The Basics

• Bridges literally “bridge” the gap created by a missing or newly extracted tooth. Ideally, a missing tooth will have remaining teeth on either side of the gap – these neighboring teeth are called abutments, and they provide support for a false tooth to be placed in between them. The neighboring teeth are stripped of enamel, shaved down, and fitted with crowns that hold up the false tooth (called a pontic) in the middle. Pontics are made of golds, alloys, or porcelain material and can be crafted to match your surrounding teeth. Another bridge option is a Maryland bridge: instead of crowns, a porcelain or metal framework is fitted to the backs of two abutment teeth and support the pontic in the middle.

• You are still able to get a bridge even if you have only one adjacent tooth to a gap; however, these structures – called cantilever bridges – place even more strain and pressure on the surrounding tooth, since there is only the one abutment to support the false tooth.

• Implants are literally “implanted” into the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots. A metal cylinder made of titanium is placed in the jawbone under the empty tooth space, and over several months fuses naturally with the bone in a process called osseointegration. A connector is fitted on top of the implant and holds the fake tooth in place. Each artificial crown is custom-made to match the surrounding natural teeth.

Pros and Cons

Bridges are a good restoration solution under the following conditions:

• If the adjacent teeth have large fillings and/or will need to be crowned or capped in the future;
• If the missing tooth was removed several years ago and the underlying gum and bone have receded; and
• If there are multiple missing teeth that need to be replaced.

The principal disadvantage of bridges is the stress they place on surrounding teeth. In order to construct a bridge the neighboring teeth must undergo enamel removal, which could permanently damage otherwise healthy teeth. And once a bridge is placed, the supporting teeth will remain under constant stress to hold it up. Additionally, while pontics are placed in the bed of the gap, they do not extend down into the gumline nor address gradual bone loss that occurs when the gum is left exposed from a missing tooth. Although bridges provide a superficial solution to tooth loss, underlying bone and gum recession will continue and could potentially lead to additional oral problems in the future.

On the other hand, implants are the only restoration solution on the market that not only preserve natural bone but stimulate continued bone growth under the false tooth. Implants are strong, durable, and replace missing teeth without affecting the surrounding, healthy teeth. And because implants protect bone health, they prevent future jaw issues that are caused by receding bone. But implants too have their drawbacks: they require an adequate supply of strong, healthy bone to fuse adequately into the jawline. If bone under or above the tooth gap is too short, too weak, or too thin, additional surgery from a bone graft may be required. For top teeth, if the sinuses are too close to the jawbone, a sinus lift may be necessary. Bone grafts and sinus lifts involve several months of recovery post-surgery, which further procrastinates setting of an implant.

The Costs

• Bridges are a less costly form of tooth replacement and the procedure is at least partially covered by most types of insurances. However, bridge placement now will lead to additional costs in the future – the average life span of a bridge is ten years and it will need to be replaced once the structure erodes with regular wear and tear.

• Implants are more expensive than bridges and may not be covered by insurance. But unlike bridges, implants are a more permanent solution for tooth restoration – with proper care, an implant will last for forty plus years. However, implants may not be the best solution if you require replacement of multiple teeth, due to the higher financial burden.

• In terms of time, implants are again more costly than bridges. While bridges are constructed and placed within a few weeks, the implant process takes several months before the full procedure is complete. Once an implant is placed, it will need a few months’ worth of time for the titanium post to fuse with the jawbone. And if a bone graft is needed pre-placement, the implant procedure will be delayed even further.

Tooth restoration is a daunting – and often financially heavy – challenge to face. Don’t be afraid to speak with your dentist in depth before making a decision. He or she will walk you through your best option, as well as the pros and cons of bridges and implants. If you choose to get a bridge, most major insurance types will cover at least a portion of the procedure. And while implants may not be included on all insurance plans, the placement process takes several months and gives you time to set up a payment plan or save money.

Here at Boyett Family Dentistry, we hope you never feel self-conscious about smiling. If you are missing one or several teeth, call our office today at 863-294-9200 to discuss restoration options with Dr. Boyett.

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So when should parents start providing oral care for their children, and teaching them good oral hygiene habits? The answer is immediately after birth. Even before teeth make an entrance, an infant’s gums need to be cleaned every day to prevent buildup of bacteria or fungi that could cause infections. After every feeding, use a soft, clean washcloth to gently wipe down a baby’s gums.

In the time between first breath and first tooth, establishing good oral care is crucial for ensuring that strong, healthy teeth develop on time:

• Children’s feeding habits can expose them to decay at an early age: baby bottle tooth decay is the term used to describe mouth decay caused by frequent drinking from sippy cups filled with milk and sugary juices. Bad bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and form acids that cause decay.
• Control young children’s time spent with a bottle or sippy cup – frequent sipping on sugary drinks releases repeated acid attacks in the mouth and creates a breeding ground for bad bacteria to thrive.
• Don’t give toddlers a sippy cup filled with milk or juice at night. Offer water instead or wean babies away from too many sweet drinks at night.
• Bacteria is easily transmitted by saliva; don’t share utensils with infants or children, and don’t use saliva to clean pacifiers or other toys babies may put in their mouths.
• When babies begin teething around six months, use clean, chilled teething rings to soothe mouth irritation. Don’t dab them with honey or sweeteners – sugar can lead to tooth decay.
• Once baby teeth begin to form start cutting off soothers and pacifiers and limiting thumb sucking. Repetitive sucking motions can disturb the alignment of the jaw and teeth and affect speech.

As soon as the first tooth emerges, begin cleaning it twice a day with a soft baby toothbrush and a smear of fluoridated toothpaste. Brush all sides of the tooth and continue wiping down the gums. Both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend using fluoridated toothpaste as soon as the first tooth comes in and have deemed a smear size safe for use on small babies. By age three, when baby teeth start to settle into place, graduate to a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste. As soon as children have two teeth that touch, begin flossing between them.

Baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth; they help guide permanent teeth into their proper places in the mouth. Baby teeth are the ones that children learn how to eat, speak, and form sounds with – they play a crucial role in toddlers’ development. And they are no less susceptible to cavities than a permanent set of adult teeth; tooth decay can occur as early as six months, when most babies begin teething. By age three, the first set of 20 pearly whites are typically in place. Some baby teeth may last until ages 12-13, at which point a permanent set should replace them.

For young children who are unable to brush and floss on their own, parents should also be checking under their children’s’ lips every day for tell-tale white or brown spots on the teeth or gumline that indicate tooth decay is developing. Parents should continue to help children brush and floss teeth until they have formed a consistent routine and can manipulate toothbrushes properly and spit safely on their own.

Parents need to set another good routine as well: begin making regular dental appointments when a child’s first tooth comes in fully, which is usually around age one. At this point, the dentist will be able to go over proper oral care for new teeth, as well as other questions parents may have about fluoride, sealants, and good snack choices for healthy teeth. If it is time for baby’s first check-up, contact Boyett Family Dentistry today at 863-294-9200 and set an appointment.

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The first line of defense against tooth sensitivity is enamel: enamel is a strong, hard layer of material that covers your teeth and fights off acid and bacteria that cause tooth decay. When it becomes eroded or worn down, it uncovers cementum – a calcified material that covers the tooth root. Cementum is not as strong as enamel, and if it too becomes worn down, then dentin – the tooth’s final layer of protection – is exposed. Dentin is made up of hollow tubes and canals around the tooth nerve, which means the sensations from cold air, hot coffee, ice cream, piping hot pizza, and sugary candies can reach the nerve endings and cause radiating pain.

There are several different oral issues that cause tooth sensitivity, some more serious than others. Below is a list of the most common reasons why you may be experiencing sensitive teeth:

• Cavities, cracked teeth, and exposed roots: Cavities and cracks that reach the level of the root will be painful with contact to hot, cold, sweet, or sour substances. Unlike the visible portions of teeth, the roots are not shielded by enamel, and thus are susceptible to sensitivity when exposed.

• Receding gums: As we age, it is natural for the gum line to begin pulling away from the teeth. But shrinking gums expose unprotected tooth roots to the open air, where they become sensitive to cold or hot substances. Gum disease caused plaque and tartar build-up can also lead to gums pulling back from the teeth. Read more here about the signs and symptoms of gum disease.

• Worn or broken fillings: If a weak or worn down filling breaks or develops a crack, it may leak filling material and cause tooth sensitivity.

• Improper tooth-brushing technique: You may be brushing your teeth too vigorously, or with a brush that is too abrasive. Hard, side-to-side brushing at the gum line will erode enamel and cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, a light touch, and a 45-degree angled motion when you brush your teeth.

• Teeth grinding: Tooth grinding and jaw clenching puts constant strain and pressure on teeth and over time this pressure can wear away protective enamel and cause sensitivity.

• Dental procedures: It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity for a few days after procedures such as fillings, root canals, bridges, crowns, or implants, while your mouth heals. On the cosmetic end, tooth whitening (including tooth-whitening toothpastes) and tooth bleaching can also make teeth more sensitive, so be sure to talk with your dentist before trying anything new.

Tooth sensitivity does not mean you have to give up hot, cold, sweet, and sour foods and drinks you enjoy. There are a number of solutions available to ease your discomfort. Your dentist will perform an examination and help you determine which of these solutions will be best for your mouth:

• A special toothpaste designed to block the transmission of feeling from hitting the nerve;
• An in-office fluoride gel treatment, which will strengthen enamel as well as reduce the transmission of feeling to the tooth nerve;
• A fluoride varnish or other paste with desensitizing agents brushed over sensitive spots on your teeth;
• A mouthguard or mouth splint to prevent tooth and gum damage from nighttime grinding;
• A surgical gum graft, which would use mouth tissues to cover a tooth’s exposed root; and
• A root canal, if you have severe pain or sensitivity, and all other solutions have proven ineffective.

In addition to the treatment options your dentist can offer, there are self-care steps you should be taking at home to keep your teeth strong, healthy, and pain-free. Limit your intake of sugary, acidic, and processed foods high in simple carbohydrates. Bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar you provide and create an acid that eats away at enamel and causes cavities and tooth decay. Enjoy acidic foods like citrus and tomato products in moderation. Fill your diet with fiber-rich fruits and veggies, along with complex whole grains and calcium-rich dairy products like milk and yogurt. Snack on crunchy fruits and veggies – like apples and carrots – to stimulate saliva flow and keep your mouth moist. Saliva is packed full of enzymes that fight acids and bad bacteria in your mouth. And practice good oral hygiene every day: brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss once daily.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, don’t delay in seeing a dentist any longer. Early detection and treatment of oral problems is crucial to preventing further mouth damage in the future. Schedule an appointment to speak with Dr. Boyett at Boyett Family Dentistry and get to the root of your tooth pain. Call our office at 863-294-9200 today.

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Braces

Like teeth, braces need to be brushed twice a day and flossed daily. Before brushing, remove all the elastics out of your mouth, and then brush along the top, bottom, and front of each wire and bracket. You may also find it worthwhile to invest in an oral irrigation system, to flush out leftover debris and food pieces around your orthodontic hardware. Complete your cleaning with a fluoride rinse for an extra swish of tooth strengthening – click here to learn more about what to look for in a mouthwash. When braces are placed, you may also receive a proxabrush; this “Christmas tree” brush is specially shaped to fit in between brackets and wires to remove plaque and build-up. While you have braces, be mindful of the foods you eat: stay away from foods that are chewy, hard to bite (such as apples or corn on the cob), popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum. Do not bite your nails or chew on other objects. Foods that are hard or sticky may crack or break expensive braces.

Retainers

You should be cleaning your retainer at least once a day with toothpaste and warm water. Deep clean your retainer if you see calcium or tartar deposits forming on the hardware. A simple deep-cleaning solution is to soak your retainer in vinegar and warm water for a few minutes to loosen build-ups, and then scrub the remaining residue off with toothpaste. Make sure you have a case for your retainer – a loose one is easily wrapped up in a napkin and thrown away, put in a pocket and sat on, or found by dogs and chewed on. Once broken or lost, retainers are expensive to replace. Most importantly, wear your retainer as often as prescribed by your orthodontist. While you may not feel like a retainer is doing anything day to day, over the long run it is working every day to keep your teeth straight.

Mouthguards

Your dentist or orthodontist may have made you a soft, fitted mouthguard for use during sports, or for use at night to protect teeth against teeth grinding damage. This durable piece of hardware with numerous ridges and dips is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and yeast. Infestations of unhealthy bacteria, fungi, and yeast can lead to painful mouth infections if left untreated. To protect against bacterial build-ups, clean your mouthguard after every use. A toothpaste and water scrub will be sufficient. Dry your mouthguard thoroughly afterwards and store it in a dry, vented case when not in use. A vented case is necessary to let the hardware breathe, and prevent bacteria from festering in damp, enclosed places.

Dentures

Dentures should be removed and rinsed after you finish eating, for every meal. Stand over a towel or basin of water while you rinse and handle dentures, to avoid breakage if the hardware falls. You should be washing out your mouth and tongue with a toothbrush and toothpaste after you eat as well, before you replace the newly-rinsed dentures. Do not use toothpaste or products with bleach to clean your dentures – toothpaste is too abrasive and could scratch the material, and bleach can weaken dentures and change the color. Never place dentures under hot water – high temperatures will warp the material. Most dentures need to remain moist to retain their shape; soak dentures overnight in a mild denture cleaner or water. Rinse the hardware again before morning use – denture cleaner contains harmful chemicals you do not want to ingest.

If your dental hardware is broken, cracked, chipped, or causing pain in your mouth, see your dentist or orthodontist right away. Any piece of dental equipment can accumulate bacteria, fungi, plaque, yeast, and acid, and thus increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth infection. Regular check-ups with your dentist are important to detect early cavities and ensure the health of your teeth. If you are due for your next dental examination, contact Boyett Family Dentistry today at 863-294-9200 to schedule an appointment.

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The American Dental Association (ADA), Center for Disease Control (CDC), Surgeon General, and Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) all advocate flossing as a necessary action to protect the health of your teeth and gums and prevent the buildup of plaque that causes tooth decay and gum disease. As you eat and drink throughout the day, bacteria that live in your mouth feed on the sugars and food particles you ingest. Over time, a sticky build-up of plaque forms on the teeth and along the gum line and causes cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Built-up plaque can also harden and become tarter, which only a dentist can remove from your mouth.

This is where flossing comes in: while tooth-brushing clears away plaque and debris from the surface of teeth, a toothbrush cannot reach into the crevices between teeth and under the gum line. Plaque is much easier to remove while it is still soft and sticky, and once it becomes hardened tarter it will be impossible for you to scrape out on your own. In order to clean these hard-to-reach areas, an interdental cleaner is required. There are multiple types of interdental cleaners at your disposal:

• Floss: Floss is the most commonly used interdental cleaner. It is cheap, effective, and usually given to you for free every time you pay a visit to the dentist.

• Dental picks: Dental picks are convenient tools to use in hard to reach places, like the back of your mouth. They are smaller and more versatile than floss.

• Water flossers: Water flossers work best for people who have conditions that make maneuvering floss difficult – such as arthritis – and also for people who have a lot of dental hardware – such as braces – that makes flossing a challenge.

Flossing is most effective when used in conjunction with other good oral hygiene habits: you should be brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, flossing once daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash once daily. Combined, these measures ensure that the majority of bad bacteria and plaque is cleaned away before it causes damage.

Proper technique is just as important as the act itself: to begin, tear off a length of floss approximately 18 inches long and wrap it around the second or third fingertips on both hands. Smoothly guide the floss between each tooth and curve the string in a “C” shape so it runs along the entire edge of the tooth and gum. Make sure to thoroughly floss on both sides of each tooth. And be gentle – sawing motions and pulling too hard will only irritate your gums, damage mouth tissues, and cause bleeding. While a little blood is common when you and your teeth are new to flossing, if bleeding persists see your dentist as soon as possible.

Floss once daily – preferably at night, after you’ve finished eating for the day. However, if you find yourself consistently putting off flossing right before bed, then choose any time of day when you have a few minutes to spare. As with any oral health product you purchase, choose floss with the ADA Seal of Approval, which means it is safe and effective for use. Flossing daily is not only healthy for your teeth now, but it is an inexpensive and simple preventative measure that will save you time and costly oral treatments down the road. If you have any questions about the correct way to floss, or the benefits gained from consistent flossing, schedule an appointment with Boyett Family Dentistry to speak with Dr. Boyett and share your concerns. Give us a call today at 863-294-9200.

Have flossing down pat? Click here to learn more about mouthwash, and which type you should be using every day.

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Saliva plays an important role when it comes to your oral health: It helps prevent tooth decay by neutralizing acids produced by bacteria and washing away food particles. These actions help manage the number of bacteria and fungus that live in the mouth. Saliva makes chewing and swallowing easier, and it lubricates the tissues in the mouth to prevent ulcers and sores from frictional movements like eating and speaking. Saliva also contains enzymes that aid in breaking down food particles for digestion and re-mineralizing teeth.

Xerostomina is not considered a disease in itself; it manifests as a symptom of an underlying cause or condition. Here is a list of the most common signs and symptoms of dry mouth:

• A dry, sticky feeling in the mouth;
• A rough-textured tongue;
• Thick and stringy saliva;
• A sore throat or hoarseness;
• An altered sense of taste;
• Bad breath (halitosis);
• Difficulties speaking, chewing, and/or swallowing; and
• A feeling of thirst.

Dry mouth can be a temporary condition or a chronic issue, depending on its root cause. Xerostomina is attributed to the following causes:

• Dehydration, alcohol consumption, caffeinated beverages (such as soda and coffee), and feelings of great fear, anxiety, and stress can all dry out the mouth temporarily.
• Drug use with methamphetamines or marijuana can lead to “meth mouth” or “cotton mouth.”
• Numerous medications list dry mouth as a side effect – most commonly those prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure. This is not an all-inclusive list; there are over 400 prescription and over-the-counter medications that could affect saliva production. Dry mouth may persist for as long as you take the medication.
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapies. Dry mouth may be present for as long as treatments continue.
• Nerve damage from a head or neck injury can impair salivary function permanently.
• A salivary gland problem.
• Snoring and/or mouth breathing during the night.
• Medical conditions such as sleep apnea, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases (HIV, AIDS, Sjörgren’s syndrome).

Dry mouth is not a natural part of the aging process, but the elderly are at much higher risk for developing it, largely due to the increased number of prescription medications they take. And elderly citizens with medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, history of stroke, and Parkinson’s disease become dehydrated easily, which can increase the risk of developing dry mouth.

If left untreated, xerostomina can result in a number of oral complications: chronic dry mouth can lead to oral thrush (a fungal infection), mouth sores and ulcers, cavities and tooth decay from a build-up of plaque and bacteria, gum disease, cracked lips, and split skin at the corners of the mouth. If you have difficulties chewing and swallowing due to xerostomina, it can affect your appetite, taste of food, and enjoyment of eating. Dry mouth can also lead to constant bad breath, which may cause feelings of self-consciousness in public.

There are several treatment options available depending on the root cause of your dry mouth. Your dentist may tell you about a few of the following, and help you select the options which will work best for your needs:

• Medication changes may be appropriate at your doctor’s discretion.
• Prescription or over-the-counter rinses and mouthwashes containing lubricating agents (such as xylitol) are available for everyday use.
• In extreme cases, your doctor may prescribe a medication that stimulates saliva production.

There are also several things you can do at home and day-to-day to reduce your risk of dry mouth. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and salty and sugary foods, which are all dehydrators. Sip water frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated. Chew sugar-free gum or crunch on apples and carrots to stimulate saliva flow and wash away mouth bacteria. Add a humidifier in your house or office to keep moisture circulating in the air.

If you are experiencing persistent dry mouth that is not relieved with at-home oral care, make an appointment to see your dentist today for a check-up. Regular dental examinations are crucial to ensure early detection and treatment for dry mouth, before you suffer tooth, gum, or mouth damage. Call 863-294-9200 and schedule a time to see Dr. Boyett today.

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• Food and drink: There are a number of foods and beverages that are strong enough to leave a lingering odor on your breath – onions, garlic, spices, coffee, and alcohol are a few of the most common. This type of halitosis is common and reversible, although popping a breath mint will only mask the smell temporarily and is not a permanent solution. Food with strong flavor can continue to expel odor from the lungs while it is being digested in the body. Only when food passes through the body completely will the bad breath resolve itself.

• Smoking and tobacco use: Smoking and tobacco use leave a distinct odor on the breath that lingers long after the cigarette has burned out. Smoking also dries out the mouth, irritates the gums, and increases your risk of gum disease. And because smoking affects your sense of smell, you may not realize you have bad breath at all.

• Crash diets: Many crash diets that promise quick results come with a number of undesirable side effects attached – and halitosis could be one of them. One of the most popular crash diets is the low-carb intake, where the body is forced to break down fat for energy in place of sugars. This breakdown produces chemicals called ketones, which have a strong odor and can be smelled on your breath. Oftentimes, people in a state of ketosis report a fruity taste in their mouths.

A poor oral care routine is the most common reason behind halitosis. You can reduce your chances of bad breath by brushing your teeth for two minutes, two times a day, and flossing once a day before bedtime. Use mouthwash once a day to catch any lingering bacteria and remove mouth odor (click here to learn how to choose the right mouthwash for your needs). Clean dental appliances regularly between use. Keep saliva moving and your mouth moisturized by drinking plenty of water and munching on healthy snacks like apples and carrots. And finally, do not skip out on routine dental exams with your dentist – if it is time for your next check-up, call Boyett Family Dentistry at 863-294-9200 to schedule an appointment today.

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While mouthwash should never replace daily brushing and flossing, it can be a good supplementary measure to catch any lingering bacteria the toothbrush missed. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the best rinse for your oral health needs:

Basic Types of Mouthwash

• Cosmetic products: Cosmetic mouthwashes are designed to reduce halitosis and leave your mouth smelling fresh. These rinses temporarily kill bacteria that cause bad breath, but outside of eliminating odor they have no effect on your oral health – cosmetic products will not protect against plaque build-up, gingivitis, or cavities.

• Fluoride rinses: These mouthwashes contain the active ingredient fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent tooth decay. Using a strictly fluoridated mouthwash may not be necessary if you already use fluoride toothpaste and/or drink tap water with fluoride in it. However, a fluoride rinse may be the best choice if you are prone to developing cavities or have a medical condition such as dry mouth that affects the bacterial balance in the mouth and speeds up tooth decay.

• Antibacterial mouthwashes: Antibacterial rinses are effective when used in conjunction with regular brushing and flossing as part of a good oral health care routine. These mouthwashes provide an extra boost of gum, teeth, and mouth health by killing bacteria you may miss with the toothbrush or floss. As an added bonus, many antibacterial washes contain the active ingredient fluoride, which further strengthens teeth against harmful bacteria. When purchasing an antibacterial mouthwash, look for the ADA seal of approval – this ensures the rinse is an effective anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque product.

Other Oral Health Considerations

For most people, a daily ADA-approved antibacterial rinse used alongside brushing and flossing is sufficient to maintain a healthy mouth. But if you suffer from mouth ulcerations, dry mouth, gingivitis, frequent cavities, or other oral problems, talk to your dentist about finding a mouthwash that meets your specific oral health needs. He or she may even order a stronger prescription mouthwash to treat severe oral health issues.

• Antiseptic mouthwashes: Antiseptic rinses may be prescribed to treat oral ulcerations, fight severe gingivitis or periodontitis, or following mouth surgery or suture placement, when using a toothbrush properly is challenging. Antiseptic mouthwashes are the gold standard of oral rinses, due to their ability to target and kill mouth bacteria, spores, and fungi. Most antiseptic washes are prescribed for short-term use and are generally not necessary for continued long-term oral cleanliness.

• Alcohol-free mouthwashes: If you suffer from dry mouth or sensitive teeth, use an alcohol-free rinse to lessen mouth irritations. Alcohol is a dehydrator and can exacerbate an existing dry mouth condition. If your child is ready to use mouthwash, choose an alcohol-free solution for young kids, because they are more likely to swallow the rinse.

• Teeth-whitening mouthwashes: Some over-the-counter rinses contain a whitening agent such as hydrogen peroxide that promises to help reduce the appearance of surface stains caused by foods, wine, coffee, smoking, and age. There is not adequate scientific research to conclude that whitening washes are effective, and furthermore use of rinses with peroxides may irritate the gums and increase tooth sensitivity. If you are interested in whitening your teeth, speak with your dentist first to find the safest treatment for your needs.

• Lubricating mouthwashes: Dry mouth is a condition in which the mouth cannot produce enough saliva – it can develop due to smoking, certain medications, or dehydration, and it can become a chronic issue that leads to difficulties speaking, chewing, and swallowing. If you suffer from dry mouth, consider purchasing an alcohol-free mouthwash made with lubricating agents specifically designed to increase moisture and soothe the feeling of dry mouth.

Any mouthwash is meant to enhance your regular oral routine: there is no substitute for brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing once daily before bedtime. If you include a daily dose of mouthwash, read the product label and follow the recommended time for swishing the rinse around your mouth. If you have any questions about use, schedule an appointment with Boyett Family Dentistry, where our own Dr. Boyett will be happy to help you determine which type of mouthwash will benefit you most. Call us today at 863-294-9200.

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Bad: Sipping on soda and sugary drinks throughout the day.

Not only does excessive sugar contribute to cavities, but prolonged exposure to sugar-laden foods and drinks – from constant snacking on candy or sipping one can of soda over a long period of time – will hasten the process of tooth decay. To learn more about how sugar leads to cavities, click here.

• Better: If you are craving a Coca-Cola, drink it with a straw pointed towards the back of the mouth to limit the amount of sugar that reaches your teeth. And if you can’t get through the day without snacking, skip the chips and candies and instead reach for yogurts, fruits, and fresh veggies, which wash away easily from the mouth and won’t leave pieces trapped in the cracks and grooves of your teeth.

Bad: Crunching on ice.

On a hot day, it can be immensely satisfying and refreshing to chew on the ice cubes at the bottom of your cold drink. But the hardness of ice combined with the cold temperature can cause cracks in the surface of tooth enamel, which can widen and spread over time. Forcing large amounts of stress onto your teeth – from ice cubes, fruit pits, and popcorn kernels, for example – can precipitate tooth fractures and even break fillings.

• Better: If you need the satisfaction of a crunch and something to keep your mouth busy, opt for healthy carrot sticks, celery, or a crisp apple over ice. If your ice chewing habit is difficult to break, try switching to crushed ice, which is slightly less damaging to your teeth.

Bad: Using teeth as tools.

In a pinch, your teeth are strong enough to rip open a bag of chips, bite the price tag off a new shirt, or even straighten out a bent fork tine. But this abnormal use of your teeth can cause chips or fractures over time. And not only is the practice dangerous, it is unsanitary as well – everyday objects carry germs that linger inside your mouth, and you also run the risk of accidentally swallowing a non-edible item.

• Better: Keep everyday tools such as scissors, pliers, and staple removers within easy reach at your home, office, and even in your car.

Bad: Biting your nails.

It can be tempting to nibble away a jagged nail edge, or perhaps nail biting is your go-to activity when you feel stressed. But constantly placing your jaw in a protruding position while you bite down can cause jaw misalignment and impaction over time. And your fingernails are swarming with bacteria trapped underneath; nail biting is unhygienic, and nail bits you swallow can upset the lining of your stomach.

• Better: Invest in bitter nail polish to break the habit – or even invest in a manicure, to limit the temptation of nibbling at fresh nails. If your nail biting habit is related to nerves and anxiety, limit stressors in your life, or find a different physical activity to keep your hands occupied, such as a fidget spinner.

Bad: Grinding and clenching your teeth.

You may not even realize you grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw during the day – the most common causes of tooth grinding include an abnormal bite, misaligned teeth, stress, and anxiety. But continual grinding and gnashing can wear down tooth enamel and even crack or fracture teeth. Clenching is also a common cause of jaw pain and TMJ. Chewing on objects that are not food – such as pencils, pens, or straws – exacerbates the clenched jaw position.

• Better: Awareness of a tight or clenched jaw is the first step towards correcting teeth grinding. If you find your self clenching your jaw during the day, relax the muscles and place the tip of your tongue between your teeth, to hold the teeth apart. Practice jaw relaxation exercises and place a warm compress in front of your ears at night to soothe the tense muscles. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist can make you a mouthguard to wear.

Poor oral hygiene at home can turn into another bad habit, if practiced incorrectly. Brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes at a time. Avoid using a hard-bristled brush or brushing too vigorously, or with too much pressure; this can cause receding gums and sensitive teeth. Floss and rinse your teeth once a day. And start a good habit of seeing your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups. If it’s time for a routine dental exam, or if you have any concerns over your current dental habits, make an appointment to see Dr. Boyett and her team of caring dental hygienists today. Call Boyett Family Dentistry at 863-294-9200 for appointment times.

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What are the benefits of using a manual toothbrush?

• Manual toothbrushes are cheap, lightweight, and easy to use on the go. They are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes – you can choose a brush head and bristle texture that is the right size for your mouth and hand, and comfortable to use. And manual toothbrushes are effective at removing built-up plaque from teeth and preventing gum disease; before the invention of the electric brush, everyone used a manual toothbrush.

What are the benefits of using an electric toothbrush?

• Electric toothbrushes are easier to use for people who have limited range of motion in their hands and wrists (such as those with arthritis) and for people who have orthodontic hardware, like braces. Electric brushes take the guesswork out of brushing technique, because they do the work for you. The two basic varieties of brushes are those that oscillate (turn) back and forth over the teeth, and those that vibrate side to side. Both types result in more strokes per minute than manual toothbrushes. Electric toothbrushes may be easier for children to use, because most brands come with fun colors, music, or flashing lights that encourage kids to brush their teeth and develop good oral hygiene habits.

What is a cost comparison between manual and electric toothbrushes?

• Manual toothbrushes easily beat out electric toothbrushes in terms of cost – they are available in any convenience store for less than $5.00, and you can even pick up one or two for free when you visit the dentist. On the other hand, the price of an electric toothbrush can range up into hundreds of dollars, when you factor in the toothbrush itself, replacement heads, and a charging station. And single-use electric toothbrushes are even more expensive, because the whole brush must be replaced when it becomes worn out, instead of simply snapping on a new toothbrush head. To complicate matters, replacement heads for electric brushes may not be available in stores, and will only be accessible for purchase via website, with added costs for shipping and delivery. Whichever form you invest in, change out your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or earlier if the brush bristles become frayed or worn. And swap out your brush for a fresh one every time you recover from an illness.

Is one type of toothbrush more effective at cleaning teeth than the other?

• There is limited research available that suggests electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque from teeth and preventing gum disease. And many electric brushes have a built-in timer, which makes it easier to ensure you are brushing your teeth for the full recommended two minutes, twice daily. However, according the American Dental Association (ADA), technique is more important than toothbrush.

The takeaway is this: choosing the best toothbrush is a matter of personal preference. The ADA has found that people will brush their teeth for longer with a toothbrush they like and one they feel comfortable using. An electric toothbrush offers no greater benefit than a manual one, except for people with limited mobility who have difficulty manipulating the brush. Whichever brush you choose, make sure it has the ADA Seal of approval. As long as you are brushing for two minutes twice a day, using a brush with soft bristles, and cleaning with fluoride toothpaste, you will be providing the best care for your teeth. If you have any questions about toothbrushes or correct teeth brushing technique, feel free to call Boyett Family Dentistry at 863-294-9200 and speak with Dr. Boyett or one of our wonderful dental hygienists.

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