Thanksgiving – a chance to spend time with family and friends, watch football, and reflect on all we have to be grateful for. Of course, Thanksgiving is also a time to indulge in lots of delicious and festive foods! 
Unfortunately, holiday feasts expose your teeth to sugary treats that can damage your dental health. Here are six tips from the dentists at Atkins & Anderson to help keep your smile clean and healthy during the holiday season. 

1. Drink LOTS of Water

We all know the overall health benefits of water. But staying hydrated also supports healthy saliva flow to wash away sugar, harmful acids, and food particles from your teeth – preventing plaque accumulation. And studies show that drinking water before meals will help you eat less.  

2. Brush and Floss

Sugary and sticky foods are in abundance during Thanksgiving. After indulging in your favorite treats, brushing and flossing all the acid-producing sugar and carbs off your teeth is crucial. During festive holidays, try to brush your teeth three times a day and floss at least once every day.
Read More: Daily Dental Do’s – 4 Ways to Keep You and Your Teeth Healthy

3. Chew Sugarless Gum

When you can’t brush your teeth after a meal, chewing sugarless gum helps freshen your breath and removes sugar and food particles. Chewing gum also increases saliva production, which has natural antibacterial properties that flush your mouth and prevent damage from bacteria.  

4. Avoid Snacking 

The focus may be on the Thanksgiving feast, but it’s easy to mindlessly munch on snacks and sweets throughout the day. Constantly exposing enamel to acidity can wear it down, so make sure there’s plenty of time when you’re not eating. Then you can save your appetite (and teeth) for the main meal! 

5. Protect Your Teeth

The holidays can be a target time for something to go wrong – and the last thing you want during Thanksgiving is a cracked tooth! Avoid crunching on ice and using your teeth to open bottles, nuts, or food wrappers.  
Read More: Did You Chip or Break a Tooth? Here’s What to Do

6. Make a Post-Holiday Cleaning Appointment

The holidays are a time to enjoy and indulge in special treats – from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. But the long meals and sugary desserts are tough on your teeth. That’s why post-holiday dental cleaning is essential. And a healthy, shiny smile is the perfect way to start the new year!

Happy Thanksgiving from Atkins & Anderson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Atkins & Anderson DDS features three top dentists in Bryan/College Station under one roof –  Brady Atkins, DDS, Lindsey Atkins, DDS, and Craig Anderson, DDS.
Atkins & Anderson sees patients of all ages and offers a variety of dental procedures and services, including general, restorative, and cosmetic. We also have a dentist on call 24/7 for after-hours or weekend emergencies. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

At what age should dental care start for my child? How can I keep my toddler’s teeth healthy? When should I schedule the first checkup?

These are just a few of the questions parents have about their child’s dental care. You know you want to prevent cavities, but what’s the best way?

Here are some tips and guidelines to help you keep your child’s teeth healthy from birth:

Birth to First Tooth

Did you know infants are born with their entire set of 20 primary teeth already below the gum line? That’s why it’s important to think about dental care before the first tooth even comes in.

Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean damp washcloth or gauze pad after every feeding. Finish bottle feedings before putting your baby down to sleep.

Avoid putting pacifiers or feeding spoons in your mouth because you can pass cavity-causing germs to your baby. Instead, rinse pacifiers with water to clean them.

1st Tooth to 12 Months

The first tooth usually emerges when a baby is 6-8 months old. After the first tooth appears, lightly brush your baby’s teeth and gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush but no toothpaste. At this stage, you should schedule the first dental appointment. The AAPD recommends seeing a dentist by your baby’s first birthday.

12 to 24 Months

Continue brushing your child’s teeth twice daily with plain water only. Make a dentist appointment if you notice any irregular brown or white spots, which can indicate tooth decay.

2 – 8 Years

Around the age of 2 years, begin brushing your child’s teeth twice daily using a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. Teach your child to spit out all the toothpaste after brushing and not to swallow it.

Toddlers will need help brushing their teeth, but you can let them hold the toothbrush and try brushing them first. After they’ve had a turn, you can finish and make sure their teeth are brushed properly. Once your child has two teeth that touch, you should floss them daily.

Regular checkups every 6 months will help prevent cavities and other dental problems.

You’ll need to help your child until you’re confident they can clean their teeth properly by themselves. Every child is different, but most need supervision until ages 8-10.

What’s the best way to brush your child’s teeth?

1. Stand or sit behind your child so they feel secure. Brush teeth in front of a mirror so they can watch and learn – and you can see inside their mouth.

2. Angle the toothbrush bristles towards the gum. If you’re using an electric toothbrush, move the brush gently across the teeth. Move the brush in gentle circles if you’re using a manual toothbrush.

3. Brush the inner and outer sides of the teeth, the chewing surfaces, and the gum line.

4. Gently brush your child’s tongue.

5. After brushing for 2 minutes, encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste, not swallow it. There’s no need to rinse with water after brushing because the fluoride toothpaste left behind helps protect your child’s teeth.

Looking Ahead

As your kids grow and their permanent teeth come in, plan on routine dental checkups every 6 months. Limit sugary foods and encourage proper brushing and flossing to keep your child’s teeth healthy. When added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, these home treatments will help give your child a lifetime of healthy dental habits. To schedule an appointment, contact Atkins & Anderson DDS today.

The world of braces has changed dramatically over the years. The word braces used to evoke feelings of dread as people pictured bulky metal and headgear. Now, there are many more options making braces less uncomfortable and less obvious. The age that many people wear braces is also changing. While braces are typically seen on school-aged children, more and more adults are getting braces. If you missed the opportunity for braces as a child, or your teeth have shifted since then, there are several reasons you should consider braces as an adult. 

1.    Invisalign is an Option

Unlike when you were an adolescent, there are many more options to straighten your teeth. Clear aligners such as Invisalign will still give you the impact of traditional braces without the discomfort or visibility of metal (or colorful rubber bands). At Atkins & Anderson, DDS, we are thrilled to offer Invisalign to our patients. Schedule an appointment with us today to discover if Invisalign is right for you. 

2.    Improve Your Overall Oral Health

Braces do more than simply straighten your teeth. Braces reduce discomfort in your jaw and correct an overbite or underbite. Misalignment of your teeth can lead to more serious dental conditions causing persistent pain, sleep disruptions, and difficulty eating. Jaw-related issues such as TMJ, overcrowded teeth, or a history of grinding your teeth can be reduced with the help of braces. Sometimes the position of the teeth makes it difficult to brush or floss effectively which can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Braces are a simple solution to a host of dental problems. 

3.    Smile with Confidence

Life is too short to be self-conscious. We want you to love your smile. Wearing braces for a short time is worth it if the result gives you more confidence. We want you to be successful in both your personal and professional life. Having a smile you’re proud of is a great step toward putting yourself out there and achieving your goals.

4.    It’s Worth the Investment

Braces often cost between $5,000 and $8,000. Check with your insurance company to see if you have orthodontics coverage. If braces are needed for reasons beyond cosmetics, dental insurance may help cover the costs. While braces are a financial investment, they can positively impact your life and protect your mouth from various dental issues. If you’re concerned about the cost of braces, talk to our front office about payment plans. Our team at Atkins & Anderson will show you the best options for braces that meet your oral needs as well as your budget. 

If you have questions about braces or want to see if Invisalign is right for you, schedule an appointment with us at Atkins & Anderson, DDS, today! 

When it comes to practicing good oral hygiene, there are multiple steps you can take. Habits like brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing every day, limiting sugar intake, avoiding tobacco, and scheduling routine examinations will protect your teeth from unwanted plaque buildup that can lead to tooth decay and other painful problems. But did you know that brushing your teeth regularly will only be effective if your toothbrush is in good condition? Here are our answers to common questions that ensure your toothbrush is doing its job and your mouth stays healthy.

1: How often should I change my manual toothbrush?

According to the CDC, you should swap out your old toothbrush for a new one every three to four months. Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush become frayed and worn down. This means they will not adequately brush away debris and plaque on your teeth. Brushing your teeth for an extended time with frayed bristles puts you at risk for gum disease and tooth decay.

2: How often should I change the head of my electric toothbrush?

Because the bristles on the head of an electric toothbrush are much shorter than a manual toothbrush, you should replace the head every 3 months or less. As soon as you notice the bristles are worn, it’s time to swap them out.

3: How do I take care of my toothbrush?

Your toothbrush will last longer if you take good care of it. Use this checklist as a reminder of proper toothbrush care and be sure to teach your little ones how to manage their toothbrush correctly.

• Do not store your toothbrush in a place where it will come into contact with another toothbrush. This prevents germs from spreading.
• Do not store your toothbrush in a closed container. This encourages the growth of bacteria and mold that could then harm your mouth.
• Do not share your toothbrush with anyone.
• Do not use mouthwash, soap, or disinfectant to clean your toothbrush. If it needs to be cleaned, it’s time to replace it.
• Always rinse off your toothbrush after brushing your teeth.

The health of your teeth and gums impacts your overall health. You can easily avoid cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath by brushing your teeth regularly with a toothbrush in peak condition. To further protect your smile and promote good oral hygiene, schedule an appointment with Atkins and Anderson Dentistry for a routine cleaning and examination. We’re here for the whole family!

You use your toothbrush twice a day every day, but do you give it much thought? Do you browse the toothbrush aisle in the same way you browse for a new pair of shoes? Probably not. In most cases, we grab a toothbrush, use it every day, but don’t consider whether or not it’s effectively cleaning our teeth. We want you to get the most out of your toothbrush so that you can protect your teeth from decay and your gums from disease. Choosing the right toothbrush is vital, so we’re here to help.

Electric or Manual Toothbrush?

While both electric and manual toothbrushes are approved by the American Dental Association, there are pros and cons to each. Electric toothbrushes have been proven to reduce plaque by 21% after daily use for three months, as well as reduce gingivitis by 11%. Oscillating toothbrushes are even more effective at cleaning than the ones that simply vibrate. Electric toothbrushes are also known to increase focus while brushing and are especially helpful for children and anyone with braces. People with arthritis or limited mobility may find an electric toothbrush more comfortable and easier to use. However, electric toothbrushes are more expensive than manual brushes and may be inconvenient when traveling or when it comes time to replace the head. Manual brushes are easily accessible for cheap prices which makes them desirable. But manual toothbrushes are potentially dangerous for aggressive brushers. Many people brush too hard when using a manual brush and damage the gums and teeth.

Not All Toothbrushes are Equal

While each toothbrush on the shelf is approved by the ADA, they are not all made equally. A manual or electric toothbrush is not the only thing you need to consider. One of the most important aspects of a toothbrush is the bristle. Bristles can be soft, medium, or hard but the most common recommendation is soft bristles. Medium and hard bristles can scrub away protective enamel or hurt your gums—especially if you already tend to brush your teeth hard. Those with sensitive gums will benefit from a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is also important to make sure the bristles have rounded tips to effectively clean your teeth without damaging them. When it comes to your toothbrush, size matters. Children should use a child-sized brush so that they can easily maneuver the brush to clean all sides of their teeth. Regardless of your choice between manual or electric, allow your child to give input on the toothbrush they want to use. Your children are more apt to brush their teeth regularly if they like their toothbrush. This is true of adults as well. The more comfortable we feel with our toothbrush, the better we will be at brushing correctly and consistently.

Our Recommendation

At Anderson & Atkins, DDS, we believe that brushing your teeth is crucial for two reasons. First, it removes debris from your teeth. Second, it is the vehicle that carries fluoride toothpaste to every tooth. Fluoride is necessary to strengthen and protect your teeth. In order to most effectively carry out these two purposes, we recommend using an electric toothbrush. Dr. Brady claims to use an electric and manual toothbrush interchangeably, so we never disregard someone’s preference to use a manual brush. We only encourage you to consider your brushing habits. If you are exhausted before climbing into bed at night, ask yourself if you’re brushing your teeth sufficiently. If you tend to rush when brushing your teeth, you will benefit from an electric toothbrush which does the hard work for you.

If you have questions about your toothbrush and whether or not it’s getting the job done right, contact our office at (979) 846-1813. If you need to schedule an appointment for a cleaning, or have concerns about cavities or gum sensitivity, make an appointment at Anderson & Atkins, DDS today.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/electric-toothbrush-vs-manual#manual-cons

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable#1

Believe it or not, there is a right way to brush your teeth! You have been brushing your teeth twice a day for most of your life and you may be doing it wrong. Brushing your teeth the correct way keeps your gums healthier and your mouth cleaner. Today is a new day, so learn the best way to brush your teeth and put it into practice. You’ll be glad you did!

Technique Matters

When you exercise, the proper technique simultaneously yields the best results and protects your muscles. The same is true when you brush your teeth. The proper technique yields the best results and protects your mouth. The American Dental Association recommends putting your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gums, not perpendicular. Instead of brushing straight across your teeth, you should make short tooth-wide strokes. It’s important to brush every surface of your tooth—the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. To effectively brush the inner surface, turn your brush vertically and make gentle up and down strokes. Hold your toothbrush gently in your hand and be cautious not to brush too hard or you may unintentionally scrape away enamel.

What Else Matters?

The tool that you use also makes a difference for optimum cleaning. Both electric and manual toothbrushes will effectively remove plaque and debris from your teeth. It is important to make sure that your toothbrush is the correct size, meaning it is small enough to reach every tooth easily. You also need to switch out your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles become frayed. Frayed or worn bristles will not adequately clean your teeth. The amount of time you brush your teeth also matters when it comes to protecting your mouth. The ADA encourages you to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. Flossing between your teeth is also key to removing bacteria and food particles that can lead to tooth decay.

What Your Teeth Say About You

Clean teeth do not just represent good hygiene. Brushing your teeth for the recommended time, while using the correct technique, protects your teeth from cavities. A cavity is a damaged area on the hard surface of your tooth that creates a hole or small opening. This leads to extreme sensitivity or tooth pain, and can create more serious problems if it’s not addressed. It’s important to brush your teeth regularly so that you remove any debris or bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. We recommend brushing your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, so that you carry fluoride directly to every tooth, strengthening enamel and providing further protection.

If you have questions about proper oral hygiene, contact us at Anderson & Atkins DDS. Regular dental visits are also the key to effective oral health. Our office is located in the Bryan-College Station area and our team is skilled in treating both children and adults. Correct brushing at home is necessary, but further prevention and treatment of tooth decay happen at the dentist office. Schedule an appointment for your cleaning today.

When it comes to your kids, there’s little more important than starting to take care of their health early. Early dental checkups are important as they help prevent cavities and tooth decay, which can lead to pain, trouble concentrating, and other medical issues. The sooner children begin getting regular dental checkups, the healthier their mouths will remain throughout their lives.

Their First Visit

When is the right time to start worrying about your child’s dental health? At Anderson & Atkins DDS, we recommend that as soon as a child has teeth, it is a good idea to start bringing them in for dental exams to get them accustomed to the dental office. Often, children may feel scared to come to the dentist’s office. But with consistency, going to the dentist will soon become a normal experience. These early visits are also the best time for parents to get instructions as to how to keep your child’s teeth healthy!

What To Expect

When you set up your child’s first checkup, you’ll begin your journey with our friendly and qualified team. At these appointments, your dentist will be able to check up on the overall health and progress of your child’s teeth and identify any early structural or other problems with your child’s mouth. Your child will also receive a personalized oral care plan that you both can follow together. After the initial appointment, a check-up every six months is recommended. These appointments will monitor your child’s progress. At Anderson & Atkins, we sometimes utilize the help of pediatric specialists for unique cases. In these instances, we will refer you to one of our trusted partner pediatric specialists. Additionally, we do offer “laughing gas” if needed.

Best Practices

As your child starts to follow this oral care plan, they will begin to understand the overall importance of dental careand  good dental practices by creating oral hygiene habits. At Anderson and Atkins, we recommend parents begin brushing baby teeth as soon as they erupt. In order to do this, just wet a small, soft toothbrush and gently brush all around your child’s baby teeth — front and back. You may graduate to a rice-sized amount of kids’ toothpaste once your child is two (be sure to teach them to spit while brushing), then increase to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when they are three and less likely to swallow it. You should begin flossing your child’s teeth as soon as they begin to touch.

Common Dental Issues In Children

Although their teeth are new, children may face some of the same dental problems as adults. Tooth decay is extremely common among children. It is caused by bacteria and plaque acids that attack and destroy tooth enamel. Attention to diet and strict oral hygiene can help prevent decay. Bad breath can affect people of any age. Potential sources of mouth odor include poor dental hygiene, inflamed gums, and dry mouth. Sensitive teeth might seem like an issue only the older crowd deals with, but kids have thinner enamel than adults. When enamel gets worn down, the gums can recede or cracks can form on the tooth exposing nerve endings. This leads to pain when eating or drinking anything hot or cold.

The Bottom Line

Since the moment your child is born, you are constantly monitoring their health. Unfortunately, the same is often not true of a child’s oral health. Many people put off their children’s first dental visits until their adult teeth start to come in, which is a serious mistake. Just like it’s important to get an early start on taking care of your child’s overall health, it’s equally important to get an early start oral healthcare. For more information about how Anderson & Atkins can help you kick start your child’s oral health or if you have any questions about our practice, please feel free to contact us here!