Grove's Blog

Grove's Blog

Posts for category: Oral Hygiene

January 16, 2012
Category: Oral Hygiene
Tags: Brushing  

Cleaning your teeth is tough with a dirty toothbrush. Make sure you’re brushing with a pristine toothbrush every time by sticking to a routine of cleanliness. Below are a few tips for keeping the gunk off of your toothbrush.

  • Don’t lock your toothbrush away in a cabinet. It might seem like a good idea, but it’s not. The American Dental Association says that closed spaces increase the likelihood of germs breeding on your toothbrush bristles. For that same reason, space toothbrushes out so that they don’t pass germs back and forth.
  • Before you brush, hold your toothbrush under water for 5 to 10 seconds. Do the same after brushing. Rake your clean thumb across the bristles with force.
  • Don’t get nostalgic. When it’s time to say goodbye to your brush, don’t hesitate. Every three or four months, discard your toothbrush for a new one. If you use an electric toothbrush, follow the same tips to keeping it clean.

 

As a leading Downers Grove dentist, your dental health matters to us, and that means we care about how you’re brushing your teeth. To ensure clean and healthy teeth, be sure to schedule appointments for regular checkups! Contact us today, or check out our website at www.GroveDental.com.

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September 26, 2011
Category: Oral Hygiene
Tags: Pediatric   Seniors   Kids   Cavities   Cleanings  

Gum disease may be more common than you think with an estimated 75% of Americans having some form of the disease. More startling are recent studies that have linked gum disease and decay to other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and even pregnancy complications.

The good news is that gum disease and tooth decay are completely preventable. No matter what your age, it’s never too early, or late, to learn the fundamentals of good oral hygiene.  You’ll benefit from a healthier, more attractive smile and improved general health.

A few helpful reminders for improving your dental habits:

  • Brush at least twice a day.
  • Use toothpaste with fluoride to keep teeth strong.
  • Don’t forget to floss. It’s important for removing plaque from between the teeth and along the gum lines.
  • Keep a toothbrush with you at the office.  Brushing after lunch is an easy way to keep teeth clean at work.
  • Stop smoking—it’s one of the most dangerous oral habits you can acquire.
  • Visit your Grove dentist regularly for thorough cleanings and checkups. 

Little ones should also learn the importance of good dental habits at an early age.  Make good dental habits a priority at home and educate your children to the benefits of a healthy mouth.  Now that school is back in full force, remember to reinforce good brushing and flossing habits as a part of your child’s daily routine.  Keeping a tooth brush in your child’s back pack is a great way to promote healthy teeth during the school year, especially for kids wearing braces.

The best practices for a healthy smile begin with good dental hygiene.  Take the time to brush and floss daily, and visit Grove regularly for cleanings and checkups.   Your teeth and body will thank you.   

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August 09, 2011
Category: Oral Hygiene
Tags: Gingivitis   Cavities   Sports Drinks  

The same beverages that boost your performance may be deteriorating your teeth.

Chugging your favorite sports beverage or energy drink may recharge your body and mind, but these drinks may be causing irreversible damage to your enamel, the outer layer of the tooth that helps preserve the natural tooth structure and prevent decay.  

A recent study in General Dentistry found that extended consumption of popular energy and sports drinks can cause tooth erosion, hypersensitivity and staining.  In fact, the study claims that sports and energy drinks can do 3 to 11 times more harm to tooth enamel than soft drinks over time.    While cola-based drinks may contain one or more harmful acids, sports and energy drinks contain additional additives and organic acids that can be extremely erosive to tooth enamel.  The additives found in sports and energy beverages actually break down calcium, which is necessary to strengthen teeth and prevent gum disease.

To prevent tooth erosion, consume sports and energy drinks in moderation and brush your teeth or rinse with water afterward.  Choosing water when you’re thirsty can preserve dental enamel and protect teeth from decay. Your smile will look and feel better for it!

To maintain good oral health and a cavity free smile, remember to practice healthy oral habits at home with proper brushing and flossing, and visit our office regularly for checkups and cleanings. Grove’s dentists can detect decay and other dental problems in their earliest stages. We’re here to help you and your family maintain beautiful, healthy smiles for life.

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February 15, 2011
Category: Oral Hygiene
Tags: Cavities   Holiday   Bad Breath  

Chocolate Treats & Your Teeth - Grove DentalNothing says "I love you" like a box of chocolates, and Valentine's Day presents the perfect opportunity to give this irresistible treat to someone you love. Many people see chocolate as a guilty pleasure, but if you received chocolate as a Valentine's Day gift, you may want to consider the dental health benefits before passing up your favorite assortment of chocolate candies.

While chocolate should only be eaten in moderation, a recent study found that parts of the cocoa bean -- the main ingredient of chocolate -- can actually inhibit bacteria in the mouth that causes tooth decay. Compared to other sweet foods and candies, the cocoa bean is proving to be less harmful due to its anti-bacterial effect on the mouth which helps fight against plaque.

Despite chocolate's oral health benefits, you should avoid nibbling on your Valentine's Day chocolates all day long. Moderation is key, and don't forget to brush afterward. Good oral hygiene and regular check ups with your dentist are the best ways to maintain a beautiful, cavity-free smile.

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