Missing Teeth: Dental Implants vs. Dentures

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are several options available, but two of the most common choices are dental implants and dentures. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. In this article, we will compare dental implants and dentures to help you make an informed decision about which solution is right for you.

Dental Implants:

Dental implants are a popular choice for individuals seeking a long-lasting, permanent solution to replacing missing teeth. They consist of three main components: the implant itself (a small titanium post), the abutment, and the crown. Here are some key advantages and considerations of dental implants:

  1. Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in both appearance and function. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural smile.
  2. Durability: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are incredibly durable and resistant to decay.
  3. Stability: Implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, providing stability and preventing issues like slipping or clicking when eating or speaking.
  4. Preservation of Jawbone: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure over time.
  5. Maintenance: Dental implants require regular oral hygiene practices, similar to caring for natural teeth. This includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
  6. Cost: Dental implants tend to be more expensive upfront compared to dentures. However, their longevity and natural appearance can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Dentures:

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace missing teeth and are supported by the surrounding oral tissues. There are two main types of dentures: complete (full) dentures, which replace all teeth, and partial dentures, which replace only a few missing teeth. Here are some considerations for dentures:

  1. Affordability: Dentures are generally more affordable than dental implants, making them a more budget-friendly option for many individuals.
  2. Non-Invasive: Unlike dental implants, dentures do not require surgical implantation. They are a non-invasive solution for tooth replacement.
  3. Adjustment Period: It may take some time to adjust to wearing dentures. Initially, you may experience discomfort or difficulty with speaking and eating.
  4. Maintenance: Dentures require daily cleaning and regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good condition. They should be removed at night for cleaning and to give the gums a rest.
  5. Appearance and Fit: While modern dentures look more natural than their predecessors, they may not provide the same level of aesthetics and stability as dental implants.
  6. Bone Resorption: Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone like dental implants do, which can lead to bone resorption over time, causing changes in facial appearance.

Which Option is Right for You?

Choosing between dental implants and dentures depends on several factors, including your oral health, budget, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

  • Oral Health: The condition of your gums and jawbone may influence your choice. Dental implants require sufficient bone density for successful placement.
  • Budget: Your budget is a significant factor. Dentures are generally more affordable upfront, while dental implants may have a higher initial cost but lower long-term maintenance expenses.
  • Longevity: If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution, dental implants may be the better choice, as they can last a lifetime with proper care.
  • Aesthetics: If having a natural-looking smile is crucial to you, dental implants offer the most realistic appearance and feel.
  • Convenience: Dentures are removable, which some people find more convenient for cleaning and maintenance.

In conclusion, the choice between dental implants and dentures is a personal one that depends on your unique circumstances and priorities. Consulting with your Chandler, AZ dentist or oral surgeon is essential to determine the best option for replacing missing teeth. Whether you choose dental implants or dentures, both solutions can restore your smile and improve your overall oral health.

5 Benefits of Teeth Whitening

teeth whitening before and after

Life tends to have a negative effect on your teeth. While pearly whites are the goal of many, simple habits and vices such as food choices, smoking, and even certain medications can dull or darken your teeth. Before you know it, those pearls can look more like citron. Fortunately, a brighter and whiter smile is easy to achieve through your Chandler cosmetic dentist. But what are the top benefits of professional teeth whitening

Teeth Whitening Improves Your Confidence

Those who smile at others often notice a chain reaction. Smiles tend to be contagious. In fact, most American adults find potential partners with dazzling smiles to be more approachable and datable. Employers also often gauge the trustworthiness of potential and current employees by their smiles. A whiter smile won’t guarantee you’ll meet the love of your life and score your dream job. But it’ll improve your confidence, and that’s a significant first step towards improving your life. 

Teeth Whitening Can Make You Look Younger 

Extreme emotions are almost addictive, and smiling goes hand-in-hand with happiness. So it’s no wonder most people enjoy being around those who smile more. Whiter teeth encourage more active and engaging smiling throughout life. Teeth whitening can make you look better and smile more. Smiling itself can also make you look younger. Activating the facial muscles can help tone the face and reduce wrinkles. And for those with “too many wrinkles” to hide, continually looking happier eventually leads to feeling and acting happier, which translates to being happier. At that point, no one’s going to notice your wrinkles anyway. 

Professional Teeth Whitening Is Customizable 

Store-bought kits are convenient, but the one-size-fits-all whitening options get old fast. If you want specific or obvious results, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. Your Chandler cosmetic dentist has the experience needed to provide the shading options you want within an hour or so. And unlike box kits that remove surface stains, your dentist can get those deep-set stains that have vexed you for years. Every person is different, so why use a one-size-fits-all approach anymore? 

Teeth Whitening Is Safe and Convenient 

Professional teeth whitening agents at Impressions Dental contain an effective and completely safe solution of Carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. OTC kits can’t compare to the potency that your Chandler cosmetic dentist provides through in-office solutions and their customized home kit whitening options. And since each tooth gets the same attention, the results are seamless and perfectly blended for a full set of pearly whites without an ombre or mismatched result. 

Professional Teeth Whitening Is Affordable 

Professional teeth whitening is less expensive than many other cosmetic options, including plastic surgery and even dental options such as veneers. While it’s pricier than store kits, one professional teeth whitening session would still cost less than buying several box kits trying to gain similar bleaching results. Contact your Chandler cosmetic dentist when you’re ready to discuss your options for getting a dazzling smile in the dentist’s chair. 

Holistic Dentistry: A 5-step Routine for Healthy Teeth

holistic dentistry

The human body and oral health systems are connected, and they’re constantly changing. Modern medicine and even traditional dentistry treat symptoms for diseases and conditions. However, many bodily issues begin or end in the mouth. Holistic dentistry focuses on the mouth-body connection to treat and heal the root cause as opposed to just treating the symptoms. And there are many things you can do right at home to give your body its best fighting chance. Here’s a five-step routine for healthy teeth.

Practice Oil Pulling

There are hundreds of different strains of bacteria in the human mouth, and not all are helpful or good. The practice of oil pulling has been around for thousands of years to help combat bacteria and decay, so don’t think it’s a new wave topic. Natural oil pulls out hidden toxins and bacteria when swished in the mouth for 15 minutes. Coconut oil is the most common choice due to its current popularity and enjoyable taste. Just be sure to get extra virgin, let it melt into a spoon at room temperature, and don’t swallow it! Instead, spit it into a trash can to avoid plumbing issues.

Rinse with Sea Salt

Different types of sea salt help to alkaline the body which also kills acidic bacteria in the mouth. This is a good daily practice to do regardless of whether you opt to oil pull. Use a little non-toxic and aluminum-free sea salt or pink Himalayan salt and purified water. If the taste bothers you, add a few drops of essential oil. Clove, peppermint, or citrus works well. Swish in the mouth for a minute, spit, repeat. It’s simple and you’ll notice a difference quickly.

Avoid Fluoride Toothpaste

Brushing twice a day with soft bristles is essential to maintaining clean teeth and gums while reducing inflammation–a primary symptom of gum disease. But according to the Lancet Neurology Journal, fluoride and sulfates found in toothpaste are known neurotoxins. A study by Harvard Medicine backed it up stating that children with access to high-fluoride content in their water supply have significantly lower IQs than their counterparts. There are plenty of safer pastes and polishes on the market. Simply ask your Fort Lauderdale Holistic Dentist for a recommendation.

Use a Tongue Scraper

Bacteria don’t just live on the teeth and gums. They also reside on the tongue. Yet, most people forget that part of the mouth when performing their daily oral health care habits. The human tongue can hold plaque and encourage bad bacteria to flourish even after you brush and rinse the rest of your mouth. These pathogens can release Volatile Sulfur Compounds responsible for decay, infections, and halitosis. Using a tongue scraper daily can reduce the bacteria and help restore good enzymes to fight off the rest.

Floss Daily or Get a Waterpik

Brushing isn’t enough when it comes to maintaining and improving oral health. Food and bacteria also love to hide between teeth and along the gumline. So flossing once a day is also essential… but only when it’s done correctly and continuously. Many people simply skip that step and suffer the consequences later. Fortunately, using a Waterpik or other high-quality oral irrigator can work just as well, be a lot more fun, and ensure your future appointments with your Fort Lauderdale Holistic Dentist sparkle.

Why You Should Choose a Biomimetic Dentist

biomimetic dentistryHomeopathic medicine and dentistry have come a long way from snake oil salesmen and gurus. Modern homeopathic medicine in any form focuses on a whole-body approach to healing. This is where biomimetic comes into play. The term biomimetics directly refers to human-created life-related options meant to imitate nature and natural functions. While the scientific definition and practice are, rather complicated for layman needs, the explanation of its purpose and function is quite simple in the dental industry. Biomimetic dentistry is used to restore natural tooth function while maintaining as much of the original structure as possible. But what’s the big deal about that and why should you choose a biomimetic dentist in Moorestown?

Say Goodbye to Amalgam Fillings
Biomimetic dentistry follows a natural, whole body approach and avoids adding back toxins to the body via dental care. Regardless of what the ADA states regarding amalgam fillings, they contain up to 50% of mercury in most cases. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) state otherwise. While each patient is different and has individual tolerances, the fact is that mercury is one of the most toxic and deadliest substances on the planet. Amalgam fillings may be safe at first when applied. However, mercury vapors do emit from the metal over time and can be absorbed through the bloodstream. Biomimetic dentistry avoids this concern altogether by providing safe, non-toxic composite fillings.

Biomimetic Dentistry Minimizes or Eliminates the Need for Root Canals
In traditional dentistry, root canals are often a last-ditch effort to repair and save a badly damaged tooth. It involves a deep cleaning, removal of dead or damaged pulp, and usually includes a lot of pain and recovery time. The actual causes for a root canal often surround inflammation, infection, and cracks caused by decay. The thought alone is often enough to make even the most loyal dental patient consider running for the hills. Fortunately, there’s a safer and more successful solution. Biomimetic dentistry restores the teeth in layers as opposed to just diving right to the worst part of the damage. So more of the tooth is saved and that includes the root. While in the worst-case scenarios root canals can’t always be avoided, your biomimetic dentist in Moorestown will do everything possible to make that the very last possible option in your tooth restoration plan.

Restorations Are Stronger and More Aesthetically Pleasing
Some professionals like to insist that biomimetic dentistry restorations are up to 400% stronger than traditional methods. Well, let’s be real here. That’s probably a bloated statistic. But biomimetic dentistry is definitely stronger than traditional restorative options. Traditional dentistry involves filing, drilling, and cutting away at the existing teeth to restore the problems with extra fillers and shaping. Biomimetic dentistry, however, opts to save as much as the natural tooth as possible by removing only what absolutely needs to be removed from the infected or affected structures. This practice helps to reserve more of the original teeth which can then be restored with biocompatible materials and polished to a brilliant shine. The results are often far more lustrous and luminous than entirely rebuilt or fake tooth structures. When you’re ready to discuss a healthier dental approach, give your biomimetic dentist in Moorestown a call.

No More Dental Fear with Sedation Dentistry

sedation dentistryMillions of Americans avoid going to the dentist for a number of reasons including financial and preconceived need. But 9% to 15%, or around 40 million American adults, simply put of professional dental care due to fear and anxiety. It’s normal to have some fear of the unknown, and there’s plenty of mystery inside the dentist’s office. But when that fear advances and takes control of your sensibilities leaving in its wake irrational worries, panic attacks, and a terrifying loss of self-control, that anxiety transforms into a phobia. And that is quite different. Fortunately, sedation dentistry can help even those suffering from cases of debilitating dental fear. But what’s wrong with a little dental fear and how can another type of dentistry help?

What’s the Big Deal About Having a Dental Phobia?

Many people believe dental fear or anxiety is the same as a dental phobia, but they’re often like night and day. Those with a true dental phobia often cite helplessness, discomfort, and fear as their main reasons to avoid treatment. But many people will go so far out of their way to avoid the dentist that they’ll deal with ongoing embarrassment over broken teeth and cavities. They’ll often suffer intense pain from untreated conditions such as gingivitis, toothaches, loose fillings, or even pending root canals. And feeling forced to visit a dentist or even make an appointment may cause physical illness, severe stress, and even dangerously strong heart palpitations. Those suffering from such intense fear can’t possibly handle traditional dentistry options. But sedation dentistry can help.

What’s So Special About Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry isn’t another type or branch of dentistry. It’s not some fly-by-night magic pill or guru trick. But it is a special medical procedure intended to tackle and relieve the crippling anxiety and fear that keeps so many from getting the dental care they so desperately need. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax enough to have necessary work completed. It is often called “Sleep dentistry”, but that’s not an accurate description. In most cases, the patients are awake. However, in severe situations, general anesthesia may lull the patient to sleep. Depending on the procedure and sensitivity of the patient, pain medication may be administered or prescribed afterward.

What Types of Sedation is Used and Who Can Benefit from Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry can use multiple types of medication for relaxation and anxiety control. Minimal sedation can be in the form of inhalation. Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” is usually the medication of choice for this method. Moderate sedation, such as Halcion or Valium, can be in pill form taken an hour prior to the procedure or in IV form. Deep sedation, however, involves combined medications that make the patient almost or completely unconscious and only wear off once the procedure is over.

Sedation dentistry isn’t just for those with severe fear or anxiety. It may also be appropriate for those with a low pain threshold or those who can’t sit still for long. If you have a strong gag reflex or have overly sensitive teeth, SD may help. And patients in need of a large amount of dental work can definitely benefit from dental relaxants. A call to your Fort Lauderdale dentist can help you decide if sedation dentistry is right for your needs.

Play It Safe with a Sports Mouthguard to Protect Your Child’s Teeth

About 75% of American kids have problems with their adult teeth once they’re set, and lifestyle often plays into that. Providing your favorite adolescents with the opportunity to play sports and enjoy physical activities isn’t just smart, it’s essential. In fact, sports benefit kids in multiple ways. Team-based activity encourages self-esteem and confidence. It strengthens neurological connections and motivates active academical participation. And, of course, physical activity helps encourage an active lifestyle and thwart countless health issues. According to the American Dental Association, kids who wear a mouthguard can avoid some serious and painful consequences down the road. But what teeth issues can a mouthguard prevent while playing sports?

Cracked and Chipped Teeth

The National Youth Sports Safety Foundation (NYSSF) claims that kids who don’t wear mouthguards are up to 60 times more likely to suffer damage to their teeth during sports play. Even slight cracks or chips can cause a number of ongoing dental problems. This may include tooth pain while eating or drinking, sudden or random sensitivity, and loss of enamel which can expose the dentin or root of a tooth. Cracked and chipped teeth can be repaired, but they’re far easier to avoid altogether.

Fractured or Broken Roots

Approximately 39% of dental injuries are sports-related, and treatment of those injuries can cost a patient up to $15,000 over the course of a lifetime. Tooth fractures are among the most common forms of oral trauma, and those injuries aren’t always limited to just the crown. A hit at the wrong angle can also damage the root. The severity depends on the location of the fracture, but it might not be discovered until an infection sets in. It’s essential to see your Moorestown dentist at the first sign of trouble. Or better yet, use a mouthguard and keep those teeth intact.

Avulsed Teeth or Intrusion

An avulsion is an injury that occurs when trauma causes a bodily structure to be forcibly torn from its normal placement. It’s certainly not a pleasant thought, but experiencing it is far worse. Around 30 million Americans are in some form of sports activity, and that leads to over 5 million avulsed teeth. Sometimes the tooth isn’t knocked out but ends up being driven into the jawbone instead. This type of trauma, known as intrusion, is rare, but it can cause extensive pain and damage. Complications can include necrosis or other damage of the tooth pulp, fusion of the root to the alveolar bone, or shortening of the roots which occurs in 70% of intrusion cases.

Research released by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) disclosed that over 50% of sports and recreational injuries are suffered by children as young as 5 years old. And a whopping 84% of kids don’t wear mouthguards because they’re not required by their parents or coach. However, while other essential safety gear may cost hundreds of dollars, a mouthguard is one of the least expensive but most effective pieces of equipment an athlete can use. So why take chances when the simple addition of using a mouthguard is estimated to prevent 200,000 oral injuries each year? Visit your Moorestown dentist to get one for your kids today.

 

4 Side Effects of Sleep Apnea

Snoring sleep apnea symptomAt least 50 million Americans have a sleep disorder, and over 22 million adults are impacted in some way by sleep apnea. Over 10% of Americans are estimated to suffer from Obstructed Sleep Apnea (OSA). While OSA is the most prevalent type of sleep apnea, up to 80% of moderate-to-severe cases are never diagnosed.  However, ignoring sleep apnea or putting off the treatment is a dangerous decision that can have dire consequences far more severe than fatigue, snoring, or being in a lousy mood the next day. In fact, some side effects of sleep apnea can be potentially fatal. But what are the most common sleep apnea side effects?

Depression

Nationwide stress rates are through the roof, so it may seem like everywhere you turn someone’s either depressed or has anxiety issues. While “everyone” is quite the stretch, the truth is anxiety and depression are the most common mental illnesses affecting 18.1% of the adult population or 40 million adults. Although they’re completely treatable in most cases, fewer than 40% of those suffering bother seeking treatment. And while there are several risk factors for depression and anxiety, they’re heavily linked to sleep apnea. However, treating your sleep apnea with a continuous positive airway pressure may significantly reduce your depression as well.

High Blood Pressure and Heart Disease

If you or a loved one seem to sound like a chainsaw during your sleeping hours, you have a higher risk of sleep apnea. Moreover, your chances of developing high blood pressure and heart disease just went through the roof. Medical science isn’t completely sure why there’s a strong link between heavy snoring and high blood pressure. But research does seem to prove that the blocked airway and extra effort applied to breathing likely put extra stress on many of your organs, including your heart. The good news, however, is that the reverse is also true. So if you have your snoring treated or corrected, it should help reduce your blood pressure.

Stroke

A stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when the blood flow is cut off to a certain area of the brain. Brain cells then begin dying because the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen. Bodily functions quickly begin to shut down, and severe confusion, paralysis, or even death can follow. There are several major risk factors for stroke, but the main ones include obesity, smoking, living a sedentary lifestyle, and sleep apnea. Improve your life choices and treat your apnea to reduce your risk of having a stroke.

Diabetes

It’s no secret that obesity and type 2 diabetes go hand-in-hand. But it may come as some surprise that those with Obstructed Sleep Apnea tend to have higher glucose levels. Once again, however, that link can work either way. So treating your sleep apnea may help reduce your blood sugar levels. While there are plenty of other risk factors, these are the most common sleep apnea side effects. Talk to your Red Bank Dentist about treating your OSA to see a huge improvement in the quality of your life.

4 Facts About Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation

gum recessionUnless you live under a rock, you’ve probably been beaten over the head with reminders to prioritize your oral health habits. Unfortunately, sometimes constant reminders lose their effect and end up going into deaf ears. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) proves this fact with their findings that 90% of American adults have had at least one cavity and 65 million adults, or 50% of those over the age of 30, have some level of gum disease. Bacteria and lack of oral health care cause inflammation of the gums, a condition which eventually leads to gum recession. While there are several reasons for this condition, periodontal disease is the main cause. Gum recession exposes the roots of the teeth and can create an unhealthy or unattractive appearance on top of weakening the enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity, and even leads to tooth loss. Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation can significantly reverse the recession, but what’s so special about this procedure?

Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Is a Pain-free, Non-Surgical Procedure

Original gum graphing is an invasive surgical procedure that involves removing tissue from the roof of the mouth and stitching it to the gums so it connects on its own. Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation is different. That’s not the case with Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation. All previous complex methods are left behind along with open wounds and the resulting fear associated with dental surgery.

This Revolutionary Procedure Incorporates Biomimetic Dentistry

Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation relies on the body’s natural ability to respond to biomimetic dentistry techniques and not only help heal itself but become stronger in the process. It’s a simple and minimally invasive option that requires absolutely no scalpels or sutures. This advanced dentistry procedure simply involves applying tiny pinholes to the patient’s gum tissue and then gently and painlessly loosening it to re-position it as needed. Collagen is then applied to hold the tissue in place until it naturally affixes itself. Say goodbye to pain and hello to beauty once again.

Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation Is a Quick Fix with Minimal Recovery Time

The Pinhole procedure is beneficial to those in a hurry as it can treat and correct multiple teeth in a single sitting. In other words, you won’t have to return for follow-up visits just to complete the procedure. And results are immediate. Swelling, discomfort, and recovery time aren’t necessarily eliminated, but most patients are completely recovered by the following day. Unless you tell someone you had your gum rejuvenation, they’ll never know as any noticeable holes on the day of the procedure shrink by the next day as well.

This Gum Procedure Has Some Limitations

Like its predecessor, Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation has some limitations and may not be right for everyone. First of all, any traumatic activities leading to gum recession, such as overly aggressive brushing or bruxism, must be stopped prior to the appointment. The gums must also be free of inflammation. Significant bone loss will not support new tissue growth, but the only way to know for sure whether Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation is right for you is to contact us today. Fortunately, a quick consultation with your Moorestown dentist could change your life for the better.

6 Foods That Will Damage Your Teeth

damage teethAmerica seems to be obsessed with perfect teeth, and it’s no wonder why. You can have the strongest and most attractive body on the planet, but if your teeth are a mess you’ll not only look a wreck but feel it as well. But achieving a healthy smile is easier than you may think. Good health begins in the mouth. The wrong food choices can cause plaque, encourage decay, gingivitis, and drastically stain your teeth. Professional teeth whitening works wonders to remove up to ten shades on your lunch hour. However, the best way to improve your dental health while honoring your body is to avoid, or at least limit, the foods that actually damage your teeth. But what are the common culprits?

Sour Candy

Any kind of hard or sticky candy is so concentrated with sugar that eating it is basically like injecting sugar right into your cavities. But sour candies are especially bad. They contain extra acids that eat away at teeth easier. And most are sticky to boot, so they’ll hang around the teeth longer. Opt for a square of chocolate instead if you really need a quick sugar burst.

Citrus Fruit

Citrus fruit is packed with delicious flavors and loaded with essential vitamin C. But lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits are also loaded with acids that eat away enamel and promote mouth sores and decay. And don’t think you’re safe just adding it to your water. Those acids cling to your mouth too. Moderation is the key if you still need your citrus dose. Just be sure to rinse with clean water right afterward.

Coffee

Professional teeth whitening can get teeth 10 or more shades brighter than box kits, so it’s no wonder teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. But coffee is one of the main culprits for stained teeth. Yes, the bitter brew is a delicious pick-me-up and loaded with antioxidants. But it’s also full of tannins and acids that stain the teeth, wear enamel. If you can’t give up your daily habit, at least consider switching to ice coffee and sipping it through a straw to limit enamel contact.

Ice

Many people love to suck and chew on ice, but that habit can be seriously detrimental to your teeth. Extreme or sudden temperature changes inside a warm mouth can cause even healthy teeth to crack, chip, or fracture. And the hardness of the ice itself can wear and destroy enamel. Never open bags, bottles, or anything else with your teeth for the same reason.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is packed with valuable nutrients. But because the water is removed from the food source, dried fruit is also sticky and contains a high concentration of sugar. If you can’t, or simply refuse to, eliminate the raisins, figs, dates, or dried pineapple from your diet, at least rinse your mouth with water right after and brush and floss 20 minutes later. Fresh fruit is always a healthier option.

Hard Nuts

Nuts are packed with essential nutrients and fatty acids an active body needs to thrive. But they’re also hard on enamel and existing dental work. Chewing on hard nuts can crack enamel as well as potentially damage braces, porcelain veneers, and even dental implants. You don’t have to avoid them completely though. Simply eat smaller nut pieces or enjoy low-sugar or sugar-free nut spreads to continue having a beautiful, healthy smile.

Dental Resolutions for the New Year

cosmetic dentist

The New Year/New You epidemic has millions of Americans more determined than ever to focus on changing their lives for the better. While over 40% of Americans make annual resolutions, only 8% actually reach any of their goals. Self-improvement goals hold a firm second place right after weight loss for chosen life changes, but so many people lose steam or give up altogether on their resolutions by March. However, some of the easiest changes can occur by simply improving dental hygiene. According to research, 42% of Americans would change or improve their smile if given the opportunity. It’s easier than ever to do so by incorporating some effective New Year’s dental resolutions.

Nix the Vices

The beginning of the year is the perfect time to start a new health campaign and finally kick those vices to the curb. Smoking is still the largest preventable source of disease and death in the US, causing almost half a million deaths annually. Many issues can be discovered right in the mouth. In fact, smoking can lead to staining, gum disease, loss of teeth, and even oral cancer. Other common vices such as excess alcohol intake, sugared beverages, and processed food intake can also lead to serious dental and overall health issues. Break the habits and see how your life improves.

Adjust Your Diet

Your body and mind need certain foods to maintain proper health, and that begins right in the mouth. Good dental health habits can be optimized by eating properly, and there’s a simple trick to that: just opt for more produce over processed foods. The contents within your favorite cans, cartons, and bags may tantalize the taste buds, but they’re also usually loaded with sugar, chemicals, and acids that break down the teeth and encourage bacteria growth. Hard and juicy fruits and vegetable, on the other hand, provide proper nutrition and energy while rinsing away extra food and mouth pests, thus thwarting decay between dental visits.

Harness Those Home Habits

Approximately 30% of Americans don’t brush their teeth twice a day as suggested by the American Dental Association. Yet that’s not always enough since brushing doesn’t remove the food and bacteria lurking in the crevices. Flossing is essential, but 40% of those who do brush twice a day forget that part. Incorporate brushing twice a day and flossing once to keep the nasties at bay between dental visits. Maintain good dental health habits and your body and dentist will thank you.

Commit to Your Dental Health… And Your Dentist

You can limit or ban all vices, improve your diet, and become a dental hygiene warrior… and develop serious oral health issues, anyway. Over half of all Americans suffer from periodontal disease, an advanced form of gum disease that links to multiple bodily diseases. Daily brushing and flossing can help reverse early forms such as gingivitis. But advanced gum disease requires professional care and assistance. Your dentist can also eliminate excess bacteria, recognize early signs of multiple health issues, offer cosmetic or restoration options for a beautiful smile, and help you establish maintainable dental hygiene habits to avoid trouble down the road. What an easy way to start the New Year off with a healthy bang!