National Nutrition Month

National Nutrition Month

Apparently March is National Nutrition Month! I know- it seems like there’s a month, week or day for almost everything! But it does give me the opportunity to discuss some dentally relevant nutritional information, namely added sugars and sugary drinks. Obviously I’m not qualified to offer nutritional advice, but being a lifelong sugar addict, I…

6 Ways to Make Your Mouth Extra Kissable for Valentine’s Day

6 Ways to Make Your Mouth Extra Kissable for Valentine’s Day

I am happy to share this post from the ADA’s Mouth Healthy website which explains why bad breath may not be your only concern when kissing this Valentine’s Day. From the “Kiss Me” messages on tiny candy hearts to romantic songs on the radio, a kiss is probably on your list this Valentine’s Day. Before…

The use of Silver Diamine Fluoride in halting tooth decay

The use of Silver Diamine Fluoride in halting tooth decay

Last night I was pleasantly surprised to watch a feature on the PBS News Hour broadcast about the use of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in dentistry. SDF is nothing new to dentistry, having been used for many years in other countries, but is now thankfully making its way into the mainstream of dentistry in the…

Charcoal Toothpastes to Clean Teeth?

Charcoal Toothpastes to Clean Teeth?

There are now more than 50 toothpastes available in the U.S. containing charcoal in one form or another offering health and cosmetic benefits not available in other toothpastes. Manufacturers are making claims that these dentifrices can reduce tooth decay, help with tooth remineralization and even improve whitening of teeth. While only 4 of these toothpastes…

7 Ways to Prevent Bad Breath

7 Ways to Prevent Bad Breath

In my last blog article I discussed some of the causes of bad breath. Here are a few bad breath prevention methods recommended by the American Dental Association that you can follow to avoid these annoying breath problems! Brush and Floss Meticulous home care is essential to controlling the bacteria often associated with bad breath.…

7 Habits That Are Harmful to Your Teeth (and What to Do About Them)!

7 Habits That Are Harmful to Your Teeth (and What to Do About Them)!

Nail Biting Nail biting may be less common today but I still see it quite often. It can cause teeth and fillings to chip and wear. Solution:Be mindful. Paint your nails with a bitter tasting clear polish available at your local pharmacy. Brushing Too Hard Toothbrush abrasion is one of the leading causes of “notching”…

Ten Tips To Treat Dry Mouth

Ten Tips To Treat Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (Xerostomia) is a problem faced by many folks which can be difficult to diagnose and treat. The most common cause among adults is various prescription medications. Sometimes our well meaning physicians prescribe medications independently of each other, the result being a multitude of dry mouth causing medications that potentiate each other, making the…