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How to Care for Your Teeth in Manahawkin, NJ

Posts Tagged ‘ dentist in Manahawkin ’



How to Care for Your Teeth in Manahawkin, NJ

Posted on: February 21st, 2024 by admin

The first line of defense in the war against all things that harm your mouth – tooth decay, gum disease and more – is a deceptive simple weapon: your toothbrush. It’s the tool that will give you great teeth in Manahawkin!

The toothbrush has been around for millennia, though not always as we know it. The ancient Egyptians frayed tiny branches in order to create their toothbrushes. The 15 Century Chinese used natural bristles to create something very much like to the brushes we use today. But it was less than 100 years ago, in the 1930s, when nylon was invented and toothbrushes finally became modern.

Modern toothbrushes have been refined and redesigned over the decades, with many fine adjustments helping them become more effective at keeping your teeth clean.

But without YOU, your toothbrush can’t do its job properly. Here is what you need to know:

How to Brush Properly

A surprising number of people do not brush their teeth properly. Even though this is part of our daily routine and it seems like it should be easy, over time even the best of us can develop up bad habits. Once formed, bad habits are hard to break – and when they are bad brushing habits, they can make your brushing far less effective.

Here is some advice to keep in mind:

  • Brush twice a day, three times if possible
  • Each brushing session should last two minutes
  • Use short strokes when you brush
  • Don’t forget to brush your tongue (gently)!
  • Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so don’t do it!

A good way to be sure that you brush effectively is to divide your mouth into four quadrants: bottom left, bottom right, top left, top right. Brush in each quadrant for 30 seconds, using short, and gentle strokes and/or swirls. If you do this two to three times per day, you’ll be well on your way to taking amazing care of your teeth!

Once you’ve mastered brushing, the next step is to keep your toothbrush in good shape.

 

How To Care For Your Toothbrush

Your toothbrush is your best tool for ensuring you have a healthy mouth, so naturally you’ll want to take care of it. Toothbrushes that are a gnarled, mangled mess won’t do a good of keeping your mouth fresh and clean.

In order to keep yours in great shape, follow these tips:

  • Do not ever share your toothbrush!
  • Be sure to brush gently; let the bristles do the work
  • Be sure to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush after you’re done
  • To keep microorganism growth to a minimum, don’t store your toothbrush in a closed container
  • Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Remember, your toothbrush is the single most important part of your oral health routine. Treat it poorly and it will treat your mouth poorly. Treat it well, however, and you can have many years of excellent oral health. When you visit your dentist near Manahawkin, they’ll notice the difference!

And isn’t that what this is all about? Having the healthiest mouth possible?

5 times you need to see a dentist ASAP

Posted on: January 31st, 2024 by admin

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.

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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!

Five Common Causes of Bad Breath (and What You Can Do About Them)

Posted on: September 6th, 2023 by admin

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can lead to social isolation, low self-esteem, and even job loss. Fortunately, bad breath is usually caused by something that is easily treatable. In this article, we’ll discuss the five most common causes of bad breath and what you can do to get rid of it. Get ready for good advice from your favorite dentist in Barnegat!

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of bad breath. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles can remain in your mouth and get trapped between your teeth. Bacteria will then start to break down these food particles and release an unpleasant odor. To prevent bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once a day, and use mouthwash regularly.

2. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth or xerostomia is another common cause of bad breath. It occurs when there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth to wash away food particles and bacteria. Saliva is essential because it helps to neutralize acids and prevents plaque buildup. A dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, dehydration, or certain medical conditions. To tackle this issue, you can stay hydrated, chew gum or suck on candy that contains xylitol, or use an artificial saliva substitute.

3. Gum Disease

Gum disease or periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. Symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, bleeding gums, and gum recession. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene, go for regular dental checkups, and quit smoking.

4. Sinus and Respiratory Infections

Bad breath can also be caused by sinus and respiratory infections, such as postnasal drip or tonsillitis. Infections in these areas can lead to mucus build-up and bacterial growth that cause bad breath. To treat bad breath caused by these infections, you need to treat the underlying infection. This can be done by taking antibiotics or using nasal sprays, or with a visit to your dentist near Forked River.

5. Diet

Your diet can also play a role in causing bad breath. Foods that have strong odors such as garlic, onions, and curry can leave a lingering smell in your mouth even after brushing. Moreover, diets high in sugar and starch contribute to the growth of harmful bacteria and cause bad breath. To prevent bad breath caused by diet, it’s essential to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoid sugary and starchy foods, and brush and floss regularly.

Conclusion:

Bad breath can be a frustrating problem to have, but there are several things you can do to get rid of it. Simple lifestyle changes such as improving your oral hygiene, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can make all the difference. If bad breath persists despite your efforts, it’s important to see a dentist near Forked River to identify any underlying medical conditions. By following these tips, you can maintain optimal oral health and keep bad breath at bay.

Here’s how to get over your fear of the dentist

Posted on: July 26th, 2023 by admin

Dentist appointments are never at the top of anyone’s list of fun things to do, but they are a necessary part of maintaining your oral health. If you’re struggling with a fear of the dentist, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world feel the same way. In this article, we will discuss some easy ways to get over your fear and make your next dentist appointment a breeze!

One of the best ways to get over your fear of the dentist is to educate yourself on what exactly happens during a dental appointment. Many people feel anxious about going to the dentist because they don’t know what to expect. If you take the time to learn about the different procedures that your dentist may perform, you will feel more comfortable and confident when it comes time for your appointment. And remember, Dental office procedures these days are now easier and more painless than ever before.

Another great way to ease your fears is to find a dentist that you trust and feel comfortable with. When you have a good relationship with your dentist, you will be more likely to relax and feel confident during your appointments. Be sure to communicate any concerns or questions that you have with your dentist so that they can help put your mind at ease.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling with your fear of the dentist. If you have a friend or family member who is also afraid of the dentist, ask them to come with you to your appointment. Having someone there to support you can make a world of difference. You can also ask us to ease you through the process, too. We aim to make your visit to your favorite dentist near Manahawkin as smooth as possible!

If you follow these tips, you will be on your way to conquering your fear of the dentist in no time! Schedule an appointment today and see for yourself how easy it can be.

Don’t Skip Your Checkup: 5 Reasons to See Your Dentist

Posted on: March 15th, 2023 by admin

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!

 

How to live up to your New Year’s Resolutions

Posted on: January 4th, 2023 by admin

The New Year is here again, and you’ve got some goals in mind. Maybe you want to lose a few pounds, or read some of the classic novels, or be a more patient driver.

Believe us, as dentists serving southern Ocean County, NJ, we know many of our patients have big goals for the year ahead!

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Whatever you goals, remember the following and you’ll be well prepared to ensure those New Year’s Resolutions are not mere hot air:

  1. Keep Track Of Your Successes – If you’ve resolved to read 12 classic novels this year, post about your progress to Facebook. If you want to get more exercise, keep a log of your daily progress. If you are trying to lose weight, take weekly pictures to track how you’re doing.
  1. Allow Yourself To Celebrate Achievements – The road towards your final goal may be a difficult one, so don’t be shy about patting yourself on the back now and then. Rewards for meeting key milestones – losing you first five pounds, running a mile for the first time, going three months without alcohol, etc. – are well-earned. Give yourself a day off from work, go shopping, or some other reward that won’t set you back.
  1. Be Ready To Reassess – Making big changes in your life is a noble goal, but big changes often come with roadblocks you may not have foreseen. That’s okay. Be prepared to periodically reassess your goals and to adjust them as necessary. That’s not failure, it’s simply being smart and realistic.
  1. Put Something Of Value On The Line – Loss can be a great motivator. Consider making a friendly wager that you can meet your goals, or use a site like stickK.com, a site set up by behavioral analysts through which you can forfeit a chosen amount of money if you don’t succeed. Quite a motivator!
  1. Let Others Do The Work For You – With some goals, it’s possible to automate the process and/or let others do the heavy lifting for you. Saving money, for instance. If you want to save more, arrange for your employer to direct deposit a specific amount from each paycheck into a side account. Opt for the bank not to send you monthly statements on that account, and do not accept a bank card. Before you know it, you’ll be building savings with no effort at all.
  1. Mix And Match For Better Success – If you hate exercise but love music, use your exercise time to catch up on music you may have missed. If you want to eat better and love to eat out, start eating at restaurants that specialize in healthy food. If you want to read more but have a hard time staying focused, take a book with you to the gym and use that time for reading. The combinations are endless, and they can help you meet your goals.

But the most important thing to remember is both the simplest and the most difficult: Be positive. As dentists serving Manahawkin and the surrounding area, we know it works!

Good luck!

Fantastic Ways to Enjoy the Shore Near Manahawkin

Posted on: August 10th, 2022 by admin

If you’re looking for things to do this summer, the Jersey Shore is the place to be! With miles of coastline and plenty of activities to keep you busy, you’ll never run out of things to do. Today, we’re taking a break from practicing dentistry at the shore to discuss five fun activities that are perfect for a day at the beach. So pack your sunscreen and get ready for some fun in the sun!

The first activity on our list is swimming. Of course, one of the best things to do at the beach is to take a dip in the water! Whether you’re looking to cool off or just have some fun, swimming is a great way to spend your day. Just be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks often if you’re in the sun for extended periods of time.

If swimming isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy. One popular option is building sandcastles. This is a great activity for all ages and can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. If you’re feeling creative, try incorporating shells or rocks into your design. Or, if you’re looking for a challenge, see how tall you can make your castle before it collapses.

Another great option for things to do at the beach is fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, there’s nothing quite like spending a day out on the water. Just be sure to check the local regulations before you start fishing, as there may be limits on what you can catch. And if you don’t have a boat, no worries! There are plenty of spots along the shore where you can cast your line and enjoy some time in nature.

If you’re looking for something a little more active, why not try stand-up paddleboarding? This popular activity is perfect for those who want to explore the coastline at their own pace. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try paddleboarding in the waves! Just be sure to wear a life jacket and practice safety first.

Last but not least, one of the best things to do at the beach is simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Soak up the sun, read a book, or just take a nap on the sand. No matter how you spend your day, there’s no doubt that a day at the Jersey Shore is sure to be a memorable one.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your swimsuit and head to the shore for some fun in the sun!

Easy Ways to Get Over Your Fear of the Dentist

Posted on: July 6th, 2022 by admin

Dentist appointments are never at the top of anyone’s list of fun things to do, but they are a necessary part of maintaining your oral health. If you’re struggling with a fear of the dentist, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Millions of people around the world feel the same way. In this article, we will discuss some easy ways to get over your fear and make your next dentist appointment a breeze!

One of the best ways to get over your fear of the dentist is to educate yourself on what exactly happens during a dental appointment. Many people feel anxious about going to the dentist because they don’t know what to expect. If you take the time to learn about the different procedures that your dentist may perform, you will feel more comfortable and confident when it comes time for your appointment. And remember, Dental office procedures these days are now easier and more painless than ever before.

Another great way to ease your fears is to find a dentist that you trust and feel comfortable with. When you have a good relationship with your dentist, you will be more likely to relax and feel confident during your appointments. Be sure to communicate any concerns or questions that you have with your dentist so that they can help put your mind at ease.

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re struggling with your fear of the dentist. If you have a friend or family member who is also afraid of the dentist, ask them to come with you to your appointment. Having someone there to support you can make a world of difference. You can also ask us to ease you through the process, too. We aim to make your visit to your favorite dentist near Manahawkin as smooth as possible!

If you follow these tips, you will be on your way to conquering your fear of the dentist in no time! Schedule an appointment today and see for yourself how easy it can be.

In Southern Ocean County, Dental Health Is Tied to Overall Health

Posted on: July 14th, 2021 by admin

Your mouth is a funny place. Your body is fairly easy to keep clean and healthy when compared to your mouth. As long as you shower daily, eat right and get some exercise, generally speaking your body is going to treat you fairly well. Your mouth is another story. Your mouth is a place that is warm and wet, and that makes it a great place for germs and bacteria to thrive. It’s also filled with tiny little nooks and crannies that create perfect places for oral problems to begin. And finally, it acts as the gateway to your insides.

That’s why taking good care of your mouth requires some work on your part – just as your Southern Ocean County dental office tells you!

And make no mistake, it’s a relatively small effort that you’ll want to make, because your oral health is closely tied to your overall health. Here’s how:

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/group-of-people-having-fun-together-under-the-sun-708392/

Periodontal Disease

Some recent studies now prove there are links between periodontal disease and other oral afflictions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. dentists have found that they can often diagnose those conditions early in part by your oral health.

Good Digestion

Your every bodily function begins and ends with your body’s ability to turn food into energy, and that entire process begins in your mouth.

Heart Disease

It might seem to be counter intuitive that these two things would be linked, but a study from 2008 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine suggested that periodontal disease was a risk factor for heart disease. A few follow-up studies also appear to show that treating periodontal disease can also lower’s a person’s risk for heart disease.

Diabetes

Diabetes shows itself in a number of ways, among them in gum inflammation. This is something your dentist might notice, allowing you to spot early warning signs of the disease.

Preterm Labor

This is another that may surprise you. We now know that pregnancy increases the risk of gum disease and other oral maladies, and further, gum disease increases the risk of low birth weight and preterm labor. So these things are linked!

Pneumonia

Earlier when we said your mouth was a good place for bacteria and germs to gather, we weren’t kidding. Under some conditions, breathing in germs may put you at an increased risk of developing pneumonia thanks to those factors. That’s a good reason to have good oral hygiene!

Osteoporosis

Current studies are still looking into this, but a few researchers believe that suffering from both osteoporosis and periodontal disease could lead to faster bone loss. That’s not really a risk you want to take then, is it?

Arthritis

This link still being studied, but it’s worth noting. A study published in the Journal of Periodontology is one of several trying to establish a connection between these two inflammatory disorders.

With all of the above in mind, it appears that a good idea is to follow the advice of your dentist in Ocean County when they tell you to do better at care of your mouth. Wouldn’t you agree?

By now you know what to do: Brush at least twice daily, ever day! Floss daily. Be sure to use mouthwash. Go for regular checkups with your dentist. Avoid food and drinks high in sugar. And so on.

Why? Because these things may seem minor, so small that sometimes you can’t be bothered to follow through, but they can play a role in protecting a much bigger, interconnected system – you body.

Don’t Be Embarrassed About These Common Dental Problems

Posted on: April 14th, 2021 by admin

Dental problems. Many of us are embarrassed by the dental problems we have, but the truth is that just about everyone has some sort of dental malady or another. It’s not unusual, and therefore is nothing to be embarrassed about – as long as you’re getting it treated by your local dentist, that is! Here are five of the most common:

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-chimpanzee-smiling-50582/

1) Bad Breath

If you have bad breath, you are not alone. The truth is, there is no larger oral health problem than bad breath, also called halitosis. In 4 out of 5 cases, a dental condition is to blame. This can be dry mouth, having cavities, gum disease, bacteria on your tongue and other factors.

2) Mouth Sores

If you have them, don’t worry. Lots of people do. They come in many varieties, too.  Canker sores, cold sores, fever blisters, ulcers, and more among the most common. They can be really bothersome! Thankfully, they are rarely anything more than a nuisance. They often go away after a few weeks. Once in a while one of them can point to a bigger problem. If you have a mouth sore that lasts for more than two weeks, see your Ocean County dentist!

3) Cavities

The scourge of tooth decay is one of the most common oral health problems in America, and in fact it’s one of the most common medical problems of all. Cavities hit almost as many Americans as the common cold. If you brush twice a day, however, and remember to floss, watch what you eat , and more, you’ll enjoy the best defense – which is prevention!

4) Gum Disease

Technically this is known as periodontal disease. Gum disease happens when the gums surrounding your pearly whites become infected. This usually begins with gingivitis. After a while it progresses and may lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is actually the most common reason for tooth loss among adults

5) Oral Cancer

Oral cancer doesn’t get the attention other cancers do, so you might be surprised to learn that there are 300,000 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed each year. At any time, millions of Americans may have oral cancer. As with any cancer, it can be a deadly problem if left untreated, but thankfully it’s also very treatable, especially if caught early. That’s a good reason to see your dentist regularly!

We’re sure almost everyone reading this has suffered from at least one of these at one time or another. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. Just be sure to see your dentist near Manahawkin regularly so small problems don’t become big ones!