The Hidden Dangers of Not Addressing Dental Problems

Woman addressing dental issues.

Taking care of our oral health seems like a basic task that most of us brush off as unimportant. But did you know that the health of your mouth and teeth is intricately connected to the health of your entire body? It is true- dental problems can cause serious, sometimes lethal, health issues. In this blog, we will discuss how neglecting dental problems can lead to severe health concerns and how to prevent them.

How Are Oral and Systemic Health Connected?

The truth is that your mouth is a prime entry point for bacteria and germs. These harmful microorganisms can infiltrate your bloodstream, creating health problems in your body. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, studies have shown that there is a link between stroke, diabetes, heart disease, preterm labor and birth weight, and bacterial infections that start in the mouth.

Your Immune System

A robust immune system is pivotal in fighting pathogens and infections that may be present in our bodies. By neglecting dental problems, we weaken our immune system, which exposes us to dangerous diseases and health issues. Poor oral health can strain our immune system, leaving it less equipped to fight off harmful invaders like bacteria or viruses.

Inflammation

Stress, unhealthy diets, and infections in your gums and teeth can cause inflammation throughout your body. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation is harmful and can lead to bigger health issues such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, to name a few. The link between oral health and inflammation makes it crucial to take care of our dental issues, both big and small.

The Stages of Gum Disease and Its Threat to Overall Health

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious problem that affects the soft tissue and bone that supports your teeth. Gum disease is prevalent, affecting nearly half of adults over the age of 30 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While many may think gum disease is just a minor dental issue, it can cause significant health problems if left untreated. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss, chronic bad breath, and has links to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

How to Practice Preventive Dental Care and Why

The best way to avoid the dangers of neglected dental problems is to practice preventative dental care. Regular brushing and flossing, cleaning your tongue, maintaining a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist at least once a year can prevent dental problems from occurring. Brushing and flossing help remove plaque that can cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular visits to your dentist enable them to detect and treat any oral health issues, prevent tooth decay, and gum disease, prevent oral cancer, and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Make an Appointment Today with Park 56 Dental

It is imperative to take good care of your teeth to avoid any dental problems that could lead to significant health issues. By brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help reduce the risk of alarming health problems. At Park 56 Dental, our team of experts is committed to helping you maintain your optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Dental Care for Seniors: Addressing Age-specific Oral Health Challenges

Senior couple brushing their teeth.

As the population continues to age, dental professionals are faced with unique challenges when caring for older patients. Aging comes with a plethora of physical changes and medical conditions that can complicate oral health, making it critical to address age-specific challenges. This article will provide insight into the common oral health challenges that seniors face and how dental professionals can effectively address them.

Physical and Health Comorbidities

As individuals age, it’s not unusual for them to face certain health conditions like hypertension and diabetes. This can lead to a weakened immune system, making seniors more susceptible to oral diseases. Dental professionals take note of these concerns when treating older adults. They understand that seniors may not be able to handle invasive procedures like dental extractions or root canals due to their health situation.

Medication Use

The average senior adult is most likely using at least one prescription medication in addition to several over-the-counter drugs. Because of this, dentists ask patients to report all medication use so that they can ensure they safely administer drugs like local anesthetics and analgesics. Some medications can cause dry mouth and other oral health conditions that your dentist will need to address.

Physical Sensory and Cognitive Impairment

Like every other medical condition, aging can bring about physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments that can make oral healthcare challenging. Physical impairments, such as arthritis, can often make handling a toothbrush, floss, or dentures difficult. Some seniors may also experience sensory impairments like blindness or hearing loss, which hampers communication. Cognitive impairments such as dementia also make it critical for caregivers or family members to be present to ensure their dental care is proper and effective.

Dental Conditions that Include Dry Mouth

Dry mouth or xerostomia is typical among aging adults and can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Dental professionals take dry mouth seriously and can help them ascertain if medications cause dry mouth and how to take appropriate action.

Coronal Caries and Periodontitis

Older adults with coronal caries and periodontitis are more likely to have complex dental needs and limited access to care. This is due to the comorbid health condition, physical impairments, and fear of dental procedures. Pathologies like periodontitis need to be addressed by dental professionals to reduce the risk of tooth loss, which can lead to other serious health problems.

The Team at Park 56 Dental is Equipped for All Your Dental Needs—Whatever Your Age!

At Park 56 Dental, we take a personalized approach when caring for older adults. We understand that effective communication, routine dental exams, and preventive oral care measures are vital to maintaining oral health. Additionally, we create treatment plans that factor in comorbid health conditions, medication use, physical impairments, and cognitive and sensory impairments to achieve optimal healthcare outcomes for seniors. By understanding and addressing age-specific oral health challenges, our team can positively impact the quality of life of our aging patients. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Warning Signs of Tooth Decay

Man checking for signs of tooth decay.

Tooth decay is a common problem that can occur due to various factors, including poor oral hygiene, unhealthy dietary habits, and certain medical conditions. Even though tooth decay may seem like a minor issue, if left untreated, it can lead to severe dental complications, such as infection, gum disease, and tooth loss. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs of tooth decay and seek professional dental help as soon as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss the eight warning signs of tooth decay that you should never ignore.

Toothache

One of the most common warning signs of tooth decay is a toothache. If you experience pain in your teeth or gums, it could indicate that the decay has advanced and reached the inner part of your tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. The pain can be continuous or intermittent, and it may worsen when you bite or chew.

Tooth Sensitivity

If you have a sudden sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, it may be a sign of tooth decay. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel layer, which is the outermost layer of your teeth, is damaged or worn down. Without proper treatment, the decay can penetrate the dentin layer, which is softer and more sensitive, and cause more severe pain and sensitivity.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common symptom of tooth decay. The bacteria that cause decay produce a foul odor that can linger in your mouth, even after brushing and flossing. If you notice persistent bad breath, it’s essential to schedule a dental check-up to determine the underlying cause.

Discoloration

Discoloration or dark spots on your teeth can be a sign of tooth decay. As the decay progresses, it can leave visible marks on your teeth, making them appear yellow, brown, or black. Discoloration can also be a sign of other dental problems, such as cavities, tartar buildup, or gum disease, so it’s crucial to have it evaluated by a dentist.

Pits or Holes

Cavities are a form of tooth decay that can cause pits or holes in your teeth. If you notice small depressions or pits in your teeth, it’s likely that you have a cavity. Cavities can cause various dental complications, including toothache, sensitivity, and infection, so it’s crucial to get them treated as soon as possible.

Cracks or Chips

If your teeth are chipped or cracked, it can make them more vulnerable to decay. Cracks and chips can also expose the inner layers of your teeth to bacteria and food particles, leading to infection and decay. If you have any cracked or chipped teeth, it’s essential to get them evaluated by a dentist.

Loose or Shifting Teeth

If your teeth feel loose or shift out of place, it may be a sign of advanced tooth decay. When decay reaches the roots and supporting structures of your teeth, it can weaken them and cause them to loosen. If left untreated, the decay can lead to tooth loss and other dental complications.

Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Swollen or bleeding gums are common symptoms of gum disease, which is often caused by tooth decay. When decay-causing bacteria accumulate on your teeth and gums, they can cause inflammation, bleeding, and infection. If you notice any swelling or bleeding in your gums, it’s crucial to schedule a dental check-up as soon as possible.

Schedule a Dental Exam Today with Park 56 Dental

Tooth decay is a dental problem that shouldn’t be ignored. By being aware of the warning signs of tooth decay, you’ll be able to catch problems early on before they become too severe. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this post, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Park 56 Dental in New York. Our experienced dental team will provide you with the best possible care to ensure that your teeth remain healthy and strong. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

Why it’s Important to Maintain your Gum Health

Woman flossing teeth.

Welcome to the Park 56 Dental blog, where we believe that a healthy smile starts with healthy gums! As specialists in dental care, we understand the vital role that gum health plays in maintaining overall oral health. While often overlooked, your gums provide the foundation for your teeth, ensuring they stay securely in place and function properly. In this blog post, we will be delving into why it is so crucial to prioritize gum health and the various steps you can take to keep your gums in excellent condition. No matter your age or current oral health status, we hope you find the information shared here helpful and empowering to take charge of your gum health. Let’s get started on this journey towards a vibrant and healthy smile that starts from within!

Warning Signs of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common problem that results from bacteria in your mouth producing harmful acids that erode your enamel. But did you know that one of the earliest warning signs of tooth decay is actually gum problems? As the bacteria spreads, it can cause your gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. This is a sign that you should schedule a cleaning with your dentist as soon as possible.

Dental Care for Seniors: Addressing Age-specific Oral Health Challenges

As we age, our dental needs change. Seniors are more likely to suffer from gum problems due to some of these common problems/triggers:

1. Dry Mouth: One of the most common oral health issues that seniors face is dry mouth. This is often caused by medications that reduce salivary flow or medical conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome. Dry mouth can cause a range of problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections.
2. Gum Disease: Seniors are at an increased risk of developing gum disease, which is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems, including heart disease and stroke.

3. Tooth Loss: As we age, our teeth may begin to wear down, crack, or decay. Eventually, tooth loss may occur. Missing teeth can cause difficulty eating and speaking and may even lead to bone loss in the jaw.

4. Oral Cancer: Seniors are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, particularly if they smoke or use tobacco products. Oral cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, which is why it is important for seniors to receive regular oral cancer screenings.

5. Medication Side Effects: Seniors may take a range of medications to manage medical conditions, and some of these medications can cause side effects that affect their oral health. For example, some medications can cause dry mouth, while others can cause gum inflammation or mouth sores.

The Hidden Dangers of Not Addressing Dental Problems

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth. Studies have found that people with gum problems are more likely to develop heart disease, stroke, and other systemic conditions. This is because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream and spread to other parts of your body, including your heart and lungs. That’s why it’s crucial to address gum problems early on to avoid these serious health risks.

Simple Ways to Prevent Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease doesn’t have to be difficult. By following a few simple steps, you can keep your gums healthy and your smile bright. First, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Second, floss each day to remove plaque and bacteria from between teeth and along the gumline. Finally, make sure to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings, exams, and x-rays. Taking these steps can go a long way toward avoiding gum disease and other dental problems.

Reach Out to Park 56 Dental Today with Any Questions

Keeping your gums healthy is a vital part of maintaining good oral health and avoiding serious medical problems. If you’re experiencing gum disease symptoms such as bleeding, redness or swelling, consult your dentist right away. At Park 56 Dental, we offer a full range of preventative and restorative services designed to keep your gums and teeth healthy for life. To schedule an appointment, call us at (212) 826-2322 today.

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 Best and Worst Foods to Eat for your Teeth During the 2023 Holidays

Enjoying Christmas dinner.

The Holidays are upon us, and it’s time to celebrate in style. But when the new year comes, we want to make sure our smiles are still gorgeous and healthy. Here is a list of some of the nicest and naughtiest foods you can choose at the holiday buffet!

Savory Selections

If you’re looking for something delicious and filling, but not looking to break the bank on dental bills, let’s find you some yummy options!

The Nice

• Nuts-These are a great, filling snack that provide a satisfying crunch, but also key nutrients such as calcium and protein.
• Cheese-Full of calcium, this is a snack you can find at almost any buffet table and it won’t let you down in the dental health area. Cheese also is an acid neutralizer in the mouth which reduces your risk of cavities.
• Meats-turkey, ham, and others can be great ways to get phosphorus and potassium. Both are very helpful in the absorption of calcium which builds strong teeth
• Raw Veggies-this may seem obvious, but in addition to being good for your body, ingesting them is great news for your teeth as well. They’re loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A and others.

The Naughty

• Popcorn-Sorry, but the husks of popcorn are really quite damaging to teeth and gums.
• White Wine-When in doubt, opt for red. Red wine helps get rid of bad bacteria in the mouth, whereas white wine is extremely acidic and can actually erode the enamel of the tooth.

Sweet Treats

Walking into that party with a sweet tooth is a dangerous endeavor, but we can help you find some treats that won’t leave you with a toothache and a less than sweet smile.

The Nice

• Fresh Fruit-If you’re looking to satisfy that sweet tooth, fresh fruit is the way to go. It’s got tons of nutrients and can help you fill up on vitamins and minerals while hydrating yourself naturally!

The Naughty

• Candy-This may be obvious, but there is no nutritional value whatsoever, and the candy will stick in your teeth and can even chip away at the enamel while you eat it. Stay away.
• Cookies and other Sugary Baked Goods-The amount of sugar in these treats is extremely high and when that sugar mixes with the bacteria in your mouth, your teeth are in for some trouble. Try to limit consumption of these goodies and try to brush or floss shortly after you eat them.
• Dried Fruit-It seems nice, but it’s actually naughty. Dried fruit can have a very high sugar content and can stick in your teeth. Not a great choice.

Remember during the Holidays to continue maintaining your great oral hygiene regimen so that you can keep that smile sparkling well into the new year!

Park 56 Dental

If it’s been a minute since your last dental checkup and you’re looking for a comfortable, spa-like environment, look no further than Park 56 Dental! 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.

How Fluoride helps to prevent Tooth Decay

Fluoride helps keep her smile clean, fresh, and strong.

What is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. It is an element and has been found to protect teeth from tooth decay. Fluoride can be found in the water supply, but it is also found in many foods such as oatmeal, raisins, shellfish, potatoes and others.

How are Cavities Formed?

We all have bacteria living in our mouths. The bacteria feeds on sugars from foods that we eat. When that happens, the bacteria secrete an acid that can cause teeth to decay. That decay of the enamel can have serious consequences, including cavities and even loss of the tooth. The decay of the tooth is called demineralization.

How Does Fluoride Work?

Nature’s Cavity Fighter-Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. With a healthy diet and regularly healthy habits it can be used to help prevent tooth decay. It works to build tooth enamel so that teeth are less susceptible to decay because they’re stronger.

Fluoride also repairs tooth enamel after decay has begun. This repair process is called remineralization.

Fluoride Has Been Proven Safe and Effective

Studies have shown that fluoride added to water supplies is extremely beneficial when it comes to cavity prevention. For over 70 years, communities have been adjusting fluoride levels and there is extensive proof that fluoridated water is very effective in the prevention of tooth decay. How is fluoride added to the water supply? Fluoride is already present in the water supply. Most communities adjust the amount of fluoride in the water so that it’s at a safe level but is also effective in the remineralization of tooth enamel.

How Can You Work Fluoride into your Routine?

• Fluoridate toothpaste

Even children as young as age 3 can begin using a fluoridated toothpaste, as long as a small amount is given on the toothbrush. For adults, brushing twice daily with a fluoridated toothbrush will be effective in cavity prevention.

• Fluoridated mouthwash

Mouthwash that contains fluoride has been proven effective in the treatment of cavities. However, it is not recommended to give mouthwash to small children. Fluoride treatment as administered by a dentist, is available to people who are at high risk for tooth decay. This includes people who have poor dental hygiene, those who live in communities with low fluorine levels in the water supply.

• Fluoride in food

Fluoride can be found in many foods, too. This kind of fluoride is called systemic fluoride. Some foods that contain fluoride are grapes, apples, strawberries, grapes, spinach, potatoes, veggies, seafood, tea, coffee, and many more.

Ask your dentist for more information about getting enough fluoride into your routine.

Park 56 Dental

Have questions about fluoride, fluoride treatments, or the best way to get fluoride into your routine? 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.

Tips and Advice for Flossing in Recognition of National Flossing Day

Man taking care of teeth by making sure to floss.

National Flossing Day is right around the corner, and whereas it might be slightly overshadowed by Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Day, it’s still a great time to give three cheers for the unsung hero of dental hygiene, the modest waxed string we know as dental floss.

Why Should You Floss?

Most of the daily emphasis on toothcare is on brushing, which removes bacteria, food, and grime from the surface of the teeth. But where flossing truly shines is in getting into those hard-to-reach spaces in between teeth and close to the gum line, where regular toothbrushes can’t reach. Flossing helps fight gingivitis and periodontitis, reducing the risk of gum inflammation and cavities. Flossing also helps promote fresh breath by removing the food and bacteria that collects between your teeth.

Tips for Effective Flossing

1. Choose the Right Floss:

• There are various types of dental floss available, including waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and wider tape-style floss. Choose the one that feels most comfortable and effective for you.

1. Establish a Routine:

Make flossing a daily habit. Aim to floss at least once a day, ideally before bedtime, to remove accumulated plaque and food particles.

1. Proper Technique:

1. • Start with an 18-inch (45 cm) length of floss. Wind most of it around one finger on each hand, leaving about 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) of floss to work with.

1. • Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion. Avoid snapping it into place, which can harm your gums.

1. • Curve the floss around the base of each tooth, forming a C-shape, and gently glide it up and down. Be gentle to avoid damaging your gums.

1. • Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid transferring bacteria.

1. Be Patient:

1. • Take your time when flossing to ensure thorough cleaning. Rushing can lead to incomplete removal of plaque and debris.
2. Keep Flossing Agents Handy:
   • Keep floss in your purse, briefcase, backpack or satchel. Floss picks are also a convenient minimal device for a quick cleaning when out and about.

1. Use Flossing Aids:

1. • If traditional flossing is challenging, consider using floss picks, interdental brushes, or water flossers. These tools can make the process more accessible and convenient.

1. Teach Children Early:

1. • Encourage good oral hygiene habits in children by teaching them to floss as soon as part of your family culture. Child-friendly floss and flossers are available.

1. Avoid “Bleeding Gums” as an Excuse:

1. • If your gums bleed when you first start flossing or after a break, don’t be discouraged. This is a sign of gum inflammation and indicates the need for regular flossing to improve gum health.

1. Set Reminders:

1. • Use phone alarms or other reminders to ensure you don’t forget to floss daily, especially if you’re establishing a new habit.

Call Park 56 Dentistry to Celebrate

Our dental professionals are always available to celebrate National Flossing Day with you, to help you analyze your flossing technique, or to offer advice on the best type of floss for you. November is also a great time to contact us and schedule your end-of-year cleaning or get on the schedule after the new year.

How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene During the Holidays

Couple traveling for the Holidays.

The holiday season surrounds us all with friends and family, as well as delicious food and drink, seemingly around the clock! Turkeys, cookies, hams, pies, briskets, latkes, cheese plates, dumplings…not to mention the special toasts to the season of every shade. It can be challenging to maintain dental health with all these sumptuous challenges on every side, but Park 56 Dentistry can you navigate the holiday season with oral hygiene in mind. Here are our top tips.

1. Keep Flossers Handy

Simple, inexpensive, and discrete, pocket flosser picks are the ideal solution for holiday parties, whether you’re hosting or spending a few hours at the office, the neighbors, a family party, or going out with friends. Stash a few in your favorite jacket, purse, or wallet, so you never have to have that less-than-fresh feeling in the midst of a celebration.

2. Limit Your Exposure to Key Types of Food

It’s easier said than done, I know, but if you want to avoid dental damage, then you might want to limit your enjoyment of various kinds of foods, or at least know how best to enjoy them without damaging your teeth. These include:

• Sugary Foods: Sugar increases bacterial activity in your mouth, so be prepared to brush often if you have a hankering for sweets.
• Hard Foods: Think candy canes, nuts, and ice. Let the candies and ice melt in your mouth instead of using your teeth to crunch them up. Enjoy the roasted nuts, but don’t overdo it. It might seem like a good idea at the time, but these dense treats can take a toll on your teeth, eroding them and potentially causing cracks or chips.
• Dark Beverages: Red wine, coffee, hot cocoa, and cosmos are all delights of the season, but they can darken your teeth as well. If a whitened smile is important to you, then think before you drink and select light-colored or clear beverages.

3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum

In addition to giving you a break from snacking and freshening your breath, a stick of gum can inspire your salivary glands to help out cleaning your mouth. Saliva neutralizes acids and helps purge bacteria from your mouth and teeth.

4. Nibble Some Cheese

Although it might not be the best choice for your waistline during a period of the year known for fattening treats, noshing on bites of cheese in between sips of acidic beverages like soda and wine can raise the pH level of your mouth and prevent your teeth from suffering acidic enamel damage.

5. Stay Hydrated

There are many reasons why it’s a good idea to refill your cup with water in between other types of beverages, but one of these is that water helps clean your mouth of food and bacteria, as well as keeping you feeling your best.

The holiday season doesn’t have to sideline your dental health awareness. By following these tips, you can make sure you enter your new year without the regrets of cavities, stained teeth or dental injury. While you’re thinking about it, contact Park 56 Dentistry to schedule your winter cleanings before and after the holidays, and keep your smile vibrant.