How Tobacco Use Affects Your Dental Health

Most people agree that smoking and tobacco use is hazardous to your health, as well as the health of those around you. However, many people are unaware of the possible dental-related consequences of tobacco use.

Did you know that smoking and chewing tobacco can contribute to oral cancer, gum disease and slowed healing after dental procedures? Not only that, but the use of tobacco products can also stain your teeth, cause bad breath and may dull your sense of taste and smell.

The harmful additives in cigarettes and other tobacco products can contribute to a number of health-related issues while the nicotine in the tobacco itself can cause the user to become addicted. This vicious cycle leads many people to suffer health problems while dealing with financial burdens such as paying more for insurance or having to pay for dental procedures to correct tobacco-related issues.

Contrary to what some people believe, smokeless tobacco options are not "safe alternatives" to cigarettes, pipes or cigars. In fact, chewing tobacco contains higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes, making it an even harder habit to break. And, according to WebMD.com, one can of snuff delivers more nicotine than over 60 cigarettes! These smokeless "alternatives" can cause just as much damage, if not more, than pipes, cigars or cigarettes. From oral cancer to gum recession to alveolar bone loss, tobacco products (smokeless or otherwise) can cause serious dental problems.

Tobacco use can be a powerful addiction; however, with so many health risks, it's no surprise your dentist will encourage you to quit. If you feel like you need help kicking the habit, there are a number of free resources that can be found on the web. One of which is SmokeFree.gov, a site where you can get free information, contact an expert or chat online with a counselor.

For more resources on dental health and treatments offered at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC, please visit www.TheRaleighDentists.com or call us at 919-782-0548.

Healthy Dental Habits for Adults Over 60

It was once believed that people would lose their natural teeth as they aged. Nowadays, dental experts know that aging doesn't necessarily lead to tooth loss. As medical advancements continue to evolve, people are keeping their natural teeth well into their 50s, 60s and beyond. However, aging adults do require some special dental care in order to maintain a healthy smile.

Here are a few tips for dental care after 60:

Brush and Floss Daily - Although this applies to people at just about any stage of life, it is especially important for older adults. People over 60 are more susceptible to cavities. One of the reasons is dry mouth, which is a common side effect of many prescription medications.

Clean Dentures - Daily Bacteria can stick to dentures just as it sticks to natural teeth. Whether you wear full or partial dentures, be sure you are cleaning them daily with a cleaner specifically made for dentures. The American Dental Association (ADA) also recommends removing your dentures for at least four hours every 24 hours in order to keep the lining of your mouth healthy.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly - This is another bit of advice that applies to everyone, but is particularly important to seniors. As we age, the nerves in our teeth actually become smaller and less sensitive. This means that if you wait until you feel pain, it could be too late. An untreated cavity could lead to the loss of a tooth. In addition to checking for cavities, your dentist will also screen you for oral cancer and gum disease.

Quit Smoking - Again, people of all ages should take this piece of advice, but senior citizens who smoke are especially prone to dental problems. Smoking increases problems with gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss. It can also hinder the healing process after dental surgery and may decrease the success rate of dental implants. Many older adults feel that it's "too late" for them to quit smoking. This is not true. It's NEVER too late to quit! If you need help, talk to your doctor about prescription and non-prescription options to help you quit.

To learn more about dental hygiene and treatments for seniors and patients over 60, please contact Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh NC at 919-782-0548.

Does Bottled Water Contain Fluoride?

For many people, bottled water is a staple of their daily diet. While bottled water is favored by many due to its lack of impurities and fresh taste, it may lack fluoride - an important mineral for your teeth.

Fluoride is a natural mineral found throughout the Earth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), drinking water with fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. In fact, in the 1930s, researchers discovered that people who grew up drinking naturally fluoridated water had up to two-thirds fewer cavities than people living in areas without fluoridated water.

While brushing with a fluoride toothpaste or rinsing with a fluoride mouth wash can help, water can be an even greater source. Unfortunately, if you drink bottled water or use a home water filter, you could be missing out on the health benefits of this mineral.

While some people prefer bottled water simply for the taste, others drink bottled water because they live in an area where tap water may be contaminated or unsafe to consume. Either way, if you choose to drink bottled water, you should try to find the kind that contains fluoride. If you're not sure, check the label. If you have or are thinking of installing a home water filter, check out the ADA site for a list of water filters that do not remove fluoride from tap water.

Dr.Melcher with Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC provides dental resources in this blog and on his website (see: Dental Treatments, Raleigh NC for information and videos about dental treatments).  Contact Dr.Melcher to schedule an appointment for your next cleaning or dental treatment in Raleigh: 919-782-0548.

Your Diet and Your Dental Health

Did you know that your dental health is greatly affected by what you eat and drink? Most people are aware that too much sugar can be bad for teeth and that substances like coffee or wine will cause discoloration, but a lot of folks might be surprised to know that diets high in carbohydrates or acidic substances can also contribute to dental problems.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth decay happens when plaque come into contact with sugar in the mouth, causing acid to attack the teeth. The ADA recommends avoiding the consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar such as soft drinks and candy. Additionally, snack foods that are very starchy or high in carbs can also contribute to tooth decay.

Giving up these things completely would be great for your dental health, but for most people, this is unrealistic. A soda every once in a while or some candy here and there probably won't be detrimental to your teeth. Just remember that moderation along with regular, effective dental hygiene practices can help you maintain a healthy smile.

Here are a few tips for making your diet tooth-and-gum-friendly:

• Drink plenty of water (limit soda and juices)
• Eat a variety of foods from each of the five major food groups, including: whole grains fruits vegetables lean sources of protein such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish; dry beans, peas and other legumes low-fat and fat-free dairy foods.
• Limit the number of snacks you eat. If you do snack, choose healthier options like fresh fruit or a piece of cheese.

The ADA says that foods eaten as part of a meal cause less harm to teeth than eating lots of snacks throughout the day. This is because more saliva is released during a meal. Saliva helps wash foods from the mouth and lessens the effects of acids, which can harm teeth and cause cavities.

We hope you learned something today!  Thanks for visiting our blog and please remember to call Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh, NC to schedule your next appointment: 919-782-0548

Proper Tooth Brushing Technique

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important daily habits to maintain a healthy smile. Unfortunately, many people don't realize they aren't bushing effectively. Improper brushing can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and expensive dental bills. How frustrating it would be to continue to have dental problems, even though you're brushing regularly!

Here's a quick look at the most effective way to brush your teeth. These recommendations come straight from the American Dental Association (ADA).  You can learn more at MouthHealthy.org.

First, a few tips... Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months. (Sooner if the bristles become frayed or bent). Use an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste. (Or ask your dentist to recommend one for your specific condition).

Now, for the technique... Place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gums. Move the brush back and forth gently in short, tooth-wide strokes. Be sure to brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces and chewing surfaces of the teeth. To clean the inner surfaces of your front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

For a helpful visual guide, download the How to Brush PDF from the ADA.

Remember, brushing is only one part of maintaining dental health. Flossing and regular cleanings are also recommended to keep your smile healthy!  Be sure to schedule your next appointment with Dr, Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry: 919-782-0548.

The Importance of Flossing

Brushing and flossing typically go hand-in-hand when it comes to healthy dental habits. Unfortunately, many people neglect to floss, despite regular brushing. While it may not seem like a big deal, The American Dental Association warns that people who avoid the floss will likely have serious dental issues in the future.

Flossing is important because it helps remove plaque from between your teeth. Plaque is that sticky yellowish coating that builds up along the gumline. It's full of nasty bacteria that excrete acidic matter, causing damage to your teeth and gums. If plaque continues to build up and is left untreated, it could lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even tooth loss.

Most toothbrushes cannot effectively clean the areas between your teeth, so even if you're a die-hard brusher, you'll still need the aid of dental floss to clean those hard-to-reach places. This may be a hassle for people who have difficulty handling dental floss, but it is a very worthwhile hassle. If you need some help, your dentist will probably be more than happy to give you a quick lesson on how to floss during your next visit. You can also download a How To Floss PDF from MouthHealthy.org, a website from the ADA.

Remember, flossing is just one part of maintaining oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth after meals (or at least twice a day) and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings are also essential for keeping your smile bright and healthy.

Contact Dr. Simon Melcher at Implant and General Dentistry in Raleigh today to schedule your next routine checkup: 919-782-0548

Family Dental Care in Raleigh NC

Dr. Simon Melcher of Implant & General Dentistry offers complete dental care for you and your family. From routine teeth cleaning to emergency dental services, Dr. Melcher and his associates proudly serve as a leading family dentist in Raleigh, NC.

In addition to preventive care, Dr. Melcher and his associates are highly skilled at restorative dental procedures including crowns, bridges, inlays, implants and more. Whether you need a periodontal evaluation or just a routine check up, Dr. Melcher and his staff are happy to offer quality dental care to you and your family.

At Implant & General Dentistry, Dr. Melcher and his associates strive to offer comprehensive dental care for people of all ages. Many patients start out as younger clients but continue to come to the office well into adulthood. As a multigenerational business, Implant & General Dentistry is pleased to see such return business.

If you're ready to come see what Dr. Melcher and his associates have to offer, call 919-782-0548 for an appointment.