You’re making a list and checking it twice. Except that this time, it’s a list for back-to-school preparations. School supplies, new shoes, lunchboxes, carpool, schedules, but as the great parent that you are, we’re sure you’ve thought of everything! Or almost, everything. During this busy time, many people forget about the importance of taking care of their children’s dental needs. But the start of the new school year is a great time to revamp your oral care habits and prioritize a healthy mouth. Here are three tips you can do today to get your children (and their teeth) ready for the school year.

Schedule a Dentist Appointment

Did you know that according to a study in 2015, one-third of children miss school due to dental problems? One way to avoid missing school to take care of your child’s oral needs is to schedule an appointment with your dentist now. A routine cleaning and dental exam will alert you of any potential problems before they arise or address any dental needs before make-up work is given to your child. Your dentist may recommend sealants or fluoride treatments to help prevent cavities.

Level Up Their Lunch

When you pack your child’s lunch, you may already limit sugar knowing that too much sugar can lead to cavities. However, most people underestimate salty snacks. Starch in chips and crackers break down into a sticky substance that coats teeth and can lead to decay. Try subbing in nuts for a salty snack and encouraging your children to eat baby carrots and celery sticks when they want something crunchy.

Make Oral Care Fun

To help younger kids get excited about taking care of their teeth, try adding some fun elements to your dental hygiene routine. Create a sticker calendar to help your children keep track of when they brush and floss their teeth each day. Children and adults should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once, preferably in the evening. Another fun idea is to bring some music into the bathroom. Create a playlist of your kids’ favorite songs and have them brush their teeth until the two-minute song is over. Encourage your child to get involved in their dental hygiene by picking out a toothbrush in their favorite color or with their favorite character/theme.

Begin teaching your children the importance of choosing the right snacks, prioritizing their oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental appointments. If you’re looking for a family dentist you can trust in Bryan/College Station, contact Atkins & Anderson, DDS to schedule a routine cleaning for every member of your family.

Are you waiting for the day when your child shouts, “My tooth is loose!”? Most kids look forward to the day they feel a tooth wiggle – it’s a big milestone for them, and you.

When permanent teeth begin to push through the gums, the roots of baby teeth are reabsorbed. The only thing holding them in place, once they’re loose, is a small amount of tissue.

The average age most children begin to lose their baby teeth is 6 years, but some lose their first tooth as young as 4 or as old as 7. Generally, the younger the child was when their teeth came in, the earlier they fall out. Consult your dentist if your child begins to lose their teeth before the age of 4 in case there’s an underlying issue.

First In, First Out

All 20 baby teeth are usually in by the time a child is 3 years old, and they typically fall out in the same order they came in:

• Lower middle teeth in front (center incisors) are the first to go around age 6-7
• Top middle pair are usually next
• Back molars are generally shed between ages 10-12, and they’re replaced with permanent teeth around age 13

A baby tooth doesn’t usually loosen until the permanent tooth below it pushes it up. It is possible, though, for kids to lose a baby tooth before that, especially because of an accident or tooth decay. If this happens, a permanent tooth might drift into the empty space which can crowd permanent teeth and cause them to come in crooked. Your dentist will probably want to put in a plastic placeholder (spacer) until the adult tooth is ready to push through to prevent future spacing problems. According to orthodontists, 30% of their patients lost baby teeth prematurely.

Out with the Old

When your child notices a loose tooth, encourage them to gently wiggle it with their tongue or finger to help it become looser. Remind your child not to yank out a tooth before it’s ready to fall out on its own since this makes the broken root vulnerable to infection. When the tooth is loose enough, and your child wants you to pull it out, hold it tightly with a piece of gauze or tissue and give it a quick twist to remove it. If a primary tooth isn’t loosening enough on its own, your child’s dentist may need to extract it to make room for the incoming permanent tooth.

In with the New

Your child’s adult teeth are bigger, less white than baby teeth, and often have pronounced ridges because they haven’t been used for biting and chewing yet.

When the first permanent molars come in, your 6- or 7-year-old may complain of soreness in the back of her mouth. (There aren’t any baby teeth there to fall out and alert you first). The soreness shouldn’t last long, but acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease the pain if necessary.

Brushing and Flossing

This is the most important time to brush and floss regularly! You may need to help your child with this until he or she is 8-10 years old. Their intentions may be good, but they may lack the ability to clean their teeth well enough.

Teeth should be brushed every morning and night and, when possible, 5-10 minutes after eating. It’s also important to keep the gums healthy, so your child should also floss regularly, ideally once a day. Doing so will help prevent gum disease in adulthood.

Use a tartar-control toothpaste to keep plaque from sticking to your child’s teeth. Fluoride toothpaste helps prevent cavities and strengthens the enamel of teeth. Fluoride has been added to the water supply in most cities, but you may want to add fluoride to your child’s diet if your tap water has less than the recommended levels. Fluoride treatment is often part of a vitamin supplement that should begin at 6 months and continue until age 16. Ask your dentist or pediatrician if this is a concern for you.

Don’t forget to replace toothbrushes every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. This will reduce harmful bacteria and ensure the brushes are doing their job.

Prevent Cavities

In addition to fluoride toothpaste and treatments, sealants can reduce cavities by 90%. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that prevent plaque from collecting and becoming trapped in the grooves and pits of the teeth. They’re especially helpful for all back teeth that have deep indentations in them. Sealants are cost-effective because they are highly successful in preventing cavities.

Another way to prevent cavities is to avoid or limit treats that are high-sugar and sticky sweets. Try not to snack on sweets between meals since these foods linger longer in the mouth unless you brush right away.

Dental Checkups

It’s important to make sure your child has dental checkups twice a year for cleaning. These regular preventative appointments will greatly decrease the chances that your child will ever have to undergo major dental treatments. If your child complains of a toothache, contact your dentist since this pain could be a sign of a decayed tooth.

You can help your child’s teeth last a lifetime when you teach them how to care for their oral health properly. Call us today if you have any questions or want to schedule a check-up.

A research team commissioned by the National Coffee Association discovered that 64% of Americans drink at least one cup of coffee every day. Maybe you fall into this category and have wondered whether or not you should try to kick the habit. But did you know that coffee can actually have positive effects on your oral health? We’ll show you why you don’t have to avoid your daily cup of joe in order to protect your teeth and gums. Better yet, your coffee intake may actually reduce your risk for oral/pharyngeal cancer according to the American Cancer Society. And all the coffee-lovers say, “Amen!”

What are the Benefits?

If you’ve been concerned about the effects coffee plays on your dental hygiene and oral health, we’ll show you three ways it’s actually beneficial.

1. Coffee Can Minimize your Risk for Oral Cancer

Coffee contains high amounts of polyphenol and antioxidants which are necessary for stopping the growth of cells that feed tumors. Polyphenols are found in fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, and extra virgin olive oil. In fact, The American Cancer Society discovered that those who drank more than four cups of coffee every day had a 50% reduced risk of death by oral cancer.

2. Coffee Can Reduce Cavity-Causing Bacteria

When we eat various foods, largely carbohydrates, the sugar breaks down and ferments, creating bacteria in our mouth that leads to cavities and tooth decay. The mineral structure on our teeth is also damaged as pH levels increase as a result of consuming foods and beverages that are acidic. The American Chemical Society found that some types of coffee actually contain antibacterial properties that keep cavity-causing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, away.

3. Coffee Can Help Stop Plaque Build-up

In the same study by the American Chemical Society, researchers discovered that coffee roasted from arabica and robusta beans also contained “powerful anti-adhesive” properties. This means that coffee can form a shield in your mouth preventing plaque from building up on your teeth and along your gum line. Over time, plaque buildup leads to decay and other oral complications.

What’s the Catch?

While this is good news for those who enjoy coffee, there are a few stipulations. If your coffee order includes sugar, syrups, or dairy, you’ll need to make a few adjustments. Consuming coffee with large amounts of these flavorful additions can actually backfire. Instead, we recommend that you drink your coffee black. Research has also identified more antioxidants in darker roasts. A lighter roast may also contain more acid which can damage the enamel on your teeth. Coffee, no matter how it is consumed, can still stain your teeth. So it’s important to remember that moderation is key. You should limit your consumption of coffee whether you drink it black, naturally sweetened with stevia, or add cream. Always rinse your mouth with water after you drink coffee to avoid stains. And if possible, opt for a dark roast from a whole bean that you grind yourself just before brewing. This will ensure you get all the dental benefits coffee offers.

If you have questions or concerns about your oral health or are interested in learning more about cosmetic whitening, call our office at (979) 846-1813 or email us here. At Anderson & Atkins, DDS, we are dedicated to helping you feel confident in your smile.

There are many ways you can take an active role to ensure the oral health of your children. But our bodies are incredible, and one of the best ways to keep your mouth healthy is completely out of your control! This powerful tool is saliva. In most cases, you have no control over your saliva production and yet it takes care of your oral health in multiple ways. Learn more about the benefits of saliva and how you can make sure your child is producing enough.

What is Saliva?

Saliva is a clear liquid made up of water and natural chemicals in your body. Saliva is produced by the salivary glands in your mouth. They are located on the inside of your cheeks, under your tongue, and under your jaw at the front of your mouth. Your body works 24 hours a day to produce saliva and ends up producing two to four pints of saliva daily!

What Does Saliva Do for Me?

Saliva has an incredible purpose when it comes to keeping our mouth healthy. It helps you clean your teeth between meals by rinsing away food particles. It also contains enzymes that begin breaking down food before it reaches your stomach, thus helping with digestion. Saliva coats your tongue and allows you to actually taste your food. In fact, it would be difficult to eat without saliva. Saliva makes dry food wet in your mouth which helps you chew and swallow. Your saliva contains enzymes that not only break down your food but help reduce bacteria in your mouth. And last but not least, your saliva is filled with proteins that protect tooth enamel and reduce bad breath. It’s safe to say that saliva plays a crucial role in your overall oral health!

Is My Child Producing Enough Saliva?

The body naturally produces enough saliva, so on a regular basis, you should have nothing to worry about. However, there are some medications or medical conditions with side effects of dry mouth. Talk to your pediatrician if your child expresses concerns about having a dry mouth. Board certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Nanna Ariaban says, “Hydration can also affect saliva production, as (saliva) is mostly made of water. Make sure your child is drinking enough water, especially during the summer and during exercise!”

Anderson and Atkins, DDS is a Family Dentistry serving children and adults in the Bryan-College Station area. Our team is skilled at pediatric dentistry and able to help you teach your children good dental habits. One of our patients, Cheryl, says, “My family never dreads our visits to the dentist because everyone at this office is so amazing! They are so kind and helpful! I especially love how they make our children (ages 7 & 4) feel so comfortable, so they have never had to fear the dentist!” If you have questions about your child’s oral health or need to schedule a routine cleaning, call our office today at (979)846-1813, or email us for more information.

Nearly 15% of Americans claim to be afraid of the dentist. You are not alone in your hesitation to schedule an appointment. Perhaps you had a bad experience or a painful procedure and you’re afraid your next visit will be a repeat. Or, maybe you’re ashamed of the state of your teeth because it’s been years since you went to the dentist. If you’re concerned about cost, you might be afraid you won’t be able to afford the procedure your dentist recommends. Those with low pain tolerance may be afraid that even a simple cleaning may hurt, plus it’s just uncomfortable having hands and metal tools roaming around your mouth. Whatever your reason for fearing a dentist appointment, Anderson and Atkins, DDS is here to help ease your anxiety. We want you to have a positive experience in our office and we want you to schedule regular visits so that your mouth can be healthy. Follow our advice and your next appointment may just be one of your best yet.

1. Be Honest

If you’ve had a bad experience either at our office or with your previous dentist, please tell us. We will do our best to alleviate your concerns and reduce your anxiety. If you tend to feel trapped in the chair during the exam, we can create a signal so that at any point you can let us know you need a break. We’re happy to stretch our backs while you take a deep breath. When you’re honest with us about how you feel, we can better support you.

2. Ask Questions

In many cases, patients believe a procedure is going to be worse than it actually is. They imagine the pain and create fear when it’s not necessary. If you’re concerned about a procedure, ask questions! We’ll walk you through the exam or the procedure step by step so that you have nothing to worry about.

3. Wear Headphones

We get it, the sounds of the machines in your mouth can be a little unnerving. We recommend bringing along your headphones. When needed, you can listen to your favorite playlist, podcast, or audiobook and drown out the noise of the drill. This won’t bother us, just let us know ahead of time so that we can still communicate instructions if necessary.

4. Utilize Relaxation Techniques

When you’re feeling anxious during an exam or procedure, you may benefit from practicing relaxation techniques. Sometimes by simply holding a stress ball or fidget spinner in your hands can distract you and help you feel calm. Taking slow, deep breaths and then exhaling for the

same amount of time can help lower your heartbeat and give you something else to focus on. Focus on releasing tension in various muscles of your body. When you can relax your mind, you will find that you are overall less anxious.

5. Ask for a Numbing Agent

Some people are more sensitive than others and that’s okay. You don’t need to be embarrassed by your pain tolerance. If you feel extremely anxious during a procedure or experience pain, ask us for a numbing agent. We may be able to apply a numbing agent to both ease your pain and your nerves.

6. Schedule Your Next Appointment

When you schedule regular dentist appointments, there are often fewer dental issues. With faster exams and fewer procedures, you may find that your fear of the dentist disappears.

Don’t let your fears keep you from scheduling an appointment with us at Anderson and Atkins, DDS. Even if it’s been years since you’ve had a cleaning, today is the day to face your fears and make the appointment. Call our office at (979) 846-1813.

When you’re sick, it’s important to take care of your body, including your teeth. Brushing your teeth is still a necessary habit and may even help you feel better. However, there are certain things you want to avoid and special practices to adopt in order to take care of your mouth while you don’t feel well.

What Not To Do

The first thing you should avoid is cough drops or throat lozenges that contain sugar. Be sure to read the label and refuse to purchase a bag of cough drops that contain fructose or corn syrup. Sugar is dangerous to your mouth because it attracts cavity-producing bacteria. When you suck on cough drops containing sugar, Dr. Gene Romo, an ADA dentists says, “it is like sucking on candy.” Instead, opt for a bag that promotes a sugar-free cough drop and reduces your risk of developing cavities or holes in your teeth. When you’re sick, you may experience the unglamorous symptom of vomiting. This brings us to our second warning. Do not brush your teeth immediately after vomiting. Many people think this is a helpful practice when, in reality, you are spreading acid throughout your mouth. We recommend rinsing your mouth with water or a diluted mouthwash to get rid of the stomach acid in your mouth. After waiting thirty minutes, it is then safe to brush your teeth. Speaking of brushing your teeth, the third thing you need to avoid is sharing a toothbrush. This is never a recommended idea but is especially unwise when you are sick. You do not necessarily have to get a new toothbrush for yourself since it is unlikely you could reinfect yourself. However, if you have been using the same toothbrush for three to four months, it’s time to replace it anyways.

What To Do

When you’re sick, there are several practices we encourage you to adopt. These practices will not only keep your mouth clean, but they will also help you feel better and may protect those around you from getting sick. Good hygiene when you’re sick includes brushing your teeth regularly and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Viruses spread most easily through moisture, so containing a sneeze or cough by coughing into your elbow protects those around you. Wash your hands frequently and remember, use your own toothbrush only! It is also necessary to stay hydrated and avoid dry mouth. Dry mouth increases your risk for cavities. You may be prone to dry mouth if you are taking medication like antihistamines, decongestants or pain relievers. Drink fluids consistently throughout the day in order to keep the saliva flowing. As you consider which fluids to consume when you’re sick, Dr. Romo says, “the safest thing to drink is water.” If you do choose a sports drink to replenish electrolytes, check to see if it’s sugar-free. If you have a fever or a sore throat, you may opt to drink hot tea. If you can, avoid adding lemon and sugar to protect your mouth from unwanted cavities.

We hope that you and your family are staying well during this flu season, but be sure to adhere to these do’s and don’ts so that you keep your mouth healthy. Remember, one of the best ways to take care of your mouth is to schedule a regular cleaning. If you need a dentist you can trust in Bryan-College Station, come see us at Anderson & Atkins, DDS. Schedule an appointment by calling (979) 846-1813.

 

Sources: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/c/cold-and-flu-season

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adult-oral-care/caring-for-teeth-when-sick

The idea of “same-day” dentures may be appealing to you. But it’s not quite as simple as the name makes it out to be. Let us show you the details behind “same-day” dentures so you know exactly what to expect. At Anderson & Atkins, DDS we want you to be informed and confident when it comes to making decisions about your teeth. Find out if “same-day”, or more commonly known as immediate, dentures is the best course of treatment for you.

What You Don’t Hear About “Same-Day” Dentures

“Same-day” dentures sounds easy, right? One appointment, new teeth, you’re good to go. But the name is misleading. Dr. Atkins explains, “In reality, you have a few appointments before you get teeth pulled to measure for the denture. Then appointments after you get the denture for adjustments. But you never hear about those until you come in, of course.” We don’t want you to feel misled. We want you to know that there will be multiple appointments before and after the surgery. This is important if you want the fit to be secure and the color of the teeth to be correct.

All in all, the idea behind “same-day” dentures is that your teeth will be removed and new teeth inserted on the same day. Dr. Atkins assures you, “We won’t let people walk out without teeth.”

The Process of “Same-Day” Dentures

Your first several appointments will include the fabrication phase. This phase includes an impression of the teeth and jaw, bite records, and selecting the tooth color. If you plan to receive a full set of dentures, your back teeth with be extracted six to eight weeks prior to fabrication. When the back teeth are removed and the gums are fully healed before the remainder of your teeth are removed, the dentures are more likely to fit correctly. After the back teeth are removed and fabrication is complete, your surgery is scheduled to remove your remaining teeth and insert the denture. Initially, your gums will be swollen, so a follow-up appointment is required to adjust the fit of the dentures after the swelling subsides. In fact, it may take up to six months after you receive the denture before it can be finalized.

The Pros and Cons to “Same-Day” Dentures

The most obvious “pro” of immediate dentures is the fact that you always have teeth. Traditional denture insertion occurs at least six weeks after the teeth are extracted. This allows the gums to heal before the denture is inserted and may reduce the need for size adjustments. However, six weeks is a long time to go without teeth. Immediate dentures prevent you from having to change your dietary habits, face insecurity as you go about your daily routine, or learn how to talk without teeth. Immediate dentures also help to protect your gums after teeth extraction. On the flip side, immediate dentures are more expensive than traditional dentures. And, as we mentioned early, immediate dentures will require sizing adjustments as the gums heal.

Immediate dentures are not for everyone. Various health conditions or oral problems could prevent you from being eligible for this procedure. But for those who see that the pros outweigh the cons, contact us at Anderson & Atkins, DDS. Immediate dentures may be the right procedure for you. If you’re interested in learning more, call us at (979) 846-1813.

 

Sources:

https://www.stgeorgesmiles.com/blog/2018/07/30/what-are-same-day-dentures/

https://www.dentistry.uiowa.edu/patient-care-immediate-dentures

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be making dinner reservations, chocolate covered desserts, and plans for sharing a romantic night with your loved one. But you may also want to make your mouth healthy before the 14th. Kissing has many benefits—it even helps reduce cavities. But if you share kisses with someone who has an unhealthy mouth, you may be sharing more than you bargained for. Take these five steps to get your mouth ready for Valentine’s Day.

Brush Twice a Day

If this is already a habit of yours, keep it up! Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every day will help eliminate bacteria that causes cavities. When you kiss or even share a fork with another person, you easily spread that cavity-causing bacteria to another person.

Prevent Bad Breath

Bad breath is a sure-fire way to bring a romantic moment to a halt. Brushing your teeth on a regular basis will help keep your breath in check. Also, consider using a mouthwash to freshen your breath and wash away debris and bacteria in hard to reach places. You may want to grab a pack of sugarless chewing gum to eliminate bad breath after a meal. Just be sure to look for the ADA seal of approval on your gum and mouthwash.

Use Your Own Toothbrush

Sharing isn’t always caring. When you share a toothbrush, you share bacteria and other germs that can cause sickness as well as cavities. In every situation, it’s best just to use your own. If you plan to stay overnight with someone outside your home, make sure you pack your own toothbrush.

Stop Smoking

If you can kick your smoking habit, you will be giving yourself and your loved ones a great gift! Smoking stains your teeth, causes bad breath, leads to gum disease and puts you at risk for oral cancer. When you smoke, there are terrible repercussions for your overall health. And while you may not notice it anymore, your friends and family can smell the smoke on your hair and clothes. Talk to your doctor about effective ways to quit smoking.

Make Your Smile Brighter

If you’re self-conscious about your smile, you may need a simple whitening procedure. There are many good options for over-the-counter whitening kits, but you may have more success with an in-office procedure. Talk to your dentist today and find out which option is best for you. People who whiten their teeth find that the brighter smile gives them the attractive quality of self-confidence.

The best way to make sure your oral hygiene is in good standing is a regular office visit. To schedule a cleaning, contact us at Atkins and Anderson, DDS today. Call us at (979) 846-1813 and visit our website to learn more about Opalescence, our unique tooth whitening procedure.

 

Source: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-under-40/healthy-habits/valentines-day

Flossing tends to be one of the most overlooked forms of dental hygiene. Yes, brushing your teeth is important, but so is flossing daily. In order to effectively protect your teeth from cavities and decay, you need to add this habit to your oral care routine. Let us teach you how to properly floss so that you get the best results.

Is it Really Necessary?

If you’re not convinced that flossing is actually beneficial, maybe we can help. Flossing protects you from cavities and gum disease by easily removing plaque. Plaque is that sticky film on your teeth that contains a bacteria drawn to sugar and leftover food in your mouth. Once it begins to feed on the leftovers, it releases an acid that destroys your teeth and causes cavities. Plaque easily sneaks between your teeth, in the hard to reach places that your toothbrush can miss. Flossing is the best way to eliminate the plaque. If the plaque is not removed, it hardens and turns into tartar, a substance that leads to gum disease. Tartar cannot be removed by anyone except your dentist. So, the most effective way to prevent tartar buildup, cavities, and plaque is to floss every day.

How Do I Floss?

Below are five steps that will help you floss correctly. This correct technique is provided by the American Dental Association (ADA).

Step 1. Take 18 inches of floss and wind the majority of it around one of your middle fingers on your left hand. Take the remaining floss and wind it around the same finger on your right hand, leaving a few inches of floss in between.

Step 2. Take the leftover floss and tightly hold it between both thumbs and pointer fingers. You will move through the floss, unwinding it from your left hand and catching used floss in your right hand.

Step 3. With a gentle, rubbing motion, move the floss between your teeth. Be careful to avoid snapping the floss into the gums.

Step 4. Once you get to the gum line, curve the floss into a C shape around the tooth. Carefully move the floss into the space between the gum and the tooth.

Step 5. With the floss tight against the side of the tooth, move it gently in an up and down motion away from the gumline.

Repeat steps 3-5 on every tooth and make sure you floss the back side of your last tooth.

What Else Should I Know?

The exact time of day that you need to floss is up to you. All that matters is that you include this habit on a daily basis. Many people feel that they are less rushed at night and add a few extra minutes to their nighttime routine by flossing. For those that are too tired to do one more thing in the evening, we suggest flossing after your mid-afternoon snack.

There are several different kinds of floss that you can use. Find the one that is best for you and will not deter you from skipping this important step. One type is unwaxed floss. If your teeth are close together, this floss is good because it is thin and fits into tight spaces. However, it is prone to breaking or shredding. Waxed floss is a nylon floss with a wax coating. It is stronger and breaks less easily than unwaxed floss. There are also soft flosses for those with sensitive teeth and gums that bleed easily. Flavored flosses are ideal for kids, and super floss is best for those with braces or dental bridges.

While regularly brushing and flossing is key to good oral hygiene and a healthy mouth, these habits do not exempt you from a professional teeth cleaning. Schedule a cleaning for the whole family at Anderson & Atkins, DDS today by calling (979)846-1813.

 

Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/basics/brushing-and-flossing/why-you-should-floss-daily

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/flossing-steps

https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/solutions/floss/dental-floss-types-pros-cons

The most common New Year’s resolutions in America are: save money, lose weight/exercise, get a new job or hobby, and make new friends. We know that many of you are already working diligently to begin fulfilling your New Year’s resolutions. While we want to cheer you on towards your goals, we also want you to consider another resolution—take care of your oral health. It’s never too late to enhance your smile by resolving to care for your teeth and gums. Here are five things you can do this year that will really give you something to smile about.

1. Revamp your Habits

Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day to successfully remove plaque. You may need to upgrade your toothbrush to an electric toothbrush or trade your old, frayed toothbrush for a new, soft-bristled brush. Try a new toothpaste that has fluoride to improve your oral health. If you tend to brush too hard, you risk scraping off the enamel. So this year, brush your teeth gently, at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. If you do not consistently floss, add in this important discipline. Flossing removes food, plaque, and bacteria that accumulates in between your teeth. Good brushing and flossing habits protect you from gingivitis, cavities, tooth decay, and bad breath.

2. Adjust your Diet

This is not only a suggestion for those who want to lose weight but for those who want to improve their oral health. It’s a win-win! There are certain foods and beverages that can be detrimental to your oral health and should be consumed with caution. Foods that are high in carbohydrates, as well as foods and drinks that are high in acidity and sugar lead to plaque build up and tooth decay. Limit your consumption of these products, or avoid them entirely. If you consume these foods and beverages, especially when snacking, it’s important to brush your teeth afterward.

3. Stop Tobacco Use

Smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco are known causes of gum disease. Infection can get underneath your gums and even damage the bone structure that supports your teeth. Let this be the year you stop smoking and using tobacco. This decision will enhance your overall physical and oral health as well as your oral hygiene. Lean on friends and family for support, download an app to help you track your progress, and utilize free online resources and support groups.

4. Schedule Appointments for Restorative Dentistry

Have you been putting off a simple oral procedure? This is the year to get that filling, crown, or implant you just haven’t made the time for. These simple actions can improve your oral health by protecting tooth alignment or structure. At Anderson & Atkins, DDS, we work with most major insurance companies. You can call our front office to find the answer to your financial questions and schedule the appointment you know you need to make.

5. Come See Us Regularly

We recommend scheduling a dentist appointment every six months. A routine visit can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and significantly reduce the number of procedures you may need. When our team of dentists and oral hygienists see you regularly, we can discover—and treat— gum disease early, or anticipate and monitor problem areas before they become a major issue.

Don’t wait until your gums or teeth are painful before you contact us. Call Anderson and Atkins, DDS at (979)846-1813 to make an appointment for routine cleaning. We are also accepting new patients, so if this is the year you’re ready to take your oral health seriously, come see us!

 

Sources: https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national/these-are-the-top-new-years-resolutions-for-2019

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/adult-oral-care/a-new-years-you-dental-health-resolutions-0114

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/periodontal-gum-disease.html