The post Is Nail Biting Bad for Your Teeth? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>Nail biting is associated with the following oral issues:
Breaking a nail-biting habit can be incredibly difficult, especially because many people bite their nails as a soothing mechanism during stressful or anxiety-inducing situations. If nail biting brings you comfort, or if it’s a long-standing habit, quitting will take time and effort. But if you’re ready to kick the habit once and for all, we have some tips to help you get started.
Getting regular dental check-ups is important if you have a nail-biting habit. Your dentist will examine your mouth and teeth to look for damage, infections, inflammation, or any other issues. We’re currently accepting new patients at Boyett Family Dentistry. Please give us a call at 863-294-9200 or leave us a message online to schedule your appointment!
The post Is Nail Biting Bad for Your Teeth? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post 4 Dental Health Goals to Set for the New Year appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>Even better, you can improve your dental health with a few simple changes and minimal effort. Keep reading – we have four resolutions you can set now to start you on the path to a more magnificent smile!
Flossing once a day as recommended by dental experts is a habit that many Americans find difficult to keep – one national study found that just over 30% of the population reported flossing daily. While 37% of people reported flossing regularly, 32% of people reported never flossing at all.
These results are disheartening because flossing is critical for good oral health – it removes food particles and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Over time, trapped particles and plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
This year, make flossing a habit. If you’re not used to flossing regularly or at all, start small. Floss once or twice a week for several weeks, then increase to every other day. Before you know it, you’ll be flossing daily like a pro.
Good nutrition contributes to good dental health. Fresh fruits and veggies contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that strengthen your immune system, oral health and overall health. Additionally, crunchy, fibrous produce like apples, carrots and celery help stimulate saliva production and scrub plaque and food particles from your mouth.
This year, try switching out some of your regular snacks for fresh fruits and veggies. When you’re craving sweets, swap a cookie for a sweet, juicy apple. And when you need something crunchy, swap a bag of chips for satisfyingly crisp baby carrots.
Smoking or using tobacco products is one of the most harmful things you can do for your oral health, as well as your overall health. Smoking or using smokeless tobacco increases your risk of oral cancer, lung cancer, gum disease and gum recession. The good news is that quitting – no matter how old you are or how long you’ve been smoking – reduces the risk of developing adverse health conditions and improves your life expectancy.
This year, make it a goal to kick the habit. The American Heart Association has several resource options that you can explore. We also recommend joining a support group and enlisting the help of family and friends to act as cheerleaders.
Receiving regular dental exams can prevent oral problems from developing or worsening to the point of causing significant damage. Your dentist will monitor your oral health and create a regimen that addresses issues or areas of concern. Additionally, oral health is a good indicator of your overall health. Check-ups can help your dentist identify other health issues that may require attention and care.
This year, schedule two appointments with your dentist for cleanings and exams. If you have ongoing oral health issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Boyett Family Dentistry is taking new patients! Our Winter Haven, FL, family dental practice performs routine cleanings and exams, restorative work, and emergency procedures. Start the new year off right by calling us at 863-294-9200 to schedule your first appointment.
The post 4 Dental Health Goals to Set for the New Year appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post Tips for Healthy Teeth During the Holidays appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>At Boyett Family Dentistry, we’re not asking you to give up all the wonderful treats you enjoy during the holidays. But we do have some tips to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums at the same time.
Now that we’ve got you thinking about healthy teeth, take a minute to schedule your first 2021 cleaning with Boyett Family Dentistry! After a busy and treat-filled holiday season, start the new year off right with a deep cleaning and exam.
If you do suffer a dental emergency over the holidays, please don’t hesitate to call our office. We offer same-day appointments for emergent situations. Call us at 863-294-9200 or reach out online.
The post Tips for Healthy Teeth During the Holidays appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post Is a Dental Appointment Safe During Coronavirus? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>Let’s take a look at what experts say.
Dentist offices – like other medical centers – follow extremely strict safety and sanitation guidelines. To prevent the spread of germs, dentists are cleaning and sanitizing rooms and tools after every patient, covering tools when not in use, washing hands frequently and wearing protective gear like masks and gloves. Many dental practices are also requiring wearing masks in the office, taking patient temperatures before an appointment, and spacing out appointments to leave time for cleaning between patients.
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that no cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. have been attributed to dentist offices. And a study by the ADA Science & Research Institute and the Health Policy Institute found that less than 1% of dentists nationwide tested positive for COVID-19, as of June.
The ADA has also stated that going to the dentist regularly is essential, even now. Oral health plays a large role in helping doctors identify and diagnose other serious medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, oral infections that are left untreated can negatively affect a person’s overall health.
In choosing to return to the dentist right now, weigh the risks and benefits based on your individual health, the health of people you have close contact with, and your personal risk factors. You can navigate the experience safely.
When going in for a check-up, here are some tips on how to navigate the experience safely.
At Boyett Family Dentistry, Dr. Boyett, our staff and our hygienists are taking every possible precaution to keep patients safe and help them feel comfortable coming in for an appointment. Please call us at 863-294-9200 to learn about our safety precautions and bring up any questions or concerns you have. We look forward to continuing to serve you in a safe and secure way.
The post Is a Dental Appointment Safe During Coronavirus? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post 5 Dangerous Side Effects of Teeth Grinding appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>Keep reading to learn 5 side effects of teeth grinding and how they impact your oral health.
Bruxism can occur while you’re awake or asleep (or both). During the day, you may clench your jaw without realizing it. At night, you may grind or gnash your teeth during deep sleep. Most people who grind their teeth at night do so without knowing it. Sometimes, a partner discovers the issue when they’re awakened in the night by grinding or clicking sounds. Sometimes, you may not realize it until damage occurs to your teeth or jaw.
Headaches, jaw or face pain, unexplained tooth pain or sensitivity, unexplained tooth cracks or chips, and tight jaw muscles are all possible symptoms of bruxism. There may be physical, psychological or genetic factors that lead you to grind your teeth. During the day, stress, tension and deep concentration all contribute to tight, clenched jaw muscles. At night, stress, an existing sleep disorder, hyperactivity and certain medications might be causing grinding or gnashing.
Teeth grinding can – and does – affect people of all ages.
Aside from disrupting your partner’s sleep at night, and potentially your own as well, frequent or severe teeth grinding and clenching can lead to several serious side effects that damage your mouth, teeth, jaw and overall oral health.
If you believe you grind or clench your teeth, or a partner has noticed teeth grinding at night, please call Boyett Family Dentistry. There are several treatment options for bruxism, including mouthguards, medications, procedures, exercises and behavioral or lifestyle changes. Every case is different, so call and schedule an appointment as soon as possible so we can get you started on the right path. Reach out at 863-294-9200 or send us a message online.
The post 5 Dangerous Side Effects of Teeth Grinding appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post Healthy Teeth, Healthy Heart? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>One connection that’s long been debated has been the link between oral health and heart health. Keep reading to learn more about what the research says.
Right now, there’s not enough research to say with certainty that poor oral hygiene is causally linked to heart disease. However, many studies suggest there may be a connection. Some studies state that gum disease and tooth loss might increase the risk of developing heart disease. Over the years, scientists have introduced several theories that could determine a direct connection, but the little research that’s been conducted about the links between oral disease and heart disease remains inconclusive.
Scientists have found several possible connections that could prove the link between oral health and heart health.
In conclusion, while practicing good oral health is not a primary way to achieve heart health or prevent heart conditions, there’s a chance it could help lower your risk of heart disease. And furthermore, having good oral health positively impacts your body’s overall health in so many other ways, even without heart benefits. So do your body a favor and brush your teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, floss once a day, limit your consumption of sugars and processed foods, and see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Do you remember the last dentist appointment you had? If not, it’s time to come in for a full dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Boyettt. At Boyett Family Dentistry, we’ll provide oral care and treatment for the whole family. Call us at 863-294-9200 or reach out online to schedule an appointment.
The post Healthy Teeth, Healthy Heart? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post How Often Do I Need a Dental Exam? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The purpose of a dental exam is to provide proactive, preventative care. During an appointment, your dentist checks for current oral problems or developing problems that could worsen without fast care. Many early cases of cavities and gum disease have no pain or symptoms, so you may not realize something is wrong until you’re hit with a ton of mouth pain. But early identification and treatment can resolve mild issues before they become big, big problems.
The secret to seeing your dentist less is practicing better oral hygiene – like twice-daily brushing and daily flossing – at home. The healthier your mouth is, the less your dentist has to worry about it! Keep reading to learn some helpful guidelines on what you can expect at your next appointment and how often you need to see your dentist.
Your dentist packs a lot into one dental exam. During the short time you’re in the hot seat, you’ll receive a thorough evaluation to ensure that your teeth, gums and mouth are healthy and problem-free. You can expect the following at your routine check-up:
1.) A deep cleaning. Even with vigilant at-home care, your toothbrush and floss aren’t enough to prevent all build-up of plaque in your mouth. Additionally, plaque build-up may harden and form tartar deposits that can only be removed by professional tools. A deep cleaning removes tartar and thoroughly scrubs all the nooks and crannies between your teeth and gum line to leave you with a sparkling smile.
2.) An oral exam. During the oral exam, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, bad breath (halitosis) and other oral issues. You may need to have X-rays taken, so your dentist can spot any problems that aren’t visible to the human eye. X-rays are particularly helpful for revealing decay between teeth, gum disease, cysts, abscesses, tooth impaction, tumors and jawbone abnormalities.
3.) An oral cancer screening. During the examination portion of your appointment, your dentist will also check for signs and symptoms of oral cancer. He or she will be on the lookout for common symptoms like mouth sores, red or white patches, lumps or growths, loose teeth, swollen lymph nodes and bad breath. Your dentist may also ask you if you’ve experienced recent oral pain, mouth numbness, or difficulty and pain while speaking, chewing or swallowing. Cancer screenings are especially important because early stages of oral cancer may not present with pain or visible symptoms. The earlier cancer is identified and diagnosed, the better chances you have of completing successful treatment.
4.) Q & A time. You may only see your dentist once or twice a year – don’t be shy about asking questions related to your oral health or discussing any issues you’ve had since your last appointment. It’s also a good idea to update your dentist on recent changes that could affect your oral health, like a diagnosis of a medical condition like diabetes or heart disease.
There’s not one correct answer that applies to everyone. Your oral hygiene habits, overall health and medical history all affect how many times a year you need to see your dentist. If you have good oral health at multiple dentist visits and you practice vigilant oral hygiene at home, you’ll probably need to make an appointment twice a year (every 6 months) for a cleaning and exam. Some people may only need to see their dentist once a year, but always wait until your dentist gives the OK before cutting down on your appointments.
People who are at higher risk for developing oral disease like cavities, gum disease and infections may need more frequent visits every 3-4 months. High-risk patients include:
Additionally, you may need more regular check-ins if you’re currently undergoing treatment for gum disease or an oral infection.
Are you up to date on your visits? If it’s been longer than 6 months or a year since you’ve had a dental exam, there’s no better time to call than right now. Schedule appointments for yourself and the entire family by calling 863-294-9200 or reaching out online.
The post How Often Do I Need a Dental Exam? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post When Do I Need a Root Canal? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat tooth decay or infection that has penetrated to the tooth pulp. The pulp – containing nerves, blood vessels and soft tissues – is the innermost core of the tooth and extends to the tooth root and jawbone. Once decay gets past the enamel and dentin layers and into the core, pulp can become inflamed and infected.
Your dentist may decide that a root canal is the best treatment option for your pain if you have:
You should call your dentist any time you experience tooth or gum pain. Your dentist will perform an evaluation to determine the cause of your pain and the right treatment method. Being diagnosed with a cavity doesn’t necessarily mean that you need a root canal. Minor cavities that haven’t entered the pulp can usually be treated with a filling.
However, there are a few telltale signs that indicate significant tooth damage. Inform your dentist if you’re experiencing the following:
While root canals have a reputation of being incredibly painful, many people report that it’s no more painful than getting a filling. Living with achy, sensitive teeth is a far more painful prospect than undergoing a simple procedure.
During the procedure, your dentist will numb the affected area and use small tools to clean out the infected pulp and remove the nerve. The empty area will be packed with a filling material. Afterward, you’ll need a filling or crown to cover and protect the tooth because it will be structurally weaker after a root canal.
If a root canal procedure is right for you, it will preserve your natural tooth and prevent the need for a more costly tooth extraction and implant. Root canal procedures are extremely effective and may preserve the tooth for the rest of your life. Many insurances cover part or all of a root canal procedure.
Want to prevent the need for a root canal? Brush and floss daily at home, limit your consumption of sugary snacks and see your dentist regularly for examinations. Regular dental exams can catch and treat tooth and gum problems before they worsen and require more extensive treatment. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, call Boyett Family Dentistry at 863-294-9200 to schedule an appointment.
The post When Do I Need a Root Canal? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post What Should I Do If I Crack or Break a Tooth? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>You may feel shocked, alarmed or even frightened when you damage a tooth. But try to stay calm — you can prevent permanent damage from a cracked or broken tooth by taking fast action and following a few simple steps. Keep reading to learn more.
Unexpectedly chipping or cracking a tooth can be surprising or alarming but, by taking the following action steps, you can reduce the amount of damage and pain you experience.
Contact your dentist immediately for all chips and cracks, no matter how small or painless. Left untreated, the damage could cause an infection or lead to other problems in the future.
While breaking a tooth can be very distressing, stay calm because you need to take quick action to prevent permanent damage.
Left untreated, a missing tooth can cause permanent damage. An empty space can lead to infections, gum recession, bone loss and an abnormal bite pattern.
Treatment for your cracked or broken tooth will depend on how severe the damage is. Minor cracks and chips can usually be treated with a simple filling. Larger cracks may require a dental crown to protect the nerves and remaining tooth structure. If the dental pulp is exposed by a large crack, you may also need a root canal before the tooth is crowned.
In some cases, your dentist may not be able to preserve the original tooth. You may need an implant or dental bridge to fill in the space and maintain the structure of your jaw and surrounding teeth.
At Boyett Family Dentistry, we handle all manner of dental concerns, including emergencies like severely cracked or broken teeth. Call us today at 863-294-9200.
The post What Should I Do If I Crack or Break a Tooth? appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>The post The Connection Between Oral Health and Diabetes appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>Diabetes is also linked to an increased risk of oral health conditions, especially severe gum disease (periodontitis). Scientific research confirms that diabetes is a significant risk factor for periodontitis, and that people with diabetes are 3 times more susceptible to gum disease than people without diabetes.
Uncontrolled diabetes increases the risk of developing oral problems. Let’s take a look at how diabetes affects your oral health.
It’s entirely possible for people with diabetes to maintain good oral health and avoid the problems listed above. If you have diabetes, you must remain vigilant about practicing good oral care and protecting your health. Follow the tips listed below:
Boyett Family Dentistry is a trusted family practice in Winter Haven, FL. We see patients of all ages. To make an appointment, call us at 863-294-9200 or leave us a message online.
The post The Connection Between Oral Health and Diabetes appeared first on Boyett Family Dentistry.
]]>