Last updated 6 months ago
A visit to the dentist can seem intimidating if you don’t know what to expect or are unfamiliar with dental health in general—there are many misconceptions regarding dentistry that are held by numerous patients. The good news is that many of these beliefs are simply myths. Keep reading to discover the truth about a few of these common dental myths.
Myth #1: All Sugars Create Tooth Decay.
While it is certainly true that sugar consumption can greatly increase the production of plaque and tartar, it is also true that the length of time the sugar stays in contact with the tooth is more important than the amount of sugar consumed. This is why sodas and hard candies have such a detrimental effect on oral health. These sugary substances remain in your mouth for longer, and so have more time to stay on your teeth and contribute to bacterial growth.
Myth #2: Bad Breath is a Sign of Poor Oral Hygiene.
Bad breath, or halitosis, is not a pleasant condition for you or the people around you, but it does not necessarily signify that you are not taking care of your teeth. Many foods such as garlic, onions, coffee, and tea can contribute to halitosis, even if you are vigilant about brushing and flossing. If you take care of your teeth properly but still experience chronic halitosis, speak with your dentist about what could be causing your bad breath.
Myth #3: Tooth Decay Only Affects Young People.
Though children are especially fond of candies and other sweets that often contribute to cavities, people of all ages can experience tooth decay. It is important to practice good at-home oral care habits no matter how old you are and to speak with your dentist if you notice changes in your oral health.
Village Green Dental Center believes not just in treating patients, but also in educating them about their oral health and preventive care. We follow high standards of dental care to ensure that every patient we see receives the treatment they need. Call us at (630) 445-0121 to learn more about our commitment to your dental health.
Last updated 7 months ago
Village Green Dental Center in Aurora knows how important it is to keep your teeth in good health. We offer a variety of services from cosmetic dentistry to general dental cleanings. If you would like to find out more about what we can do for your dental health, call us today at (630) 445-0121, or visit our website. For more information on oral health, click through these links:
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Did you know that periodontitis is linked to diabetes? Learn more by exploring this article from The New York Times.
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Make sure you know how to properly floss your teeth by following these tips from ADHA.org.
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How does fluoride work to strengthen your teeth? Visit MedicalNewsToday.com for more information on the importance of fluoride.
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Get the facts regarding fluoride by reading this article from the American Dental Hygienists' Association.
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Are you practicing proper brushing techniques? This overview from Colgate.com will help you find the answer.
Last updated 7 months ago
Your wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in your mouth and typically develop between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people do not experience any problems with their wisdom teeth, most patients have dental arches that are too small to support the proper eruption of the third molars, causing them to become impacted.
Studies by the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons state that approximately nine out of every 10 individuals will have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. Fortunately, your cosmetic dentist can extract wisdom teeth in order to alleviate pain and prevent your third molars from forcing your adjacent teeth out of alignment. Continue reading for tips on ensuring a safe recovery following the extraction of one or multiple wisdom teeth.
Use a Cold Compress
It is normal to experience minor discomfort following the extraction of a wisdom tooth. In addition to taking over-the-counter pain relievers, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area will help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.
Stick to a Liquid Diet
You will want to avoid solid foods during the first several days following your wisdom tooth extraction. Try to stick with soups, gelatin, pudding, yogurt, or pureed foods. However, be sure to avoid using a straw, as the suction can dislodge one of the blood clots and lead to painful dry socket syndrome.
Prop Yourself Up and Relax
Elevating your head while lying down is a great way to alleviate pressure and swelling. Keeping your head propped up while sleeping will also help to reduce the risk of any post-operative bleeding.
The best way to ensure a safe and speedy recovery after a tooth extraction is to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. For more information on wisdom tooth extraction, oral surgery, or orthodontics, contact Village Green Dental Center of Aurora, Illinois at (630) 445-0121 today!
Last updated 7 months ago
Fluoride is a chemical ion found naturally in water as well as a number of foods, soils, and minerals. However, most individuals associate fluoride with dental hygiene products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes. Read on to learn more about the important role fluoride has in maintaining your oral health.
How Does Fluoride Work?
Fluoride works in two different ways based on its vehicle. For example, topical fluoride products, including toothpastes, mouthwashes, and gels, work to strengthen your teeth by slowly seeping into the outer surface of the enamel. Systemic fluoride found in foods and water, on the other hand, strengthen both the teeth that have erupted as well as those still developing beneath the gum line.
What Are the Benefits of Fluoride Treatment?
Your dentist may recommend an in-office fluoride treatment to combat a number of threats to your dental health, including but not limited to: poor oral hygiene habits, frequent consumption of sugar and carbohydrates, inadequate exposure to fluorides, and inadequate saliva flow due to certain medical conditions or medications. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment if you are suffering from deep pits or fissures on the chewing surfaces of your teeth, your root surfaces are exposed, or you have a recent history of tooth decay.
How Much Fluoride Is Necessary?
It is important to discuss your child’s fluoride use with an experienced dentist to prevent the risk of fluorosis—a condition characterized by white spots on the teeth due to excess fluoride exposure during tooth development.
While fluoride treatments are not an alternative to daily brushing and flossing, they present a great way to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to cavities. Find out if a fluoride treatment is the right solution for you by contacting our dentists with Village Green Dental Center at (630) 445-0121. We also offer orthodontic services, including traditional braces and the Invisalign system.
Last updated 7 months ago
Proper oral hygiene is essential to promoting your overall health and wellness. Check out these links from around the web for more information on tooth whitening, wisdom tooth extraction, the consequences of untreated tooth decay, and the role of fluoride when it comes to your oral health. Contact Village Green Dental Center in Aurora, Illinois at (630) 445-0121 for more information on our services.
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Explore this WebMD.com article for more information on the different tooth whitening options.
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How many individuals require tooth extraction for impacted wisdom teeth? Find out by reading this article from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
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Which foods stain your teeth? Check out this link from EverydayHealth.com to find out.
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Learn what to expect following a wisdom tooth extraction with this article from MedicineNet.com.
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How does periodontal disease increase your risk of a heart attack and stroke? Visit this link from the American Academy of Periodontology for more information.
