Flossing: Do you really need it?

  

“You need to incorporate flossing into your daily dental routine!” is a common recommendation we’ve all heard.

Though a surprising amount of people have not taken this advice to heart. Flossing is a dental practice that most Americans have no problem skipping. Some studies indicate that only 30% of Americans are regularly employing flossing during their daily routine. 

And when a majority of people are okay with going without doing it, it may beg the question — Is it really needed in the first place?

The answer is simpler than you may think, flossing is absolutely necessary if you want to maintain peak dental health. Here are just a few reasons why –

Flossing Is The Only Way To Remove Some Plaque

While your toothbrush does a good job removing easy-to-reach plaque, it can’t reach everywhere. Plaque can build up deposits in hard-to-reach places that lead to tartar buildup and other negative dental effects. Making use of floss is one of the key ways to remove early plaque build-ups before they worsen.

 Flossing Can Prevent Gum Disease

Much like the plaque problem, a toothbrush can’t do everything. When it comes to protecting and cleaning your gums properly flossing cleans your gums and can prevent or stop ongoing gumproblems, like early cases of gum disease. And conversely, not flossing increases the risk of gum disease.

Flossing is More Effective Than Just Brushing

The most convincing argument in favor of regular flossing is its all-around effectiveness. When you only use a toothbrush, you’re leaving 35% of your teeth uncleaned. The bristles of your toothbrush were never designed as a way to provide a full cleaning, it’s only one part, and flossing is the other.

 Tips On Incorporating Flossing

If you haven’t been flossing, beginning to incorporate it into your daily routine can seem challenging. Knowing a few ways to make flossing easier, and more effective, is much more likely to protect your dental health and keep your routine.

So here are some key tips —

 

• Grab a long piece of floss, you want enough length to wrap each side around your fingers a few times. Place the floss between your teeth and go slowly, rushing can cause damage and increase your likelihood of bleeding.
• Also, know that some blood is natural if you’ve not flossed in some time. Compare it to soreness after working out, it’s a sign that your health is progressing and very soon it won’t be happening regularly, or at all.
• So, if you were one of those Americans who had been skipping out, what are you waiting for? Incorporate some flossing into your routine today and immediately improve your dental health. And, if you need a dentist who can help monitor your progress, reach out to South Charlotte Density today and have qualified professionals help you on your journey to improve dental health!

 

6 Practical Dental Treatments for a Smile Makeover

A healthy smile does much more than enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. It also plays a vital role in your dental and overall health. If you've determined your smile needs an upgrade for health or cosmetic purposes, getting a smile makeover could be the way to go. 

Every makeover is original because every smile is unique.

When you come into South Charlotte Dentistry, we'll assess your oral health and help you choose the ideal treatments for your smile upgrade. We'll also look for signs of any underlying dental issues while we're at it!

 

What Does It Take to Get a Smile Makeover? 

Most smile makeovers incorporate multiple dental procedures to enhance a smile's appearance. Your dentist will use design software to show you how your new smile will look once they've performed the treatments. The improvements can also make it easier to clean your teeth and encourage a regular oral hygiene routine.

 

What Are the Different Smile Makeover Treatments?

Whitening, bonding, fillings, alignment, and veneers are a few of the most common treatments used for smile upgrades. Let's take a closer look at these procedures and a few others:

1. Teeth Whitening   

Professional teeth whitening is the least invasive and most popular treatment for smile makeovers. This treatment eliminates discoloration and brightens teeth; the process is quick, and the results are dramatic! Some clients choose to get their teeth whitened in the dentist's office, while others use a take-home kit.

You can expect superior results when you come to a dental practice like South Charlotte Dentistry. If you plan to get other dental restorations, it's critical to undergo teeth whitening first so your dentist can match the restorations to the shade of the surrounding teeth, leaving a natural look.

 

2. Bonding and Fillings

Dentists often use composite bonding and fillings to fix fractures, cracks, or discoloration in teeth. Bonding can correct various flaws, even slightly crooked teeth. 

If your teeth are damaged by decay, your dentist can put in composite fillings to restore them to their natural appearance. Fillings bond to your enamel while helping them maintain their structure.

 

3. Teeth Alignment     

If your teeth are moderately or severely misaligned or crooked, you may need an orthodontic procedure like braces or clear aligners. Correctly aligned teeth will enhance your smile while helping you chew more efficiently and maintain consistent oral hygiene.

Traditional braces consist of metal wires, elastic bands, and brackets that gradually shift teeth into their ideal positions. This is an excellent option for severe malocclusion, and your dentist will know how to get you the results you're looking for.

Clear aligners have emerged within the last couple of decades and can also be used to straighten your smile. Products like Invisalign are more comfortable than braces, practically invisible, and highly effective for mild to moderate misalignment.

 

4. Gum Contouring     

Some clients have too much visible gum tissue, making their teeth appear smaller than they are. Your dentist can use laser gum contouring to reshape your gums for a better gum-enamel balance and a more attractive smile. The laser technology also makes for a quick procedure with minimal discomfort.

If you have receding gums, your teeth could be exposed to bacteria and eventually cause tooth decay and tooth loss. A professional can remove any damaged tissue with lasers, leaving room for new cells to grow.

 

5. Crowns and Veneers   

Crowns and veneers are used to correct similar dental problems, including teeth that are misshapen, discolored, chipped, broken, or fractured. They can also fix unwanted gaps and decay-damaged teeth.

The primary difference between crowns and veneers is that crowns fit over damaged teeth to restore them to the appropriate size, shape, and function. Veneers are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to boost your smile's appeal.

 

6. Dental Implants    

Dental implants are the most intensive treatment on the list. Dentists use implants to replace missing teeth, enhancing your smile while preventing bone loss. Neglecting to address missing teeth can even lead to a change in your facial structure and appearance. Moreover, getting the necessary implants will keep adjacent teeth in line and help you enjoy full bite function. 

Dental implants are the most effective treatment for missing teeth because they replace the entire tooth rather than just the surface. Your dentist will surgically place the implant on your jawbone, promoting bone health and superior stability.

 

Conclusion     

If you're looking for a smile makeover, it's worth discussing the treatments above with your dentist. A professional can closely examine your teeth and gums to determine which procedures will help you achieve your desired smile. And remember that maintaining a regular oral hygiene routine and going to checkups at South Charlotte Dentistry can help keep your smile beautiful and healthy!

Baby Teeth Hiding? Here is What You Need to Know

There’s no universal standard for how your child should grow and develop. Though there are often good guidelines and tips of things to look for, waiting on growth milestones, like your child’s first steps or words can feel like ages. 

Teeth are no different. And many parents find themselves having a similar question: “Why are my kid's teeth not coming in?”

South Charlotte Dentistry has been helping parents find the answers to all kinds of questions about children’s dental health. We’re here to tackle some of the misconceptions around baby teeth, diagnose the causes for delays in eruption, and make sure your child is on the right path to great oral health.

If you find yourself asking a similar question as the one mentioned before, or with any other concerns about your child’s dental development, it may be worth scheduling an appointment today.

 

Your Child’s Baby Teeth

Babies are born with the first 20 or so teeth already in their mouth. And while those teeth aren’t destined to stick around for long, they play a far more important role in your child’s dental development than you may think.

While baby teeth are growing in, your baby will likely experience pain and need some small steps to help provide comfort. Wiping the mouth with cool gauze or teething rings are great ways to help lessen the pain of tooth growth.

Baby teeth are an often-overlooked part of a child’s development. Some parents feel like the care around baby teeth is not nearly as important as that of permanent teeth. After all, those teeth won’t be there forever, right? While that may seem like a justified cause to have little concern, it’s actually a very dangerous view to have. 

Baby teeth facilitate a child’s smile, create proper spacing for permanent teeth, help them chew, develop speech, and are tied to overall health across the board. If a baby tooth is lost too early, it may spur a permanent tooth’s growth and drift, leading to crooked smiles and other dental problems. 

Another way to make sure you’re caring for those important early teeth is to put a hold on any sugary drinks. Sticking to water and milk early on can save your child from unnecessary decay and cavities. Bottles containing sugary drinks are a key culprit for this decay. 

The first round of baby teeth, if all things are going accordingly, should come in between six months and a year old. (The appearance of the first tooth also typically requires your first dentist appointment.) While by the time your child is 3 they should have their full set of 20 baby teeth. Additionally, you can expect to see those teeth begin to go around 5 or 6. 

 

The Tooth of The Matter

All this talk about baby teeth may leave the parents with bated breaths, waiting for the appearance of the first tooth. Though, for some, delays are entirely possible. 

Whether we’re talking permanent teeth or baby teeth, a delay in tooth eruption usually warrants a visit to the dentist. Catching these delays or medical difficulties earlier is a key way to ensure dental health and that the teeth grow properly when they do come.

While there’s a universal truth related to what to do about delayed tooth development: visiting a dentist, the causes are anything but universal. Here are a few things that could cause your child’s teeth to come in slowly.

Spacing 

When adult teeth grow into younger mouths they can have a difficult time erupting properly. Adult teeth are bigger than baby teeth, so a mouth that hasn’t grown correctly can create problems.

Additionally, issues related to a lack of space can create “crowding” if the adult teeth do grow in. Often leading to a crooked smile. 

Impaction 

Impacted teeth are teeth that are trapped and unable to grow in. This could be a result of blockage from either the gum or bone. This stems from narrow jaws, extra teeth, or general crowding issues.

Whatever the case, it’s typically necessary to schedule an orthodontic appointment to make sure your child’s mouth has enough space, and room for teeth to grow, and to clear a path for the developing tooth.

Teeth Are on The Wrong Track

This cause may sound especially concerning but is easily resolved. The prime candidates for teeth going in the wrong direction are the upper canines or lower bicuspids, or premolars (located between our canines and our molars in the backs of our mouths.) 

You’ll want to visit a dentist so they can helpfully guide the teeth back to the right track.

Nutrition

Like any aspect of health, nutrition helps bring out the best in a person, your child’s teeth are no different. Delays in tooth development could be linked to a lack of nutrition or a deficiency in the diet. Lack of calcium or other nutrient-rich foods, like vegetables, can lead to slow tooth growth and development. 

Extra Teeth

Extra teeth are another possible root cause. It’s a relatively common condition many children experience, known as hyperdontia, the condition results in extra permanent teeth that may block or impede the growth of regular teeth. Hyperdontia usually necessitates the extraction of the extra teeth, giving room for new ones. 

Studies say the condition is likely tied to genetics. So if you as a parent experienced something similar in your youth it may be a prime candidate for the slow tooth development in your child. 

Genetics

The underlying cause of extra teeth, or hyperdontia, is usually tied to genetics. That’s a great example of how genetics, gender, familial history, etc. can impact dental development. A good indicator is looking back to how your development went, if you had braces, problems with growth, or other dental conditions, it’s entirely possible your child will too.

Everyone is different, so being a month behind, or ahead, of schedule usually is tied to genetic conditions, not an underlying problem. Gender also plays a role, with girls developing permanent teeth earlier than boys. 

Better Late Than Never

If your kid’s teeth come in just a tad bit behind the average, there usually isn’t a cause for concern. 

You know your child well and if there isn’t crankiness attached to teething, rubbing of the mouth, or other indicators of some underlying dental problems, late tooth development may just be the way your child grows. Just make sure you’re starting early appointments at the sign of the first tooth, as a way to ensure things are going well.

18 months should be the key indicator of a real underlying problem, so if your child has yet to develop a tooth at that mark, you should get to the dentist as soon as possible. 

 

The Answer To Early Dental Problems

While the causes of a delay in the appearance of teeth are wide and varied, all of them share a similar solution: Going to a dental professional.  

Getting a young child to the dentist can prove to be a difficulty in itself. Children commonly face dental anxiety and fears when waiting for an impending dental appointment. Finding a dentist equipped to provide not only dental service but an experience of comfort can be daunting. Still, that’s a challenge well worth it.

Developmental dental difficulties are complex and usually necessitate a professional's guidance to correct them. Building a solid foundation for a lifetime of oral health is necessary, so putting off an appointment could spell trouble. 

South Charlotte Dentistry has been serving the Charlotte area since 1999. Because of that experience, we’re very familiar with the wide array of causes and solutions to developmental dental problems. 

And while you may be tempted to wait, the only real way to answer the question, “Why are my child’s teeth not coming in?” is by seeking out the necessary help and guidance. 

How to Keep Chronic Cavities at Bay

Does it seem like you have a cavity every time you go to a checkup at your dentist? If so, you're not alone.

Cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases across all age brackets, and at least four of five Americans experience a cavity by their mid-30s.

Dental hygiene, family history, and diet can play a role in whether someone is more prone to cavities than others. And fortunately, you can help prevent chronic tooth decay and cavities by taking proactive steps in your daily routine. Below, South Charlotte Dentistry explains cavities in more detail and provides some simple tips for managing them. 

 

What Is a Cavity?   

A cavity is a severe form of tooth decay. Decay occurs when acid-producing bacteria called plaque wear down a tooth's enamel. Plaque builds up along the gum line and on the surface of a tooth over time. It accumulates more quickly and regularly when you consume foods and drinks high in sugar and simple carbohydrates because the bacteria feed off the sugar, producing acids. 

This acid deteriorates your enamel, and if left untreated, it can cause a cavity (a hole in the tooth). In many cases, cavities form in hard-to-reach areas, including:

• Between teeth

• On the surface of molars

• Along the gumline

• Around dental treatments like fillings and bridges

It's essential to treat a cavity as soon as you identify it. Otherwise, the decay can extend to the tooth's pulp, the inner layer that holds the blood supply and nerves. The decay can also spread to surrounding teeth. Over time, the damage can cause sensitive teeth, gum disease, infection, and tooth loss. 

 

Are There Different Types of Cavities?    

Some cavities take up to three years to develop in the enamel. Once the enamel erodes, the decay typically progresses quickly through the middle layer (dentin) and the pulp. Here are a few types of cavities, from the most to least severe:

Root Decay

Root decay is common in older adults with receding gums. Recession leaves a tooth's root exposed to plaque and acid, at which point it can be challenging to treat and prevent decay. 

Pit and Fissure Decay

Tooth decay can set in on the front side of the back teeth, known as pit and fissure decay. This type of cavity progresses quickly and is most common among teenagers. 

Smooth Surface

Smooth surface cavities grow very slowly and gradually erode tooth enamel. They are prevalent among 20-something adults who experience decay between their teeth. With adequate dental care (e.g., professional cleaning, brushing, flossing, etc.), you can prevent (and maybe even reverse) these cavities. 

 

Are Chronic Cavities Genetic?  

Various controllable factors, such as overeating sugar and neglecting oral hygiene, can cause cavities. But research shows that genetics can also influence the appearance and health of your teeth. There are a few hereditary factors to consider.

For example, genes primarily determine your enamel structure. The strength or weakness of your enamel surface dictates how well it can absorb calcium, fluoride, and other essential minerals. Also, your specific saliva plays a role in how much harmful bacteria remains in your mouth on any given day. 

Moreover, the shape of your teeth can make you more or less susceptible to cavities. It can be challenging to brush and floss effectively when you have crowded teeth. And when teeth have more grooves, bacteria have more places to hide. 

 

How Do You Catch the Signs?     

Cavities are not always easy to see. But there are a few common symptoms to help you identify them:

• Pain in your tooth or mouth

• Increased tooth sensitivity to extreme temperatures in foods or beverages 

• Swelling in your gums or face

• Bleeding gums

• Redness in your mouth

• Bad breath 

 

How to Be Proactive  

Whether or not you have a hereditary predisposition to tooth decay and cavities, there are plenty of steps to take that will help you prevent issues in the future. 

The most critical step is to follow a regular oral hygiene routine every day.

This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, ensuring you get between your teeth and in the hard-to-reach areas in the back of your mouth. Also, be sure to floss once a day and use fluoride toothpaste, which can help strengthen your tooth enamel. 

You will also want to limit foods and drinks high in refined and simple sugars. And try to incorporate more vitamins, minerals, calcium, and fiber into your diet through apples, leafy greens, carrots, cheese, and yogurt. 

Another great way to keep cavities at bay is to visit your family dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Contact South Charlotte Dentistry today to schedule your appointment!

How Do You Catch the Signs?     

Cavities are not always easy to see. But there are a few common symptoms to help you identify them:

• Pain in your tooth or mouth

• Increased tooth sensitivity to extreme temperatures in foods or beverages 

• Swelling in your gums or face

• Bleeding gums

• Redness in your mouth

• Bad breath 

 

How to Be Proactive  

Whether or not you have a hereditary predisposition to tooth decay and cavities, there are plenty of steps to take that will help you prevent issues in the future. 

The most critical step is to follow a regular oral hygiene routine every day. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes, ensuring you get between your teeth and in the hard-to-reach areas in the back of your mouth. Also, be sure to floss once a day and use fluoride toothpaste, which can help strengthen your tooth enamel. 

You will also want to limit foods and drinks high in refined and simple sugars. And try to incorporate more vitamins, minerals, calcium, and fiber into your diet through apples, leafy greens, carrots, cheese, and yogurt. 

Another great way to keep cavities at bay is to visit your family dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Contact South Charlotte Dentistry today to schedule your appointment!

Don’t Put Off Your Dental Appointment

If you’re afraid or discomforted by going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Studies find over 60 percent of people suffer from dental-related dread. Even worse, a third of the U.S population put off going to the dentist because of this fear.

Dental visits have dropped off considerably, likely a combination of an already inherent fear of the dentist alongside COVID-19 protocols and concerns. Many see a visit, such as a non-time-sensitive procedure, or other general checkups, as unnecessary, especially in the current climate. 

Though this isolation from people, and in turn, the dentist, has allowed many dental problems to snowball to some frightening extremes, cavities, gum disease, and tooth grinding habits have been left unchecked, turning a once-a-season checkup into a slew of connected visits.

If you aren’t visiting your dentist for a cleaning or oral exam every 6 months, you’re not meeting the dental recommendations.  

Chances are that a coming and going toothache is a sign of an underlying problem. Tooth decay, abscesses, damaged fillings, infected gums, and bad habits are all possible roots of your tooth troubles. 

Lack of dental care isn’t a problem relegated to your mouth. Research indicates that bad dental health can contribute to diabetes, heart disease, and types of cancers, with some serious tooth infections even leading to death. Simply put, dental hygiene is no joke, with even one of the greatest Egyptian Pharaohs, Amenhotep III, being a casualty of a lack of dental hygiene. There’s some good news there. Even though you aren’t a pharaoh, you have access to a dentist, something they never had.

Frequent visits can result in benefits beyond those that typically come to mind. Dental visits can help identify early cases of oral cancer, reduce chances of heart disease, show underlying problems through x-rays, and diminish cases of inflammation. 

If you don’t like dental visits, want to avoid going as much as possible, etc, your best bet to stay out of the office may be to go to your regular dental appointment. While that may seem like a true contradiction, imagine the follow-up procedures, time, and money for a severe dental problem. Early treatment is also less painful and less expensive, saving the pain in your wallet as well as in your teeth.

While you may have some fear, overcoming that and scheduling your necessary dental appointment is well worth overcoming. Like with most things, exercise, eating right, and getting good sleep, the beginning of regular dental checkups and cleanings can be difficult, but the rewards are truly remarkable. Make the right step for your health and schedule a dental appointment today.

Fall Sports Safety

 Mouthguards reduce the use of mouth-related injuries for athletes, particularly with the use of custom-fitted mouthguards. From hockey to water polo, or basketball to football, the use of a mouth guard reduces the prevalence of dental injuries and trauma across the board! At South Charlotte Dentistry, we know many of our patients are entering back into the school year and enrolling in fall sports.

Participation in youth and adolescent sports has exploded in the past few years. It’s estimated that around 45 million youths participate in organized sports. The National Youth Sports Foundation for Safety reports dental injuries as the most common type of injury sustained during sports participation. It’s also estimated that an athlete is 60% more likely to sustain teeth damage when not wearing a protective mouthguard!

 

Why should you wear a mouthguard?

A mouthguard is basically a protective cushion that provides some shock absorption for your teeth in the event of oral trauma. A mouthguard protects injury to the teeth, prevents cuts and bruising from external impact, and shields your teeth against tooth fractures and dislocations. A properly fitted mouthguard can also reduce concussions, pulpal injury, and even neck injury!

Beyond a bruised mouth or dislocated tooth, sports injuries can cause lasting damage, especially when neck, jaw, and facial injuries can prevent athletes from ever playing sports again. A properly fitted mouth guard will reduce the opportunity for injury, and lower the overall severity of the injury.

 

What type of mouthguards are there?

• Over-the-counter ready-made or stock mouthguards
• “Boil and bite” mouthguards
• Custom-made mouthguards (from a dentist)

These three options vary in price, comfort, and protection, but all are better options than none. The most important factor is that your mouthguard is comfortable, resilient, easily cleaned, resistant to tearing, and should not restrict speech or breathing.

 

At what age should a child begin to wear a mouthguard?

We recommend that a child begin to wear a mouthguard once their permanent teeth start coming into the mouth. This typically occurs between the ages of 6 and 7. It’s very important to remember that we only have one set of permanent teeth, so we need to protect them for life!

 

If you suffer oral trauma during sports, when should you go to the dentist?

We categorize dental injuries into three different categories. Timing is very critical when it comes to dental injuries. Do not allow an athlete to wait until the end of a game to seek treatment; dental injuries need to be treated as soon as possible, and typically getting treatment within 2 hours provides the best outcomes.

Depending on the type of injury, you should immediately treat the injury as follows:

FRACTURE: A fracture can include a root fracture, broken tooth, or chipped tooth.

Immediate Treatment: If possible, stabilize the portion of the tooth still in the mouth by biting gently on a towel to control bleeding.

Transportation to Dentist: Athlete and tooth fragments should immediately go to the dentist. The best methods to transport the tooth fragments should be in Hank’s Balanced Salt Solution, milk, saline-soaked gauze, or under the athlete’s tongue.

AVULSION: When the entire tooth, including the root, is knocked out.

Immediate Treatment: Only handle the tooth by the crown, never the root. Do not attempt to brush, scrub or sterilize the tooth. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse with water.

Transportation to Dentist: If possible, place the tooth back in the socket and instruct the athlete to gently bite down on a towel. If you’re unable to re-implant the tooth, transport the tooth with the athlete like the last method immediately.

LUXATION: The tooth is in the socket but the wrong position. An extruded tooth appears longer than the surrounding teeth, and a lateral displacement is a tooth pushed back or forward too far. An intruded tooth is if the tooth is pushed into the gums, and appears short.

Immediate Treatment: For an extruded or lateral displacement, have the athlete gently bite down into a towel, and transport immediately to a dentist.

Transportation to the dentist: For an intruded tooth, do not attempt to reposition the tooth, and transport the athlete immediately to a dentist.

 

Talk to South Charlotte Dentistry about wearing a protective mouthguard.

Don’t leave oral injury to chance! Dental injuries are easily preventable. Dentists and experts recommend that mouthguards are worn by athletes in sports where impact, contact, and collision are likely to occur, during all practices and competitions.

Talk to your dentist at South Charlotte Dentistry about getting a custom mouthguard for this season. A mouthguard should be no different than wearing a jersey or uniform – it is an essential part of your standard athletic equipment! Protect your smile this season by wearing a mouthguard!

 

South Charlotte Dentistry Summer Vacation Dental Tips!

 

Prepping for your Summer vacation? South Charlotte Dentistry has some great suggestions and tips for maintaining your families’ good dental health this Summer.

 

Cool down with frozen and iced beverages, but don’t chew on the ice!

Ice is super satisfying to crunch but bad for your teeth! A cup of ice seems like an innocent snack to reach for – it’s zero calories, it’s hydrating, and it’s water! What’s healthier than water?

Well actually, it turns out that persistently chewing ice can lead to quite a few serious problems.

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but the friction caused by crushing ice with your teeth can still damage your tooth enamel. Your enamel is the first line of defense against cavities, and it helps protect your teeth against sugar and acid erosion. When you damage your teeth by chewing ice, your teeth are left more vulnerable to tooth decay.

Chewing ice can lead to more urgent dental injuries as well, like cracked and chipped teeth, damage to existing dental work like fillings and crowns, or gum injuries. Excessively chewing ice can also commonly increase tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you’re persistently chewing ice and experiencing any of these issues, please contact your team at South Charlotte Dentistry as soon as possible.

It’s tempting to snack on ice to stay cool, but avoid chewing on it, and let the ice remain in your drink to keep it cool. Your tooth enamel (and likely all the people in hearing distance around you) will thank you.

If you have a habit of chewing ice, try the following instead:

• Let the ice dissolve in your mouth, rather than chewing it.
• Opt-in for slushies and drinks with ice slivers, rather than ice cubes.
• Put away the ice and find other crunchy refreshments, like cold carrots, apples, or celery.

If your ice chewing seems like an unstoppable craving, it may also be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. In this case, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician.

 

Sweet, sweet… SWEET summertime!

When we think of Summer, we picture ice cream, snow cones, frozen drinks, popsicles, and delicious iced sweet tea. Do you see a theme emerging here? So much sugar! 

Limit the intake of sodas, sports drinks, alcoholic beverages, and sugary treats. Sugar erodes your teeth' enamel, which can lead to cavities and tooth decay.

 

On that note, stay hydrated.

Instead of alcoholic or sugary drinks, the best liquid you can give to your body is always water! Drinking water has endless benefits for your body, teeth, and overall health. In the summertime, it’s very easy to become dehydrated while swimming, exercising, or spending time out in the sun. When you’re dehydrated, your mouth cannot produce sufficient saliva either. A dry mouth can lead to an increase in bacterial growth, as saliva fights away plaque in the mouth. Help prevent tooth decay and instead promote overall oral health by drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated.

If plain water isn’t your preference, try sparkling water or fruit infused water. Infusing your water with fruit is simple to do, and a pitcher with infused fruit is a beautiful addition to any table. Go easy on any citrus fruits; the acid from lemons and limes can be harsh on your teeth. Sprigs of mint, basil, or other fresh herbs can be a great addition to add a healthy flavor to your water.

 

Choose Summer party foods that are great for your teeth!

Outdoor pool parties, intimate patio gatherings, and big family barbeques are hands-down some of the best parts of Summer! There are tons of Summer party snack options that come to mind, but this summer we urge you to consider those snacks vs your teeth!

Serve the right kind of crunch

Chips and dip are standard party fare – and before we go any further, let’s be clear that we’re the last people trying to cancel chips and dip! But, consider how chips affect your teeth. As you’re chewing chips, little pieces can become stuck in between your teeth, and wet chips settle into the pits of your teeth. This creates cavity-causing bacteria, and not to mention, an inconvenience for your guests that probably want to jab a nail back there and remove the chip residue.

If you’re looking for other snacks that provide a satisfying crunch without replacing an entire meal, look toward crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, peaches, carrots, celery, and raw broccoli. Fruits and veggies are basically like a natural toothbrush, whereas you eat them, they scrub off the built up food residue and stimulate saliva to wash away whatever is left. So to reiterate: you don’t have to give up your chips and salsa, cheese puffs, or beloved classic chips and dip – just balance out your spread with dental-healthy options too.

Charcuterie boards are all the rage – bring on the cheese!

Pinterest and Instagram show us drool-worthy and stunningly aesthetic charcuterie boards, so why not try one this Summer? Nothing makes a greater party statement than a well-put together charcuterie board as a centerpiece. Charcuterie boards provide meat, nuts, pickled veggies, dried and fresh fruits, and most importantly cheese! Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are all low in sugar and rich in calcium and phosphorous. Dairy strengthens and protects enamel, and some research also suggests that eating more dairy can lower your chances of developing gum disease.

Go seedless this summer.

Cut down on unwanted food getting stuck in your guests’ teeth by serving seedless fruits, vegetables, and bread. This can look like choosing potato buns over sesame or poppy seed buns, or picking crunchy fruits instead of kiwi, blackberries, or raspberries. The main summer fruit you can easily go seedless for is – you guessed it – watermelon!

 

Going on vacation? Here’s how you can stick to a dental routine.

Most importantly (and maybe obviously), don’t forget to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss!

There is nothing worse after a long day of travel to get to the sink moments before bed, and realizing you forgot to pack your toothbrush. We’ve all been there – rather than run out to a drugstore, we probably just swish our mouth out and call it a night, leaving the problem unaddressed for the next day. By making a list of your essentials and checking it twice, you won’t be caught off guard. Some hotel stays offer complimentary brushes for their guests, but you shouldn’t count on it.

If you’re traveling abroad, specific brands of toothpaste or mouth rinse may not be available. For those who have a real preference with their toothpaste or require sensitivity toothpaste, this can mean going without those formulas and suffering for the duration of the trip. Resorts, cruises, airports, and tourist hubs also price these items far above their prices back home. Save time and stress by making sure you pack your dental equipment.

Don’t take a break from retainers and mouth guards.

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you should change your dental routines. Taking even a few nights off from your retainers or mouth guards can have permanent damage to your teeth, which will require longer dental plans to see the required results, more visits, and more time and money spent.

Prepare your teeth for takeoff.

Many people experience dry mouth on airplanes due to the circulation of air and the temperature. In combination with wearing masks during plane travel, there’s a good chance you might experience dry mouth while flying. Avoid this by packing a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste in your carry-on in TSA-approved sizes. Bring a travel water bottle and refill once you’re past the security gates. The key to avoiding a dry mouth is to stay hydrated. If you eat before a flight, you can always hit up the bathrooms to give your teeth a quick brush.

Store your toothbrush properly while traveling.

• Purchase a travel safe, breathable container for your toothbrush
• Allow your toothbrush to dry out between uses, especially before packing away. When you put your toothbrush into a Ziploc bag when it’s still damp after use and then throw it into your luggage (i.e. a dark place), you’re putting your toothbrush into a compromising position where bacteria can thrive.

 

Additional tips for keeping kid’s dental health on track in the summertime

As parents have experienced time and time again, the adjustment from the routine of school to the lacking in-between of Summer vacation, kids can have a tough time sticking to their old routine or finding a new one that includes brushing and flossing every day. When children have a disruption in their sleeping and eating schedules, they’re sure to also have a tough time adjusting to new hygiene schedules. While we can’t advise on how to get your kid into the bathtub without putting up a fight, we do have some tips and tricks on how you can ensure that your child is prioritizing their dental health.

Establish and stick to a new post-breakfast and bedtime routine.

School schedules are a relief for most parents; there’s a weekday routine and weekend routine, and for the majority of the year, everything has a time and a place. Summer vacation might mean a more relaxed schedule, but it shouldn’t mean not having a schedule at all.

Summer camp, vacations, and more: remembering to brush their teeth.

When kids are excited about their Summer activities, it’s inevitable that brushing their teeth isn’t going to be their top priority. If they don’t remember to brush and floss every day, they’re going to come back with cavities and tooth decay as summer souvenirs. When you establish a solid dental routine at home, it will be so much easier for kids to stick to them while they’re away.

If they’re away from home, it also helps to let their caregivers or camp counselors know what their routine is if they need to wear something during the day or night (e.g. retainer or mouthguard and as a parent, you can always send gentle reminders or help them set up an alarm on their phone so that they know what time to brush and floss their teeth. If the child understands the benefits of following their dental routine (try not to focus only on the consequences), they will be willing to follow their set routines.

Schedule your back-to-school dental check-up appointment. 

Without fail, the start of a new school year in the Fall brings in a rush of appointments for all health care providers. Avoid the rush and the conflict of all the extra-curricular activities by scheduling your child’s appointment early, before the school year starts. Plus, as soon as the Fall comes, you’ll want your kids to be ready for their yearbook photos with a bright, sparkling smile!

 

As the masks are coming off, make sure YOUR smile is ready to shine!

There’s something particularly beautiful about the simple joy of smiling at a stranger in passing by and the message being received loud and clear with a reciprocal smile, especially after all of this time communicating with our eyes and distanced waves. There is definitely magic in the air this Summer as we begin the process of reconnecting, and become accustomed to subsiding distancing measures and mask mandates.

At South Charlotte Dentistry, we know your friends and family have missed the luxury of seeing your faces up-close and in-person! Make sure your smile is ready to shine this Summer with routine dental cleaning and check-up!

Many patients have canceled or postponed routine appointments, whether it was because of lockdown or emergency-only restrictions, an abundance of caution, or ever-changing schedules and routines that needed adapting to. Whatever the reason or no matter the amount of time passed since your last appointment, there’s no better time than now to get back into your routine cleanings!

If you’re in need of cosmetic services like whitening, an alignment, or other procedures, we can also get you on the schedule. We provide day-of, in-office whitening in less than two hours, meaning you can go home with a whiter smile in no time at all. Give your team at South Charlotte Dentistry a call today!

 

Have a wonderful Summer!

With mask mandates lifting and life seeming to resume normalcy more and more every day, we know everyone can’t wait to reconnect with friends, family, and coworkers in the coming weeks and months. Your team at South Charlotte Dentistry wishes you a very fun-filled and enjoyable Summer, with smiles as bright and healthy as you!