February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long national health observance was initiated by the American Dental Association (ADA). It is intended to bring together dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers, and many others. Establishing good oral habits at a young age is the first step to healthy teeth, the whole life through. Cavities Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases affecting children in...

Did you know that brushing alone only removes about 60% of the plaque on your teeth? The rest of the plaque is found BETWEEN your teeth. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It must be removed regularly, or it can cause gum inflammation, cavities, and bad breath.   Your toothbrush only cleans 3 of the 5 surfaces on your teeth, leaving 2 surfaces between the teeth ignored. Cleaning between the teeth, also...

It is recommended to brush in the morning and the evening before bed. It is also important to consider when we brush in relation to consumption of food and beverages.     Foods and beverages that are high in acids wear away the enamel that protects your teeth, a process known as tooth erosion. This can change the appearance of your teeth, make them more sensitive, and make them more susceptible to cavities.  Here are a couple more tips for protecting...

Are you someone who likes to make goals when the new year approaches? Do you take time to reflect? The purpose of creating goals is usually to improve your life and bring more fulfillment. Have you considered making goals related to a healthy smile? Your smile not only brings you confidence, but your teeth allow you to chew and speak properly. We often want to make a behavior change, like brushing longer or cleaning between our teeth more often, but...

Many people often experience holiday stress. Stress is a coping mechanism to everyday challenges, but when the stress response is continuous it can have a negative impact on overall health. You may feel your heart rate and breathing increase, as well as increased muscle tension. Stress can have physical and psychological consequences. Did you know it can also have an impact on your oral health? Stress and Oral Health When prolonged stress occurs, your immune system can become compromised. The...

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and affect a person’s social life. There are different causes that can be considered. In 80-90% of cases, bad breath originates form the oral cavity. Your mouth is an ideal location for bacterial growth, with the most common places being your tongue and your gums between your teeth. What causes bad breath? Cavities Gum disease Bacteria on the tongue Infections in the mouth Medications that cause dry mouth Disorders that cause dry mouth...

Brushing your teeth is essential for healthy teeth and gums. A good toothbrush is important to your daily oral health care routine. Dental plaque finds areas to hide in your mouth, for example, around crowded teeth or along the gumline. Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It must be removed regularly, or it can cause gum inflammation, cavities, and even bad breath. With so many different toothbrush options available, how do you...

You must maintain your dental implants with proper oral hygiene at home. Implants can develop disease, just like a natural tooth. Bacterial plaque is a sticky film that constantly forms on your teeth and implants. If you do not clean your implant(s) properly, the plaque builds up and can cause gum inflammation called peri-implant mucositis. Your gums may look red, swollen, feel sensitive or bleed easily. This can be reversed, but if plaque is not removed, the bone around the...