Mouth sores are common and can be bothersome and painful. They can affect anyone, from children to older people. But, what exactly are they, and what causes them? What should you do if you develop one, and how can you prevent them from happening in the future? Let’s take a closer look at the various types of mouth sores, their symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention methods.
There are several types of mouth sores, but the most common ones include canker sores, cold sores, and fever blisters. Canker sores are small, white or yellowish, round or oval-shaped sores that occur inside the mouth, while cold sores and fever blisters are groups of tiny, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, chin, or cheeks. They are caused by different things, though.
Canker sores are often linked to stress, injury to the mouth, certain foods like spicy or acidic foods, and even hormonal changes. On the other hand, cold sores and fever blisters are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and are highly contagious. They can spread through kissing, sharing utensils, or coming in contact with the fluid in the blisters.
The good news is that most mouth sores go away on their own within a couple of weeks, but there are ways to alleviate the pain and speed up the healing process. For instance, using over-the-counter pain relievers, applying numbing gels, gargling with saltwater, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help. For cold sores and fever blisters, antiviral medication is recommended.
Prevention is key when it comes to mouth sores. There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing them in the first place. This includes avoiding hot, spicy, or acidic foods, brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, wearing a mouthguard if you play sports, and avoiding triggers that may lead to stress or anxiety.
Another important element of preventive care is maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly. Your dentist can also diagnose and treat any underlying oral health problems that may contribute to the development of mouth sores. This can include gum disease, tooth decay, or oral infections.
Mouth sores can be painful and uncomfortable, but they are usually not serious and can be treated or prevented with the right care. Knowing the different types of mouth sores, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods can help you stay one step ahead and avoid unnecessary pain or discomfort. If you notice any unusual changes in your mouth, or if your mouth sore persists for more than two weeks, it’s important to see your local dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The Pine Barrens of New Jersey, also known as the Pinelands, is a unique and impressive region. Filled with pine trees that reach for the sky, this natural wonderland is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Covering an area of around 1.1 million acres, it is one of the largest and most diverse ecosystems in the eastern United States, and area towns like Barnegat, Manahawkin, and Forked River / Lacey are part of the region.
A Brief History
The Pine Barrens of New Jersey is a region with a rich and interesting history. The Lenape Indians, who were the original inhabitants of the area, used the Pine Barrens for hunting, gathering, and fishing. In the early 18th century, European settlers began farming the area, but the highly acidic and infertile soil made it difficult to grow crops. As a result, the region became a source of charcoal, which was used for iron smelting. During this period, the area acquired its name – “The Barrens”. Large settlements soon arose, including towns like Atlantic City, Manahawkin, and Beach Haven.
Photo by Famartin
Natural Beauty
Today, The Pine Barrens are a National Natural Landmark and have been designated as an International Biosphere Reserve. It is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in North America. The soil is still largely acidic and infertile, limiting the growth of certain plants but encouraging the growth of other species like cedar trees and pitch pine. The region is also known for its unique wildlife, including black bears, foxes, ospreys, bald eagles, and red-headed woodpeckers.
The region is home to several threatened and endangered species, including the Pine Barrens tree frog, the blue-spotted salamander, and the Pine Barrens tree snake. The area is also home to several rare plant species, such as the Pine Barrens gentian and the Pinewoods lily.
Recreational Retreat
The Pine Barrens are a popular destination for outdoor recreation and exploration. Visitors can enjoy activities like camping, fishing, canoeing, bird-watching, and exploring the region’s many trails. The area is also home to a number of historic sites such as Batsto Village and Wharton State Forest.
Great attractions near Barnegat, Manahawkin and Forked River include the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, Island Beach State Park and Barnegat Lighthouse State Park (both of which are on the coastal area of the Pine Barrens region). There are also several nature preserves in the region, including Bass River State Forest and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.
Unlike many other regions of the United States, much of the Pine Barrens is not developed. Vast areas of this unique landscape is largely untouched and provides a perfect escape for nature lovers.
The Pine Barrens is known for its natural beauty, with acres upon acres of picturesque landscapes. Visitors can bike, hike, or horseback ride through the vast network of trails that wind through the region. There are campgrounds dotted around the area, allowing visitors to spend several days exploring the region and experiencing its tranquility and beauty.
Conclusion:
The Pine Barrens of New Jersey is a unique and awe-inspiring region, with a rich and interesting history. While many regions in the US have been developed over the years, the Pine Barrens has remained largely unchanged, providing the perfect environment for threatened and endangered species to thrive. If you are a nature lover, an adventurer, or simply a person looking for a peaceful escape from modern life, the Pine Barrens is definitely a place you should visit at least once in your lifetime.
Don’t let the show “Jersey Shore” fool you. The coastal areas of New Jersey are a beautiful, relaxing place where people enjoy the beach lifestyle in friendly, down to Earth communities. As anyone who lives here will tell you, once you live at the shore you never want to live anywhere else!
Don’t believe us? Go visit these fantastic Jersey Shore communities for a taste of what life is like here:
Manahawkin / Stafford
Manahawkin is the gateway to Long Beach Island, a beautiful little community that is technically a part of Stafford Township. It’s a warm, pleasant place to live filled with great people and excellent access to local beaches and attractions such as Long Beach Island, Atlantic City, and Seaside Heights. That’s why we are proud to be a dentist serving Manahawkin!
Lavallette
Located just north of Toms River, this sleepy little beachfront community is nestled between the Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It enjoys a close proximity to shore hotspots like Point Pleasant and Seaside Heights, but is itself a quiet town with plenty of local shops and neighbors who know one another. It’s a beautiful place to relax.
Ocean Beach
Technically part of Toms River, the quaint bungalows that make up most of Ocean Beach make this the perfect community for summer rentals or affordable retirements.
Beach Haven
This subdued community on Long Beach Island is as beautiful as it is quiet. It’s a small town in which everyone knows their neighbor. Longtime residents are common. It’s the ideal place to live if you like to have good friends nearby. Even better, it boasts easy access to the attractions in places like Barnegat and other nearby LBI communities.
Cape May
This historic town is filled with old inns, bed and breakfasts, and romantic getaways. Many of these home have been here since the 19th Century. This is a fantastic place to get away from it all, with great boat tours, secluded places to eat, and more.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park is back and in a big way. Once run down and decrepit, this town is now thriving with great restraints, shops, art galleries and more. It’s a town ideal for hip young people. The bar scene is excellent, the music scene even better, and there are good apartments available. If ever there was a welcome return to form at the shore, it’s the return of Asbury Park.
Wildwood
Sometimes called “The Wildwoods,” though that actually refers to several towns, Wildwood and the surrounding towns showcase the fun side of the Jersey Shore. With a lengthy boardwalk packed with games and rides and places to eat, and a town filled with things to do, eat, drink, see and enjoy, Wildwood is a weekender’s perfect getaway. No wonder it’s such a popular destination!
As you can see, the Jersey Shore is more than night clubs and boardwalks. It’s varied and interesting enough for almost anyone!
Don’t the show of the same name fool you. The Jersey Shore is a terrific place to live. This is especially true in Southern Ocean County around Barnegat, Manahawkin, and Forked River, where there are a wealth of benefits that will quickly have you living the good life.
Don’t believe us? Just take a look at these five great reasons to live at the shore:
1) Watersports
For those who like their life to be on the exciting side, the Jersey coast offers some of the best areas for jet skiing, water skiing, surfing, and much more.
Whether you already own equipment or just want to rent it, shops and rentals places are so numerous you’ll be tripping over them.
Even better, the waters here are made for activities like this. Our bays, waterways and oceans are perfect for waverunners, paddle boarding, and much more.
2) Boating and Fishing
New Jersey has some of the best boating and fishing on the East Coast (and anyone who follows our Facebook knows our doctors take full advantage of it!).
Whether you like relaxing on a bay and enjoying the sun with friends, or like to take a boat out on the Atlantic and engage in some serious fishing, the opportunities to both are endless here. The Garden State has a thriving fishing and boating community that dates back hundreds of years, with a wealth of fishing clubs, charter boats, yacht clubs, and much more available. If you live someplace like Renaissance on The Ocean, it’s easy to access this great aspect of the shore.
3) Beautiful Beaches
There is a reason why so many people come to the Jersey Shore each summer: because it’s beautiful! No matter the type of experience you want, New Jersey offers it. We have quaint, quiet communities with relaxing beaches, party towns with thriving nightclub scenes, towns that specialize in historic inns and bed and breakfasts, fishing towns, communities geared towards families, towns that focus on boardwalks and amusements, and much more. New Jersey beaches in Ship Bottom, Long Beach Island, and elsewhere are the place to be!
4) The Outdoors
In addition to watersports, beaches and more, the Jersey coast has something a lot of people don’t realize: some gorgeous state and federal parks featuring pristine coastland. These preserves boast great hiking trails, lush dunes, and abundant wildlife. You can see a side of New Jersey you never imagined!
5) Easy Access To NYC and Philly
Being at the Jersey Shore doesn’t mean you always have to STAY at the Jersey Shore. Thanks to 195 and the Parkway, access to New York City and Philadelphia is incredibly easy, making day trips into the city a breeze. Even Baltimore is an easy three-hour drive away, a perfect way to catch Phillies, Yankees and Mets games without having to deal with the home town crowds. It’s just one more thing that makes living at the shore so desirable!
With these things in mind, it’s hard to ignore how great the Jersey Shore can be!
Ocean County, NJ is steeped in history and culture. From its Native American roots to the bustling town of Toms River that grew up around its saltwater estuary, Ocean County has a long and interesting story to tell. In this article, we’ll take a look at some highlights from Ocean County’s past.
The earliest inhabitants of Ocean County were the Lenape Indians. They lived in small villages and hunted, fished, and farmed in the area around what is now Toms River.
The first European settlers began arriving in the mid-1700s, drawn by the abundance of fish and wild game. As more settlers moved into the area, the Lenape were displaced and gradually migrated or were forced out of the region.
In 1745, Toms River – then called Dover Township – became part of Burlington County, with the main industries being agriculture and fishing. In 1848, Ocean County was officially formed from parts of Burlington and Monmouth counties. Growth continued steadily throughout the 1800s as new businesses opened and the community prospered.
During the Civil War, Ocean County played a key role in providing food and supplies for Union troops. Many residents supported the war effort by donating time and money to help their country win the conflict. In fact, Ocean County was home to two separate regiments of Civil War soldiers.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Ocean County underwent a period of growth and development. The railroad was extended through Toms River in 1876, connecting it with major cities, while the popularity of beach resorts began to draw visitors from all over New Jersey. By the 1950s, the population had exploded and Toms River was one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.
Since then, Ocean County has continued to grow and diversify. It is now home to over 600,000 people, making it one of the most populous counties in New Jersey. The economy is largely driven by tourism, with many visitors coming to enjoy the area’s beaches, amusement parks, and historic sites. Ocean County also has a rich cultural heritage, including museums, galleries, and theaters that draw in visitors from all over.
In areas of southern Ocean County, such as Forked River, Manahawkin, and Barnegat, the community is still very much tied to its agricultural past. From cranberry bogs to farmlands, there are many reminders of Ocean County’s rural roots.
Ocean County’s history is deeply intertwined with its culture and people. From its Native American beginnings to its modern-day attractions, the county has evolved and prospered over the centuries. Its unique history is part of what makes Ocean County so special. We hope this article has helped to bring some of that proud tradition to life!
We’re all hoping to escape from confinement this summer and enjoy summer at the Shore. There are some big question marks, of course, but hopefully better days are ahead!
After all, the Jersey Shore is a great place to spend a week or a long weekend, especially the area around Barnegat (where our offices are located) and Manahawkin. The beaches are gorgeous, the shopping is great, the sun and surf are always welcome. It’s amazing how such great attractions can be so close to home!
With that in mind, here are a few things to take in this summer – with proper social distancing, of course!
Sunbathing
This is what most people want to do when they visit the shore! And it’s easy. When you’re staying in towns like Manahawkin and Long Beach Island, the beach is just minutes away. Spread out a blanket onto the beach, relax, soak up the sun, jump in the ocean if you need to cool off. There is a reason why we love having our dentist office near Manahawkin.
Fishing
The Southern Ocean County region has a great fishing community that goes back centuries. Because of that, our fishing tradition is strong and proud, and the doctors here at our Barnegat dentists office take full advantage of that. There is plenty of fishing to go around, too. The area has many public fishing spots and great piers and docks for fishing, plus charter boats are plentiful. It’s as easy to spend a day out on the ocean as it is fishing in the surf or casting into the bay, so if you’re in the area and you love to fish, you’re in luck.
Paddleboarding
One of the fastest growing water sports is paddleboarding. It’s a fun, relaxing, easy way to get in the water and enjoy the shore. Unlike surfing, paddleboarding doesn’t require years of practice. As long as you can stand, you can do it!
Local History
The Manahawkin region is rich with history, from the beloved Barnegat Lighthouse to fantastic local museums that show off the region’s ties to the sea. There are historic buildings to see, parks to visit, and great local historical societies that regularly hold special events. With our dental office near Manahawkin, we enjoy visiting these places. We urge you to pay them a visit, too!
Restaurants
You don’t have to travel far to find some fantastic places to eat in Southern Ocean County. It should go without saying that seafood is popular around here, with fresh catches daily. We also have a wealth of Italian places, great delis, classic diners, a large array of ethnic food, steakhouses, and more. If you can’t find something to eat in our area, you’re not trying!
Cocktails
There is nothing quite like a cocktail near the beach, and region offers you plenty of opportunities to enjoy exactly that. Have a few cold ones, sip on a margarita, and just enjoy a little bit of the beach life before you return to the daily grind. You’ve earned it! Just be sure to visit your dentist near Manahawkin afterward, because some cocktails are not great for your teeth.
As you can see, there is plenty to do in the Southern Ocean County area, and we’ve only just scratched the surface. From watersports to hiking to nature to shopping and much more, you will love your time away at the Jersey Shore!
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and anxious at the mere thought of having to visit a dentist? You’re not alone! Fear of the dentist is very common, with statistics showing that up to 15% of Americans avoid seeing a dentist because of it. But it doesn’t have to be like this – taking control of your oral health, and overcoming your fear of the dentist can be an empowering experience. Here’s your guide on how to do just that!
1. Understand your fear
Before you can start taking steps to overcome your fear of the dentist, it is important to understand why you feel the way you do. Are there certain experiences that have caused this fear? What kind of thoughts and feelings come up when thinking about going to a dental appointment? Identifying these triggers will help you in taking the right steps towards addressing them.
2. Find a supportive dentist
Visiting a dental practice that specializes in helping those with dental anxiety or phobia can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel. Do research and look for practices with staff who are patient, understanding, and willing to offer sedation options if necessary. This can also be an opportunity for you to ask questions and build trust with your dentist.
3. Create a plan
Write out a step-by-step plan of what you need to do in order to get through your appointment. This can include things like scheduling an appointment at a certain time, taking deep breaths throughout the procedure, or bringing something to help distract yourself during the visit. Having a plan ready will help reduce some of the stress and anxiety leading up to your dental appointment.
4. Take it slow
Don’t be too hard on yourself if certain steps don’t work right away – it may take multiple appointments before you start feeling comfortable enough for more complex procedures. Allow yourself to slowly progress at your own pace, and remember that even small steps towards taking control of your oral health are still important.
5. Reward yourself
When it comes to facing our fears, positive reinforcement can be a great motivator! After each successful dental visit, reward yourself with something that makes you feel good – whether it’s treating yourself to your favorite food or buying a special gift for yourself.
By following these steps, you can take control of your oral health and make the dentist office a place where you can receive the care you need without feeling anxious or overwhelmed. With time and effort, you too can overcome your fear of the dentist and start looking forward to appointments instead! Good luck!
Keeping your mouth healthy is essential for overall wellbeing – yet, many of us don’t know enough about oral health issues and how to keep our smiles in top condition, even if we regularly see our dentist in Ocean County. If you’re looking to brush up on your own knowledge, then this post exploring the 7 most common oral health issues is a great place to start. From what causes them to how to prevent them, we cover all the information you need to understand and take care of your teeth.
1. Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Plaque is the sticky film that builds up on your teeth due to bacteria, while tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed with professional cleaning. If not addressed, this buildup can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. To prevent it from occurring in the first place, good oral hygiene habits like brushing twice a day and flossing are key.
2. Tooth Decay
Also known as cavities, tooth decay occurs when bacteria erode away at enamel – the hard shell protecting your teeth’s inner layers – which can result in pain, infection, or even complete destruction of the affected tooth if left untreated. Brushing regularly and avoiding sugary foods are key to avoiding decay.
3. Gingivitis
An inflammation of the gums, gingivitis is a mild and reversible form of gum disease that’s caused by bacteria accumulating along the gum line. This can lead to redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing teeth, but with regular dental visits and good oral hygiene habits (brushing, flossing) it can be prevented.
4. Periodontal Disease
Also known as periodontitis or gum disease, this occurs when bacteria in plaque causes an infection in the gums which results in deep pockets of infection around the roots of the teeth. If left untreated, advanced periodontal disease can cause tooth loss – so regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for prevention.
5. Dry Mouth
A condition in which the mouth does not produce enough saliva, dry mouth can cause an increase in cavities and gum disease due to lack of lubrication to rinse away bacteria. Common causes include dehydration, certain medications, or even salivary gland issues – so if you have a dry mouth, speak to your doctor or dentist about possible treatments.
6. Tooth Sensitivity
This is when the teeth become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures due to worn enamel or exposed dentin (the layer beneath the enamel). To reduce symptoms of tooth sensitivity, avoiding acidic foods/beverages and using special toothpastes/mouthwashes may be helpful – and see your dentist if needed.
7. Bad Breath
Also known as halitosis, bad breath can be caused by a number of factors – from poor oral hygiene to certain medical conditions. The best way to prevent it is by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once, plus using an antibacterial mouthwash. If you still have persistent bad breath, see your dentist for further evaluation.
By understanding these 7 common oral health issues, you can take steps to ensure that you keep your smile healthy for years to come! So make sure to practice good oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing!) regularly, and don’t forget to schedule regular dental visits in Ocean County for thorough checkups and cleanings. Doing so will help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for life!
10 Reasons Why the Jersey Shore is the Best Place to Live
If you’re looking for a great place to live, the Jersey Shore is definitely worth considering! There are plenty of reasons why this area is so popular, including its amazing beaches, friendly people, and relaxed lifestyle. In this article, we will discuss ten of the best reasons to make the Jersey Shore your home. So if you’re thinking about making a move, read on – you just might find what you’re looking for!
1. The Beaches
With miles of pristine beaches like Long Beach Island stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the Jersey Shore offers unparalleled sand and surf. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an adventure-filled weekend, you’ll find it here. Plus, the shore is home to some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!
2. Great Weather
From spring through fall, mild temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and biking – making it a great place to get out and enjoy nature year round. Plus, visitors can experience all four seasons without having to suffer from extreme hot or cold temperatures.
3. Friendly People
People from all over come to visit and live at the Jersey Shore due to its friendly atmosphere. Locals are welcoming and open, always ready to show guests around or provide insider tips on the best places to go.
4. Historic Sites
From old waterfront homes to modern boardwalks, there’s so much history at the Jersey Shore. For those looking for a mix of old and new, this is definitely the place to be!
5. Natural Beauty
The area is absolutely stunning – with calm blue waters and breathtaking sand dunes everywhere you look. There are plenty of spots for outdoor activities like camping, hiking and fishing as well!
6. Endless Options for Entertainment
Whether you’re taking a stroll along the boardwalk or exploring one of the local amusement parks, there’s always something to do. You can also find great shopping options, restaurants and bars that are sure to please everyone in the family.
7. Great Schools
For families with children, local schools offer excellent education – from grade school through college.
8. Affordable Housing
With a range of houses available in all sizes and price ranges, it’s easy to find something perfect for your budget at the Jersey Shore. Plus, the area offers great real estate opportunities for investors looking for a steady return on their investment!
9. Fantastic Job Opportunities
The Job market here is booming with plenty of positions available both full-time and part-time in various industries ranging from hospitality to technology.
10. Close to Major Cities
While the Jersey Shore may be a calm and peaceful place, it’s still within easy reach of major cities like New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore. This makes it possible to enjoy both the relaxed atmosphere of the shore while also having access to all that these vibrant urban hubs have to offer.
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons why the Jersey Shore is an amazing place to live. From its incredible beaches and friendly people to its great job opportunities and affordable housing, this area has something for everyone! So if you’re looking for a new home or just a vacation getaway – look no further than the beautiful Jersey Shore!
What comes to mind when you think of the Jersey shore? Sun, sand, and sea, right? The shore area of New Jersey has been a popular tourist destination for generations. People have come to enjoy the beaches, the boardwalks, and the nightlife.
But what is the history of this region? How did it become what it is today? In this article, we will take a look at the history of Long Beach Island, Barnegat, Forked River, Manahawkin, and Little Egg Harbor. We will explore how each town developed and grew over time. So pack your sunscreen and put on your shades – it’s time to hit the beach!
Long Beach Island is a barrier island off the coast of New Jersey. It is 18 miles long and about half a mile wide. The island is home to many towns, including Beach Haven, Ship Bottom, Surf City, and Barnegat Light. Long Beach Island was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. In 1609, the first European explorer to visit the region, Henry Hudson, sailed up the river that now bears his name. The Dutch soon settled in the area, and in 1664, they took control of the colony from the English. The Dutch named the island “Longa Eylandt,” which means “long island.”
In 1782, during the American Revolutionary War, British troops occupied Long Beach Island.
After the war, the island became a popular summer resort for wealthy Philadelphians. In 1854, the first hotel was built on the island. It was called the Surf Hotel, and it was located in Beach Haven. More hotels were built in the following years, and the island became known as a summer playground for the rich and famous.
In 1927, a massive hurricane struck Long Beach Island, causing extensive damage to the island’s towns and infrastructure. Many of the island’s hotels were destroyed, and many people lost their homes. The hurricane was a turning point for Long Beach Island. It was no longer seen as a safe place to vacation, and many people stopped coming to the island.
In the years following the hurricane, the island’s economy declined. Many of the island’s residents left, and those who stayed behind struggled to make ends meet. In 1962, another hurricane struck Long Beach Island, causing even more damage than the first one. This time, the island was hit by a tidal wave that was nearly 20 feet high. The waves destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Once again, the island’s economy took a hit, and many people left.
In recent years, Long Beach Island has made a comeback. Thanks to its natural beauty and its convenient location (it’s just a short drive from New York City and Philadelphia), the island has become a popular destination for tourists and second-homeowners. Today, Long Beach Island is a bustling community with a vibrant economy and is among the wealthiest communities in New Jersey.
Barnegat is a township in Ocean County located on Barnegat Bay, and it is home to the Barnegat Lighthouse. The town was originally named “Barent Gat” after its founder, Barend Janssen Gat.
Forked River is home to the Forked River State Marina. The town was originally named “Voorhees” after its founder, Cornelius Voorhees.
Little Egg Harbor is home to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. The town was originally named “Foure Mile Run” because it was four miles from the nearest Dutch settlement.