Posts Tagged ‘ oral health ’

This is what you should know about flossing

Posted on: April 2nd, 2025 by admin

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.

Tags: child, children, dentist in Manahawkin, floss, flossing, oral care, oral health
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DON’T SKIP YOUR NEXT CHECKUP!

Posted on: March 26th, 2025 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!

Tags: dental care, dental checkup, dentist appointment, oral health
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Why retirees should pay attention to their oral health

Posted on: March 19th, 2025 by admin

The Importance of Oral Health for Senior Citizens

Oral health is an essential aspect of overall health, especially for senior citizens near Barnegat. It is common for older adults to experience various dental problems, such as gum diseases, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Poor oral health can lead to various complications such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. To maintain good oral health, it is important for seniors to practice proper oral hygiene and visit their dentist regularly. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of good oral health, the complications that can occur from poor oral health, and how to take better care of your oral health as you age.

The benefits of good oral health for senior citizens are enormous. Firstly, it helps in maintaining a healthy body weight. Seniors with a healthy mouth can eat nutritious foods, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body. Secondly, good oral health can improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that seniors with poor oral health are more likely to suffer from memory loss and cognitive decline. Thirdly, seniors with healthy teeth and gums can enjoy a better quality of life. They can chew food properly, smile confidently, and speak clearly. All of these factors contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

On the other hand, the complications that can arise from poor oral health are severe. Seniors with poor oral hygiene are more likely to develop gum diseases, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Gum diseases, if left untreated, can cause tooth loss and even bone loss. Oral cancer is a life-threatening disease that can spread elsewhere in the body if not detected early enough. Poor oral health can also lead to heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. This is because the bacteria that causes gum disease can travel through the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body.

To take better care of your oral health as you age, you should do the following. Firstly, brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Secondly, floss your teeth daily to remove plaque and food particles that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Thirdly, drink water with fluoride. This helps to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Fourthly, quit smoking if you smoke. Smoking is one of the leading causes of oral cancer. Lastly, visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can detect oral health problems early on and provide the necessary treatment.

In conclusion, maintaining good oral health is essential for senior citizens in Ocean County. It can improve their overall health and quality of life. Proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly can prevent and detect oral health problems. Complications from poor oral health can cause various health problems such as heart disease, stroke, pneumonia, and diabetes. Therefore, seniors should take good care of their oral health and seek professional help whenever necessary.

Tags: oral health, retirement, senior citizens
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You’re Not Alone: These Oral Health Problems Are More Common Than You Think

Posted on: February 19th, 2025 by admin

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.

Tags: dental care, dental issues, dental problems, oral health
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Keeping Your Tongue Clean and Healthy

Posted on: January 22nd, 2025 by admin

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.

Tags: oral care, oral health, oral hygiene, tongue
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Understanding Gum Disease: Causes, Dangers, and Prevention

Posted on: October 30th, 2024 by admin

Bad breath is not only an unpleasant experience but also a warning sign that you may be suffering from a serious dental problem, such as gum disease. Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a common oral health issue that can lead to tooth loss and affect your overall health if left untreated. This article will cover everything you need to know about gum disease, including its causes, the dangers of leaving it untreated, how to prevent it, and its treatment options.

Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums, ligaments, and bones that support your teeth. The bacteria that cause gum disease produce toxins that irritate and inflame your gums, eventually causing them to pull away from your teeth. The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, which allows plaque to build up on your teeth and gums. Other factors that can contribute to gum disease include smoking, hormonal changes, diabetes, and genetics.

If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious consequences such as tooth loss, gum recession, and even bone damage. In addition, research suggests that gum disease is linked to other health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Therefore, it’s important to take gum disease seriously and seek treatment if you notice any warning signs, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash to kill bacteria. You should also visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. Additionally, avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and eating a balanced diet can also help prevent gum disease.

When it comes to treating gum disease, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of your condition. Mild cases of gum disease can often be treated with a professional cleaning called scaling and root planing, which removes the plaque and bacteria from your teeth and below the gum line. More advanced cases may require surgical treatments such as pocket reduction surgery or gum grafts. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics or recommend lifestyle changes to support the healing process.

Gum disease is a serious oral health issue that can have lasting implications on your overall well-being. However, with proper prevention and treatment, it can be managed effectively. By understanding the causes, dangers, and prevention methods of gum disease, you can take proactive steps towards protecting your oral and overall health. Don’t ignore the warning signs of gum disease – seek the guidance of a dental professional and take proactive steps to maintain a healthy mouth.

Tags: bleeding gums, gum disease, gums, oral care, oral health
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The Importance of Dental Hygiene and Scaling

Posted on: September 25th, 2024 by admin

Many people think that brushing their teeth every day is enough to achieve and maintain good dental hygiene. However, this is not enough. There are other things that need to be taken into consideration for better dental care. One of these is scaling – a dental procedure that can do wonders for dental health. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about dental hygiene and scaling.

What Is Scaling?

Scaling is a treatment that is typically done during a routine dental checkup. It’s the process of removing plaque and tartar build-up from teeth that have accumulated over time. Plaque is a sticky layer that develops on the surface of your teeth. Tartar is the hardened form of plaque, and if not removed on time, it can lead to gum and periodontal diseases.

How Does Scaling Work?

Scaling is a non-surgical technique used to remove plaque and tartar on teeth. During the procedure, the dentist or hygienist will typically use a special tool called a scaler to remove the build-up gently. They may also use a water tool to flush out plaque from between your teeth. After the build-up is removed, the teeth are polished and treated with fluoride to strengthen them.

Why Is Scaling Important?

Scaling is essential for maintaining good dental hygiene, as it helps to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Gum disease can cause inflammation, which can lead to the breakdown of bone and tooth loss. Research has shown that gum problems can also lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health issues.

What Can You Expect During Scaling?

Scaling is typically a painless procedure and can be completed in about an hour. You may experience a mild discomfort, but it’s usually tolerable. Some people may experience sensitivity to hot and cold drinks for a few days after the procedure. It’s recommended that you avoid eating or drinking anything for the first hour after scaling and avoid hard foods or spicy foods for a few days.

Investing in good dental hygiene now can save you from painful dental problems and costly dental procedures in the future. By getting regular checkups and scaling done, you can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bacterial infections. If you’re overdue for a checkup and scaling, book an appointment with your dentist today. Remember, prevention is better than cure!

Tags: dental hygiene, Ocean County dentist, oral health, oral hygiene, rooting, roots, scaling, teeth cleaning
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Everything You Need to Know About Gum Disease and Its Dangers

Posted on: September 18th, 2024 by admin

Gum disease is a common dental problem, yet it is often neglected and overlooked. Most people are not aware that it is not just a simple dental issue, but it can be a leading cause of serious health problems, such as heart diseases, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even cancer. With that in mind, let’s look at the common causes of gum disease, its dangers if left untreated, how to avoid it, and what options you have for proper treatment. Hopefully you will learn about the importance of maintaining a good dental hygiene routine and when to see your Ocean County dentist for proper care!

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is mainly caused by poor oral hygiene, which allows the bacteria to grow and spread in your mouth. The bacteria form a sticky film on your teeth called plaque, which if not removed, can harden and turn into tartar, a hard substance that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Tartar buildup can cause inflammation and infection of the gums, leading to gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. Other factors that can contribute to gum disease are smoking, stress, genetics, hormonal changes, and certain medications.

The Dangers of Gum Disease If Left Untreated

If gum disease is not treated as soon as possible, it can lead to more serious health problems. The infection can spread to the bones and tissues that support your teeth, causing tooth loss and other dental issues. Moreover, the bacteria can enter your bloodstream and affect other organs in your body, leading to serious health conditions such as heart diseases, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even cancer. Recent studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease due to the inflammation that results from the infection.

How to Avoid Gum Disease?

Prevention is the key to avoiding gum disease. You can reduce your risk by maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. You can also make some lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and eating a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

How to Treat Gum Disease?

If you have gum disease, your dentist will recommend the best treatment options based on the severity of your case. The treatment may involve a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing, where the dentist removes the tartar and smooths the roots to prevent further buildup. In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove the infected tissue or to restore bone and gum tissues that have been damaged. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

Gum disease is a common dental problem that can lead to serious health risks if not treated properly. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is the best way to prevent gum disease. If you notice any signs of gum disease such as red or swollen gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, or bad breath, see your dentist immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember that taking care of your oral health is a crucial part of overall wellness, and an Ocean County dentist’ office like ours is always the best source of information and advice, so reach out today to schedule an appointment!

Tags: dentist in ocean county, gum disease, oral health, oral hygiene
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Everything You Need to Know About Cavities

Posted on: August 21st, 2024 by admin

You might have experienced or heard of the common problem of dental cavities. But did you know that cavities can lead to more severe issues if left untreated? The American Dental Association reports that cavities are one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. In the United States, approximately 91 percent of adults aged 20 to 64 have tooth decay, whereas many seniors have lost their natural teeth as a result of cavities. Even though anyone can get cavities, preventive care and early treatments can help keep your teeth healthy. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the causes, dangers, prevention, and treatment of cavities.

What causes cavities?

Cavities occur when specific bacteria in the mouth convert sugars and carbohydrates into acids, which erode the enamel – the protective outer layer of the tooth. Without timely repair, the attack will create holes or cavities in the tooth structure. The bacteria get energy from the food we consume, creating a sticky film called plaque that covers the teeth’ surfaces. Plaque accumulates in areas where we can’t brush effectively, such as between the teeth, and hardens over time to form tartar. Tartar acts as a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to a more aggressive attack on the tooth.

The dangers of untreated cavities

Left untreated, cavities can cause many problems. At the initial phase, cavities may cause sensitivity to heat and cold. However, as the decay continues, it can lead to toothaches that range from mild to severe. Severe pain may indicate that the decay has reached the tooth pulp, which contains nerve endings and blood vessels. If the decay penetrates the pulp, it can cause a painful abscess – a pus-filled infection at the root of the tooth. Additionally, abscesses can affect other parts of the body, spread to the jaw, cause fever, swelling, and fatigue. In extreme cases, untreated cavities can lead to tooth loss and bone damage.

Prevention of cavities

The good news is that with regular prevention and care, you can protect your teeth from cavities. The first defense is to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Dental flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from areas that your toothbrush can’t easily reach. Eating a healthy diet and reducing sugary snacks and drinks can also be effective in cavity prevention. Regular dental check-ups and cleaning can help identify, treat, and prevent cavities. Your dentist may recommend additional prevention treatments such as dental sealants, fluoride treatments, or antibacterial mouthwash.

Treatment of cavities

If your dentist diagnoses a cavity, the treatment depends on the severity of the decay. The most common treatment is filling the cavity with a composite resin material, which has a natural esthetic appearance. Then, your dentist will smooth and polish the filling to fit your bite perfectly. If the decay reaches the tooth’s pulp or nerve, your dentist may recommend a root canal procedure. A root canal aims to remove the tooth’s infected pulp and preserve the natural tooth structure. Only in extremely severe cases, when the damage is beyond repair, your dentist may suggest tooth extraction and implant surgery.

Cavities are widespread dental problems that can lead to severe issues if left untreated. However, cavities are preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. It’s essential to brush twice a day, floss daily, maintain a healthy diet, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. If you suspect a cavity or experience tooth sensitivity or pain, don’t wait too long before seeing your dentist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve your natural teeth and avoid more extensive and costly treatments. Remember, your oral health can impact your overall health, and taking care of your teeth should be a top priority.

Tags: Barnegat dentist, cavities, oral health, tooth decay
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Your Guide to Professional Teeth Cleaning

Posted on: August 14th, 2024 by admin

Anyone who has ever looked into the mirror and thought “I really need to take better care of my teeth” knows how important teeth cleaning can be. Professional teeth cleaning is a great way to make sure your pearly whites stay healthy and shining! In this comprehensive guide to professional teeth cleaning, we’ll answer all your questions, including what professional teeth cleaning comprises, why it’s beneficial, what to expect from the process, and much more.

Professional teeth cleaning can refer to a variety of different procedures, all aimed at improving the health of your teeth and gums. The most common procedure is called scaling, where a dental hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler or manual tools to clean away plaque and tartar buildup on and around the surface of your teeth. This helps reduce gum inflammation, an important factor in preventing gum disease.

Another common procedure is root planing, which helps to smooth the surface of the root of the tooth and prevent further bacterial buildup. This helps protect against deep pockets forming between your teeth and gums, which can lead to serious oral health problems.

In addition to scaling and root planing, professional teeth cleaning may also involve polishing and fluoride treatments. Polishing helps to get rid of any staining on the surface of your teeth, leaving you with a brighter smile. Fluoride treatments help re-mineralize your teeth, providing them with an extra layer of protection against decay.

Professional teeth cleaning is beneficial as it allows for deeper, more effective cleaning than what can be done at home. It also helps to remove tartar and plaque buildup, which can contribute to gum disease if left unchecked. Regular professional teeth cleaning is recommended every six months in order to keep your teeth healthy and your smile looking its best.

When you go for a professional teeth cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will begin by taking pictures of your teeth to assess any areas that may need extra attention. Then, they will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Finally, they may provide you with a fluoride treatment or polishing to finish the job.

Your dentist or hygienist can answer any questions you have about professional teeth cleaning and help you make sure it is right for you. So make sure to talk to them before getting started!

Tags: forked river teeth whitening, manahawkin teeth whitening, oral care, oral health, teeth cleaning
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