Why Is Candy So Bad For Your Teeth?

So, you may be wondering why a dentist would say that candy is bad for your teeth. The reason is simple: sugar. Sugar rots your teeth and makes them weak. When they are weak, they are more likely to break or develop cavities. So, it’s important to brush regularly and floss every day in order to get rid of any food particles stuck between your teeth. The biggest issue is that this sugar can lead to cavities.

How Do Cavities Form In the First Place?

Cavities are small openings in the teeth that form when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, sugars and food debris left on your teeth combines with acids from foods and drinks to eat away tooth enamel. This is why too much candy and sugar can cause cavities. Brushing your teeth after consuming sugary candy will help remove the plaque and keep your teeth strong.

What Is the Worst Candy for Your Teeth?

There are a lot of myths out there in regards to the worst candies for your teeth. The truth is, regardless of how much you like them, all sweets with excessive sugar have the potential to ruin your smile if you eat them too often. However, some sweets are more likely to cause damage than others.

Candy That Isn’t “As Bad” for Your Teeth

  • Sugar Free Candy
  • Lolipops
  • Hard Candy
  • Dark Chocolate

While these options aren’t as bad for your teeth, it doesn’t make them perfect alternatives. Realistically it’s better to stray away from candy if at all possible.

Conclusion

The best way to help your teeth stay healthy is to avoid eating too much sugar in the first place. This might be difficult for some people, but it’s worth it for your teeth’ sake. If you would like more tips on keeping your teeth healthy, we recommend checking out our blog posts!Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up a life-changing appointment.

Top 3 Dental Procedures You May Have in Your Lifetime

Ever wondered what dental procedures you may experience in your lifetime? Everyone’s teeth and needs are unique. Some procedures are a chosen cosmetic and some are necessary. There’s a long list of procedures you can experience at the dentist but there are ones that are much more common. Let’s go over the top 3 dental procedures.

1. Teeth Whitening

This is a fan favorite as many people strive to achieve whiter teeth. At our office, we offer Phillips Zoom teeth whitening. The Philips Zoom Blue LED light-accelerated technology and hydrogen peroxide gel whitens quickly. During this time, Amorphous Calcium Phosphate (ACP) is helping by offering enamel protection, reducing the chance of sensitivity, and even improving the luster of your teeth. 

2. Tooth Extraction

People get their teeth, or tooth, extracted for many reasons. the most common reason is the negative effects of wisdom teeth growing in. Most wisdom teeth grow in by a person’s early 20’s and it is advised that they are removed as soon as possible. they can cause shifts in your jaw and possibly lifetime pain. Extraction is comfortable during the procedure. Your dentist will make sure to apply proper numbing agents before the procedure.

3. Dental Fillings

Cavities are very common among all ages. The instant solution for this is a dental filling. Dental fillings are needed to restore the shape and function of a patient’s tooth or teeth. It also prevents further damage and even decay. Remember, once enamel is broken down and chipped off, it doesn’t exactly grow back.

Conclusion

This is only a list of the 3 most common dental procedures. There are many more, not included here, that you may experience. If you need any of these procedures done, it is best to speak with a professional. Make an appointment with a trusted and experienced dentist. Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up a life-changing appointment.

Should I Brush My Teeth Before or After Breakfast?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice a day. However, they do not indicate when to complete each brushing session. most people will brush at the same two sessions each day. This is the easiest way to establish a habit and routine. These two sessions are typically morning and night. The real question is: should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? We have the answer to your question based on professional advice.

Why You Should Brush Your Teeth Before Breakfast

You should brush your teeth before breakfast. Let’s go over why this is the right answer. First of all, plaque-inducing bacteria multiple while you sleep at night. You can tell this happens by the “morning breath” and odd taste you may experience in your mouth when you wake up. Also, you get rid of those harmful bacteria by using fluoride toothpaste. This toothpaste puts a thin, protective layer over your enamel. This layer protects your teeth from acidic foods and drinks. That being said, you may have some acidic items for breakfast. This is another reason why brushing before breakfast is recommended.

Why You Shouldn’t Brush Your Teeth After Breakfast

You probably shouldn’t brush your teeth right after breakfast. First, your teeth can get covered with acidic remnants by brushing after eating in the morning. These remnants will weaken your tooth enamel causing damage.

Here are some of the worst foods for your tooth enamel because of their acidity:

• oranges/orange juice
• pastries
• dried fruit
• grapes
• slices of bread/any bread
• grapefruit
• lemon

The ADA recommends waiting for 1 hour after eating before brushing (if brushing after a meal). This will ensure you don’t cover your teeth in acidic remnants.

Conclusion

Everyone has their own routine when it comes to brushing. However, it is best to make a morning habit of brushing before breakfast. It is important to pay attention to how much acidic food you are consuming. You can damage your enamel over time by overdoing it. Combat this by using fluoride toothpaste when you brush. It’s important to regularly check up on the health of your teeth. Make an appointment with a trusted and experienced. Contact us today to set up a life-changing appointment.

What Happens At A Dental Cleaning?

Many people dread going to the dentist for a teeth cleaning because of the poking and prodding, strange noises they hear, and their jaw becoming sore. Most realize that teeth cleaning is simple and painless. Knowing exactly what will happen during your appointment can ease your nerves and allow you to better enjoy the minty-fresh results.

Here are the steps that lay out what happens at a dental cleaning:

Step 1: The Physical Examination

Most dental cleanings are performed by a dental hygienist. They start the exam with an oral assessment of your entire mouth and teeth. The dental hygienist uses a mirror to check for signs of gingivitis or other potential problems and calls the dentist if they detect major concerns.

Step 2: Removing Any Plaque/Tartar

The dental hygienist will use a mirror and a scaler to scrape plaque and tartar from your teeth. You’ll hear scraping, but this is normal. They’ll need more time to scrape the spots that have lots of plaque or tartar. If you have tartar buildup, you must remove it at a dental office. To avoid tartar, keep up with regular brushing and flossing and your teeth will stay healthy.

Step 3: Toothpaste Cleaning with Some Grit

The next part of the cleaning entails a professional use toothpaste that smells and tastes like regular toothpaste, but it has a gritty consistency. This polishing of the teeth is safe to be done twice a year. But you should not do this at home because it will wear down the enamel.

Step 4: Some Seriously Professional Flossing

Whether or not you floss at home, nothing compares to a professional cleaning. Your dentist can get between your teeth and locate any potential trouble spots where you might bleed at the gums. This is important even if you floss regularly at home because your dentist will also remove any leftover plaque or toothpaste from earlier in the cleaning process.

Step 5: A Rinse Down

At this time your mouth will be rinsed of any debris. Some hygienists will give you a special rinse that contains fluoride.

Step 6: Time for Flouride

Your dental hygienist may ask you what flavor you like best. They’ll then place the paste into a mouthpiece that fits over your teeth. It’s usually left on your teeth for one minute. Besides the foamy gel, fluoride varnish is also painted onto the teeth with a small brush.

Conclusion

Depending on what dental office you go to, your steps may differ a bit but these are the basics. Regular dental cleanings are extremely important in keeping up the health of your teeth. Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up an appointment.

5 Fun Facts About Teeth

There are many ways to keep your teeth healthy. As we know, teeth play an important role in our daily life. It’s impossible to smile or eat without them. You should go to the dentist regularly and brush your teeth twice a day – morning and evening. All of that aside, did you know these fun facts about teeth?

1. Teeth are the Hardest Thing in Your Body, Even Stronger Than Bone!

Many people assume that bones are the hardest substance in the body, but that’s not true. Teeth are even harder; they’re made of over 96% minerals. Also, some people tend to think that teeth are bone but bones produce marrow while teeth do not.

2. Your Teeth Have a 200 Pound Bite Force

It’s said that an adult human has a biting force of 200lbs. This is incredible! The human biting force is on par with the pit bull at 235lbs. Biting force is an interesting topic that can be explained in different ways. For example, one could write about the fact that there are many animals with much stronger bite forces than humans. Or they could discuss how people use their teeth as tools, like picking up items or opening jars. Although our teeth have the ability to do these things, we don’t recommend it. You wouldn’t want to chip a tooth!

3. Teeth Used to Be Brushed With Twigs

Very long ago, pre 5000 B.C., people chewed on twigs to clean and floss their teeth. They found that this practice eliminated food and bacteria buildup on the surface of the teeth as well as in between them. Ancient Egyptians used crushed eggshells and animal hooves for dental care products. Luckily things have changed and we now have pretty advanced toothbrushes.

4. Every Tooth is Completely Unique

Every person has 52 different teeth in their lifetime. From the time of birth, each tooth is unique. Every person and every tooth will be different. This fact led to dental records being used as a form of identification because no two people have the same dental records. This is just like fingerprints and even tongue prints.

5. Your First Tooth Likely Erupted Between 6-12 Months of Age

Composite bonding can improve the overall look of the bottom teeth. While it can be done on both the top and These Parents can expect to see their child’s first tooth emerge between six months and their first birthday. Signs that your child might be teething include a low-grade fever, crankiness, poor sleeping behavior, tugging at their ear, and lots of drooling.

Conclusion

Your teeth are important. Remember, the adult set you get is the last permanent set. That being said it is wise to schedule regular cleanings and pay attention to your oral hygiene. Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up an appointment.

The 5 Types of Dental Crowns – What You Need to Know

Dental crowns are caps placed on top of damaged teeth. Crowns cover and restore the shape of your teeth when fillings aren’t enough to solve the problem. Dental crowns can be made out of metals, porcelain, resin and ceramics. They typically don’t require special care over time other than regular good oral hygiene. Let’s look at the different types/materials of crowns.

1. All Resin

These dental crowns tend to be less expensive than the other crowns. There is a downside to the cost. Due to the inexpensive nature of the material, they wear down faster. Some people often even report the crowns completely breaking. If at all possible, stray away from this crown option and opt for one with a longer lifespan.

2. Metal

There are several metals that can be used in dental crowns, including gold, palladium, and more. The best part about these crowns is that they rarely break or chip. They last the longest in terms of wear and tear. Another plus is that only a small amount of your tooth needs to be removed in order to insert it. These metal crowns can really push through tough chewing and hard foods. The only con is that it won’t be tooth-colored. That being said, this option is great for molars or unseen teeth.

3. Pressed Ceramic

What makes these different is that they have a solid inner core. Pressed ceramic crowns are able to replace the metal liner. This metal liner is used in all ceramic crown-making processes. Another plus is that they are capped with porcelain for the best tooth color match. They also have a tendency to last longer than all-porcelain crowns. That being said, this is definitely something to consider.

4. Porcelain Fused to Metal

The best part about this crown is that is can be matched to the near exact color of your natural tooth. However, something to keep in mind is that the porcelain cap may show through as a dark line. Another downside is that the crown has a higher chance of wearing down other teeth in the mouth that it comes into contact with. The wear occurs most when the mouse is closed.

5. All Ceramic or All Porcelain

Composite bonding can improve the overall look of the bottom teeth. While it can be done on both the top and These types of crowns provide a natural-looking color match and are a good choice if you have metal allergies. However, they aren’t as strong as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. They can also wear down the teeth opposite them in the mouth a little more than metal or resin crowns. All-ceramic crowns are a great option for the front teeth.

Conclusion

If you are in need of a crown, it is best to consult a professional. We will recommend the best course of action for your specific needs. Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up an appointment.

Composite Bonding: Top 3 Things You Should Know

Composite bonding is a type of cosmetic dentistry. It is also known as tooth-coloring and it is used to improve the appearance and function of teeth. During this procedure, a resin powder or liquid is bonded to the front surface of your teeth. This process can be completed without drilling into the natural tooth structure, so you will not need any anesthesia.

1. Composite Bonding Can Close Minor Gaps

Composite bonding is a good option for closing small gaps between teeth. It can be used for either a single gap or multiple small gaps between all the teeth, and you can achieve amazing results with bonding. The dentist places the composite resin on the teeth, closing the gaps between them or making them more discrete if it is not possible to close them completely.

2. Composite Bonding Can Be Used To Correct the Look of Crooked Teeth

Composite bonding is a treatment option that can improve the appearance of slightly crooked teeth. Composite bonding involves adding some resin to strategic places on your teeth, which will help hide or mask misaligned teeth, giving you a better smile. However, please do keep in mind that composite bonding can only be used to correct minor issues with tooth alignment.

3. Composite Bonding Can Improve the Aethetic of Your Bottom Teeth

Composite bonding can improve the overall look of the bottom teeth. While it can be done on both the top and bottom teeth, there are some factors that need to be considered when it comes to the bottom row. For example, a patient’s bite needs to be taken into account when considering composite bonding because it may not stay in place if their teeth grind against each other.

Conclusion

If you are thinking about composite bonding, see a professional. We are your trusted dentists and will only recommend the best procedures for your situation. Regain confidence in your smile and contact us today to set up an appointment.

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth are Coming In

Wondering when your wisdom teeth come in? For teens and young adults, this is a common question. Wisdom teeth grow in on your top and bottom set of teeth on both sides of your mouth. They typically come in around the ages of 17-21. They can lead to some particularly serious dental problems over time. The long-term effects can include cysts, gum disease, and a higher risk for tooth decay.

This third set of molars can cause the overcrowding of teeth. They can also grow in at an angle causing serious discomfort. As a result, about 5 million Americans get their wisdom teeth removed each year. It is recommended to get this removal done before the teeth have fully erupted. If your still waiting and wondering if your wisdom teeth are coming in, here are some signs to look for.

Signs Your Wisdom Teeth are Coming In?

  1. Aches and Pains – When wisdom teeth start coming in, people often feel an unexplained dull ache near the back of the mouth and into the jaw.
  2. Gum Irritation – You may notice your gums slightly swelling, red, and/or feeling irritated behind the second set of molars.
  3. Pain Around the Mouth – When wisdom teeth start to come in, they can put pressure on the surrounding nerves. This can cause pain in areas around the jaw, ears, and even eyes.
  4. Tiny White Specks – It’s normal to notice tiny white specks behind your second set of molars. The specks that appear are the tops of the new teeth coming through the gumline.
  5. Redness – Typically, the gums, that are right on top of where the wisdom teeth are coming in, turn dark pink or red. This happens because the new tooth is trying to push through.

What to Do Next

If your new teeth have come in upright and in a position that doesn’t cause you any pain or discomfort, you do not need to get them extracted. But if you are experiencing any issues, you should consider your options. Wisdom teeth are easier to remove before the age of 20 due to the underdeveloped roots. That being said it’s best not to wait too long before thinking about a removal.

Our Dentist, Dr. Gregory Balog, has over 33 years of experience. Contact us about a consultation for your dental care, today.

Why Your Dentist Should Be an ADA Member

Have you ever asked if your dentist is an ADA (American Dental Association) member? You only get one set of adult teeth for your entire lifetime. That being said, you want your teeth in the hands of the best dentist you can find. It’s important that your dentist is an ADA Member.

Why Choose an ADA Dentist?

ADA dentists have access to the most up-to-date, reliable resources available. The abundance of resources available makes ADA members the most knowledgeable and trusted. Also, members of the ADA have agreed to follow the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct. Within this code, dentists promise to put your well-being and health at the top of their list.

ADA’s Code of Ethics Breakdown

Do No Harm: Dentists do this by keeping their skills and knowledge as current as possible. It’s the dentists’ job to keep you safe and your teeth healthy. ADA members complete continuing education annually making them the best choice when searching for a dentist. You can ensure you are in good hands wen working with an ADA dentist.

Respect A Patients Wants and Needs: The reality is that your teeth are yours. You have every right to be involved in any decision involving them. Your desires come first and the dentist is there to advise you to the best of their ability. If you desire something different than your dentist advises, your wants should be respected.

Be Truthful: You should feel like you can truth your dentist. ADA members reflect a code of truth. Relationships with these dentists are a priority. From your diagnosis to your treatment, your dentist should be honest and advise you a reasonable course of action.

Be Fair: Everyone that sees an ADA member is expected to be treated equally. Any form of discrimination is not tolerated to any degree. Your background, race, religion, health conditions, and more will never be a discriminatory factor in your care.

Do Good: The key here is high quality and timely treatment. ADA members look at each patient individually; providing treatment in the patients’ best interest. ADA dentists always consider the desires of the patient and truly listen to what they have to say.

How do I Know if My Dentist is an ADA Member?

Without a doubt, an ADA dentist is your best bet if you are looking for the highest quality of service. These dentists are trusted and provide excellent care. If you want your needs met, find an ADA dentist near you today.

Our Dentist, Dr. Gregory Balog is an ADA member. Schedule a consultation with us for the care you deserve, contact us today.

Here’s What to Look for When Picking Your Dentist

The reality is that if you’re considering a dentist for you and/or your family, or you’re looking to switch dentists due to a poor experience, there are many factors you should consider. First and foremost, finding a dentist that matches your particular needs is critical. There are dentists who specialize in certain treatments or procedures and there are generalists who can do a little bit of everything.

When considering a dentist, treat it like you’re interviewing candidates for a job. Talk to people on the phone, have a consultation, get a sense of the environment, etc. By putting in this effort you’ll be able to find the right fit for you. In addition, here are specific aspects of a dental office to consider.

Tips for Finding a Top Dentist

Reputation & Reviews: One of the quickest ways to shrink your list of potential dentists you want to see is to simply look at the reviews and star ratings available online. While it is true these ratings aren’t necessarily enough to go on, they are a great way to understand what people think of the office and the doctor(s). In addition, offices with more reviews are clearly invested in getting feedback from patients, so the quantity and quality of reviews are important to consider.

Office Experience & Environment: Is the office inviting and comfortable? Either seek out images or videos online of the office to get a feeling for the environment or request a tour. This will help you get a feeling for the environment and if it matches with what you’re looking for in your local dental office. In addition, social media channels often offer a behind the scenes look into an office and can help you get to know the personality of the team that works there.

Location: A pretty straightforward consideration, but it’s important to find an office that is easy for you to travel to. Whether it is close to your work or home, find a local dentist that fits into your daily travel routine.

ADA Membership: Members of the American Dental Association (ADA) agree to follow a code of ethics in order to become a member. From “respecting a patient’s wants and needs” to “do no harm,” ADA dentist members pride themselves on offering the best care possible to their patients. See the video below for more on what the ADA’s Code of Ethics mean.

Word of Mouth: If you’re looking for a dentist in your community, odds are you know someone that goes to that dentist. Speak to those people and get a first hand perspective from someone. Ask about the good and the bad and try to get a well rounded account of the doctor(s) and the office staff.

Insurance Accepted: There are three common types of dental insurance plans: Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO), and Discount or Referral Dental Plans. It is important to find out if the dentist you are considering is in your insurance network. Talk to the office staff to learn more about this.

When to Switch Dentists

The truth is only you will know when it is time to change dentists. Whether it is how you’re treated when in the office or the results you’re getting from your treatment, there are many things to consider when deciding if you should switch dentists. At the very least, if you’re wondering if you should switch dentists, go through the tips above and do your research. You may end up finding what may be a better fit for your particular life stage and dental needs.

If you’d like to schedule a consultation or to see if our office can help with your particular dental needs, contact us today.