Foods for Optimal Oral Health

preventative dentistry

Foods for Optimal Oral Health

preventative dentistry

The Top Foods for Optimal Oral Health: A Comprehensive Guide

Our teeth and gums are an essential part of our overall health, and what we eat can significantly impact our oral health. Eating a balanced and healthy diet not only ensures that our bodies receive the necessary nutrients, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. Parker CO’s Green Dental Care team put together a comprehensive guide of the top foods that promote optimal oral health, helping you keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy for years to come.

Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium and Vitamin D, which are crucial for maintaining strong teeth and bones. Consuming calcium-rich foods helps to strengthen the enamel, the protective layer of teeth, making them more resistant to decay and damage.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals that promote healthy teeth and gums. Fruits and vegetables with a crunchy texture, like apples and carrots, help to clean teeth while chewing, removing plaque and food particles from the surface of teeth. This action also stimulates the production of saliva that neutralizes the acid that forms in the mouth after eating, reducing the risk of cavities.

Lean Proteins

Foods rich in lean proteins are essential for optimal oral health. Protein from sources such as fish, turkey, chicken, and lean beef help to build strong muscles, tissues, and teeth. Protein also contains phosphorus, another vital nutrient that keeps teeth healthy and strong.

Water

Drinking plenty of water is critical to maintaining good oral health. Water helps to wash away bacteria, food debris, and plaque that can accumulate in the mouth and cause tooth decay. Additionally, drinking water promotes the production of saliva, which helps to protect teeth from damaging acids.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds contain essential minerals, vitamins, and healthy fats that promote oral health. Almonds, for example, are rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats that strengthen the teeth, while sesame seeds contain high levels of calcium and phosphorus.

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A well-balanced diet plays a critical role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. When you consume a variety of healthy foods, you give your body the necessary nutrients to promote optimal oral health. Parker CO’s Green Dental Care team recommends incorporating the above-listed foods into your diet to keep your teeth and gums healthy, strong, and smile-ready for years to come. Remember to brush and floss twice a day, and visit our office regularly for professional dental cleaning and checkups to help ensure a healthy, happy smile!

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

preventative dental care parker co

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

preventative dental care parker co

How Our Oral Health and Overall Body Health are Connected

At Green Dental Care in Parker CO, we believe that oral health goes beyond just having a bright and healthy smile. In fact, research has shown that taking care of your oral health is directly connected to your overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the link between oral health and overall health, and why it’s important to take care of both.

Gum Disease and Heart Disease

Did you know that gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease? Studies have shown that the bacteria that causes gum disease can enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in the blood vessels, which can eventually lead to heart disease. This is why it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist near you for regular check-ups and cleanings.

Diabetes and Gum Disease

Diabetes can affect your oral health, and vice versa. People with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, which can make it harder to control their blood sugar levels. In turn, gum disease can make diabetes worse by causing inflammation in the body. To keep your oral health in check if you have diabetes, it’s important to follow a consistent oral hygiene routine and see your Parker CO dentist regularly.

Respiratory Infections and Oral Health

There is also a link between poor oral health and respiratory infections. Bacteria in the mouth can be breathed into the lungs, causing infections like pneumonia or exacerbating existing respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One of the best ways to prevent respiratory infections is to maintain good oral health habits like brushing and flossing.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Oral Health

Recent studies have also shown a link between oral health and Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation and bacteria in the mouth have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, suggesting that poor oral health may be a risk factor. While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship, keeping your oral health in check may be a key piece in protecting yourself from Alzheimer’s disease.

Pregnancy and Oral Health

Finally, pregnant women need to pay special attention to their oral health. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make gums more susceptible to infection, leading to a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. This can cause complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. To protect yourself and your baby, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during pregnancy, including regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

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Taking care of your oral health isn’t just about having a bright and healthy smile. It’s also about protecting yourself from serious health conditions like heart disease, respiratory infections, and Alzheimer’s disease. At Green Dental Care, we believe in the importance of taking a whole-body approach to dental care. By practicing good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist for check-ups and cleanings, you can help ensure your overall health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today.

Regular Dental Check-Ups

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. This applies to our dental health as well. Dental check-ups are not just for emergencies but rather an essential component of maintaining oral health. Regular dental check-ups can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. Today, we will explore why regular dental check-ups are crucial for our oral health and how they can improve our quality of life.

Early Detection of Dental Issues

Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist in Parker CO to detect and treat any dental problems at an early stage. Generally, dental problems such as cavities and tooth decay may not cause any pain until they are fully developed. By visiting your dentist regularly, any dental problems can get detected in their early stages before they become serious concerns. This not only prevents future dental complications but also saves you time and money.

Prevention of Gum Disease

Gum disease is quite common among adults and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental check-ups help to detect and prevent gum disease before it progresses. A dentist can thoroughly clean your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease. Your dentist can also advise on proper flossing and brushing techniques to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer can be a serious and life-threatening condition if not detected early enough. During a dental check-up, your Parker CO dentist will perform an oral cancer screening to check for any signs or symptoms of the condition. Early detection of oral cancer can save your life as treatment is most effective during the early stages.

Maintain Good Oral Health Habits

A dental check-up is an opportunity for your dentist to check your oral hygiene habits and provide necessary recommendations. For example, your dentist can advise if you are brushing and flossing correctly or recommend the use of mouthwash. Moreover, your dentist can give you tips on proper nutrition, which can also help to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Overall Health Benefits

Research has linked oral health to many other conditions such as heart diseases, dementia, and complications of pregnancy. Regular dental check-ups can help to prevent these complications by maintaining excellent oral hygiene. By preventing dental problems, we can also prevent any future oral health complications and enhance our overall well-being.

Contact Us Today To Schedule A Check Up!

Regular dental check-ups can promote excellent oral health and prevent future dental problems. It is essential to visit your dentist for check-ups to detect any dental issues and provide necessary treatment before they progress. By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and preventing future dental complications, we can improve our overall health and well-being. If you live in Parker CO, Green Dental Care is an excellent choice of dental clinic to get your dental check-ups. They offer comprehensive dental care, including preventative measures. Contact them today to schedule an appointment!

Facts About Older Adult Oral Health

Facts About Older Adult Oral Health

Facts About Older Adult Oral Health

Facts About Oral Health for Older Adults

As you age, your oral health becomes more important than ever before. Even if you’ve kept up with regular check-ups and cleanings throughout the years, it’s essential to stay aware of changes that may arise as you continue to get older. Understanding these changes can help ensure that your oral health remains in top shape for years to come. If you’re searching for a dentist near Parker, CO, look no further! Here at Green Dental Care, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care and are here to provide helpful information on all aspects of dentistry — including treatment options specifically designed for older patients. Read on as we discuss five key facts about adult oral health that everyone should know!

What are the common oral health issues faced by older and as we age, oral health concerns become increasingly important. However, with proper care and attention, these issues can be easily managed. Older adults commonly experience tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth. Tooth decay can be prevented by maintaining a strict dental hygiene regimen and avoiding sugary foods and drinks. Gum disease can be addressed through regular dental cleanings and by not smoking. Combat dry mouth with saliva substitutes or ample water intake. With these simple steps, older adults can maintain a healthy smile and improve their overall well-being. Proper brushing and flossing are essential for lifelong oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing can prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Not only does good oral hygiene help maintain a healthy smile, but it can also improve overall health. Studies have linked poor oral health to several chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Adopting daily brushing and flossing ensures dental health and prevents unnecessary expenses. So, make sure to take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, and smile confidently!

How can older adults maintain healthy gums, teeth, and overall oral health

Healthy gums, teeth, and overall oral health are essential for older adults to maintain their quality of life. Proper care ensures bright smiles and healthy mouths. Maintain oral health as an older adult through daily brushing, a nutritious diet, avoiding sugary foods, and regular dentist visits. Consistent effort and a positive attitude ensure older adults maintain healthy mouths and radiant smiles.

The role of diet in promoting good oral health among seniors

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to prioritize our oral health. Fortunately, there are many steps seniors can take to maintain a healthy smile and prevent oral health issues. One important factor is diet. Eat a balanced diet for senior oral health and to prevent tooth decay. Don’t let age keep you from enjoying your favorite foods. Rather, focus on incorporating nutritious options and staying hydrated to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong. With a little effort and attention, seniors can maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come!

How to detect warning signs of gum disease or other oral health problems

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. However, gum disease and other dental problems can sometimes go unnoticed until they become severe. Thus, it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs that indicate potential issues in your oral health. Common signs include bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, loose teeth, and gum recession. If you experience these symptoms, visit your dentist promptly for early diagnosis and treatment. Remember, regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene practices can help prevent oral health problems before they start. So let’s stay vigilant and keep our dental health in tip-top condition!

The benefits of regular dental check-ups for seniors

Regular dental check-ups can be incredibly beneficial for seniors. As we age, our dental health can often deteriorate, leading to various issues such as cavities and gum disease. Scheduled check-ups help seniors maintain oral health, prevent issues, and catch problems early. A healthy mouth improves overall quality of life, enhancing self-esteem, speech, and nutrition. Regular dental check-ups help seniors maintain oral health and overall wellness.

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In conclusion, as you age your oral health care needs can change significantly. It is important to recognize the importance and implications of proper brushing and flossing throughout life, but especially when you are older. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is also beneficial in maintaining good oral health in seniors. You should also always be aware of any warning signs of gum disease or other oral health problems and attend regular dental checkups to ensure all is well with your mouth. Fortunately, armed with the knowledge we have just shared, it should be relatively simple for seniors to maintain a healthy smile into old age! Contact us today at Green Dental Care to schedule an appointment today!

Why Does My Breath Smell?

Dentist Parker CO

Why Does My Breath Smell?

Dentist Parker CO

Why Does My Breath Smell?

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be a very embarrassing problem. It’s estimated that up to 50 percent of the population has bad breath at one time or another. The main causes of bad breath are poor oral hygiene and gum disease. However, there are other possible causes of bad breath, such as certain foods, tobacco use, sinus infections, dry mouth, and certain medical conditions.

Do You Have Bad Breath?

If you’re concerned about bad breath, the first step is to visit your Parker CO dentist or primary care doctor for an evaluation. They can determine if the cause is due to a dental problem or a more serious medical condition. There are also over-the-counter products available that can help with bad breath. Improving your oral hygiene habits is the most effective way to prevent and treat bad breath.

Here Are Some Tips For Improving Your Oral Hygiene and Preventing Bad Breath:

– Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and tongue. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
– Floss daily. Flossing removes plaque from areas between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach.
– Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash daily. This will help remove food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums.
– Eat healthy foods and avoid sugary snacks. A healthy diet helps keep your teeth and gums healthy.
– Quit smoking or using tobacco products. Tobacco use is a leading cause of bad breath.
– Drink plenty of water throughout the day. This will help keep your mouth moist and prevent bacteria from growing.
– See your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can identify early signs of gum disease and other dental problems that may cause bad breath.

 

Bad breath can be embarrassing and frustrating, but there are things you can do to prevent it. Be sure to visit your dentist near you regularly for professional cleanings and checkups so they can identify any early signs of dental problems that may cause bad breath. Improving your oral hygiene habits is the most effective way to prevent and treat halitosis.

Contact Green Dental Care Today!

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and frustrating. In some cases, it may be an indication of a more serious dental problem. If you are concerned about your bad breath, contact Green Dental Care today. Our team of experienced dentists in Parker CO can help to identify the cause of your bad breath and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. We understand how important it is to maintain fresh breath, and we will work with you to find a solution that meets your needs. Schedule an appointment today, and let us help you get your confidence back.

Is It Time For A Dental Check-up?

Is It Time For A Dental Check-up?

Is It Time For A Dental Check-up?

Is It Time For A Dental Check-up?

Why It’s Important To See Your Dentist In Parker CO

Is it time for a dental check-up? When it comes to oral health, regular checkups are crucial. When you see Green Dental Care at least twice a year, we can help prevent any infection or decay. During your dental checkup, Dr. Green will examine your teeth for any signs of trouble. Then he will clean your teeth and provide you with guidance on how to take care of your smile. While at-home care is important, it is only part of the picture when it comes to maintaining your oral health. With regular dental checkups, you can rest assured that your smile will stay healthy and beautiful for years to come. Don’t delay if it’s time for a checkup, schedule an appointment with the best dentist in Parker CO today. 

Preventing Cavities From Happening 

Most people are aware that they need to brush and floss their teeth daily to keep them healthy. However, many people are not aware that they also need to have regular dental checkups to prevent cavities. Dental checkups allow your dentist in Parker CO to identify and treat any problems before they become serious. For example, if you have a small cavity, your dentist can treat it with a filling. However, if you do not have a dental checkup, the cavity can become larger and require more extensive treatment, such as a root canal. In addition to preventing cavities, dental checkups can also help to identify other oral health problems, such as gum disease. Our friends at 4th Street Family Dentistry, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, recommend to schedule a dental checkup every six months to keep your smile healthy and bright.

Stop Tooth Decay Before It Happens With Teeth Cleanings 

Tooth decay is a serious problem that can lead to a number of health complications. Not only can it cause pain and discomfort, but it can also lead to infection and, in extreme cases, tooth loss. The good news is that tooth decay is largely preventable with proper dental care. One of the best ways to stop tooth decay before it starts is to schedule regular teeth cleanings with your dentist. During a cleaning, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can otherwise lead to decay. They will also examine your teeth for any signs of early decay and recommend treatment options if necessary.

Contact Green Dental Care Today!

At our office, we recommend that patients schedule a dental checkup at least twice a year. During a checkup, our experienced team of dentists and hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth and screen for any potential problems. We understand that life can be busy, and it can be difficult to find time to schedule a dental appointment. However, we believe that preventative care is essential for maintaining good oral health. That’s why we offer convenient appointment times and flexible scheduling options. Contact us today to schedule your next dental checkup.

Tips From Our Dental Hygienists

Tips From Our Dental Hygienists

Tips From Our Dental Hygienists

Tips From Our Dental Hygienists

When we want to discover what the best rules are in any business, we turn to the experts. The same is true in the realm of dentistry. Speak with a dental hygienist if you want the greatest oral hygiene advice! Fortunately, our team of dental hygienists and dentists in Parker, CO has put together an excellent resource for patients wishing to “raise their game” in the dental industry.

Best Dental Hygienist Advice

Tip #1: Do Not Avoid Visiting the Dentist

You may believe that if you brush often (but not excessively), you shouldn’t need to see a dentist more than once over a couple of years, perhaps only when you have to go in for an emergency tooth repair. This assumption is not only incorrect, but it is also harmful. Skipping the dentist can have serious consequences, such as failing to diagnose tooth decay, gum disease, infection, and even oral cancer. The American Dental Association suggests getting your teeth cleaned at least twice a year or once every six months. Keep in mind that a small margin of prevention is worth a pound of treatment.

Tip #2: Invest In a Quality Toothbrush

It makes no difference if you clean your teeth twice a day or five times a day if you don’t have the necessary tools for the task. If you’ve had your toothbrush for more than three months, it’s probably doing more damage than good. Our friends over at OG Dental, dentist in Denver CO, tell us how a good rule of thumb to follow is to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, especially after recuperating from an illness. If you can’t recall how old your toothbrush is, it’s time to replace it. Purchase one with gentle bristles. Bristles with medium to firm bristles will harm your enamel, increasing the likelihood of cavities and tooth decay.

Tip #3: Avoid Sugary Foods.

This is a difficult one, especially with Halloween approaching. While we don’t want you to abstain from all sweet bliss entirely, it’s vital to remember that sugar is what causes cavities in the first place. If you must have a sweet beverage or snack, do it with water. Brush your teeth as soon as possible after eating a sweet treat to guarantee that those sugar bugs don’t become caught in your mouth and live their greatest life. You may go the additional mile and consume chocolate as a delicious treat. Hard and sticky candies adhere to your teeth for a longer period of time, making them more difficult to clean and providing germs with a better opportunity to develop tooth decay. Chocolate dissolves rapidly and is easily rinsed away with a large glass of water.

Obviously, our most important piece of advice is to have a dental cleaning. Even using the greatest toothbrush and according to the ADA’s suggested length standards, is insufficient to fully clean up all of the ‘gunk’ that has accumulated over the past few months. Furthermore, a hygienist and Parker CO dentist will examine your mouth for any new problems that may occur. 

Contact Green Dental Care Today For A Cleaning

Contact our team today to schedule a dental cleaning with our amazing staff in our dental office in Parker Co. We are here to help in any way possible. Our dental hygienists are available to discuss with you any more tips they may have to improve the look of your smile.

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

Even though most of us are aware that our toothbrushes are not supposed to last forever. However, determining whether our beloved bristles are reaching the end of their natural existence may be difficult. You might be startled to learn that you should replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months according to manufacturer standards recommendations from your dentist in Parker CO. 

How Long Should I Keep My Toothbrush and When Should I Replace It?

Our Parker CO Dentist explains that, in some circumstances, you may need to change your toothbrush sooner. If you don’t change your toothbrush or electronic toothbrush head on time, it might harm your oral health and transmit illness.

How Frequently Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

Dr. Green, the best dentist in Parker CO, explains that the microorganisms that cause gum disease, tooth decay, and foul breath are all combated by your toothbrush.

To navigate the smallest crevices in your mouth, choose straight bristles and a clean, easy-to-grip handle. A soft bristle brush will efficiently remove old food and bacteria from the bases of your teeth.

If you wash your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day, you’re already making efforts to prevent your teeth against cavities. Brushing your teeth following each meal and after a sweet snack is an additional action you may take to avoid tooth disease. Brushing twice a day or more is still considered usual for a manual toothbrush. However, within 3 months of using your brush, the bristles will begin to fall out and get damaged or twisted. When the bristles on your toothbrush begin to lose their hardness, it’s nearly time to throw it out. Likewise, your toothbrush will rapidly lose effectiveness if it lacks bristles to clean away food and plaque.

When Should You Replace the Head of an Electric Toothbrush?

By rapidly rotating or vibrating, electric toothbrush heads clean the surface area of your teeth. These toothbrush heads still feature nylon bristles, which can wear out with repeated usage. Furthermore, our dental office Parker CO explains that because the bristles are shorter, they may fray more easily.

We should be replacing the toothbrush head on your electric toothbrush every 12 weeks, if not sooner. When it’s time to replace a brush head, look for signs of wear and tear on the bristles.

Reasons to Replace Your Toothbrush

If you or any of your family member has been sick, it is a good idea to change your toothbrush as well as everyone else’s toothbrush in your home. There are infections caused by viruses and bacteria, such as strep throat, that are of special concern and are an excellent reason to replace your old toothbrush with a new one.

Because youngsters may crush on a toothbrush head or bite on the handle, you should replace their toothbrushes more frequently than every three months. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your youngster when they’re brushing their teeth to make sure they’re not exposing their brush head to anything other than their teeth. If someone else uses your toothbrush by accident, throw it away. It’s better to be safe than sorry since everyone’s mouth has germs that differ from yours.

How to Look After Your Toothbrush

Treat your toothbrush like any other personal grooming or hygiene equipment to get the most out of it. Our friend Dr. Hobfoll, kids dentist Salt Lake City, explains that even with members of your immediate family, it is not a good idea to share your toothbrush.  If you store your toothbrush in a cup or container with other toothbrushes, try not to let the heads of the toothbrushes touch.

After brushing, thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with tap water. It does not require the use of a disinfectant, mouthwash, or hot water to be sanitized. Attempting to “sanitize” a toothbrush in this manner may result in the spread of germs.

You don’t even need a specific locked container to keep your toothbrush clean while not in use. Some of these containers may promote mold development or the spread of germs.

Factors to Consider When Using Toothbrush

The nylon bristles of your toothbrush are exposed to water and the chemicals in your toothpaste every time you use it. With each usage, the bristles get a bit weaker. Bristle flaring occurs when bristles bend and twist into a new form.

At least two previous research on worn toothbrush heads indicated that older toothbrushes are much less effective at eliminating plaque, which causes gum disease and tooth damage.

Takeaway

Your toothbrush is an important piece of oral hygiene equipment. To extend the life of your toothbrush, use just your own toothbrush, store it upright, and let it air dry.

We should be planning to replace the household toothbrushes every 3 to 4 months and record the date so we remember when it’s the right time to replace them again.

Contact Green Dental Care today for Preventative Care

We are here to answer any of your dental questions. Schedule your appointment for a dental cleaning today in Parker CO. 

Regular Visits Can Save You Money

regular visits can save you money

Regular Visits Can Save You Money

A lot goes on during a regular dental visit beyond poking around inside your mouth and delivering the bad news that your brushing and flossing techniques don’t cut it. The truth is, regular visits to your dentist in Parker CO can not only save you money, but they can also literally save your life! Here are some of the key ways in which regular visits to Green Dental Care can save you money.

Catching Problems Early

Routine dental visits to your Parker CO dentist normally have two main parts. First is the dental cleaning usually performed by a dental hygienist. Second, is a dental exam by the best dentist in Parker CO.

During each of those activities, there is more than ample opportunity to spot any anomaly, such as a cavity or crack. This gives our doctors a chance to spot if before it becomes a major problem. When these defects are treated promptly, the cost you incur is much less than what you would have incurred if you had skipped the routine visit. The contrary would be waiting to visit Green Dental Care when you have a dental health problem that is keeping you awake, which could cost more as an emergency service.

In this regard, regular visits to can save you money in the long run. It could eliminate the need to undergo complicated and costly procedures if every emerging problem is consistently nipped in the bud.

Receiving Customized Dental Health Advice

Regular dental visits also make it possible for you to get dental health advice that is tailored to meet your specific needs. For example, if the hygienist notices a particular arch has a lot more plaque and tartar than other parts of your mouth, he or she will recommend the best way to tweak your flossing and brushing technique in order to address the problem area.

Similarly, the best dentist in Parker CO may also recommend dietary changes. This would be to suit the new threats that your dental health faces in the light of any medication you are currently taking. For example, you may be on medication that causes dry mouth. 

As you may know, dry mouth increases your risk for gum disease and other dental health problems. Our dentists could recommend that you chew sugar-free gum or chewy vegetables to boost saliva production. Such advice can save you money because you will be in a position to prevent dental health challenges.

Professional Cleanings Safeguard You from Gum Infections

As already mentioned, dental cleanings are an integral part of your routine visit. Plaque (a bacterial film) is constantly building up on the teeth. Despite your best efforts at oral hygiene, some of this plaque eventually hardens into calculus (tartar).

Tartar results in the destruction of your teeth and bone beneath the gum line. By having your teeth cleaned by a professional, all that tartar and plaque is removed before it can cause harm. Needless to say, this early intervention stops major problems in their tracks. You will save the money that would have been spent to treat those problems down the road.

Dispelling Potentially Harmful Misinformation and Myths

Dr. Lyons, an orthodontist in El Dorado Hills CA, points out that the advent of the internet has been a blessing and a curse at the same time. A blessing in the sense that you can get great information on almost any topic under the sun. It is a curse in the sense that some of the information online is false and potentially dangerous.

For example, many people have been taking up DIY toothpastes. These can be made from a variety of ingredients, such as charcoal, baking soda, and apple cider vinegar. However, our dentists will tell you that ACV (apple cider vinegar), charcoal and baking soda pose a huge risk to your enamel. The prolonged use of those substances could result in teeth sensitivity due to eroded enamel.

Without those regular visits, you can easily fall for all the hype. Years later, you’ll learn that all your costly dental problems could have been avoided. When you see your Parker CO dentist regularly, you are likely to bring up anything you have heard or read. Then, he will give you a considered opinion on the usefulness of that information you got online. This can save you lots of money that would have gone to fixing the damage caused by implementing some of the advice picked from non-professionals. For instance, the cost of a routine dental visit pales in comparison to the cost of dental implants needed to replace teeth lost to overly abrasive DIY toothpastes.

As you can see, one of the best decisions that you can make for your dental health is to make regular visits to Green Dental Care. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you will also maintain your pearly whites for a lifetime. Give us a call today!

What Fluoride Can Do For Your Teeth

what fluoride can do for your teeth

What Fluoride Can Do For Your Teeth

benefits of fluoride treatments

Fluoride treatments are one of the dental tools that have been used for decades by dentists to help people enjoy peak dental health. So, what are fluoride treatments and how does this mineral work? Read on and learn what the experts at Green Dental Care in Parker CO have shared about fluoride and dental health.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in the earth’s crust. It can be found in oceans, soil and other water bodies. This mineral can occur in a gaseous, solid or liquid form. Our doctors explain that nearly a century ago, it was observed that fluoride could help rebuild the enamel on teeth once demineralization occurred. This discovery was so profound that dentists started offering fluoride treatments to their patients as a way of increasing resistance to tooth decay and strengthening teeth.

What is a Fluoride Treatment?

Your Parker CO dentist is likely to give you a fluoride treatment when you visit for your routine dental cleanings. The treatment is applied as a highly concentrated foam, rinse, gel or even varnish.

Dr. Green and Dr. Ionescu can use a swab, tray, mouthwash or brush to apply the fluoride on your teeth.

This quick treatment delivers a lot more fluoride to your teeth than what is typically found in your toothpaste or in the municipal water supply. Fluoride treatments need just a few minutes to be applied. However, the dentist at Green Dental Care is likely to advise you to refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least 30 minutes after the fluoride treatment. This interval is intended to allow your teeth to absorb the fluoride sufficiently so that you can enjoy its protective benefits.

When you visit Green Dental Care, reveal your full history (medications you are taking and dental issues you have been facing, for example) so that the dental care professional can select the most appropriate fluoride treatment for your needs.

How Fluoride Protects Your Teeth

While some people may think that fluoride treatments are primarily intended for children, this is far from the truth. Everyone, including adults, can benefit from getting periodic fluoride treatments.

For kids whose teeth are still developing, Dr. Green explains that fluoride helps harden the enamel during the formative stages. This is when the teeth are most susceptible to decay due to weak enamel. The fluoride hardens the teeth and makes them better able to resist acid damage.

Dr. Lesson, a dentist in St. Petersburg FL, adds that fluoride boosts remineralization. This is a process through which leached minerals are restored to the structure of the teeth. Demineralization (the loss of minerals like calcium from the teeth) is normally accelerated by the action of plaque-causing bacteria. Fluoride helps to accelerate the remineralization process.

Fluoride also helps reduce the size of tiny holes in your teeth called fissures. By filling most of those gaps, fluoride prevents food particles and oral bacteria from lodging in those fissures. In this way, the experts at Green Dental Care assert that you will be less prone to cavities and other dental issues.

Using Fluoride at Home

The fluoride treatments administered our doctors need to be supplemented by adequate fluoride use at home. This can take the form of using fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice each day. Another way is by drinking fluoridated water (instead of bottled water that may not have any fluoride in it).

There is only one place to seek help if you aren’t sure whether you are getting as much fluoride as you need. Your Parker CO dentist at Green Dental Care is best to advise you on your fluoride intake since he knows your dental health and the risks you face as you seek to maintain peak oral health. Contact Green Dental Care today for answers to all your questions about fluoride or any other aspect of your oral health.