How To Beat Bad Breath

Young woman checking breath.

Bad Breath-Let’s Get Rid of It

Bad breath, sometimes known as halitosis, is a blight many people bear. But what causes it? And how can we get rid of it once and for all?

What Causes Bad Breath?

• Certain Foods-Although all foods can cause bacteria buildup and bad breath, onions and garlic cause bad breath in a different way. They are absorbed into the blood stream and sulfur compounds are released once they reach the lungs.
• Poor Dental Hygiene-This is the most common cause of bad breath. Food left on the teeth is a very quick way to not smell great.
• Illness-Kidney disease, acid reflux, advanced diabetes, liver failure, and infection are also common causes of bad breath.

How Can We Get Rid of Bad Breath?

• Good Dental Hygiene-We know this. Brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping are great ways to keep a clean mouth.
• Regular Visits to the Dentist-It is imperative to visit your dentist. If you are worried about your breath, ask your dentist to help. The dental team at Park 56 is happy to help with breath issues.
• Stay Hydrated-Water is so beneficial to the body. It can help flush the body of toxins and wash food particles off your teeth.
• Stay Away from Alcohol-Based Mouthwash-Although that first burst of freshness can feel great, alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out the mouth and cause worse issues with breath. Try to find a hydrating mouthwash.
• Quit Tobacco-Cigarettes, smoke-free tobacco, pipes, ecigs, and cigars are all stinky. There is no type of tobacco that is safe to use. And it is all going to cause bad breath. Stay away.
• Drink in Moderation-Red wine has good bacteria that can help reduce breath issues. One glass is fine. There are other types of alcohol that contain good bacteria. But for the most part, drinking is not good for your breath. Try to stick to a drink or two, a couple times a week. This way you won’t wreck your dental health and your breath will stay fresh.

Some Quick Remedies for Bad Breath

• Citrus-These delicious fruits are refreshing and can clean the teeth. Just don’t go crazy with lemons. They can be a little too acidic if not consumed in moderation.
• Milk-A glass of milk can cut down on onion or garlic breath.
• Apples-We all know that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. It can help keep you from dental issues, too. Apples are great at quickly cleaning the teeth.
• Yogurt-There are healthy bacteria in yogurt that can actually combat the harmful bacteria that causes bad breath.
• Parsley and Fennel-Certain herbs can combat bad breath when chewed.
• Sugar-Free Gum-Many dentists recommend chewing a piece of sugar-free gum if you don’t have the time to brush and floss between meals.

Park 56 Dental
When you are looking for the best advice about how to keep a healthy mouth and great smelling breath, the best place in New York is Park 56 Dental. Voted the number one dentist in the New York area, we have everything you need for perfecting that beautiful smile. For more information about dental services, to book an appointment, or to ask any questions about your teeth, visit our website or give us a call at (646) 679-3973.

The Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Young woman with good dental hygiene habits.

We know a lot about the fact that it’s important to keep a clean mouth. We also know that the way to a clean mouth is by brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. What are the reasons we want to keep a clean mouth? Here are some facts about oral hygiene, including some tips you may not have known about keeping those pearly whites nice and healthy!

1. Keeping Your Teeth
   This one may seem obvious, but some people don’t realize how easy it is for teeth to fall out of an unhealthy smile. It’s not only tooth decay, but there are other ways you can easily lose teeth. Gum disease is another way that teeth can fall out. We need our teeth to enjoy those delicious, healthy foods. Not only that, those who keep all of their teeth for life are likely to live longer than those without all of their 20 teeth. So do your best to keep a clean mouth and healthy teeth.
2. Lowers Risk of Sickness and Disease-This is a big one. Did you know that keeping your teeth clean can greatly reduce your risk of serious illness? It’s a fact. Here are some facts about disease that you maybe didn’t know.

• Covid-Recent studies have shown that keeping your mouth clean can reduce your risk of suffering a fatal outcome from covid. Keep your mouth clean and reduce your risks.
• Heart Disease-Gum disease and periodontal disease have been linked to heart disease according to the CDC. It is theorized that bacteria from the gums enter the bloodstream and affect the cardiovascular system.
• Cancer-As if that weren’t enough, gum disease has been linked to certain cancers as well. In fact, those with gum disease are 14% more likely to experience some form of cancer in their lifetime. Those with gum disease are more likely to develop gall bladder cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, and skin cancer.
• Dementia-Another big one, this one is hard to hear. But there is a 70% greater chance of developing dementia for someone who has unhealthy gums than for someone who has healthy gums. Gum disease is a very serious affliction.

3. Having a Healthy Baby
   Moms who have healthy mouths are much less likely to have premature babies or babies with low birth weight. If you are pregnant, keep those teeth nice and clean and you will increase your beautiful baby’s chance at a healthy birth.
4. Staying Gorgeous
   Keeping all your teeth means you’re just one step closer to lifelong beauty. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams will help you keep the wonderful smile you were born with and that is very important. Whether it’s a first date, a job interview, or your first day at college, having a healthy and attractive smile means you’re able to put your best foot forward in every situation.

Park 56 Dental
When you are looking for the best advice about how to keep a healthy mouth and a healthy body the best place in New York is Park 56 Dental. Voted the number one dentist in the New York area, we have everything you need for perfecting that beautiful smile. For more information about or to ask any questions about your teeth, visit our website or give us a call at (646) 679-3973.

Five Big Ways to Improve Your Dental Health in 2024

Getting healthier teeth in 2024.

Your smile is the first thing people see when they meet you! First impressions are important so here are some ways to improve that smile. Follow these tips and you will be the one who sparkles when you walk in the room.

1.Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Seems like a no brainer, but there are many details in your brushing routine that you could be doing wrong.

• Brush at least twice a day -Brushing regularly is key. Make sure you are cleaning those pearly whites more than once a day.

• Labels-First check your label and make sure that your toothpaste has fluoride in it. Fluoride is very important for keeping teeth strong. It can actually work through remineralization which is the regrowth of a partially decayed tooth.

• Floss-Brushing your teeth doesn’t complete the job. Make sure you floss, too!

2. Please do not use Tobacco and Limit Alcohol

Tobacco is so last century. If you smoke, please quit. All tobacco use is absolutely terrible for your dental health.

If you drink, try to limit your alcohol to occasional usage. Alcohol can have a major impact on your dental health. Alcohol consumption can increase bacteria and cause tooth decay. It’s also full of sugar. So this New Year, 2024, dentists recommend cutting your alcohol consumption in half.

3. Stay Hydrated

Studies show that staying hydrated is a great way to improve your breath. It helps with saliva production as well. Good hydration can even help remove bacteria or bits of food that could be lingering after a meal if you haven’t had time to brush.

4. Eat Healthy Food

Not only do those crunchy, delicious fruits and veggies help clean your teeth, they also provide essential nutrients for a healthy smile. From apples and carrots to eggs and milk, all of these healthy dietary choices are key in giving you that healthy smile by providing the vitamins and minerals you need.

Ask your dental healthcare provider for more tips on foods with great nutrients for good dental health. There are delicious options out there!

5. Schedule Routine Dental Check-Ups

The best way to stay on top of things in 2024 is to get it all scheduled. Get those dental visits in your planner! If you want to make sure your dental health is the best it can be, make sure you are seeing your dentist regularly throughout the new year! This means every six months.

Wishing you all the best and especially a gorgeous and healthy smile in 2024!

Park 56 Dental

Interested in chatting more about how to improve your dental health in 2024? Park 56 Dental is the way to go! Voted #1 in New York City, the dentists at Park 56 Dental have the answers! Park 56 Dental is known for great dentistry. We provide the best treatments in town from pediatric dentistry to endodontics, oral surgery to prosthodontics, emergency to sedation dentistry. You and your family can count on us to make you feel welcome and comfortable at each visit! Be sure to visit our website or if you’d like to make an appointment, click here to book online or call (646) 679-3989.

Vitamins and Minerals for Good Dental Health

Man eating healthy food for healthy teeth.

A healthy diet can provide you with good resources for building healthy teeth and having healthy gums. We all know that avoiding sweets and starch is good for your teeth, but it doesn’t end there. Many foods can also provide you with bone building nutrients for your body so that your teeth will be healthy and strong.

Why are Vitamins and Minerals Important for Teeth?

All the organ systems in the body require nutrients to thrive. Each organ system requires a certain type of vitamins and minerals to perform the action required of them. The mouth, teeth and gums are no different. They also require specific nutrients in order to function properly. Here are some of the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy mouth and the foods you can eat to add these nutrients to your diet.

Here are some vitamins and minerals that can really help with great dental health!

Calcium

Most of us know that calcium is good for our bones. It’s good for our teeth, too. Calcium is essential in bone health, and it is crucial in strengthening your tooth’s enamel. If you’re curious about how to get calcium into your system, you can get it through milk, cheese, yogurt, and eggs. If you don’t do dairy, you can obtain calcium through almonds, salmon, broccoli, Bok choy, kale, collard greens, and turnips. Make sure not to overcook these veggies, so they continue to hold their nutrients.

Vitamin C

Known for being good for the immune system, vitamin C is also essential for the teeth. It assists in the absorption of calcium and helps protect the cells which produce dentin, the inner layer of the tooth. Vitamin C is also essential for the health of connective tissues, which includes the gums. Vitamin C is readily available in many kinds of foods like citrus fruits, broccoli, leafy greens, and potatoes.

Phosphorus

Whole grains, milk, eggs, fish, and other protein-rich foods are the best ways to get this eesential vitamin into your diet and get on your way to a healthy smile. Phosphorus assists the body in absorbing calcium and helps to strengthen teeth by protecting tooth enamel. A supplement is usually not needed to get this nutrient in your diet. Most of us get plenty of it!

Vitamin D

Grab that glass of milk! You’ll want to get the one food most fortified with vitamin d if you want to flash those pearly whites with confidence. A deficiency in vitamin D can cause many oral health issues including gingivitis, gum disease and cavities. If milk isn’t for you, many foods contain vitamin D, including salmon, canned tuna, and mushrooms. And other foods such as cereal and orange juice are also fortified with this important nutrient.

Vitamin A

This nutrient helps you produce saliva which is important for breaking down food and bacteria, keeping those chompers nice and clean. Vitamin A is found in many dietary choices, including fruits, veggies, fish, and eggs.

What About Supplements?

If you or your dentist think that your diet doesn’t contain enough of the nutrients you need for a healthy smile, there are many supplements available that can help you access what you need! If you have concerns, consult with your dentist or physician about supplements you can take to complete your nutrient needs.

Now that you know how to build that healthy smile, it’s a great time to grab a nutrient packed snack!

Park 56 Dental

Have questions about the vitamins and mineral that can help you with your dental health? Park 56 is here to help! Voted #1 in New York City, the dentists at Park 56 Dental have the answers! Park 56 Dental is known for great dentistry. We provide the best treatments in town from pediatric dentistry to endodontics, oral surgery to prosthodontics, emergency to sedation dentistry. You and your family can count on us to make you feel welcome and comfortable at each visit! Be sure to visit our website or if you’d like to make an appointment, click here to book online or call (646) 679-3989.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-Being

Woman caring for her dental health.

Good dental hygiene provides an extra boost of confidence. It’s easy to smile and share in conversations when you know your teeth are at their best. But aesthetics isn’t the only reason that you should be keen on keeping your mouth spic and span. Your overall wellness can depend on good dental routine, along with regular checkups and cleanings at your dentist. Let’s look at some of the different ways a healthy mouth can help you live a better life.

A Stitch in Time

Maintaining good dental hygiene practices, such as daily brushing and flossing, combined with regular dental checkups, can help you avoid issues such as cavities, gum disease and tooth decay. Left unchecked, these conditions can worsen to discomfort, infection, and tooth loss. Taking a proactive approach to your dental routine is the best way to stop problems before they can start.

Good For the Wallet

Fixing a serious dental problem is much more expensive than preventing the problem in the first place. The average root canal can cost anywhere from $700 to upwards of $2,000, depending on the tooth location. Dentures or dental implants cost even more. You can save yourself a headache, and a toothache, by proactively engaging in good dental hygiene.

For Your Health

Bad dental hygiene has been linked to serious health problems. Mouths are full of various types of bacteria, most of them harmless. But bacterial buildup from gum disease can contribute to bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of the heart’s chambers and valves. There is also a link between cardiovascular disease and gum disease, though scientists do not yet fully understand the connection. Inhaling the excess bacteria resulting from poor dental hygiene can even lead to respiratory disease and pneumonia.

Communication Matters

Your smile isn’t just for show; it’s an essential tool for communication. Dental problems like missing teeth can affect the way you talk, potentially causing confusion and eroding your social confidence. Maintaining proper oral health can help ensure your message stays on track.

Mental Health

Experiencing pain in your mouth is more than just an inconvenience. Dental problems can cause psychological issues and result in lower feelings of self-worth. On the other hand, a healthy smile can boost your confidence and increase your overall happiness.

Looking Out for Baby

For expectant mothers, oral health during pregnancy is crucial. Poor oral health has been associated with preterm birth and low birth weight. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make women more susceptible to dental issues, underscoring the importance of dental care during this critical time.

The link between good oral health and overall well-being is undeniable. It’s not just about a dazzling smile; it’s about your physical, mental, financial, and emotional health. Park 56 Dental is here to be your partner in dental wellness. Voted NYC’s best dentist, we specialize in pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry. Don’t skip those dental appointments. Keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine and address any oral health concerns promptly. Your smile reflects your overall well-being, so let us help you make it a healthy one.

Preventing Dental Emergencies: Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Teeth Safe

Man taking care of teeth to prevent dental emergencies.

Dental Emergencies Are a Problem

When you have a dental emergency, it’s more than just inconvenient, it’s also traumatic. Painful and stressful, accidents can lead to hours at the emergency dentist and, in some cases, permanent tooth loss or severe gum bleeding. While there’s no way to prevent accidents completely, there are a few steps you can take to avoid most dental emergencies.

Your Dentist is Your Ally

Regular dental visits can help keep your teeth healthy and strong, catching problems before they become emergencies. What’s more, your dentist can recommend measures like sealants to protect your teeth from decay or an oral appliance to guard against bruxism. See your dentist twice a year for preventive care and a cleaning. Being proactive about preventive dental care can be much less costly and stressful in the long run.

Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Safe

• Practice good dental hygiene. At home, brush twice a day, floss at least once, and use mouthwash. Keeping your teeth clean can help prevent cavities, gum disease, cracks, fractures, and infections. Having your teeth deep cleaned at the dentist’s office twice a year gives added protection.
• Eat a tooth-strengthening diet. Eat a nutrient-dense diet, taking care to eat foods like leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables, and calcium-rich foods. Limit consumption of processed foods and sugary sweets, which can cause plaque buildup and feed the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
• Protect your teeth during sports. If you participate in sports, talk to your dentist about getting a custom-made mouthguard. This can make a big difference in keeping your teeth from being knocked out or damaged. You might also want a mouthguard to wear at night, to prevent teeth grinding.
• Manage your stress. Stress is bad for your whole body, and it can damage your teeth. People who are stressed may absentmindedly chew on hard things, and stress can cause people to grind their teeth. Embrace techniques like mindfulness, practice yoga, or find other healthy ways to manage your stress.
• Remember that teeth are not tools. We’ve all used our teeth for something we shouldn’t from time to time, when we can’t find the scissors, or the bottle opener is in another room. It could be fine, but then on the other hand, it only takes once for a tooth to crack. The convenience of not having to rummage through a drawer or ask for help is not worth risking your teeth.
• Don’t hesitate to seek dental care. Don’t let a dental emergency get out of hand. If you have a toothache, seek treatment as quickly as possible. Pain is an indication that something is not right, and getting treatment quickly can mean the difference between a routine procedure and serious oral surgery.

Park 56 is Here for Your Emergencies

If you’re looking for a dentist in New York, why not choose the dentist voted best in the city? At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

Foods that Naturally Help Prevent Cavities

Healthy food for healthy teeth.

Avoiding Cavities

You have heard since childhood that eating too many sugary sweets will give you cavities. As an adult, you might even be aware that simple carbs, dried fruit, and acidic foods can all lead to the formation of cavities. What you may not know, though, is that you can be proactive in what you eat, and consume foods that actually prevent cavities instead of just avoiding foods. Read on- we’ve got the scoop on eating foods that are good for your teeth.

Healing Cavities

If you think about the human body, it’s pretty amazing, in the ways it heals itself. Our immune systems rush to repair damage caused by a wound or injury, which is remarkable. Did you know that the mouth can heal itself, too? Saliva helps remineralize your teeth and stop tooth decay in the early stages. However, as with other part of the body, the mouth’s healing process requires the support of the right vitamins and minerals. To heal cavities before they take hold, eat foods rich in the following nutrients:

• Calcium
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin K2
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Xylitol

Understanding Cavities

Do you know how cavities form? It’s a complex process, and can take days, weeks, or even months. First, plaque forms when bacteria and food particles coat the surface of the tooth and are allowed to remain there. Plaque buildup increases as the plaque is fed by carbohydrates like sugars or bread, and as this happens, the plaque excretes acids that wear away at the tooth. If this is allowed to continue, the acid results in cavities, which are holes in the teeth. Once you have cavities, it makes it easier to spread infection and harder to maintain dental hygiene, creating a vicious cycle. That’s why it’s so important to fill your diet with foods that counteract cavities.

Foods that Help Prevent Cavities

While simple starches fuel cavity-causing bacteria, certain foods and drinks strengthen your teeth and lower the risk of cavities by reducing unhealthy bacteria in your mouth. Eggs and dairy provide vitamin D, and yogurt boosts immunity with probiotics. Another benefit of dairy foods, like milk, cheese, and yogurt, is that they’re rich in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth. Other calcium rich foods include canned sardines and salmon (with edible bones), almonds, leafy greens, broccoli, seeds, beans and lentils, rhubarb, figs, and amaranth. Vitamin K2 helps the body move calcium from the bloodstream to bones and teeth, and this nutrient can be found in beef or chicken liver, chicken breast, butter, sauerkraut, ground beef, and salami. Beans are rich in phosphate, which helps remineralize teeth, and another nutrient that helps with this process is potassium, found in avocados. The magnesium you need to support healthy teeth is found in leafy greens, nuts and seeds, whole grains, quinoa, soy, tofu, and avocado, and blackstrap molasses. Sweet potatoes are very high in vitamin A, which promotes salivary function and balances oral pH and reduces cavity-causing bacteria. Tea also reduces harmful bacteria and drinking it can prevent cavities, but it’s also important to drink plenty of water, to rinse debris from your teeth throughout the day.

Providing Support to Your Teeth

Remineralizing your teeth requires preventing tooth decay from disrupting the natural remineralization process. In addition to a healthy diet, there are some other best practices that can help:

• Brush your teeth twice a day. Using gentle circles angled at your gums, brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush to help remove harmful bacteria from your teeth.
• Floss at least once a day. Floss with string floss or use an irrigator. Better yet, use both, to reduce double the plaque buildup.
• Use good toothpaste. High-quality fluoride toothpaste, approved by the American Dental Association (ADA), can help with remineralization.
• See your dentist regularly. Visiting your dentist twice a year for a deep cleaning and an exam can help catch oral health issues before they become problems.

Partner with Park 56 to Protect Your Teeth

If you’re looking for a dentist in New York, why not choose the dentist voted best in the city? At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. We serve the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, with a patient-centered practice that has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.

How to Care for Dental Veneers

If you’re looking to improve your smile, dental veneers are a great way to do it. But like anything else, proper care is essential to get the most out of your dental veneers. Park 56 Dental in New York can help you understand how best to take care of them so that they look their best and last as long as possible. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of your dental veneers.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are small pieces of porcelain or composite material that are custom-made to fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. They can be used to cover chips, discoloration, gaps between teeth, or other minor issues with your smile. Veneers can also help improve the alignment and shape of your teeth while providing a natural-looking result.

Avoid Grinding and Clenching Teeth

Veneer-related tooth damage is most often caused by grinding or clenching the teeth excessively. This type of wear-and-tear is often caused by stress and can cause damage to both natural and veneered teeth if left unchecked. If you have been grinding or clenching your teeth, it’s important to visit Park 56 so one of our dentists can assess the situation and come up with a plan for treatment.

Use Veneer-Friendly Toothpaste

It’s also important that you use toothpaste that’s specifically designed for people who have veneers on their teeth—these products are specially formulated not to damage dental work like composites or porcelain restorations. Our team at Park 56 can recommend specific products that won’t damage your veneers while still delivering excellent cleaning power!

Daily Maintenance

The best way to extend the life of your dental veneers is to practice good oral hygiene every day. This means brushing twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing at least once a day, and using an antiseptic mouthwash when needed. Make sure to use gentle strokes when brushing and avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes that may scratch the surface of your veneers.

Regular Checkups

It’s important to visit Park 56 Dental regularly for checkups, cleaning, and maintenance—at least twice a year—to ensure that your teeth are healthy and that your veneers look their best. During these visits, our professionals will check for signs of decay or damage and provide advice on how you can continue caring for your dental veneer investment.  In addition, they can also repair or replace any damaged or worn-out veneers if necessary.

Avoid Certain Foods

You may still be able to enjoy some unhealthy foods such as candy or chips after getting dental veneers, but there are some foods that should still be avoided whenever possible to protect them from staining or cracking. Hard foods like nuts and apples should be chopped into smaller pieces before eating; sticky treats like chewing gum should be avoided altogether; acidic drinks such as coffee or soda should be consumed with caution; and darkly pigmented foods like blueberries can leave stains behind if not properly rinsed away afterwards.

Schedule an Appointment with Park 56 Dental Today!

With proper maintenance and regular checkups at Park 56 Dental in New York City, your dental veneers will stay looking beautiful for years to come! Taking just a few simple steps each day can extend the life of your investment significantly while helping you maintain a healthy smile overall. So don’t hesitate—contact us today if you have any questions about taking care of your dental veneers!

Simple Ways to Motivate You to Floss Every Day

Good oral hygiene is important for a healthy mouth, and one of the most effective ways to achieve it? That’s right—flossing! Flossing is one of the most important habits you can adopt to maintain good oral health. According to research, only 4 out of 10 adults floss daily and only 1 in 3 actually flosses correctly. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. But sometimes it’s hard to remember to do it every day. So here are some simple motivators that might help you get into the habit of regular flossing.

Find a Flossing Product That Works for You

The type of floss you use matters! Many people don’t realize that different types of floss work differently for different types of teeth and mouth needs. Waxed, non-waxed, disposable floss sticks, electric or water flossers—there are so many options available! If one type of product isn’t working well with your teeth and gums, try another! Experiment with different products until you find the perfect one for your personal oral hygiene routine.

Keep Your Floss in Sight

If you have your dental floss handy, you are more likely to remember to use it every day! Try keeping an extra package at the office or even in your pocket or purse wherever you go. You should also keep a container on the sink or bathroom countertop as a constant reminder that it’s time to floss every day!

Set A Goal

One of the best ways to make sure you stick with something is to set a goal. Make a goal that you can realistically achieve, like “I will floss at least twice a week for the next month.” Once you reach that goal, reward yourself by doing something special or purchasing something nice! This will help motivate you to keep going and eventually make daily flossing part of your routine.

Create A Chart

If setting goals isn’t quite your thing, another way to motivate yourself is by creating a chart or calendar that tracks your progress. Every day after you floss, mark it off in your chart or on your calendar as a reminder that you achieved your goal for the day. Seeing this progress can give you an added boost of motivation and encouragement!

Use A Reminder App

If neither of these methods seem like they’d work for you, consider downloading a reminder app onto your phone or laptop. With this type of app, all you have to do is set the time when you want it to remind you each day–it could be right before bedtime, so it becomes part of your nighttime routine–and then just follow through with the action when the reminder goes off!

Get Flossing!

Flossing every day is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene and overall health. And while remembering to do it can be difficult at times, there are several easy strategies available that can help motivate and remind us so that we don’t forget! Whether it’s setting goals and rewarding yourself for reaching them, using visuals like charts and calendars, or using apps on our phones for reminders—these simple strategies can help ensure we stick with our daily flossing routine.

If any questions remain about flossing or other dental-related topics such as teeth whitening services offered at Park 56 Dental in New York City, please contact us today!

The Relationship Between Oral Health and Acne

Have you ever woken up to a new pimple on your face and wondered where it could have possibly come from? Most of us can attribute our breakouts to stress, not getting enough sleep, or poor diet, but sometimes the cause of our acne is closer than we think. Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene can lead to breakouts on the face, specifically around the mouth and chin area. This is because the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria, which is known to cause acne, can live in the mouth and be transferred to the skin through activities such as biting your nails, touching your face, or even kissing somebody on the cheek.

To help prevent oral hygiene-related acne, be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly, and if you bite your nails or have other habits that could transfer bacteria from your mouth to your face, try to break those habits. With a little care and effort, you can help keep your skin looking clear and healthy. Read on to learn more about the relationship between oral health and acne.

Oral Bacteria and Acne

Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, many of which are beneficial. However, some types of bacteria can cause or contribute to acne. For example, Propionibacterium acnes is a type of bacteria that grows in the sebaceous glands of the skin. This bacteria feeds on sebum, the oily substance that these glands produce. When Propionibacterium acnes multiplies, it can block the pores and cause inflammation, leading to acne.

In addition, Staphylococcus epidermidis is a type of bacteria that is commonly found on the skin. This bacteria usually doesn’t cause any problems. However, if it gets into a cut or scrape, it can cause an infection. Infections can lead to inflammation, which can make acne worse.

Poor Oral Hygiene and Acne

Poor oral hygiene can also lead to inflammation, which can trigger or worsen acne. When you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly, plaque builds up on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which is even more difficult to remove. Tartar can irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed. This inflammation can spread to other parts of your body and cause or worsen acne.

Tips to Prevent Oral Hygiene-Related Acne

Good oral hygiene is important for many reasons—including preventing or treating acne. Acne sufferers who are diligent about brushing and flossing their teeth are less likely to experience breakouts on their face, neck, and chest. In addition, regular use of an antibacterial mouthwash can help to kill the bacteria that can cause acne.

Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. And if you are still struggling with acne, talk to your dermatologist about other treatment options that may be right for you.

Contact Park 56 Dental Today!

Talk to a dentist at Park 56 Dental about ways to improve your oral hygiene routine and see if that has an impact on your skin. Park 56 Dental in New York would be happy to help you get started on the right track!