Oral Hygiene Archives - Upper Arlington

5 Tips for A Glowing Smile

Posted on June 16, 2017June 12, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

Your smile is a very important component of your appearance. Having healthy teeth can raise your self-esteem. To maintain your pearly whites, it is essential to follow a solid dental hygiene routine. Here are five tips that will keep your smile glowing.

1. Replace your Toothbrush Regularly. Your toothbrush is an essential part of your oral care routine and it is important to replace it regularly. Over time, bacteria accumulates. Also, its bristles become worn and frayed. It is advised to buy a new one every three or four months.

2. Remember Your Tongue. Although your tongue does not show when you smile, it is important to take care of it. Your tongue will fill with bacteria that can cause bad breath and other oral health concerns. It is wise to brush both your teeth and tongue daily.

3. Fluoride is Important. To prevent cavities, fluoride is helpful. It is a mineral that keeps tooth enamel strong so it can resist acid that leads to decay. The easiest ways to receive adequate fluoride is by brushing with a toothpaste that contains fluoride and to drink water that contains the mineral. Regular tap water usually has the right amount of fluoride for a healthy mouth.

4. Avoid Sugary Snacks. Most people know that eating and drinking foods with tons of sugar is bad for their health. It is also bad for their smiles. When you snack throughout the day, it is best to choose healthier options and to brush as frequently as possible, so food particles are completely removed from your teeth. As sugary foods sit, plaque develops. Plaque contains bacteria that can cause decay.

5. Visit Your Dentist. It is always smart to schedule yearly appointments with your dentist. This professional will check your mouth so that small problems are detected before larger ones develop.

Dr. Dana Walters specializes in cosmetic dentistry and is trusted in smile makeovers, giving his patients a glowing appearance. For an appointment, contact our office today.

Aging and Dental Health (Geriatrics)

Posted on June 2, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

As you age, there are many experiences you can leave in the past. Regular visits to the dentist is not one of them. Geriatrics health includes professional oral care.

Special Problems For Seniors

Dry mouth is a common problem for seniors. While it can develop naturally, it can be worse if you take certain medications. The discomfort and bad breath are bothersome, but dry mouth can also lead to dental issues. You may have old dental work that needs to be repaired or replaced. One example is a filling. A routine visit is the time to bring these issues to your dentist’s attention.

Your Natural Teeth

If you have retained your natural teeth, home dental care and visits to the dentist can prevent tooth loss and gum disease. If you are missing a tooth, an implant can keep your other teeth healthy and improve your appearance.

Cosmetic dentistry can improve your teeth, too. Aging, diet, and oral hygiene practices can cause teeth to become dull, stained, or discolored. When you want the brightest smile, you can ask your dentist about teeth whitening.

If You Wear Dentures

Denture-wearers need to visit the dentist, too. Even if your dentures are in perfect condition, they may need to be replaced. They may not fit as well as they did in the past, and may not be as effective. Loose dentures can be uncomfortable, and eating can be difficult. A simple exam can help your dentist know if you need new dentures.

Whether you have a full set of natural teeth, dental work, or dentures, geriatrics health includes home oral care and visiting the dentist on a regular basis. You can decrease your risk of serious oral health problems, and have better general health during your older years. You do not have to leave oral health behind as you age.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): What Causes It?

Posted on May 26, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

It is not always possible to determine the cause of bruxism, but there are some common causes to consider if you are experiencing this issue.

Teeth Grinding and Stress

If you are experiencing stress, it can show when you grind your teeth during sleep. Your fears, worries, or anxiety can lead to teeth grinding.

Bruxism and Personality

Some people are naturally competitive, aggressive, or angry. Others may have suppressed frustration. These issues can lead to teeth grinding.

Teeth Grinding and Medical Problems

Some medical problems can increase bruxism. It can be a side effect of Parkinson’s disease or Huntington’s disease. Individuals who have earaches, and young children who are teething, can be prone to grinding their teeth. Grinding can also be a side effect of some medications.

Bruxism and Dental Health

A person who has missing or crooked teeth, or a misaligned bite, is more likely to grind his teeth during sleep than a person with ideal dental health.

Bruxism is harmful to dental health, too. Consistent grinding can wear down tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay. If grinding is extreme, it can even cause teeth to become loose.

What To Do About Teeth Grinding

Someone in your family has informed you that you grind your teeth, or you have noticed some of the symptoms. There are many symptoms, including a sore jaw, dull headaches, earaches, and facial pain. If you know or think you are grinding your teeth at night, consult with your dentist.

In most cases, the simplest solution is a mouth guard. All you need to do is insert this comfortable device before you go to bed at night. You can have a full night of restful sleep, and protect your teeth at the same time. It is an easy way to prevent the problems that come from teeth grinding.

How Dental Sealants Work

Posted on May 19, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

If you have heard of dental sealants, you may have a number of questions. Sealants can be useful, especially for children. In some cases, dentists advise sealants for adults, too.

What Are Dental Sealants?

A dental sealant is a liquid. It is applied directly to the top of clean, dry teeth. The process is similar to applying nail polish. It hardens quickly after it is applied. It forms a protective shield on the teeth, and the person who has the sealant will not notice it is there.

The purpose of dental sealants is to protect tooth enamel and teeth from bacteria. As the protective shield prevents bacteria from coming in contact with the teeth, the teeth are less likely to develop cavities and tooth decay.

Dental sealants do not require special care. The sealant can last, and remain effective, for many years.

Who Needs Dental Sealants?

Children are the main focus of dental sealants. Although a dentist may advise sealants for children with baby teeth, sealants are usually applied after children have their permanent teeth. They can be an extra precaution to guard your child against tooth decay.

However, sealants are not only for children. Others who have rough or pitted teeth can benefit, too. The sealant can prevent bacteria, food particles, and other substances from coming in contact with the teeth. Sealants can also be helpful for individuals who have not had ideal oral health habits, and are concerned about developing cavities.

If you have children, or are concerned about your own oral health, talk to your dentist about dental sealants during your next visit. It is a simple, painless procedure that only takes minutes in the dentist’s office. It is an option to consider when you want to avoid tooth decay and enjoy the benefits of dental health.

The Link Between Diet and Oral Health

Posted on May 12, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

What you eat affects more than your weight. It also has an influence on your mouth. In fact, the American Dental Association works with public health leaders to recommend a diet that will preserve both your bodily and overall health. It is important to recognize the best foods to eat.

Mouth-Friendly Foods and Beverages:

If you want a healthy smile, the best foods to add to your diet are cheeses, meat, chicken, nuts, and milk. Since these items contain calcium, they protect your teeth and help remineralize the enamel. Vegetables high in calcium include spinach and broccoli as well.

Crunchy fruits are smart choices to add to your diet. Apples and pears are rich in water, which means that they will stimulate saliva production. This helps to wash away foods, buffer acids, and protect against decay. It is wise to avoid snacks and foods like potato chips, bananas, raisins, and breads. These contain high levels of sugar that stick on teeth and fuel bacteria growth.

With every meal, you should drink water. It is best to avoid sugary and acidic drinks, including soda. This beverage can erode your enamel. Drinking coffee, tea, and wine may stain your teeth as well.

What Sweets to Choose:

When you need a touch of sweetness, look beyond sugar. Sugar substitutes line grocery store shelves and provide a wonderful taste without feeding bacteria in your mouth. Also, chewing sugarless gum can benefit your teeth. Besides helping to dislodge food from crevices, it encourages saliva production.

There is a strong link between what you eat and your oral health. The above tips should help preserve your beautiful smile. For more information, consult with your dentist. Dr. Dana Walters is ready to help you plan the most tooth-friendly snacks and meals so that your oral health is maximized.

Tips For Properly Flossing

Posted on May 5, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

Besides brushing, flossing must be part of your everyday dental care routine. However, it is only effective at keeping your mouth healthy if it is done correctly. It is essential to learn some essential flossing tips so that your teeth and gums remain as healthy as possible.

The Correct Way to Floss:

The American Dental Association recommends flossing after meals and at bedtime. Using the correct technique is vital to remove trapped food and debris from the mouth. When plaque is not allowed to build, tooth decay and gum disease can be prevented. Here is the best method for flossing.

Begin with approximately 18 inch of dental floss. It should be wound around your middle fingers.
As the floss is held tight, it should be slid in between each tooth. It is imperative to use a gentle touch so that gums are not injured.
To remove all of the debris, the floss should be wrapped around the bottom of every tooth and below the gumline.
As you progress, use clean parts of the floss.

Different Types of Floss:

Choosing floss is like selecting a toothbrush. It is an important tool in your oral care routine. Nylon is the most common material for dental floss. It comes waxed or unwaxed. Also, it may be purchased in a number of flavors. If your teeth are very close together, regular floss may shred and break. In this case, simple filament floss is a smart alternative that will be easier to slide into these types of spaces.

If you are interested in learning how to properly floss your teeth or other ways to keep your mouth healthy, consult with the dental experts at the office of Dr. Dana Walters. The entire staff is willing to help you care for your teeth and ensure a beautiful smile.

Mouthguards For Spring Sports

Posted on April 28, 2017May 2, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

When the spring season approaches, it is time to hit the field for baseball, lacrosse, or another outdoor activity. It is essential to have the correct equipment, including mouthguards. Since there are different mouthguards to consider, it is wise to learn more and to choose the best one.

Importance of Wearing Mouthguards

Certain spring sports are quite physical or involve flying objects that can hurt the face and cause tremendous damage to teeth, gums, or the jaw. The best way to prevent these types of injuries is to make sure that your child wears a mouthguard. This item will cushion a hit to the face and lower the risks of suffering from broken teeth or worse trauma.

Various Types of Mouthguards for Spring Sports

The National Foundation of State High School Associations has explained that numerous studies conducted by the American Dental Association show the importance of wearing mouthguards during sporting activities. They prove that these devices drastically lower injuries that occur to the mouth. Here is a look at the various options.

Boil and Bite. This device is comfortable in the mouth. It is softened in hot water and is placed in the mouth. Thanks to the warm temperatures, it will mold to fit your child’s teeth.
Stock Mouthguard. The least expensive and most common type of mouthguard is a stock piece that is found on most store shelves. It is usually available in different sizes. It is worn during sporting events so that teeth are protected.
Custom-Fit. When you want the best fit in a mouthguard, it is best to head to your dentist’s office for a custom-fit device. It is especially smart if your child wears braces. Since it is specifically made to contour to all parts of your child’s mouth, it will offer the best protection.

If your children are playing spring sports, it is vital to obtain mouthguards that will protect their teeth. For more information, contact the office of Dr. Dana Walters. He will recommend the best piece of equipment so that your children’s smiles are preserved.

Dental Care and Self-Confidence

Posted on March 31, 2017April 4, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

Whenever you brush and floss, choose healthy foods, and have your teeth cleaned at the dentist’s office, you are taking steps toward dental health and self-confidence. There is more you can do to improve your teeth, and be confident in your appearance.

Dental Care Tips: Cosmetic Dentistry

You have more self-confidence when your teeth look their best. There are numerous cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you reach this goal.

One example is obtaining dental implants. Although missing teeth can affect your oral health and your ability to eat, it also affects your appearance. A dental implant is a simple device that results in a nicer smile. Whether you need one implant or multiple implants, you can talk and smile with confidence. It will be easy and fun to smile when your smile is not spoiled by missing teeth.

Teeth whitening is a second example. Whether your teeth are no longer white and bright due to your diet, aging, or oral care habits, you do not need to live with the embarrassment of stained, dull teeth. Ask your dentist about professional teeth whitening, and your teeth will be attractive again.

Dental braces can be the ideal option for crooked teeth. Even if your teeth are not misaligned enough to affect your bite or your oral health, teeth that are not perfectly straight can affect the way you feel about yourself.

Cosmetic Dentistry Is For Everyone

These are only a few popular examples of cosmetic dentistry procedures that can improve your appearance and your self-confidence. You can accomplish much more at your next dental visit than a basic cleaning and exam.

Cosmetic dentistry is no longer considered a sign of vanity, or only for individuals in certain age groups. You can discuss procedures with your dentist, regardless of your gender or age. It will boost your confidence when you know you look your best.

How Improving Your Diet Can Improve Your Oral Health

Posted on March 24, 2017April 4, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

A healthy diet is important for many reasons. While you may not have associated your diet with dental care, there are a number of ways improving your diet can improve your oral health.
Nutrition For Oral Health:

Nutrition does not only affect your body, it affects your oral health as well. Your gums and teeth need a variety of vitamins and minerals every day. It is not enough to have a calcium-rich diet for strong, healthy teeth. As an example, Vitamin C is essential for healthy gums. When you choose a balanced diet packed with nutrition, you will have better oral health.

If you need to snack between meals, choose slices or sticks of raw, fresh vegetables. You can enjoy snacks that are good for you. Raw vegetables are fun to chew, and they are good for your oral health.
Avoiding Harmful Products:

There are foods and beverages you should limit, or not consume at all. Avoiding candy and other sweets is only the beginning. You will have healthier gums and teeth if you also avoid foods that stick to your teeth, and acidic products that harm tooth enamel.

You can make healthy choices for beverages, too. When you want excellent oral health, do not drink carbonated beverages. Between the sugar and the acidic effects, remove soda pop from your diet. As coffee is acidic, you should avoid drinking it whenever possible. Even fruit juice can be too acidic for your teeth.

Instead, enjoy a fresh, cold glass of milk. A second option is water. Water provides many health benefits, and will also keep your mouth fresh and clean.
Everything you eat and drink affects your teeth and gums. You can avoid products that are harmful, and make healthier choices. You can enjoy good food and oral health at the same time.

Tips To Keep Teeth and Gums Healthy

Posted on March 17, 2017March 20, 2017 by Dr. Dana Walters

You can smile with confidence when your teeth and gums are healthy. Some dental tips can help you achieve and maintain oral health.

Improve Your Diet. There are some products you should avoid for healthy gums and teeth. Some of the most common examples include sugary products, sticky foods, and acidic foods and beverages.

For healthy teeth and gums, fresh crunchy vegetables make excellent snacks. Make sure your diet contains plenty of calcium from dairy products and other calcium-rich foods.

Take Care of Your Dental Health. Visit your dentist at least twice each year for a thorough examination and professional cleaning. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience any dental emergency.

Never skip your home oral care routines. You should floss, brush, and use a good mouthwash at least twice each day.

More Dental Tips For Healthy Gums And Teeth:

If you participate in any sport or other physical activity, talk to your dentist about a mouth guard. A mouth guard can prevent serious injuries to your teeth and gums.

A mouth guard is also useful if you grind your teeth. Grinding can wear down tooth enamel, and can increase your risk of temporomandibular joint disorder.

Whether you use a mouth guard for sports or to prevent grinding, it is easy to use and comfortable to wear when you choose one that fits properly. You can enjoy your favorite sports, and have restful sleep every night, when you wear an appropriate mouth guard.

These dental tips can help you avoid many unnecessary problems. It will be easier for you to enjoy your life when you have healthy teeth and gums. You will be less likely to develop oral health problems, and you will always look your best. Every time you talk and smile, you can do so with complete confidence.