At Thomson Family Dental, we often recommend dental sealants during your child’s next visit to our office. Sealants are a valuable tool in preventing tooth decay, especially on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. To help you make an informed decision about this procedure, here’s what you need to know about how dental sealants can benefit your child’s oral health.

Why Are Sealants Important?

Dental sealants are designed to protect the back teeth, where decay is most likely to occur. These teeth, known as molars, have deep grooves that can trap food and bacteria, making them difficult to clean thoroughly. Applying sealants can prevent up to 80% of decay during the first two years after application and continue to protect against about half of all decay for up to four years. Without sealants, children are three times more likely to experience tooth decay compared to those with sealants.

Ideal Timing for Sealants

Sealants are most effective when applied soon after the molars emerge, which typically occurs around age six for the first set and around age 12 for the second set. Your dentist in Thomson will determine the optimal time to apply sealants based on your child’s specific needs during their routine dental check-up.

What to Expect During Application

Applying sealants is a quick and straightforward process that causes minimal discomfort. First, your child’s teeth will be cleaned and treated with a special gel. Once the gel is removed, the sealant is applied and hardened using a small blue curing light. This process ensures that the sealant bonds securely to the teeth, providing lasting protection.

Are There Any Concerns?

Dental sealants are safe, and allergic reactions are extremely rare. However, if your child has known allergies, it’s important to inform us so we can ensure the best course of action is taken. Sealants typically last for several years, but regular check-ups with your dentist in Thomson are essential to monitor their condition and ensure they remain effective.

Next Steps

To maintain the benefits of sealants and ensure ongoing dental health, regular visits to Thomson Family Dental are crucial. If your child had sealants applied some time ago and you’re unsure if they need replacement, scheduling an appointment with us is a good idea.

For more information about dental sealants or to book your child’s next appointment, please contact Thomson Family Dental. We look forward to helping your family maintain healthy, beautiful smiles.

At Thomson Family Dental, we want to emphasize the significant impact tobacco use can have on your oral health. While many people are aware of the severe health risks associated with smoking and chewing tobacco, it’s crucial to understand how these habits can also adversely affect your mouth and teeth. Here’s a closer look at the effects of tobacco on your oral health.

Effects of Chewing Tobacco

Chewing tobacco has been linked to a dramatically increased risk of developing oral cancers, such as gum and cheek cancer. The Academy of General Dentistry reports that users of chewing tobacco are 50 times more likely to develop these serious conditions. Beyond cancer risks, chewing tobacco leads to gum recession and exposes tooth roots, making them more sensitive and prone to decay. Bacteria can thrive in these areas, leading to further dental issues. To safeguard your oral health, it’s crucial to avoid chewing tobacco. At Thomson Family Dental, our team is ready to offer guidance on quitting this habit and improving your overall dental health.

Impact of Smoking

Smoking has severe consequences for your oral health as well. According to the American Dental Association, smoking a pack of cigarettes daily can result in the loss of up to two teeth per decade. Smokers are at a higher risk of losing teeth compared to non-smokers. Smoking also causes staining, bad breath, and can lead to an unappealing smile. To protect your teeth and gums, it’s best to avoid smoking and cigars altogether.

Risks of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect various areas of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, and the floor of the mouth. Men and individuals over the age of 50 are at a higher risk. Alarmingly, the incidence of oral cancer is rising, especially among younger adults under 30. If you smoke or use tobacco, it’s essential to schedule an oral cancer screening with your dentist in Thomson GA. During this screening, your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for any abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Next Steps for Tobacco Users

If you currently use tobacco, it is highly recommended that you quit as soon as possible. Our dental team at Thomson Family Dental can provide support and resources to help you quit smoking. Regular dental exams are crucial for everyone, but especially for those who use tobacco. We encourage you to visit our office to identify and address any potential issues promptly.

For more information on maintaining oral health or to schedule your next appointment, please contact Thomson Family Dental. We are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

The Risks of Overbrushing: Insights from Thomson Family Dental

If you’re diligent about oral hygiene, you’re likely brushing your teeth twice a day, possibly even after meals. While brushing is essential for removing plaque and preventing decay, it’s possible to overdo it. At Thomson Family Dental, we want to help you understand the potential risks of overbrushing and how to maintain optimal oral health.

What Is Overbrushing?

Overbrushing involves both the frequency and technique of brushing. Excessive brushing, especially when done vigorously, can lead to several dental issues, including abrasion, tooth sensitivity, and gum recession.

Dental Abrasion

Dental abrasion occurs when mechanical forces from a toothbrush wear down the tooth’s enamel. According to the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, abrasion is marked by worn, shiny, or discolored spots on the tooth surface near the gum line. You may also notice wedge-shaped indentations at the gum line.

Tooth Sensitivity

When enamel is eroded due to overbrushing, the underlying dentin layer, which contains nerve endings, becomes exposed. This exposure can cause discomfort or pain when your teeth come into contact with hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

Gum Recession

Brushing too aggressively or improperly can also lead to gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing the softer cementum. This not only increases the risk of tooth sensitivity but can also lead to decay and further dental issues.

Protecting Your Teeth from Overbrushing

If you’ve experienced dental abrasion or gum recession, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly. Treatments may include fluoride varnishes to strengthen enamel, tooth-colored fillings to cover worn areas, or veneers for added protection. In severe cases, gum grafting might be necessary to restore lost gum tissue and protect exposed areas.

Proper Brushing Techniques

Preventing overbrushing is straightforward with the right techniques and tools:

• Choose a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Soft bristles are gentler on your teeth and gums compared to stiff bristles, which can cause abrasion and gum recession.
• Select the Right Toothpaste: Avoid highly abrasive toothpaste. Opt for a fluoride toothpaste with calcium to strengthen enamel.
• Use Gentle Pressure: If your toothbrush bristles flatten or fray quickly, you may be brushing too hard. Use a gentle, circular motion with your toothbrush angled towards the gum line.
• Wait Before Brushing: Avoid brushing immediately after eating, especially if you’ve consumed acidic foods or drinks. Wait at least 60 minutes to allow your enamel to re-harden.
• Avoid Harmful Habits: Activities such as opening bottles with your teeth or biting your nails can cause abrasion. Be mindful of these habits to protect your enamel.

For a healthier smile, it’s essential to brush correctly and gently. At Thomson Family Dental, we’re here to help you achieve the best oral health practices. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your brushing habits are supporting, not harming, your dental health.

The Impact of Oral Health on Overall Well-being: Insights from Thomson Family Dental

Good oral hygiene is commonly taught from childhood, emphasizing the importance of brushing twice daily. But is this sufficient for maintaining overall health? Research is ongoing, and while some studies are still debated, evidence suggests a significant link between oral health and various aspects of well-being. At Thomson Family Dental, we believe understanding these connections can help you take better care of your health.

The Broader Impact of Poor Oral Health

Poor oral health doesn’t only affect your mouth. It can have far-reaching consequences for your body. Research indicates that inadequate oral hygiene may contribute to cardiovascular issues, particularly in men. Bacteria from the gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to artery hardening, blood clotting, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Additionally, the inhalation of bacteria-laden air can affect lung health, leading to inflammation and infections.

Oral Health and Brain Function

Recent studies suggest a potential connection between poor oral health and brain function. For instance, gingivitis may allow bacteria to travel through nerve pathways to the brain or enter via the bloodstream, potentially contributing to cognitive decline and dementia. Research from Rutgers University has highlighted the impact of oral health on memory and cognitive functions, indicating that poor oral hygiene could impair complex attention and learning abilities. Stress, which is often linked with oral health issues like dry mouth, can further exacerbate these problems.

Maintaining Optimal Oral Health

To protect yourself from the negative effects of poor oral hygiene, it’s essential to maintain effective dental care practices.

Here are some steps to ensure you’re safeguarding your overall health:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
• Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque between your teeth that brushing alone may miss.
• Use Mouthwash: Mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule biannual check-ups and cleanings with your local dentist in Thomson GA to monitor and maintain your oral health.

At Thomson Family Dental, we are dedicated to helping you maintain not just a beautiful smile, but also a healthy body. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and discuss how you can enhance your oral health to protect your overall well-being.

Many people assume that because dentures aren’t real teeth, they don’t require the same level of care and maintenance as natural teeth. However, this isn’t true. All dentures, whether partial or full, need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and stains. Proper care keeps both your dentures and mouth in good shape. Here are some tips from Thomson Family Dental, your trusted dentist in Thomson, on how to take care of your dentures:

Rinsing

After every meal or snack, and after brushing your teeth, remove and rinse your dentures. This helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Always handle your dentures carefully and avoid using hot water, which can warp them.

Brushing

Just like natural teeth, it’s crucial to brush your dentures. Every morning and night, brush your gums, tongue, the roof of your mouth, and any natural teeth you have. Place towels around your sink and on hard surfaces to prevent damage if your dentures fall. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid abrasive cleaning solutions. Water, denture paste, or non-abrasive toothpaste are safe options. For recommendations on how to safely clean your dentures, contact our dental office.

Removing Adhesives

To remove adhesive residue, gargle with warm saltwater. Use a clean washcloth to clean your gums and the roof of your mouth, then rinse again with warm water. For stubborn adhesive bits, brush your gums with a soft toothbrush.

Soaking Overnight

Soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaning solution or water. You can also use a fast-acting cleanser before storing them in water. Follow the instructions on the denture cleaner package. If you have partial dentures, use a solution specifically designed for them.

When not wearing them, always submerge your partial or full dentures in water or denture solution. The acrylic can dry out over time, losing shape and becoming brittle, which leads to poor fit and discomfort. Dentures contain hundreds of microscopic holes, so keeping them moist is crucial to prolong their life. When dentures dry out, several issues can arise:

• Comfort Issues: Moisture keeps dentures pliable, ensuring they stay comfortable in your mouth.
• Contamination: Soaking dentures in a cleaning solution at night eliminates harmful bacteria.
• Brittleness: Dry dentures are brittle and more likely to break if dropped. If they break, you’ll have to start the entire process over again.

Regular Dental Visits

Ensure you see your dentist regularly to have your mouth and dentures examined and cleaned. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Thomson Family Dental. Your dentist in Thomson is here to help you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.

Maintaining a regular schedule can be challenging when you travel. For many, brushing and flossing may seem time-consuming. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, here are some helpful tips from Thomson Family Dental to maintain your oral health while away from home.

Choose Wisely When Packing

If you’re traveling for an extended period, be sure to pack enough toothpaste and floss. If space is limited, consider travel-sized products. Another solution is purchasing disposable toothbrushes, which require less space and are convenient if left behind. Many disposable toothbrushes come with toothpaste already applied. Ensure the bristles are soft, as many disposables do not have soft bristles. Your dentist in Thomson can provide recommendations.

Keep Your Toothbrush Covered

Traveling exposes you to various germs. Whether staying in hotels or visiting friends and family, a toothbrush cover can prevent your brush from coming into contact with germs on sinks and nightstands.

Water Is Good for You

Traveling often involves trying new foods. However, sugary or acidic foods and drinks can damage your teeth. Water is beneficial not only for hydration but also for your teeth. Drinking water helps remove bacteria, neutralize acids, and promotes saliva production, which supports a healthy mouth. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle on your travels.

Don’t Forget the Floss

While brushing is crucial, don’t neglect flossing when you travel. Always pack floss along with your toothbrush. Disposable flossers are convenient, worth the expense, and can easily be included in your travel hygiene kit.

Maintain Good Habits

Keep up with your oral hygiene routine while traveling. Brush twice a day for two minutes and floss daily. Maintaining good oral health on the go is challenging but necessary. Travel can be both fun and stressful, but a healthy smile requires regular, thorough care and continued visits to your dentist in Thomson.

For your oral health needs, schedule an appointment with Thomson Family Dental. We’re here to help you maintain a bright, healthy smile no matter where your travels take you.

Loss of teeth, persistent bad breath, and bleeding gums are telltale signs of periodontal disease. Yet, this condition can quietly take root without noticeable symptoms, potentially leading to irreversible damage if left unchecked. The good news? Preventing periodontal disease is within reach, and one simple tool can make all the difference, requiring just a few minutes each day.

Enter the mighty floss. Dental floss stands as a stalwart defender against periodontal disease, boasting ease of use and high effectiveness. The accumulation of plaque and bacteria between teeth fuels periodontal disease, making daily flossing a vital addition to your oral care routine. While brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes is crucial, incorporating flossing into your regimen ensures thorough cleaning in areas unreachable by a toothbrush. If flossing presents challenges, fear not—our dental office offers solutions to aid in this essential practice.

Facts about flossing may surprise you. A study by the American Dental Association found that only 40% of Americans floss daily, despite its proven benefits for dental health. Moreover, research by the American Academy of Periodontology revealed that 27% of adults were less than forthcoming about their flossing habits when questioned by their dentist. While flossing alongside brushing isn’t necessary every time, making it a daily habit significantly contributes to oral health.

Mastering proper flossing technique is key. Take approximately 18 inches of floss, holding it taut between your thumb and index finger. Utilize about one inch of floss to clean between each pair of teeth, avoiding gliding the floss forcefully into the gums to prevent bruising or irritation. Remember to use a fresh section of floss between adjacent teeth as you progress along the length.

Just a few minutes dedicated to flossing each day can pave the way for a lifetime of oral health. It’s among the most effective methods for maintaining healthy gums and staving off tooth decay between teeth. Prioritize regular flossing—your gums will thank you.

Don’t forget to schedule biannual dental visits for professional cleanings and examinations. Contact Thomson Family Dental today to arrange your appointment and take proactive steps toward optimal oral health.

Seniors, take note: gum health is crucial as we age, and Thomson Dentist is here to guide you through it. As we grow older, the risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. But fear not, because with proper care, periodontal disease is preventable and often reversible. Neglecting gum health can lead to complications like bleeding or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. More concerning are the studies linking periodontal disease to serious illnesses.

Research from the University of Southampton and King’s College London reveals a correlation between periodontal disease and cognitive decline in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease. Those with periodontal disease experienced cognitive decline six times faster than their counterparts without it. Furthermore, periodontal disease heightens the risk of heart disease or stroke, especially as we age. Regular dental cleanings and screenings are essential to maintain gum health and prevent associated health issues.

Consider the statistics: The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74 have moderate to severe periodontal disease. This figure rises to over 20% for those over 75, with men being more susceptible than women. Smoking also significantly increases the likelihood of periodontal disease, with 32% of current smokers affected compared to 14% of non-smokers.

So, what can you do? Taking care of your gums is paramount. By maintaining good oral hygiene, you can reduce the risk of serious ailments like heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s. Brushing twice daily for two minutes each time and flossing daily are fundamental practices. Flossing reaches areas your toothbrush can’t, ensuring comprehensive cleaning. If you find traditional flossing challenging, consider using floss holders available in many stores.

For any queries about your oral health, Thomson Family Dental is here to help. Contact our office to schedule a consultation appointment, and let’s ensure your gums stay healthy for years to come.

Exercise is crucial for maintaining overall health, but could it potentially harm your teeth? Recent studies have explored the relationship between fitness habits and dental health, highlighting several ways in which exercise can influence the condition of your teeth.

Dry Mouth Concerns: Intense physical activity often involves heavy mouth breathing, which can lead to reduced saliva production and dry mouth. Saliva plays a vital role in protecting against decay-causing bacteria by containing minerals and enzymes. To combat dry mouth during exercise, try breathing through your nose whenever possible and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Additionally, brushing your teeth before exercising can help reduce the presence of bacteria and plaque on your teeth.

Teeth Clenching Risks: Athletes who exert themselves during activities like weightlifting may inadvertently clench their jaws, leading to wear and possible fractures in teeth. To safeguard against teeth clenching, consider wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards are readily available at drugstores or sporting goods stores, or you can opt for a customized mouthguard from your dentist. Regardless of the sport, wearing a mouthguard is a wise choice to protect your teeth from potential damage.

Beware of Sports Drinks: While sports drinks are commonly consumed during exercise to replenish electrolytes, they often contain high levels of sugar and citric acid, making them highly erosive to tooth enamel. Opting for water instead of sports drinks can help prevent damage to your teeth. If you do consume a sugary drink, try to consume it quickly rather than sipping it slowly over an extended period. Afterward, rinse your mouth with water to help neutralize acidity levels and minimize potential harm to your teeth.

Managing Sugar Intake: Consuming foods or drinks high in sugar or carbohydrates can lead to acid attacks on tooth enamel. It’s best to limit sugar consumption to specific times rather than continuously throughout the day. Drinking water after consuming sugary foods can help reduce acidity levels in the mouth and promote oral health.

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. We recommend scheduling appointments with your dentist twice a year to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy. If you have any concerns about the impact of exercise on your dental health or wish to schedule a dental appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact our dental office. We’re here to support your oral health journey every step of the way.