbrush, mouthwash, floss and toothpaste is usually something that is done only sporadically, or when a product runs out. You want to buy a new toothbrush after an illness, and before the bristles on the brush start to bend and break. You also want to make sure that you are not using toothpaste that is old and crusty or mouthwash that is a few years old. If you are unsure as to which products are best, ask your dentist.

Making small changes to your daily habits can be huge in keeping your mouth clean and healthy. If you haven’t had a dental checkup lately, it might also be a good idea to get that scheduled.

Do I need a new toothbrush? What kind should I get?

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 05:00:00 GMT

When is the last time you changed your toothbrush?

Many people only change when they go to the dentist one or two times a year when they're given a new brush in their post-visit "goody bag." You may have heard you should change your toothbrush "once in a while" or after you're sick, but that's a really vague answer when you're talking about something as important as your health.

With so many types of toothbrushes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know what's right for you. From diamond to conventional heads to soft, medium, and hard, how are we to know what's right?

Here's a breakdown of toothbrush types/jargon for your reference:

Diamond shaped toothbrush

Diamond shaped toothbrushes do a nice job of reaching places in your mouth that can be challenging to clean.

Soft-bristled toothbrush

If you have sensitive gums or sensitive teeth, most dentists will recommend that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Medium toothbrush

If you suffer from a plaque buildup, it is often suggested that you use a medium toothbrush in order to clean your teeth more thoroughly.

Avoid hard-bristled

Most dentists are in agreement that hard-bristled toothbrushes should not be used. Brushing with a hard toothbrush can actually do damage by removing the enamel on the teeth.

Signs to change toothbrush

Once your toothbrush has damaged bristles, you know that you are absolutely in need of a new toothbrush. If you are brushing your teeth with a toothbrush that has damaged bristles, you're most likely doing more harm than good, so it's best to change your toothbrush before it shows any signs of damage.

If you have an electric toothbrush, there are typically instructions that let you know the date that you should change out the head. Dentists would recommend that you follow the instructions and change the head when it is recommended.

Illness and toothbrushes

Although it might seem obvious, many people forget to buy a new toothbrush after they have been sick. Once you are starting to feel better from an illness, you should definitely get a new toothbrush. Your germs will be all over your old toothbrush and this could cause you to get sick again. Also, you should make sure that your toothbrush does not touch heads with someone else in your household’s toothbrush, as this could cause the germs to transfer to their toothbrush.

How frequently to change your toothbrush

Most dentists would recommend that you get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months . If you notice that your toothbrush has sustained any damage or if you have an illness, you absolutely should change your toothbrush sooner. You want to make sure that your toothbrush remains as germ free as possible. You can help to sterilize your toothbrush by dipping it into a cup of anti-bacterial mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide, but this should not be done in place of getting a new toothbrush. This can be a quick fix for an unsterile toothbrush until you are able to go to the store and buy a new one.

If you are unsure of which type of toothbrush you should be using, ask your dentist at your next checkup or cleaning.

What to expect at your next dentist visit

Sun, 31 May 2020 20:00:28 GMT

Wondering what to expect when coming back to the dentist? The Illinois State Dental Society, along with the Illinois Department of Public Health, have recommended that oral health providers resume routine oral and dental care. In fact, resuming your preventative oral care appointments will improve your overall health and immunity, so now is the time to book those appointments.

We made the following updates to our process for your total health and safety:

· We will communicate with you before your appointment to ask a few COVID screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again when you are in the office.

· As soon as you enter the office, you’ll be asked to use our hand sanitizer. You will also find some in the reception area and throughout the office for you to use as needed.

· To protect our patients, all magazines and toys have been removed.

· We’re scheduling appointments to allow for effective social distancing between patients while reducing patient wait time.

When you arrive:

· Call the office when you arrive in the parking lot. We will send you a text when we are ready for your appointment.

· We require a mask to be worn at all times except during your scheduled procedure.

We look forward to seeing you again and are happy to answer any questions you may have about the steps we are taking to keep you, and every patient, safe in our practice.

To make an appointment, please call our office at 847-816-0463.

Mouth Safety Tips

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 16:06:38 GMT

How to keep your mouth hygienic during a quarantine

During these difficult times with this pandemic going around and being in a quarantine, it has become more difficult to do certain things because many different businesses are closed, we are going to offer some advice on how to keep your mouth healthy while at home.

While you are forced to be at home, you should remember not to neglect your hygiene and especially not your mouth. With this virus going around, people might forget the importance of proper hygiene and then they can get infections or get sick, teeth can fall out or start to yellow which are all things we do not want.

Everyday, you should try and brush your teeth at least three times a day. It would be best to brush teeth when you wake up, after dinner and before going to sleep. When you brush your teeth, you should not rush the process and it should take about 90 seconds each time. Make sure you are not brushing your teeth too hard or your gums will bleed and make sure you have proper toothpaste. Then make sure you are also flossing and do not have food stuck in your teeth.

Another way to help your mouth stay healthy is by using mouth wash everyday. That will help fight and sanitize any bad breath germs you have in your mouth and keep your mouth fresh and clean.

Another thing to note is that the foods you eat and drink can effect your hygiene. Drinking too much soda or alcohol or coffee or too many salty foods can be bad for your mouth and teeth and can stain them. I know it is easy to drink a Coke for breakfast in the morning now that so many are working from home, but that is going to damage your mouth in the long run and too much caffeine can even cause you to lose your teeth and that would make your life very difficult and miserable. You should try and drink as much water as you can as water is the best thing for you.

In summary, continue brushing your teeth a few times each day, make sure to floss your teeth and use mouth wash and try not to drink too much caffeine and that will help your mouth stay healthy and hygienic.

How to Protect Your Children's Teeth

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 15:52:07 GMT

In order to help your children have the best dental health, the best thing you can do is get them early treatment to prevent them from developing a serious dental issue as they get older. Prevention is a lot easier than treating a serious dental problem, which is why your child should be visiting the dentist from the time that their teeth first start to appear.

It can be overwhelming to some parents to think about taking their child to the dentist, which is why you should spend time making sure that you are choosing a dental office that does pediatric dentistry and that is warm and inviting for young children.

The experience that your child has at their first dental visit can set the tone for how they will feel about the dentist for the rest of their lives, so it is so important that the experience is positive for them. If your child is experiencing any anxiety, you may want to bring them to visit the office ahead of time, in a no-pressure type situation, or you can bring them with you to one of your cleanings prior to their appointment.

You can help your child to start developing their good dental habits when they are very young, and this will set them up with a solid foundation. If you are someone who chooses to wait until your child is a little older before your first dental visit, you want to make sure that you have at least set a strong teeth-brushing routine for your children. Many children either brush their teeth too hard, not long enough or they do not brush each tooth, so it is important for you to be an active participant in teeth brushing until they understand how to do it by themselves. You can get a timer for your child so they know how long to brush their teeth for, or there are toothbrushes you can buy that stay lit up for how long they should be brushing.

Another way you can help is to help your children avoid bad habits. Thumb sucking can be harmful to teeth and children who bring a bottle of milk to bed with them can also suffer from dental problems. Milk is high in sugar and when children are drinking until they fall asleep, that sugar just sits in their mouth all night. If your child wants milk before bed, just be sure to brush their teeth before they actually go down for the night. You also want to limit suckers, juice or any other food or drink that is high in sugar. When your child does indulge in something that is high in sugar, have them brush their teeth afterwards, or at least rinse their mouth out with some water.

Regular dental visits are another great way to help your child. When you have routine visits, it helps the dentist to detect and resolve problems before they become too serious. Early detection and preventative measures will help your child have the best chance of having a beautiful and healthy smile.

5 reasons you need to floss

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:55:10 GMT

Picture this - you have a dentist appointment coming up. You know the hygienist asks if you floss regularly, so you floss the few days leading up to the appointment. Sound familiar? If so, you're in good company! Over half of Americans don’t floss regularly and 20% don’t floss at all, so if this sounds like you, you're not alone.

But flossing is more than an extra step in your oral health - we understand that it feels like a bothersome task in your already busy day, but consistent flossing does wonders for your health.

5 reasons to floss every day

1. It removes plaque : Did you know your teeth have five surfaces to them? When you skip flossing, you're automatically missing cleaning two of your teeth's surfaces. With flossing, you're working to remove the plaque (sticky bacteria), which can build up and cause decay, cavities, swollen gums, or gum disease.

2. Gingivitis prevention: Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, first shows with swollen, bleeding gums. However, when your gums are healthy, they won't bleed, and if they are, this is a great indication that you need to floss more.

3. Total body health: Flossing is about more than your oral health - it impacts your whole body. In fact, good oral health reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory disease. When you floss and remove the plaque, you're promoting a healthier body.

4. Gain confidence: A healthier mouth and flossing especially contributes to whiter teeth and better breath, so you can have a more confident smile.

5. Low-cost & effective: There are plenty of high cost tools for your oral health, but floss is not one of them. Floss is the cheapest, easy way to promote a healthy mouth and keep gum disease at bay.

I can't floss - my gums bleed

If you feel like you can't floss because you have swollen, bleeding gums, think again. Our body naturally sends fluid to irritants in our body as part of the healing process. You may have swelling or bleeding after flossing because its our body's inflammation response. In fact, this response is actually your body attempting to irrigate whatever bacteria or food is in your gums through inflammation and bleeding.

The more you floss, the less you'll bleed, and the healthier your gums will be.

Commit to your health

Make the commitment to yourself - you deserve it! Flossing takes just a few extra minutes a day yet can make an incredible impact on your health. Consistency is key - in just a few days, your gums can develop gingivitis; when left unchecked, gingivitis can turn into periodontal disease, which can cause bone loss to the bone that holds your teeth.

How to keep your mouth healthy this winter

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 20:10:34 GMT

We are in the midst of winter and the weather has become extremely cold. We all know the dry cold air can have an impact on our skin and cause redness and dryness, but the extreme cold can also be hard on your mouth. In order to keep your mouth healthy and comfortable this winter, here are a few things that you can do to combat winter mouth problems.

Hydration : In the winter, people do not tend to stay as hydrated as they are during the summer. Without being outside and feeling hot, people do not realize that they need to be drinking water. When you get dehydrated, it causes a variety of issues for your mouth, starting with dry mouth. When you have a dry mouth, it can lead to tooth decay, bad breath and gum disease.

Dry mouth : When your mouth is dry, you are also not producing as much saliva, and saliva is necessary to wash away food debris and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Make sure you are conscious of your water intake and you should consider limiting your caffeine, since caffeine can cause dehydration. Chewing sugarless gum is another way that you can keep moisture in your mouth and avoid complications from having a dry mouth.

Tooth sensitivity is another common problem during winter since your mouth is used to being at your body temperature. Tooth sensitivity comes into play when you are outside in the frigid cold and you open your mouth, letting that really cold air into your mouth. This can cause a painful sensation with your teeth and if you continue to allow this to happen repeatedly, it can result in your teeth expanding and contracting, which causes damage to your teeth.

Cold weather: When you are going to be outside, you can either put a scarf over your mouth to protect it from the cold, or at least try to breathe through your nose so the cold is bypassing your teeth. If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity, you might want to drink hot or cold liquids through a straw, so it lessens the contact the liquids have with your teeth. You may also want to use a toothpaste that is made for tooth sensitivity.

Chapped lips are another common ailment during winter. Chapped lips can become very painful, so you want to make sure you address the problem. You will want to purchase a high-quality lip balm and increasing your water intake will also help.

Cold sores also tend to appear during the winter, and they are usually the result of the cold weather and also can be the result of having a weakened immune system. There are many viruses that are going around this winter and it is easy to have a weakened immune system.

To prevent a cold sore breakout, you want to make sure you are keeping your hands very clean and you also want to avoid touching your mouth. If you feel the onset of a cold sore, you want to immediately put a topical treatment on it to stop the infection.

It is always important to take care of your dental health and during winter, there are some additional things that you need to consider in order to keep your mouth healthy.

By following these tips, you can have peace of mind in knowing you are taking preventative measures.

Keep your mouth healthy during the holidays

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 18:47:08 GMT

The holidays are upon us and there are so many fun family activities and events that are planned during this month. There are family holiday parties, work holiday parties and holiday parties with friends. The only downside to this is that some people do not take into consideration the extra sugary foods and drinks that they are consuming and their dental health suffers as a result. Here are some tips on how to keep your mouth healthy during the holidays.

Stock up on toothbrushes:

There are a lot of nasty viruses going around and the first tip is to make sure you stock up on extra toothbrushes. If you are on an antibiotic, you will want to change your toothbrush once you are 24 hours into your medicine and are no longer contagious. You do not want to recycle the virus back into your mouth. If you are suffering from a cold, you will also want to change your toothbrush once you are feeling better again.

Be mindful of alcohol:

The holidays are about being merry and joyful, but it is important that you consider your alcohol intake. Alcohol is high in sugar and at holiday parties, there are often winter-themed drinks that are extremely high in sugar, such as spiked eggnog. If you are going to partake in an alcoholic beverage, just be sure to either brush your teeth shortly after, or at least wash your mouth out with some water.

Oral health on-the-go:

Another tip is to carry a travel toothbrush and floss with you when you go to a holiday party. There are lots of foods that can easily get caught in your teeth, such as nuts or popcorn, and if you are prepared for this, you will not have to wait until you get home from the party to take care of it. The sooner that you get lodged food out of your teeth, the less likely it is that you will suffer from any dental problems.

Another problem with eating nuts is that some are incredibly hard and it could cause you to crack or chip a tooth. If there is a bowl of mixed nuts, it is very easy for a shell to get mixed in as well, so take caution when you are eating them. The last thing you need during the holiday season is to have emergency dental work.

Sticky foods:

You will also want to avoid or at least limit the amount of sticky foods that you eat. There are often caramels, toffee, raisins, cranberries or other dry fruits offered at holiday gatherings. Although some of these items are not necessarily bad for you, they can be harmful to your teeth. If possible, choose foods that are not as sticky and that are more easily washed away.

Sugarless gum is your friend:

You might also want to keep some sugarless gum on hand that you can chew after eating or drinking at holiday parties. This will help to remove particles from your teeth and might also help you to stop yourself from overindulging.

The holidays are here…enjoy them! Just do not forget to neglect your oral health.

Fall foods that are good for your dental health

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 16:54:42 GMT

Cooler temperatures are just around the corner, which means fall is almost here! There are so many wonderful things about fall, from the fun activities such as apple picking and visiting pumpkin farms, to enjoying the colors of the leaves changing. Another great thing to add to your list is enjoying some of the delicious foods that relate to the fall that are actually good for your dental health. Below are the best fall foods for you to enjoy this season.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is one of the symbols of fall and you may have already noticed the ads for pumpkin spice lattes. Pumpkin has become a popular ingredient for both cooking and baking and the good news is that in addition to being delicious, pumpkin is also full of vitamins and minerals.

Pumpkin contains zinc, and people who are deficient in zinc tend to have bleeding gums, poor dental health and bones that are not very strong. Pumpkin also has 100% of the vitamin A your body needs, 20% of your vitamin C and is also high in magnesium, which works with calcium to keep the enamel in your teeth hard. Another great health benefit is that it is high in beta-carotene, which has been shown to be vital in fighting a few different types of cancer.

Keep in mind that although pumpkin is a wonderful nutrient-rich food, you want to stay away from the sugary drinks and desserts, since those will not be good for your dental health. Instead, choose other types of pumpkin foods, such as soups, breads or homemade smoothies.

Apples

It is no surprise that there are many wonderful health benefits with apples and nothing says fall like the smell of apple cider or visiting an apple orchard. There are a few different ways in which apples benefit your dental health. The first is that apples have a crunchy texture and when you chew a crunchier type of food, it stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, which washes away bacteria and keeps your mouth clean.

Secondly, the texture of apples also acts as a natural scrubber for your mouth. Apples do a great job at getting food particles out of your teeth and preventing plaque from building up. Although apples do contain a high amount of natural sugar, apples are also high in fiber and water, so this provides a balance.

Just like with pumpkin, you do also want to make sure that you are choosing wisely when consuming foods or drinks that are made with apples, since many will involve adding in extra sugar. Raw apples are a delicious treat and there are also other dessert recipes that are lower in sugar and are better for your teeth. If you are going to indulge in some delicious apple cider or apple pie, just make sure that you brush your teeth afterward to ensure that the sugar is removed from your mouth.

Cranberries

Cranberries contain polyphenols and this is what acts as a repellent for bacteria in your mouth. There are properties of cranberries that also actually promote the good bacteria in your mouth. Since cranberries tend to be tart, there are many recipes that add in a lot of sugar to counteract that tartness. When indulging in a food or drink made with cranberries, you will want to use unprocessed cranberries or make sure you drink juice that is 100% juice and does not have any added sugars.

Pumpkin seeds

Carving a jack-o-lantern is often a favorite fall pastime and one of the best things about carving a pumpkin is taking out those delicious pumpkin seeds to roast in the oven. Pumpkin seeds are very high in nutrients, including fiber, protein, phosphorus, iron and calcium. Since tooth enamel is made up of phosphorus and calcium, this is a wonderful food to eat, since it will help your enamel to stay strong.

Now that you know about some of the fall foods that will benefit your oral health, go on out and find a fun fall fest and taste some of these delicious treats!

Time to schedule your back to school dental check-ups

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 14:22:09 GMT

Summer is winding down and with Labor Day approaching, most kids will be starting their new school year in the weeks to come. Between clothes shopping, school supply shopping, getting your school physical, there is always so much to do to get ready for school. It can get overwhelming when you think of everything that needs to be done, so you will need to prioritize what gets done. One of your priorities should be to schedule dental checkups for your children.

Routines are very good for children and often help them to adjust better when there is a change, such as the start of a new school year. When you schedule your back-to-school dental check-up, it will let your children know that the new year is starting. Sticking to this schedule is a good reminder for both you and your children, that it is time to visit the dentist and start the school year off with a clean slate of dental health.

Dental work is one of the main reasons that children have to miss school. Whether it is to get work done for a dental health problem or if they are recovering from having some major dental work done, dental work often keeps children out of school as much as getting an illness does. By staying on top of your check-ups, you can prevent your child from having to miss very important time learning in their classroom. When caught early, many dental problems can be fixed easily. If there is too much time between appointments, that is when there is a higher chance of having a more significant problem.

Some adults may be told by their dentist that they only need to come in once a year, but children should be going to the dentist twice a year. Children often need a lot of assistance with learning the appropriate brushing and flossing techniques and most of the time, children do not spend as much time brushing their teeth as they should. Or they simply are not as thorough as they should be. This is why their teeth need to be checked more frequently.

Cavities are a very common problem for children, but if they are regularly visiting their dentist for a cleaning and check-up, dentists can often identify if the child is not brushing their teeth thoroughly, and can show the child the appropriate way and educate the parents on how they can help at home.

End of summer and early spring are great times to schedule your back-to-school dental checkups. By having that consistency, you are making sure that you are staying on top of your children’s dental health and are making it easy on yourself by knowing exactly which time of the year you need to schedule their appointments. Call your dentist today and get that back-to-school appointment scheduled.

Foods that can whiten or stain your teeth

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 20:06:10 GMT

Teeth whitening continues to be a goal for many people and in addition to the teeth whitening services that are offered at your dental office, and in addition to the different over-the-counter teeth whitening remedies, it is good to be aware of foods that can both help to keep your teeth white and food/drinks that can stain your teeth.

First let us start with the good news. There are five different foods that are known to help keep your teeth white, and they also all offer additional nutritional and health benefits.

1. Cheese : That’s right! Good news for dairy lovers is that cheese, (along with other dairy products, including yogurt and milk), contain lactic acid, along with calcium, which is a known enamel-fortifying mineral, and lactic acid and calcium work to strengthen your teeth and whiten them. In addition, chewing on cheese promotes the saliva production in your mouth, and this helps to wash away any food particles that could stain your teeth

2. Cauliflower : Cauliflower is one of those foods that take a long time to chew. When a food takes longer to chew, that stimulates the saliva production in your mouth more than usual. Saliva is a natural cleanser for your mouth and by eating cauliflower, you can be sure to keep those pearly whites bright

3. Celery : Like cauliflower, celery is another food that takes a long time to chew, so it also stimulates saliva, which washes away food particles and keeps your gums healthy. Other benefits of celery include being a fibrous vegetable that is low in calories and being rich in nutrients

4. Strawberries : Strawberries are not as obvious of a choice to be a food that can help to keep your teeth white, due to their dark color, but strawberries contain the enzyme, malic acid, which naturally works to make your teeth whiter

5. Apples : When you chew on apples, you need to chew quite a few times, and the act of chewing is a natural mouth cleanser. The texture of apples also affords a bit of a scrubbing action in your mouth, and this helps to keep your teeth shining bright

It is also good to be aware of food and drinks that can cause your teeth to be stained. These food and drinks include:

1. Blueberries : Unfortunately, the dark color of the blueberries is known to cause stains on teeth. If you do want to eat blueberries, it is good to wash out your mouth with water after, or even better yet, brush your teeth after eating them

2. Coffee/Tea: Drinking black coffee or black tea is another known culprit of teeth staining. If you need to have your morning coffee, try adding in a splash of milk or if you want to drink tea, opt for a green, herbal or white tea

3. Tomato sauce/ketchup : Tomato sauce, along with any other sauce that is tomato based is known to stain teeth because of the high level of acidity in them, along with the bright color. If you can, choose another kind of sauce that is not tomato based or use mustard instead of using ketchup

4. Popsicles : Although a popsicle can be very refreshing on a hot summer day, they are loaded with sugar and food coloring, which can cause stains on your teeth. If you do have a popsicle, it is important to thoroughly brush your teeth afterwards

5. Red wine: Although there are some health benefits of drinking red wine, red wine is notorious for staining teeth. Make sure you flush your mouth with water after, or you might choose to have a glass of white wine to switch it up

If you are concerned about the color of your teeth and would like to know more about what teeth whitening options are safe and will be most effective for you, contact us today.

7 dental tips for summer vacation

Wed, 26 Jun 2019 17:41:28 GMT

Summer has arrived and with summer often comes fun family vacations. Whether you’re planning a nice long weekend getaway, or taking a week or two off of work to travel, it is nice to get away and take some time to relax. It is important to remember though, that you cannot take a vacation from your oral hygiene routine. Here are some dental tips to make sure that your oral health stays intact while you are enjoying a well-deserved vacation.

Plan & pack:

The first thing that you need to remember, of course, is to actually pack a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss. You want to be sure to pack these items into a container that is large enough to provide circulation and ventilation. Another important reminder about the case that you pack your items in is to make sure that it is clean. If you are using a case that you have previously used, you’ll want to take a few minutes to wash it out and if you purchased a new container, it is still always a good idea to make sure that it is clean. After all, it will be housing items that will go into your mouth!

Dry it out:

Another tip for travelers is to make sure that after using your toothbrush, it gets thoroughly dried. Wet toothbrushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. After using your toothbrush, you can simply take a dry and clean towel, and wipe it off and you can stand it up in a cup until it is dry. If you purchased a toothbrush case, it is a good idea to put it back inside once your toothbrush has dried.

Wash hands:

A third tip is to always make sure that you wash your hands before brushing your teeth. Depending on where you are vacationing, you could have dirt, sand, sunscreen, or other not so wonderful germs on your hands and you do not want those germs anywhere near your mouth. If you are traveling out of the country, you will also want to check and make sure that the water is safe to drink. If the water is not safe to drink, you will want to use bottled water when brushing your teeth or you can also boil your water, if that is an option.

Be prepared:

It is always a good idea to pack an extra toothbrush when you are traveling, because if you happen to drop your toothbrush on the floor or in the dirty sink, it is better to use a new and clean toothbrush. When you are home, you can always boil your toothbrush or pop out to the store to get a new one, but that is not always an option when you are on vacation.

Travel smart:

Packing a portable and collapsible toothbrush and having a smaller tube of toothpaste is another great tip for traveling. If you go to the travel section of your pharmacy or other type of convenient store, you will often find these small travel packs. These packs can easily fit into your purse or carry on, and this will ensure that you have it and it does not get lost during travel.

Be mindful of sugar:

Of course it is okay to let loose and let yourself enjoy your vacation. We all tend to change our eating habits and if you do find yourself indulging more than usual, you just want to make sure that you brush your teeth after eating or drinking items that are high in sugar. When sugar is left on your teeth, it can start to cause problems, such as cavities.

Sugarless gum:

The final travel tip is to pack sugarless gum and try to chew some after eating a meal, if you are unable to brush and floss your teeth right after. Sugarless gum helps to stimulate the flow of saliva in your mouth, and this helps to keep your teeth clean.

Enjoy your summer vacation and have a lot of fun on your trip. Just do your best to keep these tips in mind so you come home with the same healthy smile that you left with.

Tips to keep your mouth healthy this summer

Wed, 29 May 2019 13:20:04 GMT

The school year is wrapping up and we are finally starting to get some warmer weather and are able to spend more time outside. As summertime approaches, there are so many wonderful things to look forward to. There are summer BBQs, trips to the beach and pool, vacations, carnivals, and 4th of July celebrations. While it is important to soak up these wonderful moments and enjoy them, you want to make sure that you are also keeping up with your oral hygiene routine.

You do not want to ruin your smile and cause damage to your teeth during the upcoming summer months, so here are some things to look out for and be aware of.

Hydration :

While many of us are looking forward to the warmer weather and being able to spend more time soaking up the sun, you want to make sure that you are staying hydrated. It is easy to get caught up in the moment and you can forget to drink enough water. Some people even skip drinking water and opt to go for energy drinks so they can stay active. Although energy drinks might give you that small energy boost, there are large amounts of sugars and citric acids in these drinks that are harmful to your teeth. Sugar and citric acid can cause damage to your enamel and this can lead to a variety of problems, including tooth sensitivity and cavities. If you still prefer to have an energy drink once in a while, make sure you rinse your mouth out with water afterwards, or if you are able to, go and brush your teeth.

Swimming :

Swimming during the summer is something that children and adults look forward to all year. Although adults know that you should not drink the chlorinated pool water, some children are either unaware of the dangers of drinking the water, or it is simply unavoidable to take in small amounts of pool water while they are swimming. Although chlorinated water is necessary in terms of keeping pools cleaner, chlorine is highly acidic and if your teeth are exposed to this chemical frequently, it can start to cause damage to your enamel. After you are done swimming, it is a good idea to rinse out your mouth with water, and have your children do so as well.

Something else to think about with swimming is the danger of running on the pool deck. It is very easy for someone to fall and suffer a mouth injury, in addition to suffering from other injuries as well.

Foods :

Summertime BBQs are also a very popular weekend activity and having ice cream and popsicles often seems like a great way to cool down. Although it is okay to indulge every once in a while, just remember to take care of your mouth after eating these sweet treats. Ice cream and popsicles are loaded with sugar, which is why you want to make sure you are brushing your teeth after eating them.

It is exciting that summer is finally approaching, as we are all excited to finally have some nicer weather. Just make sure that you do not forget about keeping up with your oral hygiene routine. Call and schedule a dental appointment if you have any concerns about your teeth.

Trends with teeth whitening

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to save money, more and more people are trying to utilize ingredients in their home to make their own self-care products. Although this can be absolutely a great option for some products, such as making your own facial mask or body scrub, it can be detrimental to your oral health if you look to make your own teeth whitening solution.

There are different homemade options that you can find on the internet to make a teeth whitening solution, but unfortunately, most of those options do more harm than good. These “recipes” often call for the use of fruit peels, fruit juice, fruit peels and vinegar. The acid in the fruit is very harsh and actually erodes your enamel and this can lead to a variety of dental issues.

There are also articles that you can find online about coconut oil pulling. Even though this is not something that will cause harm to your teeth, it also does not do anything to help whiten your teeth.

There are a variety of over-the-counter whitening products on the market, and the wide assortment of brands can cause confusion as to which products will be the most effective and which products are safe to utilize.

There are different kinds of whitening toothpastes on the market and the important thing to know about these are the RDA (Relative Dentin Abrasivity) measurement. When a toothpaste is cleared by the FDA, they have to have an RDA measurement. The higher the RDA, the more abrasive and harsher the toothpaste is. Unfortunately, there are many whitening toothpastes, including well known brands, such as Colgate and Crest, that have a very high RDA. It is important to do your research and make sure that the RDA of a toothpaste you want to use is within the regulations set by the FDA. The RDA of a toothpaste can be found online by simply looking it up.

Whitening gels are another whitening trend and these gels will generally be made of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Although many of these gels are safe to use, it is important that they are used correctly in order to avoid causing damage to your teeth. If whitening gels are something that interest you, it is a good idea to discuss this with your dentist. Your dentist may also be able to provide you with gel that they know is safe and can make you customized trays that are safer to use, since the gel is not getting on your gums. Many over-the counter options come with plastic trays that you are supposed to heat and mold to your teeth, but these are often difficult to use and will not be of the same quality as trays your dentists can customize for you.

Activated charcoal is another hot trend right now and this can be bought as capsules, powder or toothpaste. Some people are purchasing the capsules and mixing it with water to make a homemade version, but like with the homemade whitening products mentioned above, this can sometimes do more harm than good. It is better to choose a charcoal toothpaste that is safe, has been tested and has a low RDA measurement. There are some dentists who are against utilizing activated charcoal, since there has not been sufficient research on the long-term effects of using it. If this is something that interests you, it is best to discuss it with your dentist.

Teeth whitening lights are another product that people use, and they are generally a small mouthpiece that the patient bites on to hold it in place, and they are usually battery-operated devices. Unfortunately, these are not going to help whiten your teeth since they do not use activating gel. These devices are just heating your teeth.

Since the number of whitening products is only going to increase over time, your best bet is to talk to your dentist about your teeth whitening goals and they will help you to find the safest and most effective option.

Keep your mouth healthy during the month of love

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 20:17:40 GMT

Valentine's chocolates have you wondering about your oral health? Check out these easy tips!

Valentine’s Day is the holiday about love, and if you are spending the day with your significant other, you want to make sure that your mouth is kissable and healthy all the time, not just on the holiday. Here are some tips about how to make sure that your mouth is healthy all year round.

Combat bad breath

Bad breath can be incredibly off-putting, and bacteria is often the culprit of bad breath. If you suffer from this, you want to make sure that you have an established dental hygiene routine that consists of brushing and flossing. If you are not able to brush your teeth after every meal, you may want to consider have sugarless gum handy or an antimicrobial mouthwash so you can rinse your mouth out after a meal. Both options will help your breath to stay fresh and get the saliva flowing in your mouth, especially after eating something that leaves behind a strong aftertaste.

Bacteria & cavities

Although not commonly known, cavities can be contagious. If you have bacteria in your mouth that causes cavities, it can be passed to another person if you are sharing kitchen utensils, sharing a cup or if you kiss. To make sure that you are not passing along bacteria, you want to make sure that you are brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day.

A whiter smile

A smile is often the first thing that someone notices about you and having a beautiful white smile can boost your confidence. There are many different options for whitening your teeth, from different kinds of toothpastes, over-the-counter options and in-office whitening treatments that your dentist can discuss with you. If your smile is not as bright as you would like, talk to your dentist about which option might be best for you.

Time for a new toothbrush?

Another way that you can ensure that your mouth is healthy is by making sure that only you are using your toothbrush and that you are changing your toothbrush out regularly. Although there are times that it might seem convenient to borrow someone else’s toothbrush, that means you are also putting all of their germs into your mouth. You can easily keep a travel-sized toothbrush in your purse or in your car for any instances that might arise where you need a toothbrush when you are out of the house. You also want to be sure to change your toothbrush out anytime that you are sick or anytime that you notice there is wear on the bristles of your toothbrush.

Smoking & dental health

Most people are aware of the numerous negative effects that smoking has on your health, but some people are not aware of the negative effects smoking also has on your dental health. In addition to being very bad for your lungs and body, smoking also stains your teeth and gives you bad breath. Tobacco users are put at a higher risk for developing gum disease, versus people who do not smoke. Tobacco users are also put at a higher risk for developing oral cancer.

Regular check-ups

The final way that you can ensure your mouth is healthy and ready for Valentine’s Day is by making sure that you keep up with your regular dental visits. Most dental issues, if caught early, can be managed and treated. If you are experiencing any type of dental issue, contact your dentist today.

Why you should visit the dentist in the winter

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 16:48:27 GMT

The holidays are always a very busy time of year, and most of the time, getting your routine dental appointment in gets pushed to the side. January is a great month to schedule your appointment for your regular cleaning to ensure that you are staying on top of your dental health.

First, dental offices tend to be less crowded at the beginning of the new year, since many families schedule their appointments during the summer and at the beginning of the new school year. Spring break is another popular choice for patients getting their dental visits in, and since each school has spring break at a different time, spring appointments fill up very quickly. It can be less of a hassle to get an appointment at a convenient time during January and you are less likely to have to wait.

Another reason that it is a good idea to go to your dentist during January is that winter is brutal in many ways, and often affects people’s health. Many people battle through the flu or a cold and are often sucking on throat lozenges, cough drops and cough syrup. Many of these brands contain medicine that has a lot of high fructose corn syrup and sucrose, both of which are not good for your teeth.

Other harmful ingredients are citric acid or alcohol, both of with can cause harm to your enamel. Taking cough medicine before bed is something many people do in order to fall asleep. Unfortunately, that causes the sugar to stay in your mouth and can make you more susceptible to developing cavities. By visiting your dentist, you can make sure that your path to getting healthy has not caused harm to your teeth.

Also, it's no surprise that winter can be very hard on your mouth; that's why it's a good idea to visit your dentist and make sure that the brutal cold hasn’t affected your dental health. There are many dental issues that can be caused by the bitter cold, and when caught early, most dental problems have a relatively easy fix.

Going out into the bitter cold is often a challenge and during the winter months, schedules tend to be more open as a result. Once spring comes around, it is exciting to get to be out and about and doing more things, and there is usually less time to go to the dentist. By scheduling your appointment when you have more time, you ensure that you get your routine visit in.

If you have not kept up with getting your regular dental cleaning appointment in, wait no longer. Contact us to schedule your appointment and let us take a look and make sure that your mouth is healthy.

How to combat winter mouth issues

Wed, 26 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Although the holiday season is something that many look forward to all year, winter can be very difficult in terms of keeping healthy. We all worry about getting a cold or being taken down by the flu. We are so careful to wash our hands extra and try to stay away from people who are sick. But in addition to general health issues, there are also problems that the cold, dry winter air can cause to your mouth.

Sensitivity

One big problem that winter can cause to your mouth is tooth sensitivity. Your whole body, including your mouth, is used to being at your normal body temperature, but during the winter months, when you are outside and breathing in that really cold air, it lowers the temperature in your mouth. This can cause an unpleasant sensation in your mouth and if this occurs frequently, it is possible that your teeth could expand and contract, causing damage.

In order to avoid this issue, you should do your best to breathe through your nose when you are outside. When you take in oxygen through your nose, it goes directly to your lungs, and bypasses your teeth. Another good tip is to use a toothpaste that has fluoride in it and to drink fluorinated water. Fluoride is a great protector for your teeth and the more fluoride that your mouth is exposed to, the better. If you are drinking beverages that are very hot or very cold, you should use a straw, so your teeth have minimal contact with the extreme temperatures.

Dry mouth

Another mouth issue that people can suffer from during the winter months is having a dry mouth. When we get knocked down by a cold or the flu, it can cause our noses to become stuffy and that results in people breathing more through their mouths. The more you breathe through your mouth during the winter, the greater your chance of having a dry mouth. Having a dry mouth can cause dental complications, including infection and tooth decay.

Some tips for avoiding getting a dry mouth are to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and to limit your caffeine intake. Caffeine can cause dehydration. You can also keep your mouth moist by chewing sugarless gum.

Chapped lips

Chapped lips are another common issue during the winter. Exposure to the brutal cold and the wind can cause extremely chapped lips, so it is important to keep your lips protected. You will want to drink plenty of water to make sure your skin is hydrated and you might also want to consider having a humidifier in your home to add moisture. Petroleum jelly is a great way to hydrate your lips as well.

Winter is a great time to schedule a routine dental appointment to make sure that your mouth is healthy and that you are not suffering from any of these winter afflictions. When a dental problem is detected early, there is a much greater chance of being able to treat the problem before it becomes an even bigger issue.

Naughty & nice list of holiday food for your teeth

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 20:06:49 GMT

There are so many delicious types of food that are associated with the holidays and although some people will consider the health benefits of holiday food in terms of being high in fat, not too many people think about how the food they are eating will affect their teeth. Even if you have a really strong oral hygiene routine of brushing your teeth and flossing daily, there are still some foods that you should avoid. But not to worry! There are also delicious treats that are good for your teeth.

Let’s start off with the naughty list of holiday foods:

Egg nog: Egg nog has a very high sugar content, which means it is not a good choice for your teeth. If you need to give yourself a little fix, you should try to make it yourself and do not add in any extra sugar or alcohol

Candy canes: Candy canes are a symbol of the holidays, but any type of candy that you are sucking on for a long period of time is bad for your teeth, since it increases your risk for developing cavities. Even if you do not suck on them but choose to bite them and crunch on it, little pieces can get lodged in your teeth and some people have even suffered a tooth fracture because of a candy cane

Chocolate: Milk chocolate has a very high sugar content and the digestion of this sugar in your mouth produces an acid that can dissolve the enamel on your teeth and cause cavities. There is some good news though with chocolate! Dark chocolate is not bad for your teeth and it is okay to have dark chocolate around the holidays

Carbonated beverages: Many people think they can have carbonated beverages if they choose to have a diet or sugar-free version. Any type of carbonated beverage contains acid that dissolves the enamel on your teeth, which can cause cavities, tooth sensitivity and it can also discolor your teeth

Now for the good news. There are holiday foods that are also on the nice list:

Nuts: There are so many health benefits associated with nuts, and in terms of your teeth, the high amount of magnesium, calcium and iron all help to keep your teeth strong. Nuts also stimulate saliva in your mouth, which keeps bacteria from forming

Turkey: This delicious holiday classic contains phosphorus, which works with calcium in order to make your teeth strong. Turkey is also non-fermentable, which means it will not stimulate anything in your mouth that could cause cavities

Cheese: Cheese platters are usually a holiday staple, and since it is antibacterial and has low pH levels, it makes your mouth less acidic.

Veggies: Raw celery and carrots have many health benefits with one of them being that they help to remove plaque and they also contain a lot of nutrients and vitamins

This is not to say that you can never have anything on the naughty list and that you should have a lot of things from the nice list. All foods should be eaten in moderation. Make sure that you keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine, especially during the holidays, since this is a time that people generally are eating more sugar and you want to make sure that your mouth is protected.

How to keep your teeth healthy this Halloween

Wed, 03 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

With Halloween right around the corner, bags of free candy will be looming in your house, tempting everyone from kids and teens to parents. So how can you keep your mouth healthy in the midst of all that sugar? Check out these tips, great for Halloween and year-round health.

The timing

If you're going to eat sugary food, like Halloween candy, eat it with or shortly after meals. Why? Your saliva production increases during meal times, helping to cancel out the acids created by mouth bacteria.

Snack smarter

Your risk of cavities increases when you snack, especially if you're snacking on sugary treats. Avoid sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time, like hard candy. The length of time the candy stays in your mouth increases your chance at tooth decay.

Avoid sticky candy

If gummy or taffy candies are your favorites, think again - sticky candy stays on your teeth and takes longer for saliva to wash it away.

Limit your candy intake

Having bowls of candy around increases the temptation to eat a little every day, but if you have a plan, your mouth will thank you. Check out local organizations that donate candy to the troops and have your kids choose a few of their favorite pieces before giving the rest away.

Increase water intake

Drinking water is great for your overall health, and it's especially good for tooth decay prevention. Look for fluoridated water for optimal health.

Check sugarless gum

Choose a sugar-free gum and chew it for 20 minutes after meals to reduce your chance at tooth decay - the gum increases your saliva flow, helping to wash out the food while neutralizing acid.

Be sure to brush

Make sure you're brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, replacing your brush every 3-4 months (or sooner if bristles are frayed or if you've been sick).

Visit the dentist

For the ultimate cleaning, be sure to make an appointment with your dentist every 6 months.

How important is it to floss?

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 19:37:49 GMT

Although many people do have an established daily oral hygiene routine, there are not too many people who floss their teeth on a daily basis. Mornings can be very chaotic as people are rushing to work or getting kids off to school, and taking those few extra minutes to floss might seem like a waste of time, other than when you have a piece of food stuck in your teeth.

In order to understand why it is important to floss, you need to know what flossing actually does. When you floss daily, it can help to prevent gum disease and it can also decrease a person’s chance of having gums that bleed. People who floss are also less likely to suffer from gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. If you leave little particles of food stuck in between your teeth, it can also lead to tooth decay.

Toothbrushes do a wonderful job of cleaning teeth and helping to remove particles of food and plaque from your teeth. Unfortunately, a toothbrush cannot handle the workload alone. There are places in the mouth that a toothbrush simple cannot get to. Floss is able to come in and finish the job that the toothbrush started. Floss is able to get into those tight spaces in between your teeth to remove any remaining food particles that the toothbrush could not get to.

It is also important to note that flossing is most effective when you use the right technique. It is recommended that you take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers, while leaving about 2 inches of floss. You should then take the floss and gently bring it to the bottom of each tooth and bring it beneath the gum line, very gently. Once you move onto the next tooth, you will want to slowly unwind a little bit of the floss. It is also recommended that you move the floss up and down in between each tooth several times, to make sure that all of the food particles are removed.

There may still be some people who are still highly opposed to flossing, but understand why it is an important part of an oral hygiene routine. There are some alternatives to flossing that may be more suitable for some people.

Floss picks are small pieces of plastic that have a handle on one end and an inch of dental floss at the other end. It is very easy to hold and utilize and some people prefer this to traditional dental floss. Soft picks are another alternative that are still fairly new. This might be a good option for people who have braces and for older people, since they floss your teeth in a very gentle way.

If you are a person who never flosses, tartar can build it in your teeth and this can only be removed by going to your dentist for professional teeth cleaning. Depending on the amount of tartar that you have, it can make the teeth cleaning a little more uncomfortable since the dentist has to spend a lot more time scraping in between your teeth. People who do not floss are also more likely to have bad breath, because of the rotting food particles in their teeth.

There are so many benefits to flossing and flossing will only add a few minutes to your day. If you are someone who does not floss on a regular basis, you should schedule to get a professional teeth cleaning a few times a year.

How to cope with dentist anxiety

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

If you're scared of going to the dentist, don't worry, you're not alone. While you may not look forward sitting in your dentist's chair, you can't let that get in the way of making your routine visits, and in fact, you can overcome your fears. By avoiding the dentist with your preventative cleanings, your dental issues can escalate, so it's best to stay on top of your oral health to keep problems at bay.

Why people fear the dentist

The cause of anxiety will differ from person to person, but here are some common causes:

- Pain : nobody wants to experience pain; patients may worry that their visit will cause pain.

- Experience : you may have had a bad experience at the dentist in your past and fear that future appointments will have the same outcome.

- Embarassment : if you're worried that your teeth or gums aren't in good shape, you may avoid the dentist because you're embarassed at the state of your oral health. But by avoiding the dentist, you're only putting yourself at greater risk for oral health problems.

So how can you cope with your fear to get the care you need? Check out our tips.

Talk to your dental team

Accept your phobia and explain your reservations to your dental team. By being open and honest about your anxiety, your dentist and hygienist have the chance to ease your fears, working with you to come up with a plan to make you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Sedation dentistry

Through sedation dentistry, your dentist may administer a calming sedative to help keep you calm, which may include a local anesthetic, IV or oral sedation, or laughing gas. Talk to your dentist to see what options he or she offers and what may be best for you.

Distraction, distraction, distraction

Many dentist offices offer great forms of distraction, from televisions and music. Talk to your team before your appointment to see what they offer, and feel free to bring your own headphones and music for a comforting distraction during your appointment.

Bring a friend

Have a friend or family member come with you for moral support; you can even see if your dentist buddy can come in the room with you for a calming presence.

Lasting thoughts

What are your fears about the dentist? What are your best coping mechanisms? Share them with us below!

Healthy food for healthy teeth

Mon, 30 Jul 2018 17:22:12 GMT

As we get halfway through the summer here, most of us have been enjoying family vacations, outdoor BBQ’s and lots of cool and refreshing food and drinks. Although there is plenty to enjoy about summertime, oral hygiene often gets pushed aside and exceptions are made about eating and drinking healthy food.

It can be hard to stay cool during these hot summer months and many people decide to cool off by drinking pop, lemonade, or eating popsicles and ice cream. Of course everyone deserves to indulge once in a while, but it is important to think about the impact that all of that sugar is having on your mouth. This is especially true for young children, since they have not yet developed as good of an oral hygiene routine as adults, and they are more susceptible to getting cavities.

Instead of giving into eating a lot of ice cream, potato chips and hot dogs this summer, you should consider some healthy alternatives that are not only good for your dental health, but are good for your health in general!

If you’re looking for a cool and refreshing drink, instead of grabbing a beer or a lemonade, you should get yourself a glass of cucumber water. Some people are reluctant to drink a lot of water because they find it boring, but there are so many ways that you can enhance the taste! Take a cucumber, slice it up and let it infuse into a pitcher of water overnight. There are many reasons why cucumbers are good for you, including being high in vitamins and anti-oxidants. The potassium in cucumbers can also help people to lower their blood pressure since they are high in potassium and that is what assists your kidneys with processing the salt in your diet.

When you’re craving something sweet, apples, strawberries or peaches are the way to go. Apples are very good at satisfying a sweet tooth and are also good at stimulating your saliva, which can help to get rid of any excess food that might be stuck in your teeth. Strawberries are generally a popular choice during the summer, since they are in season and taste delicious. Strawberries are also very high in vitamin C and they also have collagen, a protein known for helping to fight off periodontal disease. Peaches are another great fruit option and they have mineral fluoride in them, which is helpful in rebuilding the enamel in your teeth. They are also rich in calcium and vitamin C, which are great for keeping your teeth strong.

When you’re craving protein, salmon is always an excellent choice since salmon is high in docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fat. There have been studies that show that omega-3 fatty acids may help in the prevention of periodontal disease. Red meat is another good option for your teeth, as long as you are not eating it every day. Red meat is very high in protein and protein is good for strengthening your teeth and jaw. Chicken and turkey are lean meat proteins that should also be considered and they can be eaten more often. Eating meats that are high in protein also helps to fill your stomach and may just help you to skip dessert.

There are also dairy options that can be good for your teeth. Greek yogurt or unsweetened yogurt, along with low-fat milk and low-fat cheese are all dairy options that are high in calcium and protein and can help your teeth to stay strong.

There are so many delicious and healthy food and drink options during the summer that will help you to feel good in knowing that you are not ruining your beautiful smile!

How to keep your mouth healthy on vacation

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Summer is here, and with summer brings vacation. When you're in vacation mode, it's easy to slip out of your normal routines, but it's just as important to keep up with your oral hygiene on vacation as it is while you're at home. Check out these tips to enjoy your vacation while keeping your mouth healthy.

Pack your toiletries

This may seem like a given, but it's common to overlook packing every day toiletry essentials. Instead of packing your every day toothbrush, why not grab a travel size toothbrush, paste, mouthwash, and floss to put in your toiletry bag? That way, you're not taking up precious suitcase space, and you can even leave them behind because when you come home, all your regulars will still be there.

Sunscreen

It can be easy to overlook sunscreening important parts of your body - like your lips! Choose a sunscreen or chapstick with sunscreen in it to pack with your toiletries and in your purse so you can easily remember to protect your lips every day.

Stick to a routine

Just because you're on vacation doesn't mean you need to get out of a routine. Keep oral hygiene at top of mind during your vacation, brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash twice a day. Keep it out on the vanity for a simple daily and nightly reminder.

Monitor sugar intake

Vacation diets often include more sugary drinks, sweets, and treats than you're used to consuming at home. Be mindful of the foods and drinks you're eating on vacation, and try to alternate your sugary drinks with water. You can also use a straw to keep the sugar away from your teeth.

See your dentist

It's a good idea to see your dentist before or after you go on vacation, and keep up with your regular checkups.

Lasting thoughts

Have a great vacation and prepare to continue your good oral hygiene routine for the whole family while you're away. Keep your dentist's phone number on hand for any emergency questions or issues you may have. All it takes is a little planning and prep to keep your mouth nice and healthy, wherever you are.

Is it ever good to chew gum?

Thu, 24 May 2018 18:15:51 GMT

Most people understand the basics to having good oral hygiene and know that you should brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and have regularly scheduled dental appointments and cleanings, but there are other things people can do to ensure that their teeth and gums stay healthy as well. Although people realize that what they eat and drink can have impacts on their health and weight, some people do not take into consideration the impact that food and drinks have on their oral health.

Sugar leads to tooth decay: this is not a secret. However, there is usually more sugar in what people are eating and drinking than they even realize. 25 grams of sugar is the amount of sugar that people should consume (or less), according to The American Heart Association. A disturbing fact though is that certain large size coffee drinks can have up to 73 grams of sugar per serving!

When people are out and about, whether at work, school, running errands, or just going about their daily routine, people can worry about maintaining fresh breath. Gum is a popular choice to combat bad breath, but the average piece of gum has 5 grams of sugar in it.

The good news for avid gum chewers is that sugarless gum can actually have positive effects on your mouth and it will not cause tooth decay.

Other benefits of chewing sugarless gum include:

· Can help people who suffer from having a dry mouth. Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications or by having a certain type of disease, and chewing sugarless gum sends a signal to your brain and tells it to start making more saliva, which ultimately helps to combat a dry mouth

· Can help to strengthen your enamel. Most types of sugarless gum contain Xylitol, which has been shown to help in reducing the amount of acid that is on your teeth after you eat or drink something. Since Xylitol has an ability to help with acid reduction, it allows your enamel to stay strong

· May reduce sensitivity in your teeth. Some people suffer from tooth sensitivity or experience tooth sensitivity in relation to using teeth whitening treatments, and chewing sugarless gum may help to alleviate the pain. This is due to having an increased flow of saliva in the mouth, which can help to counteract the sensitivity

· May help to prevent tooth decay. According to a study, people who chew sugarless gum after a meal for 20 minutes may be able to prevent tooth decay. Bacteria from your meal gets trapped in the gum and is then removed from your mouth once you discard the gum

It should be noted that consumers should still pay attention to what type of gum they are buying and should be sure to only purchase gum that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal. Brands that have this seal have proven that their product was evaluated and was deemed to be safe by ADA employees.

There are certain requirements that gum must meet in order to earn the ADA seal, including:

· Will not cause any harm or damage to oral tissue

· Reduces cavities

· Reduces gingivitis

· Encourages the remineralization of tooth enamel

· Lessens plaque acids

If you like to chew gum and want to find out what the best type is for your oral health needs, contact your dentist or ask at your next dental checkup.

How do I correct a gummy smile?

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 19:29:43 GMT

A person’s smile is one of the features that someone first notices when they look at you; if you're not completely happy with your smile, it can make you self-conscious. You may even avoid smiling as often as you would like to. There are many people who feel that their smile is too “gummy-” does that sound like you? If so, you're not alone, and better yet, there are many different ways to fix this issue.

What is a gummy smile?

A gummy smile occurs when someone has some excessive gum tissue that is very apparent when they smile. What exactly constitutes a gummy smile is relatively subjective, since everyone has their own opinion about what they would like their smile to look like. From a dentist’s perspective, research has shown that an ideal smile has 2mm or less of gum tissue showing. If a person has more than 3mm of gum tissue that shows when they smile, they are considered to have a gummy smile.

Is a gummy smile a medical concern?

Gummy smiles are perfectly normal and are not a medical condition. Procedures to remedy this issue are considered cosmetic treatments. However, there are many men and women who want to feel more confident with their smile and they turn to their dentist to find ways to remedy their excessive gum tissue.

How to correct a gummy smile.

There are both surgical and non-surgical treatment options for excessive gum tissue and the best treatment option for you will depend on the amount of extra gum tissue that you have. If you have a smaller amount of excessive tissue, there are non-surgical options that can be considered for treatment, but for those who have a fairly severe case, surgery may be the only real option.

Veneers

One of the treatment options for a gummy smile will be to get veneers. Your dentist will take a mold of your teeth and once the veneers have been created, your dentist will put them on your teeth. They will be positioned in a way to give you the perfect smile you have been looking for. Only a very skilled dentist will be able to reduce the appearance of your gums with carefully positioned veneers.

Botox

Botox is another option and during this procedure, Botox will be injected above your upper lip in order to prevent it from lifting up when you smile. This procedure is a popular option since there is no downtime, and the procedure is very safe and can be done quickly. However, Botox is not a permanent solution to a gummy smile and you will need treatment every six months or so in order to maintain results.

Lip repositioning

A third option is to have lip repositioning surgery since it limits how the upper lip moves and it can cover some of the excessive gum tissue. This procedure requires local anesthesia and the surgery takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. People may experience some minor bruising or swelling after the procedure, but that will go away pretty quickly.

Laser treatment

A final option is to have laser or scalpel gum gingivestomy. During this procedure, the dentist will use either a laser or a scalpel and will cut away the excessive gum tissue. Although this procedure sounds the most intense, it is not as painful as it seems. This procedure requires local anesthesia and afterwards, people can resume their normal daily activities. Some people will notice that their gum tissue grows back within a few months and if this occurs, a repeat procedure will be required.

If you are feeling self-conscious about your gummy smile, talk to your dentist and find out what treatment option will be best for you.

Bottles and oral health

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to your baby's oral health, it's easy to overlook. Your baby may only have gums, one, or a few teeth, and since they're baby teeth, how important are they really? Answer? Very important. In fact, if your baby takes a bottle, baby bottle tooth decay is a danger to your child's oral health, and if left untreated can cause pain or infection.

If your child's teeth become infected and are lost earlier than normal, this may impact her future health, from crooked adult teeth to damaged teeth.

Use these simple tips to help combat baby bottle tooth decay and start implementing healthy routines at an early age.

How to keep your baby's mouth healthy:

- Clean and massage gums

- Wipe gums with a clean washcloth after feedings

- When your child's first tooth comes in, brush the tooth and gums gently without toothpaste or use a fluoride-free paste

- Once your child's teeth have all come in, start flossing

- Fluoride is important to your child's mouth health; talk to your dentist to see if your child needs a supplement, especially if your water does not contain any

- When your child turns one, start going to the dentist regularly

- Never fill your baby's bottle with sugary drinks and juices; bottles are for milk, water, or formula, and gums should still be cleaned after milk

- Don't put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk; the sugars will sit on her teeth at night. Instead, choose a bottle of water

- Be mindful of what you're feeding your child; reduce sugar in her daily meals and snacks

It's never too late to break unhealthy habits; talk to your dentist about the best oral health plan for your baby. By establishing healthy habits early on, you're setting your child up for healthy adult teeth!

Oral health New Year resolutions

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 15:37:09 GMT

What is it about resolutions that never seem to stick? When it comes to your oral health, it’s important to make good mouth hygiene part of your everyday routine so you’re not stuck making the same resolutions next year. Why? Because the way you care for your teeth and gums affects your whole body’s health , including a variety of dangerous chronic conditions.

Do we have your attention yet? Okay good - now commit to these 5 simple ways to improve your oral hygiene this year and for years to come.

1. Schedule a dental appointment/cleaning : Regular checkups to your dentist every 6 months will allow for preventative care of your teeth and gums, getting ahead of potential problems or treating them on the spot before they turn into something more complicated.

2. Commit to flossing (no, seriously!): We know all the patient tricks - floss a few days before going to the dentist; floss the morning of your appointment; or just flat-out don’t floss at all but tell the hygienist you’re a regular flosser. We’ve seen it all, and trust us, we don’t judge! But flossing your teeth at least once a day is imperative to a healthy mouth.

Flossing protects your teeth from gum disease by loosening food particles and bacteria that gets trapped between teeth that brushing alone cannot reach. In fact, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, only flossing can remove plaque, the thing that causes most gum disease and decay.

3. Cut back on sugar: The most common resolution people have is to lose weight, and sugar is one of the biggest culprits of weight gain, not to mention a slew of other health problems and diseases. Aside from this, cutting back on sugar is great for your oral health. Make a pledge to cut back on processed sugar to protect your teeth from cavities and reap the total body benefits.

4. Eliminate tobacco use: From teeth discoloration and cancer to gum disease and recession, there is literally nothing good that comes from tobacco. Now is the time to get serious about quitting any tobacco use, including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and chewing tobacco, to improve your smile and prolong your life.

5. Eat mouth-healthy foods: Eating nutritious foods is not only healthy for your entire body, but it’s great for your overall mouth health. The nutrients and antioxidants in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes allows your body to fight off bacteria and inflammation easier while eating crispy raw fruits/veggies cleans your teeth and gives you fresh breath.

You can see that making a commitment to good oral hygiene is really a commitment to improving your whole life - what’s good for a clean, healthy mouth is good for your entire body. What do you resolve to do in the new year?

Improve the Appearance of Your Smile with Cosmetic Dental Bonding

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 18:27:36 GMT

Many patients practice all the right dental hygiene habits - regular brushing and flossing, routine trips to the dentist - only to see the appearance of their smile marred by the presence of cosmetic blemishes and imperfections. Understandably, it can be frustrating to maintain healthy teeth and gums, but be unable to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful smile. That is what cosmetic dentistry services are all about. Cosmetic dentistry treatments enhance the appearance of the teeth and gums so that a patient can enjoy a smile that is strong and healthy, and also aesthetically pleasing. One of the most popular and versatile cosmetic dentistry treatments offered at Goduco Family Dentistry is cosmetic dental bonding. Cosmetic dental bonding benefits our Vernon Hills, IL patients by concealing cosmetic flaws so the smile appears healthy and attractive.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dental Bonding

Cosmetic dental bonding is one of the most popular dental treatments among our patients who are looking to improve the appearance of the smile. Cosmetic dental bonding allows patients to address imperfections and enhance the beauty of the smile, all through a procedure that is safe, fast, and affordable. Below are some of the many benefits that make cosmetic dental bonding such a sought-after cosmetic dentistry treatment:

Versatility: Cosmetic dental bonding is easily one of the most versatile cosmetic dental treatments available. Cosmetic dental bonding is applied directly to the surface of the teeth and can address a wide range of blemishes and imperfections, making it an appropriate treatment option for nearly all of our patients. Some conditions that can be improved through dental bonding treatment include stains, discoloration, misshapen teeth, poorly sized teeth, gapped teeth, chips, and cracks.
Affordability: While most people are looking to improve the appearance of their smile, there are some cosmetic dentistry treatments that are simply beyond a person’s budget. Cosmetic dental bonding is a direct restoration that is applied in a single appointment right here at our dental offices. All of these factors combine to make dental bonding one of the most affordable cosmetic dentistry treatments available.
Non-invasive: All dental treatments are performed with the patient’s utmost comfort and safety in mind. Still, we understand that many patients experience a great deal of anxiety surrounding professional dental care. Dental bonding is a non-invasive treatment. There is no need for any drills, shots, or anesthesia. Many patients find the non-invasive nature of dental bonding treatment to be very comforting.
Effective: Dental bonding provides patients with a smile that looks whiter, more even, and generally more attractive. Fortunately, these results are built to last. With the durable bonding material that is used for treatment, patients can expect to benefit from a beautiful smile for several years before treatment will need to be repeated.

Contact Us

At Goduco Family Dentistry we understand that our patients care about the appearance of their smile. That is why we offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry treatments. If you’d like to learn more about cosmetic dental bonding or any of our other cosmetic dentistry services, we’re here to answer any questions you may have. Contact us at your earliest convenience to find out how we can help you achieve your dream smile.

The Dental Bridge Procedure: A Comparison of Two Techniques

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 18:27:25 GMT

Goduco Family Dentistry is a one-stop-shop for all of your dental needs, whether you require a simple refinement of your smile or a dramatic full-mouth restoration. For patients who are missing one or more of their natural teeth, we offer a comprehensive range of restorative dentistry treatments designed to return form, function, and health to the mouth. Among the most time-tested and highly effective of these treatments is the dental bridge.

In performing the dental bridge procedure at his Vernon Hills, IL practice, Dr. Philip V. Goduco can use one of two techniques. He can affix the dental bridge to the healthy natural teeth adjacent to a gap where teeth are missing via dental crowns, or he can attach the dental bridge to state-of-the-art dental implants. Both of these techniques will effectively make the patient’s smile whole again and help to restore his or her ability to bite, chew, speak, and smile with ease and confidence. The technique that is best suited to your particular case will depend on several factors, including your personal goals, the state of your mouth, and your budget.

If you are missing one or more of your natural teeth, it is imperative that you replace them as soon as possible. Please schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Goduco by contacting Goduco Family Dentistry today.

The Procedure: Fixed Dental Bridges

A conventional fixed dental bridge is composed of between one and three artificial teeth that are bookended by dental crowns. When these dental crowns are attached to the natural teeth on either side of a gap where teeth are missing, the artificial teeth fill the space to complete the smile. For the fixed dental bridge to be a viable option, the teeth to which the crowns will be attached must be strong and healthy enough to support the crowns. The one disadvantage of this technique is that these teeth must be filed down in order to accommodate the crowns prior to their placement.

The Procedure: Implant-supported Dental Bridges

Unlike fixed dental bridges, implant-supported dental bridges do not rely on natural teeth for support. Rather, they are attached to dental implants, tiny titanium posts that are surgically embedded into the jawbone. Because the human body does not recognize titanium as a foreign substance, the implants are able to fuse together with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. Once the implants and bone have fused together, the dental bridge can be secured to the implants. Dental implants provide exceptionally strong and durable support for dental bridges, plus they halt the degradation of the supportive gum and bone tissues that begins when teeth are lost. Patients emerge from treatment with fully restored oral health and function. The only disadvantage of implant-supported dental bridges compared to fixed dental bridges is their expense; however, over time, implant-supported restorations tend to be highly cost-effective.

Learn More about the Dental Bridge Procedure

To learn more about the dental bridge procedure, please contact Goduco Family Dentistry , your one-stop-shop for all of your dental needs, today.