Teeth! We see them every day. We work with them every day. That’s no surprise, we’re dentists, after all!
Even so, they never cease to amaze us. We bet you’ll be amazed, too, when you read some of these incredible facts about your pearly whites:
- Surveys indicate that 50% of people say that someone’s smile is the first thing they notice.
- The hardest part of your body? Your tooth enamel.
- Some 80% of dental injuries sustained by children are to their front teeth.
- Consumers in the U.S. buy 14 million gallons of toothpaste every year.
- Over the course of your life, you will spend about 38 days brushing your
teeth. - Snails have about 25 teeth – and they are located on their tongue.
- Adult humans have 32 teeth. Babies, however, only have 20 teeth.
- A tooth that gets knocked out will start to die within 15 minutes.
- You can extend the life of a knocked out tooth by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth. Remember that if you have to take an emergency trip to your Barnegat, NJ dentist!
- The amount of saliva you produce in a lifetime is enough to fill two swimming pools!
- Mosquitoes have teeth! Usually about 47 is all.
- So-called “milk teeth” begin to form in the womb, but don’t actually show until a child is six months to a year old.
- Some 25% of children won’t have seen a dentist before they enter kindergarten. That number is too low!
- Modern toothpaste has only been around for about 100 years.
- Think your fingerprints are unique? So are your tongue prints! No two are alike.
- In the past, people used charcoal ashes, chalk, lemon juice, and other concoctions to brush their teeth.
- Think kids eat more candy than adults? Think again. Adults consume about 65% of all the candy produced in the U.S.
- The most common childhood disease is none other than tooth decay.
- Brushing daily can reduce your chance of tooth decay by 25%.
- When you don’t floss, you miss cleaning up to 35% of your tooth’s surface area.
- Humans have two sets of teeth during their lifestyle. By contrast, sharks have about 40.
- Every year, students lose 51 million hours of school due to dental-related illness.
- What you think of as your teeth is only part of the story; one third of your teeth are located underneath your gums.
- You could add up all the people on Earth and it still wouldn’t add up to the amount of bacteria in your mouth RIGHT NOW!
- At the time of his inauguration, George Washington only had one real tooth!
Pretty amazing stuff, huh? As a dentist in Ocean County, NJ, it’s easy to see why we are so fascinated with your pearly whites. They are a lot more interesting than people realize!
Tooth enamel. You have probably heard your local dentist mention it a lot. Tooth enamel is the hard, outermost layer of your teeth that protects them from decay and damage. Despite being the strongest substance in your body, enamel can become eroded due to factors like poor dental hygiene, acidic foods, and excessive alcohol, tobacco, or drug use. When enamel wears down, it can lead to sensitivity, toothache, and infection. But with proper care and attention, you can strengthen your tooth enamel and maintain good oral health.
What is Tooth Enamel?
Tooth enamel is a translucent, calcified substance that covers the top (crown) and sides (root) of your teeth. Made up of 96% minerals such as calcium and phosphate, enamel is the hardest and most mineralized tissue in your body. Enamel is nonliving and cannot regenerate once it’s lost, which is why it’s essential to preserve it as much as possible.
The Role of Tooth Enamel in Your Health
The main roles of tooth enamel are to protect your teeth from damage, provide a smooth surface for chewing and biting, and give your teeth their white appearance. Enamel acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria, acid, and sugar that can cause cavities and decay. Healthy tooth enamel also helps maintain proper dental alignment and improves speech. Without enamel, your teeth become more vulnerable to decay and cavity formation.
Things That Are Good for Your Tooth Enamel
To maintain strong and healthy tooth enamel, you need to consume foods and drinks that are rich in minerals and nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. Some examples include dairy products, leafy greens, nuts, and fish. Drinking plenty of water can also help wash away harmful bacteria and acid from your mouth. Furthermore, incorporating fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent decay.
Things That Are Bad for Your Tooth Enamel
Certain habits and substances can weaken and erode your tooth enamel over time. Avoid consuming too many sugary or acidic foods and drinks, such as soda, sweets, citrus fruits, and sports drinks. Limit your alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, as these can all contribute to tooth decay and wear. Additionally, don’t brush your teeth too hard or with insufficient fluoride toothpaste, as this can also wear down your enamel.
How to Maintain Healthy Tooth Enamel
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for maintaining healthy tooth enamel and preventing decay and infection. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash as needed. Be aware of any tooth sensitivity or discomfort, as this may be a sign of enamel erosion. Your dentist may recommend treatments like sealants, fluoride varnish, or fillings to protect and restore your enamel. By maintaining good oral hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits, you can keep your tooth enamel strong and healthy.
Tooth enamel plays a vital role in your oral health and overall wellbeing. It’s essential to take steps to preserve and strengthen your enamel, including consuming a nutritious diet, avoiding harmful substances, and practicing good oral hygiene. Don’t ignore any signs of enamel erosion or decay, as early detection and treatment can prevent further damage and improve your dental health. By taking care of your tooth enamel, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
For more tips, be sure to visit your local dentist in Ocean County, NJ on a regular basis!
Look, we understand. A lot of people just don’t like to floss. In fact, up to half of all Americans don’t floss as often as they should.
But since flossing helps protect you from oral infections, bad breath, gum disease and more, this is really not a good thing!
Take a look at these 10 things you may not know about flossing and perhaps you’ll change your mind about this all-important hygiene habit.
- Some dentists in Southern Ocean County recommend flossing before you brush, not after, to help the fluoride from your toothpaste get between your teeth. However, this advice is not universal. There remains debate over whether or not this actually has any impact. Most dentists agree, though, that the most important thing is that you floss in the first place.
- If your gums bleed when you floss, you may be flossing improperly or at irregular intervals. Flossing on a regular basis with a good technique is essential.
- If you are not using clean floss for each tooth, you risk transferring bacteria around your mouth!
- Floss comes in flavors. You can find all the expected stuff – mint flavors, fruit flavors – and even bacon!
- If you have bridgework or wider spaces between your teeth, it may be best to use wide floss, also known as dental tape. This will give better coverage and ensure they remain cleaner and healthier.
- If you have closely spaced teeth, consider using waxed floss. This can be easier to slide between your teeth.
- Listen for the squeaking sound. You can hear when unwaxed floss is moving against clean teeth. This tells you that plaque has been removed.
- According to the American Dental Association, only about 50% of Americans floss daily, and 18% don’t floss at ALL.
- 27 percent of people LIE about how often they floss!
- If using floss feels weird to you, ask your Barnegat dental hygienist about other options. There are products that can provide the same sort of cleaning, including rubber-tips cleaners, pre-threaded flossers, tiny brushes, and more.
If you want to learn more about the importance of flossing, good flossing techniques, and how we can help, reach out to us at 609-698-1155 to set up an appointment with our hygienist, or contact us on Facebook.
Teeth! We see them every day. We work with them every day. That’s no surprise, we’re dentists, after all!
Even so, they never cease to amaze us. We bet you’ll be amazed, too, when you read some of these incredible facts about your pearly whites:
- Surveys indicate that 50% of people say that someone’s smile is the first thing they notice.
- The hardest part of your body? Your tooth enamel.
- Some 80% of dental injuries sustained by children are to their front teeth.
- Consumers in the U.S. buy 14 million gallons of toothpaste every year.
- Over the course of your life, you will spend about 38 days brushing your teeth.
- Snails have about 25 teeth – and they are located on their tongue.
- Adult humans have 32 teeth. Babies, however, only have 20 teeth.
- A tooth that gets knocked out will start to die within 15 minutes.
- You can extend the life of a knocked out tooth by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth. Remember that if you have to take an emergency trip to your Barnegat, NJ dentist!
- The amount of saliva you produce in a lifetime is enough to fill two swimming pools!
- Mosquitoes have teeth! Usually about 47 is all.
- So-called “milk teeth” begin to form in the womb, but don’t actually show until a child is six months to a year old.
- Some 25% of children won’t have seen a dentist before they enter kindergarten. That number is too low!
- Modern toothpaste has only been around for about 100 years.
- Think your fingerprints are unique? So are your tongue prints! No two are alike.
- In the past, people used charcoal ashes, chalk, lemon juice, and other concoctions to brush their teeth.
- Think kids eat more candy than adults? Think again. Adults consume about 65% of all the candy produced in the U.S.
- The most common childhood disease is none other than tooth decay.
- Brushing daily can reduce your chance of tooth decay by 25%.
- When you don’t floss, you miss cleaning up to 35% of your tooth’s surface area.
- Humans have two sets of teeth during their lifestyle. By contrast, sharks have about 40.
- Every year, students lose 51 million hours of school due to dental-related illness.
- What you think of as your teeth is only part of the story; one third of your teeth are located underneath your gums.
- You could add up all the people on Earth and it still wouldn’t add up to the amount of bacteria in your mouth RIGHT NOW!
- At the time of his inauguration, George Washington only had one real tooth!
Pretty amazing stuff, huh? As a dentist in Ocean County, NJ, it’s easy to see why we are so fascinated with your pearly whites. They are a lot more interesting than people realize!
It’s easy to put off a dentist appointment, especially if you’re feeling healthy. But did you know that skipping your checkup could actually lead to bigger problems down the road? Here are 5 reasons why it’s important to see your dentist near Manahawkin on a regular basis:
1. Prevention
Visiting the dentist regularly is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Regular checkups can help catch any issues early, allowing your dentist to provide quick treatment before they become more serious.
2. Early Detection
Seeing your dentist every six months gives them the opportunity to detect signs of oral cancer, an often fatal but treatable condition that’s usually found in its early stages through regular dental exams.
3. Healthy Teeth & Gums
Regular cleanings remove tartar buildup and unhealthy bacteria from teeth and gums that can lead to cavities and gum disease—so if you want a healthy smile, don’t skip your checkup!
4. Save Money
Treating an issue when it’s minor often costs much less than waiting until it becomes more severe. Your dentist can help you address smaller problems before they become expensive to repair.
5. Overall Health
Oral health is closely linked to overall health, so regularly visiting your dentist helps keep your whole body healthy. Research suggests that oral health can even be a predictor of some serious conditions like heart disease and stroke.
Seeing your dentist near Manahawkin twice a year is an important part of maintaining good oral health—so don’t skip out on this important checkup! Schedule an appointment today and reap the benefits of a healthy mouth!
We all have mouths – life would be hard without one – and we all need to take care of them. The thing about oral health is that it’s a diverse area. Some dental problems are minor and some can be simply devastating. What sort of problems? Read along as we count down the five most common dental problems in America and to see just what is making people (and their teeth) suffer out there:
5) Mouth Sores
There are many different types of mouth sores. Among the most common are canker sores, fever blisters, cold sores and ulcers. All of them can be terribly bothersome. The good news is, most mouth sores are never much more than a nuisance. They go away after a few weeks at most. Once in a while one can point to a bigger problem, so if a mouth sore lasts for more than two weeks be sure to see your dentist near Manahawkin. However, in most cases these are pretty low on the priority list of oral health problems to be concerned about.
4) Oral Cancer
Many other types of cancer get a lot more spotlight, but the truth is, some 300,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed each year. In fact, at any given time millions are affected by it. Like all types of cancer, it can be deadly if left untreated. It can also lead to severe damage to the mouth, lips and throat. The good news is that oral cancer is highly treatable if caught early – and the best way to catch it early is with regular visits to your dentist.
3) Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is when your gums become infected. This can start with simple gingivitis, but when gum disease progresses it can lead to tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is cited as the biggest cause of tooth loss among adults in America. The best way to combat this malady is by following the daily oral health routine suggested by your dentist near Manahawkin.
2) Cavities
Cavities, also known as tooth decay, is not just one of the most common oral health problems in the country, it’s actually one of the most common health problems overall, affecting about as many people as the common cold. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and watching what you eat are your best defenses against this common problem. Tooth decay is caused when plaque buildup and sugars combine to eat away at your tooth enamel and the teeth themselves. This is a problem where prevention is the best approach, because once it progresses too far there is no reversing it. It will take major dentistry to fix the issue.
1) Bad Breath
There is no oral health problem more common than bad breath, also known as halitosis. Bad breath can be caused by many things, but in the majority of cases – more than 4 out of 5 cases, in fact – a simple dental condition is to blame. They can include dry mouth, cavities, gum disease, bacteria on the tongue and others. All of these can all be causes of bad breath. If you have persistent bad breath, you should visit your dental office, because mouth wash only covers the problem, it doesn’t cure it.
If you’re like most people, you’ll invent a host of reasons to avoid seeing your dentist. Don’t worry, we’re not insulted. We’re used to it by now!
But the fact of the matter is, if you begin to experience one of these five conditions, you really need to see your Barnegat dentist as soon as possible. It may help you avoid a lot of misery down the road!
Toothache
A toothache is nothing to take lightly. The pain you’re experiencing is a sign that something is wrong. You may feel as if you can tolerate the pain or that you can “tough it out,” but letting a toothache go unaddressed is asking for trouble. Whatever the cause of your pain, your condition could worsen. In a worst case scenario, you could even end up losing the tooth. Better to address it early, when there’s a good possibility the issue can be fixed with minimal fuss.
Chronic Bad Breath
Everyone gets bad breath every now and then. It’s common and can be easily triggered by the things we eat. A normal bout of bad breath is nothing to worry about. Chronic bad breath, on the other hand, is a sign of deeper problems that must be addressed. It may be “only” as serious as gum disease, which you’ll want to catch early to begin treatment. It can also be a sign of more serious issues than that. If you suffer from chronic bad breath, it’s important to have your dentist take a look as soon as possible so serious problems can be treated early.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth
One of the most common problems any dentist in Ocean County, NJ near Forked River will deal with are cracked and chipped teeth. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry is effective and affordable, with many options available to you. The bad news is, left unaddressed, some issues like this become more than a cosmetic issue. Cracked teeth can cause persistent pain and can lead to serious infections that may put your other teeth in danger, too. Even if you don’t mind how they look, at the very least you should have your dentist examine them to be sure your teeth are in no danger of future issues.
Jaw Pain
Pain in the jaw can come from a number of courses, including toothaches, sinus infections, and more. If you are feeling persistent jaw pain, have it examined by your Ocean County, NJ dentist near Manahawkin to determine the source of the problem. As with anything, the key to avoiding serious issues is to catch them early.
Bleeding Gums
If you experience bleeding gums during/after brushing, there may be an issue that needs addressing. In many cases bleeding gums are merely caused by improper brushing techniques. That is easy to fix. In other cases, however, they may be a sign of gingivitis or other underlying issues. As with all such issues, catching them early gives you the best chance of avoiding more serious complications.
If you experience any of these conditions and live in Barnegat, Forked River / Lacey, Manahawkin, or other areas of Southern Ocean County, call to make an appointment today!
Have you ever wondered why we have wisdom teeth? Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last of our permanent 32 adult teeth to come in. By adulthood, most people have four wisdom teeth located at the corners of our mouths – one at the top and one at the bottom on each side. These teeth serve a variety of purposes, from helping us chew tough foods to aiding with facial appearance. But what else should you know about wisdom teeth? This article will provide a comprehensive overview and answer all your questions about these intriguing little pieces of anatomy.
The average age for wisdom teeth to come in is between 17 and 25 years old. They often appear much later than other permanent teeth, which usually come in during childhood. As the last ones to arrive, they are increasingly susceptible to overcrowding due to lack of space within the jawbone. When this happens, impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other dental complications.
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure due to overcrowding and other complications such as misalignment, decay, or cysts. It typically takes place in a dentist’s office under local anesthesia, although more serious cases may require general anesthesia or hospitalization. After wisdom teeth are removed, the area is usually stitched up and patients should expect to experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding.
In addition to removal, there are several other treatments available for wisdom teeth that range from fillings and extractions to bone grafts and root canals. The best way to determine whether or not you need treatment is by visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups. Your dentist will be able to detect any potential issues or problems that may need to be addressed.
Wisdom teeth are an important part of our anatomy and can play a vital role in the overall health of our mouths. However, it is important to remember that overcrowding can lead to serious dental complications if not addressed properly. If you’re concerned about your wisdom teeth or think you may need treatment, speak with your dentist immediately.
Tips for dealing with wisdom tooth pain include:
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications as recommended by your dentist.
- Applying a cold compress to the affected area.
- Avoiding hard foods and tough chewing motions.
- Practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing regularly.
- Applying topical or prescribed anesthetics if suggested by your dentist.
- Refraining from smoking and drinking alcohol.
By taking the necessary precautions, you can help to minimize any potential discomfort, as well as reduce the risk of infection following wisdom tooth removal. If you have any questions or concerns about your wisdom teeth, it’s always best to talk to your dentist for professional advice.
Your tongue is a vital organ that plays numerous roles in your body such as tasting, speaking, and swallowing. It’s a muscle with an intricate network of nerves, blood vessels, and taste buds that work together to ensure that you enjoy all the different flavors of your favorite foods. Furthermore, your tongue is also a great indicator of your overall health, as certain conditions often manifest with symptoms on your tongue. Let’s take a closer look at the different ailments that can affect your tongue and the best practices to keep it clean and healthy for optimal well-being.
1. Common Ailments of the Tongue
Your tongue can develop numerous ailments that reflect underlying medical conditions or oral hygiene issues. One of the more common conditions that affect the tongue is thrush, which is a fungal infection that causes painful and white sores on your tongue. Another common ailment is geographic tongue, which results in a map-like appearance on the surface of your tongue. Tongue sores may also be indicative of oral cancer or vitamin deficiencies. It is, therefore, crucial to seek professional advice if you experience persistent tongue sores, lesions, or any other irregularities.
2. How to Keep Your Tongue Clean and Healthy
Keeping your tongue clean and healthy should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. You can start with regular brushing of your tongue using a soft-bristled brush or a tongue scraper. This practice helps to remove food particles, bacteria, dead cells, and fungi that accumulate on your tongue. You can also rinse your mouth with a mouthwash containing antiseptic agents that kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Drinking plenty of water helps to eliminate bacteria and toxins from your mouth and keep your tongue well hydrated.
3. The Importance of Diet in Tongue Health
Your diet plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your tongue. Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help to boost immunity and prevent the development of tongue problems. Include plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources like fish and chicken in your diet. Avoid consuming excess sugary or acidic foods and beverages, which can erode tooth enamel and cause painful tongue sores.
4. Knowing When to See a Doctor for Tongue Issues
While cleaning your tongue regularly is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene, it is crucial to seek professional advice if you experience any tongue problems. Common signs that you need to see a doctor include persistent tongue pain, swelling, sores, ulcers, or any other unusual changes in your tongue’s appearance. In some cases, your tongue issues may be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires prompt intervention.
5. The Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Overall Health
Good oral hygiene practices like cleaning your tongue regularly can help prevent detrimental impacts on your overall health. Research has shown that poor oral hygiene can lead to numerous medical conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory infections. When you keep your tongue clean and healthy, you reduce your risk of bacteria accumulation in your mouth, which is one of the leading causes of these medical conditions.
Your tongue is an essential organ that plays a vital role in your overall health and well-being. Keeping it clean and healthy is easy, and it should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Ensure that you brush or scrape your tongue daily, consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and seek professional advice from your Ocean County dentist if you experience any problems with your tongue. Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical to reducing the risk of oral diseases and promoting better overall health.
For many people, the decision to get dental braces is an easy one. But for some, it can be a little more complicated. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to get braces, this article will help make your decision easier. In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about getting braces – from what they are, to how much they cost, to how long they will need to be worn. We’ll also dispel some of the myths that often surround dental braces. So if you’re curious about braces but don’t know where to start, read on!
What Are Dental Braces?
Dental braces are custom-fitted orthodontic devices that are used to straighten and align the teeth. Braces are typically composed of brackets, archwires, and ligatures. The brackets are made from either metal or ceramic and are affixed to each tooth with dental cement. The archwire is then attached to the brackets, which puts gentle pressure on the teeth in order for them to move into proper alignment. Additionally, small elastic bands (ligatures) may be used in some cases to join the brackets together.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
The cost of braces can vary greatly depending on several factors such as type of treatment and how long it will take. Keep in mind that insurance may cover some or all of the cost of braces. It’s always a good idea to contact your insurance provider before starting any type of orthodontic treatment to find out what is covered and what isn’t.
How Long Do Braces Need To Be Worn?
The amount of time needed to wear braces depends on the severity of the misalignment and other factors specific to each individual case. On average, most people will need to wear braces for 12-18 months in order for their teeth to be properly aligned. However, there are also cases where more than 18 months may be necessary.
Dispelling Common Myths About Braces
There are many myths surrounding the use of dental braces, but most of them simply aren’t true. Here are some of the most common myths and the facts about each one:
• Myth: Braces will hurt for a long time after they’re put on. Fact: The discomfort associated with getting braces is usually short-lived and can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or ice/heat therapy.
• Myth: Braces make it difficult to clean your teeth. Fact: With proper oral hygiene habits, cleaning your teeth while wearing braces is actually quite easy! You just need to use special tools such as interdental brushes and floss threaders.
• Myth: Braces are only for teens and children. Fact: While it’s true that many people get braces when they’re young, there is no age limit – adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment!
Now that you know all the facts about dental braces, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to get them. Remember, getting braces is a big commitment but it can have a huge positive impact on your oral health and overall wellbeing. So if you think braces may be right for you, don’t hesitate to contact your local dentist today!