Tag: Family dentist near me

Chew on This: Foods for Healthy Teeth | Dentist Near Me

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When you find yourself short on time for brushing or flossing, incorporating certain foods into your diet can still promote oral health and keep your mouth feeling fresh. Family 1st Dental recommends these convenient and tooth-friendly options for maintaining a healthy smile, even when you’re on the go:

Cheese: Indulge in cheese to enjoy its tooth-protecting benefits. Not only does cheese preserve and rebuild tooth enamel, but it also prevents plaque formation and balances the acidity level in your mouth. Additionally, cheese stimulates saliva production, which helps combat bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease.

Tea: Sip on tea to harness its polyphenols, which slow the growth of bacteria associated with dental issues. Polyphenols also inhibit the conversion of sugar into plaque, while fighting the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Munch on crunchy fruits like apples, and vegetables like carrots and celery, to promote saliva production through chewing. Saliva helps neutralize bacteria, massages gums, and cleans between teeth by removing food particles.

Calcium and Phosphorus-Rich Foods: Incorporate vitamin-rich foods containing calcium and phosphorus to strengthen tooth enamel. These minerals help redeposit minerals into tiny enamel lesions caused by acidic foods, promoting overall oral health.

Sugarless Gum: Chew on sugarless gum containing xylitol, which prevents plaque formation and stimulates saliva production. Enjoying sugarless gum also helps maintain fresh breath throughout the day.

Raisins: Snack on raisins to benefit from their phytochemicals, which combat bacteria associated with tooth decay and gum disease. Certain compounds in raisins also inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria.

Water: Stay hydrated with water to stimulate saliva production, your body’s natural defense against plaque-causing bacteria and cavities. If brushing isn’t immediately possible after eating, rinsing your mouth with water can help prevent tooth decay.

While incorporating these foods into your diet can aid in fighting plaque buildup and tooth decay, they should complement—not replace—your daily oral hygiene routine. Family 1st Dental emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet alongside regular brushing, flossing, and scheduled dental appointments for optimal oral and overall health.

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Unexpected Ways to Use Toothpaste | Family 1st Dental

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Discover the versatile uses of toothpaste beyond just cleaning your teeth with these handy tips from Family 1st Dental. While toothpaste is renowned for keeping our smiles bright, its ingredients can also provide relief for common ailments, tackle stubborn stains, and even make everyday items sparkle. Check out these unexpected ways toothpaste can simplify your life:

  1. Soothe Insect Bites: Experience relief from bee stings and insect bites by applying a small amount of toothpaste to the affected area. Not only does it alleviate itching, but it also helps reduce swelling and promotes faster healing.
  2. Remove Wall Marks: Bid farewell to crayon and scuff marks on painted walls by gently rubbing them with toothpaste on a damp cloth. Watch as the marks vanish without damaging the paint.
  3. Prevent Mirror Fog: Keep bathroom mirrors fog-free by applying toothpaste and wiping it off before your shower. This simple trick saves time during your morning routine.
  4. Clean Dirty Shoes: Restore the shine to dirty or scuffed shoes by applying toothpaste directly to the affected areas. Scrub with a brush and wipe clean for a refreshed look.
  5. Sparkle Jewelry: Make silver jewelry and diamonds shine like new by rubbing toothpaste onto them and leaving it overnight. In the morning, wipe clean with a soft cloth for dazzling results.
  6. Repair Scratched Discs: Revive scratched DVDs and CDs by applying a thin layer of toothpaste, gently rubbing, and rinsing clean. This technique works best for shallow scratches and smudges.
  7. Shrink Pimples: Reduce the size of pimples by applying toothpaste to the affected area before bed. The drying properties of toothpaste help accelerate the healing process overnight.
  8. Deodorize Hands: Eliminate stubborn odors from your hands by washing them with toothpaste and soap. This method effectively removes lingering smells from foods, cleaning products, and fragrances.
  9. Patch Nail Holes: Fill small nail holes in walls with toothpaste, then use a putty knife to remove excess paste. Once dry, your wall will be as good as new, and you can touch up the paint if necessary.

Next time you visit Family 1st Dental, share with our team how you’ve found creative uses for toothpaste beyond its traditional role in dental care. We love hearing about innovative ways to make everyday life a little easier!

Family First Dental
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The Power of Smiling: Why It’s Good for Your Health and Well-being | Family First Dental

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At Family 1st Dental, we understand the profound impact a smile can have on your health and happiness. Beyond being a universal expression of joy, smiling offers numerous benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Let’s delve into the reasons why smiling is essential for your health and explore how it can enhance your quality of life.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety:

Smiling acts as a powerful tool in reducing stress and anxiety levels. When you flash a smile, your brain receives signals that everything is okay, triggering the release of endorphins. These natural mood elevators help alleviate stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling more relaxed and at ease.

Boosting Immune Function:

Did you know that smiling can also give your immune system a boost? When you smile, your body releases white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting off infections and diseases. Studies have shown that individuals who smile frequently tend to have stronger immune systems, helping them ward off illnesses more effectively.

Fostering Positive Relationships:

A genuine smile can work wonders in building and nurturing relationships. It makes you appear more approachable, attractive, and trustworthy, paving the way for meaningful connections with others. Whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues, smiling fosters rapport and enhances the quality of your interactions.

Enhancing Self-Confidence:

By smiling more often, you can boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. The positive emotions associated with smiling help alleviate feelings of stress and insecurity, allowing you to feel more self-assured and empowered in social situations.

Uplifting Mood and Productivity:

Smiling triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and happiness. This natural mood enhancer uplifts your spirits, leaving you feeling happier and more content. Additionally, a positive mindset fueled by smiling can enhance productivity and motivation, leading to greater success in your endeavors.

In conclusion, smiling is not just a gesture; it’s a powerful tool for improving your health and well-being. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting immunity and fostering positive relationships, the benefits of smiling are truly remarkable. So, the next time you visit Family 1st Dental, don’t forget to share your brightest smile. It’s not only contagious but also a beacon of joy that spreads happiness to those around you.

Ready to experience the transformative power of a smile? Contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment and embark on a journey toward improved oral health and overall well-being. Let us help you unlock the full potential of your smile!

Family First Dental
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What is Periodontal Disease? | Family Dentist Near Me

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Periodontal disease ranges from a mild inflammation of the gum tissues to periodontitis, a major oral disease that can result in soft tissue and bone damage. Periodontitis is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.  

One of the major causes of gum disease is practicing poor oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. When these practices are not followed, plaque can form on the teeth and along the gumline. If this plaque is not properly removed, it may harden over time and become tartar. Once that occurs, only a dental professional can remove the tartar from teeth. 

If gum disease is not treated in a timely manner, tartar may continue to build unchecked. When this occurs, the gum disease may advance to gingivitis. In this stage, gums redden, swell, and become prone to bleeding from normal activities, such as brushing or eating. Some other common symptoms include: chronic halitosis (bad breath), sensitive teeth, and difficulty or pain with chewing. At this point, professional periodontal treatment is needed to prevent the gingivitis from advancing to periodontitis. 

When gingivitis is not treated in time, it may become periodontitis. Periodontitis is the most advanced form of periodontal disease. With periodontitis, gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating small “pockets” along the gumline. These spaces are highly difficult to clean without professional intervention and can lead to rapid worsening in overall oral health. Without prompt and thorough treatment, bone, gums, and soft tissues may be destroyed by periodontitis. 

Some of the most common factors that contribute to periodontal disease developing include poor oral hygiene habits, diabetes, smoking, and hormonal changes in women. Some medications can cause gum tissue to grow abnormally, which can increase difficulty in proper cleaning of the teeth. People who are receiving treatment for AIDS are also at increased risk of developing periodontal disease. 

Many recent studies have found that untreated periodontal disease may negatively impact other aspects of your overall health, especially for patients with cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Periodontal disease can also increase the risk of developing certain pregnancy complications, such as low birth weight or premature birth. 

Our doctor has the training and experience to diagnose and treat every stage of periodontal disease. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, contact our office to schedule a consultation.

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Changing Your Spots: White Areas on Teeth | Family 1st Dental

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White spots on your teeth can be irritating and affect how you feel about your smile. The good news, however, is that they are preventable and rarely cause for concern. Here are things you should know about what causes white spots, how to prevent them, and what options are available should you already have them. 

What causes white spots on teeth? 

1.       Dental Fluorosis – This can happen when a child consumes or is exposed to too much fluoride during the development of their teeth. While undesirable, this is harmless and can happen before teeth even emerge. The most common cause of fluorosis in the US is the use or ingestion of too much toothpaste. 

2.       Poor Dental Hygiene – Forgetting to brush regularly can cause white spots to develop. 

3.       Braces – Wearing braces for an extended time can affect the coloration of your teeth and create white spots.  

4.       Acidic or Sugary Foods – These foods can damage your teeth as well as change the color of their enamel. Rinsing your mouth after you consuming acidic or sugary items can help negate these effects. 

How can I prevent them from appearing? 

Following a proper oral hygiene regimen is the best way to prevent white spots on teeth. Ensure your child uses the correct amount of toothpaste – children under 3 should use a smear the size of a rice grain, and children over 3 should not use more than a pea-sized amount. It is common for children to accidentally swallow or fail to spit out toothpaste, so be sure to supervise your child as they are learning. 

What are options for treatment? 

If you are already dealing with white spots, you have options. Whitening or bleaching can make the coloration of your teeth more uniform. Dental veneers can restore the entire appearance of your teeth, solving not just the problem of white spots. In some cases, topical fluoride or enamel microabrasion upon the white spots themselves can do the trick.  

Our doctor will recommend the optimal solution for treating white spots on your teeth. Contact our office for a consultation today.

Family First Dental
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Modern Dentistry: Managing TMD Discomfort | Dentist Near Me

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Discomfort and pain in your jaw, clicking while you talk or chew, and swelling on the sides of your face can be caused by Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD). TMD can make talking and eating both painful and uncomfortable. Our team understands how TMD can make your day a challenge. We’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for managing TMD discomfort, but also encourage you to schedule a visit to see us for a full evaluation. 

Finding Relief at Home 

If your jaw is swollen, try applying a cold compress to your face. We recommend holding the compress in place for about 10 minutes. If you are able, try a few gentle jaw stretches. After the cold compress, apply warm, moist heat to the same area. You can keep this warm compress in place for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.  

If your discomfort is particularly noticeable, try over-the-counter pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or ibuprofen. If you find yourself taking pain relieving medications daily, please contact us immediately. 

The “Don’ts” of TMD 

Applying excess pressure to your jaw can make your TMD discomfort worse. Don’t use your hand as a rest for your chin, as doing so increases the amount of pressure and strain placed on your jaw. If you talk on the phone frequently, avoid holding the phone on your shoulder while bending your neck to keep it in place.  

Clenching your jaw and keeping your teeth tightly closed can also lead to a build-up of pressure in the jaw. During the day, try to keep your teeth from touching. By create a little space between your teeth, you will be relieving pressure from your jaw. 

Contact Us 

Our team is here to help you. Schedule a consultation with our dentist to learn more about the solutions available for people just like you dealing with TMD discomfort. We will provide a thorough examination to determine the best course of treatment for your TMD.  

Relief may be closer than you think. Contact our dental team to learn more today.

Family First Dental

Should You Brush Right After Eating? | Best Family Dental

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Enamel is the guardian of your teeth and the hardest material in the body. It’s the first defense against harmful bacteria which may lead to tooth decay. When you eat certain foods, it creates bacteria which attack your tooth enamel. Carbohydrates and sugary foods are examples of these foods. Brushing directly after eating can be harmful to your enamel. 

Why this is a problem 

When eating or drinking, the pH balance in your mouth changes. After each bite of acidic food, the pH balance moves towards a level which causes demineralization. The new acidity softens the enamel which can cause bacteria to get into the teeth. Brushing right after you eat may damage your enamel. This is important because enamel protects your teeth from damage.   

Steps you can take to protect your enamel: 

If you’ve had anything acidic, don’t brush for at least 30 minutes.  

Fruits with citric acid are one example. If you are planning ingesting acidic foods or drinks, you can brush beforehand. 

A glass of water will help remove the acid. Follow this by chewing sugarless gum. These steps help create saliva which will help bring back the necessary pH balance needed for a healthy smile. 

Try to avoid soda as prolonged phosphoric acid can cause permanent damage. 

Brushing your teeth twice a day is an important habit for optimal oral health.  

Have you ever been told you should brush your teeth right after eating? While this may sound like the right habit to adapt, this practice could be detrimental to the health of your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating may be a better option to keep enamel strong. Visit our office for an exam and we can give you for tips for healthy, strong teeth. Call our office today.  

Family First Dental

Self-Care: A Woman’s Priority | Dentist Near Me

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When you travel by plane, your flight attendant will advise that in the rare case of an emergency, you must first put on your air mask before attempting to help those around you. When this is not followed, the results can be catastrophic, both for you and for those you might otherwise have been in a position to assist. While this is crucial information for all, many women particularly require this gentle reminder to prioritize their own needs above those of others.  

All too often, we meet women who work tirelessly to fulfill the needs of their families. We see working moms, both at home and in office, who prioritize the health and wellness of their children, spouse and even friends before their own.  

We get it: there’s joy and fulfillment in taking care of others. However, it may be time to “put on your oxygen mask” and consider whether you are remembering to care for yourself. Your health, both mental and physical, should be one of your top priorities. This will allow you to have the energy and strength you need to assist with the needs of those around you.  

Smile restoration can take years off your appearance, while adding years to your life by improving your health. If you’re looking for a way to jump start your new self-care inclusive way of living, contact us for a cosmetic consultation. Your friends and family will love to see you with a vibrant, beautiful, healthy smile. You deserve it.  

Family First Dental

How Candy Threatens Your Child’s Smile | Dentist Near Me

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How often does your child eat candy? According to a study conducted by the USDA Economic Research Service, children under 12 consume an average of 49 pounds of sugar in one year. While candy is not the sole source of sugar in a child’s diet, the impacts of sugary candy treats are particularly harmful to teeth. Here’s what you need to know about candy and how it might be damaging your child’s smile. 

The Impact of Sugar on Teeth 

The real culprit in candy is the high sugar content. Certain types of bacteria that are present in your mouth can feed on sugar. These destructive bacteria then create acid that wears away tooth enamel. When enamel is weakened, your risk of developing decay increases. Your mouth is effective at neutralizing acids and aiding minerals that strengthen enamel if the amount of sugars and acids is not excessive. Your mouth can only do so much, which makes it essential to limit your sugar intake and maintain a regular and thorough oral hygiene routine. 

Watch Out for Sticky, Sugary Candies 

Not all candies are made equal. For a general rule of thumb, the sticker the candy, the worse it is for your teeth. Sticky candies leave sugary residue on your teeth long after you are done eating. This gives the bacteria in your mouth more time to start demineralizing enamel. Watch out for sticky candies like gum drops and taffy.  

Suckers, lollipops, and hard sucking candies are troublesome because they are in your mouth for an extended period of time. Like sticky candies, this allows for more time for harmful bacteria to get to work by weakening your teeth. You can also chip or crack a tooth if you bite too hard. 

Other problematic candies include those that are gummy and coated in sugar. Think of gummy worms or another sour covered, chewy critter. Not only are they high in sugar content, but they also typically contain harmful acids that contribute to a loss of enamel. 

Steps for Preventing Decay 

You can help your child by limiting their candy and sugar intake. In some instances, this can be tricky and even out of your control when your child is at school or a friend’s house. What you can do is instill good oral hygiene habits in your child. Make sure they are brushing for two minutes twice each day. You can make brushing fun. Sing a song together for the two minutes, and allow them to choose a fun toothbrush and toothpaste flavor.  

Candy is a fun treat. You don’t have to take it away from your child altogether, but limit their exposure to such treats and educate them about the impacts candy can have on their teeth. When left untreated, decay can spread leading to pain and infection. Maintaining a schedule of regular visits to our office is essential. More than just a cleaning, we will provide a thorough examination to check for decay.  

If you haven’t already scheduled your child’s next appointment, please contact our office.

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Are You at Risk for Hairy Tongue? | Best Family Dentist

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You may not realize it, but you could be at risk of developing an unsightly medical condition known as hairy tongue. While it is harmless in most cases, hairy tongue is still an unpleasant ailment. The causes are not always completely known, but practicing good oral hygiene at home and visiting our dental office for cleanings can help prevent the issue. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is hairy tongue? 

With hairy tongue, your tongue may look like its covered in fuzz or hair, but this condition is actually caused by an accumulation of bacteria. The surface of your tongue is covered in small, rough papillae which gives it its rough texture. Overtime, these papillae grow, shed, and are replaced. Occasionally, the older papillae may fail to shed properly. This causes a buildup on the tongue and can cause a hair-like appearance. 

Who is at risk of hairy tongue? 

According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, as much as 13% of the population may have hairy tongue. Anyone can develop the condition, but certain risk factors such as age and tobacco use increase your chances. 

What causes hairy tongue? 

While the exact causes of hairy tongue are not known, there are a variety of factors that can put you at a higher risk of developing the condition. Poor oral hygiene and a diet of soft foods can put you at an increased risk, as a lack of stimulation on the tongue can prevent the shedding of older papillae. Excessive consumption of certain substances, including tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and tea have been shown to contribute to this condition. Dehydration and dry mouth can slow down the tongue’s natural refresh cycle of replacing papillae. 

The best defense against hairy tongue is a regular at-home oral hygiene routine that includes twice daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Visiting our practice at least twice a year for cleanings can also give us an opportunity to regularly examine your mouth and catch any early signs of hairy tongue.  If you’re past due for your regular cleaning or are concerned that you might be developing hairy tongue, don’t hesitate to contact our practice for an appointment today.

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Our Dental News

Chew on This: Foods for Healthy Teeth | Dentist Near Me

When you find yourself short on time for brushing or flossing, incorporating certain foods into your diet can still promote oral health and keep your mouth feeling fresh. Family 1st Dental recommends these convenient and tooth-friendly options for maintaining a […]

Learn More

Unexpected Ways to Use Toothpaste | Family 1st Dental

Discover the versatile uses of toothpaste beyond just cleaning your teeth with these handy tips from Family 1st Dental. While toothpaste is renowned for keeping our smiles bright, its ingredients can also provide relief for common ailments, tackle stubborn stains, […]

Learn More

The Power of Smiling: Why It’s Good for Your Health and Well-being | Family First Dental

At Family 1st Dental, we understand the profound impact a smile can have on your health and happiness. Beyond being a universal expression of joy, smiling offers numerous benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Let’s delve into the reasons why […]

Learn More