Spirit Dental Resources

Allergy season brings with it sinus problems, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and other symptoms that make you feel miserable. But did you know that allergies could affect your teeth? Dry Mouth: More Than Just Uncomfortable If you suffer from allergies, your mouth might become dry because you’re forced to breathe through your mouth instead of your nose. On top of that, the antihistamines that you take to combat your symptoms could cause dry mouth, or  xerostomia. Sure, dry mouth is uncomfortable and annoying, and your discomfort is probably what you’re focused on most. But the truth is that having a dry mouth could also boost your odds of developing bad breath, gum disease, and, yes, cavities. After all, without adequate amounts of saliva helping to wash bacteria off your teeth and gums, the bacteria will be able to thrive and multiply. Toothache: It Might Not Be a Cavity When your body is allergic to dust and pollen, you’re also likely to develop mucus in your sinuses, resulting in pain in your face. The maxillary sinuses (your largest sinuses) are found above the mouth, so when pressure builds, it also puts pressure on the upper molars. As a result, you might start feeling sensitivities to cold or hot foods and drinks, or you might notice the pain as you shift into different positions, such as standing up or lying down. If antihistamines bring relief, the tooth pain likely isn’t caused by decay, and your allergies are probably to blame. Malocclusion: A Potential Problem in Children Allergies could also adversely affect the teeth of young children. Kids who have chronic nasal congestion may be more susceptible to malocclusion, or misaligned teeth. Because they’re forced to breathe through their mouths, children dealing with allergies could develop an abnormally shaped palate, and that could cause the teeth to grow in crooked, requiring orthodontics to correct the problem. You Can Keep Allergies from Affecting Your Oral Health! There are a few easy ways to tackle allergy symptoms before they can create more problems: Gargling with salt water could help remove mucus from the sinuses, relieving pressure. Plus, it can reduce the number of bacteria in the throat and mouth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help ensure your mouth remains properly hydrated, especially if you’re dealing with dry mouth. When your body is hydrated, it will also be better equipped to remove excess mucus naturally. Talking to your doctor about your allergy symptoms is recommended, as he or she can prescribe the appropriate medications to give you much-needed relief. Allergies or Tooth Problems? Get Answers from Your Dentist If you are suffering from allergies and oral symptoms, see your dentist for a checkup. He or she will be able to determine if your symptoms are actually caused by allergies or if there are dental problems that need to be treated. Now that you know how allergies can affect the health of your mouth, you can take steps towards not only getting relief from your symptoms but also keeping your mouth happy even during the worst allergy seasons.   Sources: https://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/seasonal-allergies.html http://godental365.com/ https://alliancedentistrync.com/the-link-between-common-dental-problems-and-allergies/ https://www.rotemdentalcare.com/blog/how-allergies-affect-teeth/

Cavities: the word strikes fear in all who hear it. Put simply, when your teeth are frequently exposed to acid, sugars, starches, and bacteria, they can become permanently damaged with cavities. These tiny holes could also be the result of improper oral hygiene, and they can only be treated by your dentist. Left untreated, the holes will grow bigger and begin decaying deeper layers of your teeth, causing more problems, like a toothache, infection, and tooth loss.The best way to avoid having to go through the pain associated with cavities—and the uncomfortable root canals, fillings, crowns, and extractions that come along with them—is to prevent them. That’s why we’ve compiled a four easy tips that you can follow in your daily life to keep your teeth cavity-free.1. Brush more often than twice a dayBrushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day is a good place to start, but experts also recommend brushing after every meal, particularly when you have indulged in something starchy or sugary.Sweets increase your risk of plaque buildup, and plaque loves a carb-rich environment. If you snack throughout the day or you know that you’re exposing your teeth to a lot of starches and sugars, consider packing a travel toothbrush so you can brush on the go and at work.Not keen on the idea of carrying a toothbrush and toothpaste everywhere you go? Then at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after eating. Other options include rinsing with mouthwash or chewing sugar-free gum. So simple, right?2. Give your toothbrush an upgradeYour toothbrush is an important tool in your arsenal to keep your teeth healthy and clean, so don’t skimp and buy a dollar-store option. Choose one that has a diamond-shaped head and triple-action bristles. A higher-quality toothbrush will do a much better job when it comes to cleaning all of the nooks and crannies that can be difficult to reach and can harbor bacteria.An electric toothbrush is a great choice for those who want to rest assured that they’re brushing correctly. These rechargeable toothbrushes often come with helpful features, such as timers to let you know when you’ve brushed enough, as well as various brush heads and tongue cleaners to get the job done right. Hello, clean teeth and fresh breath!3. Your diet, your dental healthWhat you eat, and how often you eat, will affect more than just your waistline. If you find yourself frequently snacking throughout the day, you could be making yourself more prone to cavities as a result of the acids left behind.You can keep yourself energized throughout the day without compromising your oral health. For example, you could reduce your risk of cavities by ditching sugary drinks and hydrating with water instead. And rather than having candy, chips, and other unhealthy snacks, you can fuel your body with veggies and fruits that have a fibrous texture and can help keep your teeth clean.4. See your dentist RegularlyAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 20% of adults in the U.S. have cavities that have been left untreated. These could worsen over time, but seeing your dentist regularly could catch cavities in their early stages when they require less intense treatment.Make use of your dental insurance by seeing your dentist at least once a year and having your teeth cleaned professionally. Your dentist can take x-rays, thoroughly examine your mouth, and provide options like fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and antibacterial treatments designed to fight cavities. Plus, you can receive valuable advice about home care, including how to brush and floss properly.With the right dental plan, you won’t have to worry about waiting periods, especially when you’re dealing with cavities when time is of the essence. But what you do in your everyday life also has a big impact on how healthy your teeth will be, so take care of your mouth with a consistent oral hygiene routine and a healthy diet.Sources:https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decayhttps://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cavities/what-causes-cavitites-formation-and-preventionhttps://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/dental.htm?_ga=1.236214209.1710427178.1456827074

For many new parents, the topic of baby teeth causes a host of questions. When will your baby’s teeth start to peek through the gum line? What should you expect when your child starts teething? And what are some of the things that you should know to keep your baby’s mouth healthy? Baby’s Very First Teeth – An Exciting Milestone! In total, your child has 20 teeth waiting beneath the gum line. These teeth will typically start making their appearance when your baby is anywhere from 6 months old to a year old. The first teeth to erupt will likely be the lower front teeth, and it will take until your child is about three years old before his or her full set of chompers will be in. Teething Do’s and Don’ts As your little one’s teeth start to emerge, he or she might become irritable and fussy. Your baby might start showing signs of discomfort, particularly in the area of the gums where a tooth is pushing through, and you might even notice that the gums become tender and swollen. Ouch! As a result, your baby might also sleep less, drool more, and have a reduced appetite.   It’s important to note that symptoms like fever, rashes, and diarrhea aren’t caused by normal teething, so if your child experiences these symptoms, contact your pediatrician. To soothe teething pain, you can massage your baby’s gums using your clean fingers, give him or her some acetaminophen (according to your pediatrician’s instructions), or offer your child something cold. You can also give your baby a clean washcloth that is wet or frozen, or you can purchase solid teething rings. It’s best to steer clear of the following teething remedies, which could end up doing more harm than good: Gels that contain benzocaine Teething tablets that contain belladonna Amber teething necklaces Homeopathic teething tablets or gels If you can’t get your baby’s discomfort under control, it’s best to contact your pediatrician. It Isn’t Too Early to See the Dentist! With the right dental plan for kids, you can schedule your baby’s first trip to the dentist after the first tooth erupts and before his or her first birthday. Those baby teeth can develop cavities, so regular checkups will keep track of your child’s oral health and catch problems as early on as possible. In addition to cleaning your baby’s teeth and gums with a soft toothbrush or washcloth, you can also examine the teeth at home, making sure they don’t have any stains or spots that would warrant a visit to the dentist. Ultimately, the combination of an at-home oral hygiene routine and regular dental exams will help ensure your baby’s teeth grow in beautifully and remain strong until they’re replaced by adult teeth. Sources: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/kids-quick-tips https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Babys-First-Tooth-Facts-Parents-Should-Know.aspx https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/healthy-mouth-your-baby https://duffielddentistry.com/general-dentistry/what-you-should-know-about-your-babys-first-teeth/

Updated June 2021 A dental implant can be a great option when you need to replace a missing tooth. But when are dental implants recommended most? What situations would warrant the use of implants over other options that can restore your smile?  Of course, every patient is unique, and dental implants aren’t appropriate for everyone. Your dentist will help you decide if an implant is the right way to go. But, to give you an idea of when dental implants are needed, we’ve compiled the information below.   When One or More Teeth Are Severely Damaged or Missing Let’s say that one of your teeth is extremely damaged because of an accident, infection, gum disease, or decay. In the case of a tooth that is beyond repair, your dentist may recommend an extraction. Then, to replace the missing tooth, you might consider an implant.  Along the same lines, if a tooth has already been lost because of severe gum disease or an accident, your dentist might give you the option of replacing it with an implant.  The great thing about dental implants is they look and function just like real teeth, and they’re long-lasting and durable. They blend in with the rest of your pearly whites, and you can take care of them by brushing and flossing like you normally do. Plus, when you have all of your chompers, you can avoid problems with speaking and chewing that might arise from having gaps in your teeth.  When Dentures and Bridges Aren’t Right for You  These days, you have multiple options when it comes to restoring your smile. So if you don’t like dentures or bridges, or they just aren’t the right solution for any reason, dental implants might come to the rescue.  Want to avoid the potential hassle of ill-fitting dentures or bridges? Are you worried about damaging your bridge, or breaking or losing your dentures? And are you concerned about how a dental appliance might impact your other teeth?  As mentioned above, unlike dentures that you take out of your mouth to clean, implants can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth. They don’t come out of your mouth because they’re implanted in your jaw.   Also, with a bridge, you need to make sure food doesn’t get stuck underneath it, and you might need to restrict yourself from eating certain foods that could damage the bridge. Dental implants may give you more freedom to eat the foods you love without worrying so much about the effects.  Your Dentist Will Check That You’re Healthy Enough for Implants Dental implants aren’t for everyone, so your dentist will evaluate your overall health and your oral health to figure out if it would be safe to proceed. For example, if your jaw and gums aren’t healthy and strong enough for an implant, you might need treatments before getting the implant, or you might need to turn to other options.  Tip: Be sure to tell your dentist if you’ve been diagnosed with a medical condition and if you smoke, as these may play a role in whether or not you’re a candidate for implants.  Be Aware of the Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth Replacing missing teeth is about much more than just restoring the beauty of your smile. When you don’t have all of your teeth, you may not be able to chew like you used to, and that means you might not be able to eat certain foods. Plus, missing teeth can cause nearby teeth to shift out of position, and your jaw may also be affected as well, thus changing your appearance. As you can see, there are so many solid reasons to seriously consider implants!    If you’re thinking about dental implants, your dentist can discuss the pros and cons with you, as well as go over the process of getting them. And, if you’re concerned about affording expensive implants, rest assured that the right dental insurance can be there to help.  Sources: https://www.dentistryiq.com/dentistry/implantology/article/14180546/5-signs-your-patient-might-need-dental-implants https://www.implantdentistirvine.com/blog/when-are-dental-implants-necessary https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants https://vipcaredental.com/blog/common-dental-bridge-problems-you-should-not-overlook/

Did you know that experts recommend cleaning your baby’s mouth even before his or her teeth begin to emerge? It’s the first step in oral care for your infant, and it will help ensure an easier transition to brushing when your child is old enough. If you’re a new parent, don’t worry, as we’ve compiled a list of tips on oral care for babies that will help guide you as your child grows. Start Early… Really Early Oral care for your baby doesn’t start when his or her teeth grow in; instead, you can start wiping his or her gums before the teeth even begin to show signs of making their first appearance. All you have to do is take a soft washcloth or some gauze and wet it during your baby’s bath, before bed, and after feedings (no toothpaste necessary). By wrapping the washcloth or gauze around your finger, you can gently rub it over your child’s gums to remove bacteria that may harm the teeth as they start coming in. Those First Signs of Teeth When your baby’s teeth have erupted, you can graduate to a baby toothbrush with soft bristles, a wide handle, and a small head. You can start gently and lightly brushing those tiny teeth twice daily, in the morning and before bed. At first, you can just use a wet toothbrush. At around age 2, you can use a tiny bit of toothpaste that’s fluoride-free and designed for infants and toddlers. Think the size of a grain of rice—super tiny amount. Your baby should learn how to avoid swallowing the toothpaste. Then ask your dentist when you should switch to a fluoride formula.   If the teeth are spaced far apart, you won’t need to worry about flossing just yet. Flossing will be necessary, though, once the teeth are side by side.   Easy Strategies to Keep Baby’s Mouth Clean In addition to brushing, there are other easy steps you can take daily to help maintain the health of your baby’s teeth and gums: Look for minor pitting or discoloration in your baby’s teeth. These are the first symptoms of cavities, which are commonly caused by leaving your child with a bottle of juice or milk for longer than is necessary for feeding. Once your baby is eating solid foods, let him or her drink water during and after meals, as that will help rinse the mouth clean. Foods that include dried fruit, fresh fruit, juice, peanut butter and jelly, pasta, pretzels, crackers, and bread can contribute to the development of cavities. Serving them at mealtime instead of as a snack, and giving your child water to drink, will help remove food particles from the mouth. Time to Meet the Dentist! Your baby should meet the dentist for the first time by his or her first birthday. Another rule you can follow is to take your baby to the dentist within six months of the first tooth emerging. Whichever happens first is the recommended route to take. Having the right dental plan will ensure your child’s care will be covered and his or her teeth and gums can remain healthy and strong. Sources: https://www.babycenter.com/health/teething-and-tooth-care/how-to-care-for-your-babys-gums-and-emerging-teeth_126 https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/caring-babies-teeth#1 https://www.parenting.com/baby/ https://www.parents.com/baby/health/baby-teeth/baby-tooth-care-tips1/?slide=26867 https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/babys-first-teeth-should-you-use-toothpaste https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/kids-oral-care/brushing-babys-teeth-how-to-get-started https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/kids-oral-care

Ahh! Nothing beats a warm cup of coffee. It’s energizing and likely an integral part of your routine to get ready for the day. You might even reach for a second cup when you’re feeling that afternoon slump. But how is all of that coffee affecting your dental health, and what can you do to reduce its negative effects on your pearly whites? Coffee Stains More Than Your Clothes There are microscopic ridges and pits within the enamel of every tooth, and when you eat and drink, they can hold onto particles. That means that a dark drink like coffee could actually embed itself into your enamel, causing unsightly yellowing of the teeth. The top way to prevent those stains is by avoiding coffee, but we know that the need for a caffeine fix is strong, so you probably won’t be giving up your cup of joe just because your teeth might be yellowed by it. Instead, you can incorporate the following strategies into your coffee drinking routine: Don’t sip your coffee throughout the day. Enjoy it at certain times, such as with breakfast and during an afternoon break. When you’re finished, rinse your mouth with water and/or brush your teeth. Avoid getting coffee directly on your teeth by drinking it through a straw. Eat some raw veggies and fruits throughout the day. They have natural fiber that can help keep your teeth sparkling. Follow a dental hygiene routine at home that involves brushing at least twice a day, and switch to a whitening toothpaste so you can remove stains and maintain a brilliant smile. Try an over-the-counter teeth whitening product, or talk to your dentist about professional whitening options. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings. Beware of Bad Breath In addition to staining your teeth, coffee might even lead to the development of bad breath. This is because the beverage sticks to your tongue. Yuck! Thankfully, you can prevent offensive coffee breath by brushing your teeth and using a tongue scraper after you’re done drinking. To help prevent bad breath, you can also try eating some food before you drink your coffee. Coffee Can Dry Out Your Mouth It might sound counterintuitive because coffee is a drink, after all, but it could have drying effects on your mouth by inhibiting saliva production. Without enough saliva, it becomes harder for your body to keep your mouth clean and balanced naturally. Coffee Can Weaken Your Teeth More bad news: coffee is an acidic beverage. This means that it could actually help bacteria within your mouth make acids that lead to enamel erosion. Over time, your teeth might become brittle and thin. And when teeth are weakened, they become more susceptible to a host of other problems, including sensitivity, cavities, and decay. Plus, if you are adding a lot of sugar and cream to your coffee, you could be doing even more harm to your chompers.   But, Wait, There’s Good News! Coffee lovers, rejoice! When it comes to drinking java, it isn’t all doom and gloom for your dental health after all. Coffee contains polyphenols that could help keep your teeth healthy and strong by breaking down the bacteria that lead to plaque. Varieties that are high in caffeine will be highest in polyphenols. But you do need to drink the coffee black, without any sweeteners, milk, or creamers that would offset any of the benefits provided by the polyphenols. So if you enjoy a strong cup, you’re in luck.    Everything in Moderation Is the Key To prevent the damage that coffee could potentially cause to your teeth, enjoy it in moderation. Experts recommend that you limit your intake to just two cups per day. Also, brush and floss your teeth daily and see your dentist for cleanings to remove stains. With a Spirit dental plan, you can rest assured that your smile will always be white and bright, regardless of how much you love coffee, because you’ll gain access to three teeth cleanings per year. So go ahead and indulge, whether you need a caffeine fix or you enjoy coffee as part of a relaxing ritual.