Saving Hopeless Teeth
A root canal…the very idea is enough to make people shudder. In the past, before the advent of proper tools and anesthesia, the root canal earned a dreaded reputation. Dr. Brent understands your concerns and has this procedure down to an art form. If you’ve heard others complain about root canals, you will be pleasantly surprised to see how smoothly this procedure can go. Modern anesthetics and advanced technology render root canals extremely manageable. When dental decay touches the nerve of the tooth (or the tooth has developed an infection), and a simple filling will not repair the damage, extraction used to be necessary. This can cause a whole new list of problems. But Dr. Brent will remove the infection – eliminating pain – and fill and seal the tooth, saving it! Call us today and find out how we can help you save your teeth.
KC Family Dental
Sarah Brent, DDS
4034 Shawnee Mission Parkway
Fairway, KS 66205
Kansas City
(913) 220-2209
KCFamilyDental.com
Learn more about dental care for people with special needs.
Serve the Right Kind of Crunch
Potato chips are standard party fare, but they bring unwanted guests into your mouth. Chewed-up chips often settle in the pits of your teeth, giving cavity-causing bacteria the chance to make a meal from your teeth.
Instead, put apples and pears on your fruit platter, and stock your veggie tray with carrots, celery and raw broccoli. They're like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing off build-up and stimulating saliva to wash away what’s left.
Cheese, Please
A slice of cheddar can make a grilled burger so much better. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheese platter? Dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese are low in sugar and rich in calcium and phosphorous, which strengthen and protect enamel. Research also suggests that eating more dairy may lower your chances for developing gum disease. So go ahead and say cheese!
To read the entire article visit Mouthhealthy.org
Preventing Child Tooth Decay – the Easy Way!
While we all try to do a good job brushing our teeth, it can be hard to reach the plaque and food in the deep grooves in the back teeth. This results in bacteria and plaque formation, which will cause decay. And once the tooth has decay, it is impaired permanently and will need a filling or a crown.
The use of dental sealants can offset a child’s difficulties with brushing properly, guarding their teeth from harm. The procedure is harmless, painless, and takes just a few minutes to achieve. After the tooth (or teeth) is cleansed and sterilized, a thin coat of a white sealant is coated on the tooth. Then a curing light is directed toward the sealant to bond it into place. These steps require no shots, drills, or the reduction of any tooth structure. Placing dental sealants is one of the best pre-emptive actions both children and adolescents can have done to preserve their natural teeth!
Learn more about Bad Breath, which is also known as Halitosis.
The Importance of Keeping Your Mouth Healthy
The prevention of periodontal disease is simple. Regular brushing twice a day, flossing every day, making healthy food choices, and visiting Dr. Brent twice a year for exams and cleanings are the primary defense against gum disease. Gum disease frequently has minor symptoms that can go unnoticed, so getting your gums checked by our team is especially important.
KC Family Dental
Sarah Brent, DDS
4034 Shawnee Mission Parkway
Fairway, KS 66205
Kansas City
(913) 220-2209
KCFamilyDental.com
Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by Brenna Stone
Does the thought of mouth germs taking up residence on your teeth make you feel a little uncomfortable? It should! Masses of harmful microorganisms in the mouth can form plaque, the sticky substance that adheres to the teeth and gumline. Plaque can really harm your teeth and gums. When it isn't removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can lead to cavities and gum disease! Find out what you can do to reduce the amount of germs in your mouth.
Regular Toothbrushing
Toothbrushing is a powerful tool for fighting germs. At the minimum, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste; once after breakfast and once before going to bed. There is no harm in brushing your teeth more frequently. You can brush after meals to cut down on plaque formation and to freshen your breath. Spend a full two minutes gently brushing all surfaces of your teeth and your tongue. Use a toothpaste like Colgate Total that is designed to keep your mouth clean and to fight germs.
Bacteria can flourish on your toothbrush as well. Change your toothbrush when it begins to look worn, according to American Dental Association. The American Dental Association recommends switching to a new brush about every three to four months. It is best to leave your bristles in the open air; a closed, moist environment can harbor more bacteria. Also, don't share brushes; it is possible to transfer mouth germs this way.
Don't Forget to Floss
Daily flossing is another important way to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Flossing can help to remove plaque from places that your toothbrush can't reach. Slide your floss in between the teeth. Also clean at the base of each tooth, removing plaque and food debris from underneath the gum line.
Your Diet and Mouth Germs
What you eat can also help to support a healthy smile. Eating lots of sugary and starchy foods will increase the amount of sugars that are available for bacteria in your mouth to thrive upon. Try cutting back on sweet treats and snacking on fresh fruits and veggies instead. When eating grains, be sure to choose whole grains.
Take good care of your teeth with daily brushing and flossing. Eat a balanced diet and see your dentist for regular check-ups. Your dentist can check for signs of cavities and gum disease, the dental hygienist can also clean your teeth, removing the plaque and tartar (hardened dental plaque) that is on your teeth. With excellent oral hygiene, mouth germs don't stand a chance!
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by AM Hopkins
Everyone knows that brushing their teeth plays a major role in their overall health, but they may not be aware of the correct way to brush their teeth. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice each day; here is a quick guide to ensure you know how to do it properly.
Purchase the right toothbrush. Before you even begin the process of brushing your teeth, it's important that you have the right toothbrush. The type of toothbrush you select depends on your specific needs. If you need a toothbrush mostly for removing plaque, a soft-bristled brush is best. On the other hand, if you are concerned about reaching hard-to-reach spaces, you should consider a toothbrush with a smaller head. in the Colgate Oral Care resources.
Take your time. You should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. This may seem like a long time - the average person usually falls short of this goal - but it is necessary ensure that your teeth are clean. If you're worried about reaching this goal, consider investing in a toothbrush that has an automatic timer or use a stopwatch.
Be thorough. Tilt your toothbrush to a 45 degree angle and ensure that you are cleaning both the outer and inner surfaces of your upper and lower teeth. It is equally important to clean the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well.
Be gentle. When brushing your teeth, it's important to use short, precise strokes. This ensures that you don't cause any trauma to your mouth and that you reach the specific areas you are trying to target. You should brush the entire surface of the tooth in a gentle back and forth motion.
Don't forget your tongue. Brushing your tongue is an essential part of maintaining proper oral care. Many people often overlook this step, but it is important to both your overall oral hygiene and the freshness of your breath.
To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.
KC Family Dental
Sarah Brent, DDS
4034 Shawnee Mission Parkway
Fairway, KS 66205
Kansas City
(913) 220-2209
KCFamilyDental.com
Learn more about what the American Dental Association has to say about the importance of dental sealants as a preventive dental treatment for your children!
A root canal…the very idea is enough to make people shudder. In the past, before the advent of proper tools and anesthesia, the root canal earned a dreaded reputation. Dr. Brent understands your concerns and has this procedure down to an art form. If you’ve heard others complain about root canals, you will be pleasantly surprised to see how smoothly this procedure can go. Modern anesthetics and advanced technology render root canals extremely manageable. When dental decay touches the nerve of the tooth (or the tooth has developed an infection), and a simple filling will not repair the damage, extraction used to be necessary. This can cause a whole new list of problems. But Dr. Brent will remove the infection – eliminating pain – and fill and seal the tooth, saving it! Call us today and find out how we can help you save your teeth.
