Learn How to Protect Your Teeth this Winter

As the temperature drops throughout the fall, it reminds us that winter is on the way.  Along with fall and winter comes the holidays that bring lots of tasty treats that everybody loves to graze upon.  Not only do we eat more treats during the winter holidays, but there are more events and activities during the winter that can be dangerous for your oral health.  Along with avoiding the cold toes and achy bones of winter, it is also important to visit your general dentist for a winter check-up.  Here are a few tips to help you prevent some common oral health problems during the cold season.

Winter Sports

Winter sports, such as ice hockey, skiing, sledding and ice skating can be just as dangerous for your teeth as summer sports. You or the kids can easily chip or knock out a tooth (or two) from slipping on the ice or getting hit in the mouth with a hockey puck. One of the best ways to prevent damage to the teeth is to wear a mouth guard when playing winter sports. 

Tooth Sensitivity

The cold air may cause your teeth to become extra sensitive. Sensitivity in teeth usually causes a throbbing feeling and/or pain inside your mouth and the areas of your face around your mouth.  When you are cold, your teeth may chatter, which may weaken the enamel on your teeth.  Keeping warm is essential for your body to function properly and to help teeth feel less sensitivity from chattering. Wear the appropriate winter clothing for winter activities and sip a cup of warm sugar-free tea to help you stay warm.

Colds and Flu

It is almost impossible to avoid getting a cold or the flu during the winter. Unfortunately, getting sick not only makes you feel miserable, but it also affects your eating habits and your oral health habits. When you’re sick and tired, nothing may sound good at meal times.  This can cause you to avoid eating healthy meals and forgetting to brush afterwards.  Some cold medications may contain sugar and can cause your mouth to become dry, which increases the bacteria that causes tooth decay.  On the days when you don't feel like eating, avoid snacking and instead try to eat a bowl of vegetable soup, drink plenty of water and get your rest.


Whether you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or need an appointment with the kid's dentist to have them fitted for a mouth guard, contact us, so we can help keep your smile safe and beautiful this winter.

Learn How Xylitol Can Help Children's Teeth

There's a new "sugar" on the market, and it's one you won't have to worry about your kids getting their hands on. It's called xylitol, a naturally occurring carbohydrate that looks and tastes like regular sugar. But since it's not actually sugar, it won't cause cavities in your children's teeth. In fact, Xylitol has been approved by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) for reducing the risk of cavities in younger children.

What is Xylitol?

So we've already said xylitol is a naturally occurring carbohydrate, but where does it come from? Xylitol can be found in most of the fruits and vegetables that we eat on a daily basis, just in small amounts. In fact, it even occurs naturally in our bodies, with the average size adult manufacturing up to 15 grams of xylitol per day. For commercial purposes, however, manufacturers extract xylitol from corncobs or trees. In its pure form, xylitol takes the form of a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar.

How is it used?

There are several ways you can use xylitol. You can use its pure crystalline form as a sweetener, whether you're pouring it over your child's cereal or sprinkling it on some fresh strawberries. Xylitol can also be found in several oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. There are even xylitol gums and mints. Dental experts recommend children use a 100 percent xylitol product 6-7 times per day whether it is a mint or chewing gum containing xylitol.  The frequency of use is more important than the amount used and products containing less than 100 percent are not effective enough to help the dentition.

Benefits of Xylitol

There are many benefits of Xylitol that have been proven to help the oral health of kids when their teeth are still developing. Tooth decay occurs due to bacteria in the mouth multiplying and then releasing an acid that causes the tooth to weaken (demineralize) and decay. Unfortunately brushing and flossing only temporarily remove bacteria from the teeth.
Xylitol acts like a deterrent for these bacteria and keeps the acid levels down. In addition to reducing the risk of tooth decay, it also reduces plaque formation and increases the flow of saliva to aid in the repair of damaged tooth enamel.
If there are early signs of tooth decay in children less than five, it is a good idea to seek the help of a kids' dentist. Those who cater to the young and growing will be able to focus better on the dental needs of a child than someone who only treats adults. Overall, keeping good dental hygiene and brushing twice a day will reduce the risk of cavities and Xylitol can supplement that to prevent the acid formation. Simple ways like this are better paths to take than dental work in the future.

Ideas on How to Make Oral Hygiene Fun For Kids

For some kids, brushing and flossing is like a chore that they do once in the morning and once at night. However, it doesn't have to be this way! Making oral hygiene fun can have lasting effects and can even make kids take an interest in keeping their mouths clean and healthy.

There's an App For That

It's recommended that a child brushes his or her teeth for two minutes. A fun way to make sure they get the full two minutes in is to use a brushing app that plays a song for two minutes and have your child brush as long as the music is playing. Pick something they like and will make them want to stay there the entire time. A smile on their face while brushing will make the time pass faster. Also, if the song is something they really enjoy they might even look forward to the next time they get to brush.

Visits from the Tooth Fairy 

Every child is different when it comes to losing teeth.  Some kids love the idea of losing teeth because that means they are growing up!  Others don’t like losing teeth because eating can become uncomfortable until the tooth falls out.  A good way to make this fun is by using the story of the tooth fairy. Tell your child a new tooth will grow back soon but the tooth fairy will come and give some money in exchange for the tooth that has come out.  This is a great opportunity to talk about brushing and flossing.  Explain that the tooth fairy loves to see teeth in good shape so she knows that the child is doing a good job brushing and flossing.   I have had some parents say the tooth fairy does not bring money for teeth with cavities that come out!

Prize Winning Teeth 

A kids' dentist can show children what can happen to their teeth if they don't brush.  Some dentists even give prizes for good oral hygiene or a good visit.  If your child’s dentist doesn't give out toys, perhaps you could find a small way to reward them for their good oral report.  A reward system, such as a brushing and flossing chart with stickers, is a great way for children to get motivated.  Then on the chart, have a spot for the six month check-ups that has a special sticker or reward to be given for a good visit.  Oral hygiene doesn't have to be a difficult task every day.  Just by making brushing and flossing into something fun, you could see an improvement in the oral health.

School Lunches That Promote Healthy Teeth

With school in session, it is time to start packing lunches for the kids again. It can be easy to pack processed lunches or have children buy lunch at school rather than taking the time to prepare something healthy. But packing a healthy lunch can be critical to children's oral health. Find out what foods to include in children's school lunches to make sure their teeth stay strong.

Healthy Sandwiches

Most lunches will typically include a sandwich. To make it healthier, use whole grain wheat bread instead of white bread. If you're making them a turkey or ham sandwich, consider adding a piece of cheese. Cheese is a great source of calcium and a certain type of protein called casein. You can spice things up further by adding vegetables such as tomatoes and lettuce if your child likes.
If your child isn't a fan of sandwiches or just wants to mix things up, hummus offers a healthy alternative.

Yogurt and Milk 

If your child does not like the food you pack, there is a chance he or she might not eat all of it or simply throw it away. A healthy snack your kids are sure to enjoy is a nice cup of yogurt. Yogurt is packed with nutrients and oftentimes fruit, making it a great choice. Plus, it's easy to eat.  Make sure to read the labels so you don’t buy yogurt filled with sugar!
Milk is always great for the teeth, but if your child is getting bored with traditional milk, try chocolate or strawberry milk. They will still get the added calcium and the added flavor will make it fun to drink. When you're buying milk, skip the whole milk varieties in favor of 1 percent or even skim if your children will drink it.

Fresh Veggies

For a side item, it's easy to pack some chips since it's already packed neatly. Eating a bag of chips every day, even the snack-size version, isn't good for your child's teeth. Instead, try vegetables such as carrots or celery. See what your child likes to dip with them in.  A small amount of ranch can go a long way in making veggies more appetizing for kids.
Packing a lunch can be fun for the parents and the children. Getting your child involved in the process can be a valuable experience. Talk to your child to see which healthy foods he or she likes or is willing to try. That way you know you're packing a healthy lunch that they will enjoy all while maintaining their oral health.

Fun Fall Crafts to do With Your Children

With the cooler weather, visits to the children's dentist for back-to-school checkups and busy mornings rushing to catch the school bus, fall can be a busy time for kids and parents. The perfect way to relax and enjoy the change in seasons is by doing fun fall crafts with the kids. Crafts provide a great opportunity for kids to get creative as well as get outside to collect some supplies that can be used to make their projects.

Personalized Fall Coasters

Fall coasters are easy to make and they are the perfect craft for little hands.

What you’ll need:

• 4-inch square ceramic tiles
• Decoupage glue
• Scissors
• Leaves
• Felt
• Paintbrush
• Marker

Instructions:

1. Clean the tiles with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
2. Let the children use a marker to write their name on the top of a ceramic tile.
3. Allow the marker ink to dry before proceeding.
4. Using a paintbrush, apply a layer of decoupage glue to the top of a ceramic tile.
5. Attach a leaf in the center of the tile.
6. Apply a thin layer of decoupage glue over the top and outside of the leaf.
7. Allow glue to dry and apply three or four more coats of decoupage glue.
8. Cut a piece of felt to fit the back of the tile and glue in place using decoupage glue.

Fall Wreath

After visiting the kids' dentist, take a walk in the park or around the neighborhood to collect a variety of items from nature, such as pine cones, acorns, leaves and twigs. The best thing about this fall wreath is there is no right or wrong way to make it and you can use whatever items you have on hand to decorate it.

Basic supplies needed:

• Foam ring
• Tissue paper or construction paper
• Glue
• Decoration items (leaves, flowers, pine cones, etc.)

Instructions:

• Glue tissue paper or construction paper around the foam ring.
• Cover the outside of the tissue/construction paper by using glue to attach the items found during your walk.

Gather a variety of items from the yard and around the house, get creative and allow the kids to use their imagination. Using recycled items is a fun way to get children to use their imagination. For example, the children's dentist will often give them a new toothbrush during their visit, but instead of tossing the old one, wash it with soap and water, allow it to dry and use it as a paintbrush. Dental floss can also be used to hang decorative items on a fall themed mobile.

How Do I Care for My Toddler's Teeth?

Caring for toddler's teeth can be a challenge. Although a toddler's teeth are small, they are like the teeth of an adult and must be properly cared for in order to maintain good oral health and hygiene. These tips and guidelines will help you keep your toddler's teeth and overall oral health in the best condition possible.

Create a Routine

Your child's oral health starts with you. As a parent, you need to make sure you are doing your part in your child’s brushing and flossing routine because children do not develop adequate hand-eye coordination to do a good job brushing and flossing until about the ages of 8 to 10 years. The most important times a child should brush and floss his or her teeth are in the morning and before they go to bed. Creating a routine can be difficult but it's not impossible. You will have to help your toddler each time.  It is best to let the child brush and floss first, so that way he or she gets to practice and can develop the needed hand-eye coordination to do a good job. The best way to teach your toddler how to brush his or her teeth is to lead by example. Brush your teeth the same time your toddler is brushing his or her teeth. 

Locate a Dental Office

Finding a dental office you are comfortable with is in the best interest of you and your child. A children’s dentist is the ideal dentist for your child. A general dentist can be used, but a kids' dentist specializes in the comfort, care and health of children. When you are trying to find a dental office for your toddler, consider its location, how far it is from your home and the type of insurance that is accepted.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Scheduling regular check-ups is perfect preventative care for cavities, gum disease and other issues that can occur due to poor oral hygiene. By your toddler's first birthday, your child should be seen by a kid-friendly dentist.

Ration the Juice

While it is okay to give your toddler juice, do not let them sip it for an extended period of time.  The time it takes them to drink the juice is more critical than the amount of juice they drink.  Juice can be given to your toddler each day but it is only recommended with meals.   Water or a sugar free beverage should be used for between meals or for sipping.

Teach Good Habits

Teaching your toddler good habits is the best way to prepare for the future. Teach them how to properly use a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, and tell them why it's important to brush and floss their teeth at least twice each day.

Kids Using Tobacco: Why Kids Smoke and the Risk of Using Tobacco

There is a number of health risks associated with smoking, yet teenagers continue to smoke and/or use smokeless tobacco. Each day, there are approximately 3900 children between the ages 12-17 smoke their first cigarette. Over 950 of them will become regular smokers and about half of them will die from smoking in adulthood. For these reasons, it is essential that children understand the dangers associated with smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco.

Why Kids Begin Smoking

There are several reasons why children may start smoking. Some of the most common reasons children may be attracted to smoking and/or chewing tobacco include:

• To act older
• To lose weight
• To look cool
• To do something dangerous
• To satisfy curiosity
• To appear tough
• To feel independent
• To win tobacco related merchandise

Signs Your Child May Be Smoking

It is essential as a parent to establish good communication with children early to make tricky issues, like smoking, easier. Giving children information about the risks associated with smoking may help to protect them from this unhealthy habit. Ask your child’s dentist to talk with them about the risks to their oral health from smoking and if you suspect your child may be using tobacco products, make sure they see a kid’s dentist as soon as possible. Warning signs your child is smoking may include:

• Odor of smoke on their clothing
• Bad breath
• Frequent complaints of throat irritation
• Coughing
• Decrease in their athletic performance
• Shortness of breath
• Stained and/or yellow teeth

The Oral and Physical Health Risks of Tobacco Use

Smoking and/or using smokeless tobacco kills hundreds of people each year. Tobacco contains nicotine and several other poisonous chemicals that cause a range of diseases, including heart problems and cancer. Tobacco use can have a significant impact on the overall oral health of a child. Some of the effects of smoking and using smokeless tobacco may include:

• Throat cancer
• Mouth cancer
• Heart disease
• Bone loss
• Tooth loss
• Gum disease
• Stained teeth

To help prevent your children from using tobacco products, it is important to discuss the issue in a way that doesn't make kids fear a punishment or feel as though they are being judged. It is also important to continue talking to children about the dangers of tobacco use throughout their childhood and into adulthood. Discuss ways your child can respond to smoking and peer pressure and encourage their self-confidence, which will help protect them against peer pressure. Visit a kids' dentist with your child for more information on the dangers of smoking and oral health.