Monday, November 7, 2016

What should I know when buying dental supplies for my family?

            When you walk down the ‘oral care’ aisle at any store, the number of options can be intimidating. There are so many different brands and variations of similar products. Hopefully we can help simplify the process.

What kind of tooth brush should I buy?
  • Do yourself a favor and get an electric tooth brush with a 2 minute timer. It will reduce the chances of tooth decay, gum disease, gum recession. Chances are it will save you thousands of dollars during your life.
  • If you absolutely can’t stand an electric brush, make sure it is a soft bristle brush.
  • The expensive brushes are great, but you don’t have to buy the most expensive brush to get a solid brush. However, remember that you get what you pay for and if it only costs $10 it probably is inexpensive for a reason.
  • Use a different brush or brush head after you are sick. You don’t want to increase the risk of spreading anything bad to your family.

What kind of tooth paste should I buy?
  • Look for the ADA approval on the box. If it has that, it has been put through a serious screening process to earn it.
  • If you use sensitivity toothpaste, you should use it twice a day and every day. It is more effective when used consistently.
  • If you want whiter teeth, toothpaste isn’t going to make a huge difference. Whitening toothpaste is more abrasive and reduces surface staining but does not whiten like bleaching your teeth can.
  • Use a flavor that you like. It will make it more likely to brush consistently and for long enough.

What kind of mouth rinse should I buy?
  • Only let your children use mouth rinse made for adults if they can consistently spit it out after using. But there are some rinses specifically designed for kids.
  • I usually recommend alcohol free because it is less abrasive to your gums.
  • Use a mouth rinse with fluoride. It reduces the potential for cavities.

Like anything else, if you are not sure what product may work best in your situation then just give us a call. We are happy to walk you through the different choices in more detail.

For more information visit www.dentistwestchester.com.

Lee T. Brown, DDS

Brown and Kupper, DDS

Tuesday, November 1, 2016

“I want to quit tobacco”

            Many people who have become addicted to using tobacco products want to stop. But as they can attest, that is much easier said than done. Everyone has been educated on the risks associated with tobacco use, but we want to reiterate how it can affect your dental and overall health. And we can also offer couple of tips on quitting tobacco.

Why should I quit using tobacco?
  • Your mouth will be healthier. Quitting can lower your risk for receding gums and bone loss in the jaw bone surrounding the teeth.
  • You will look and feel better. The stains created from smoking cannot be completely cleaned through brushing at home. Quitting will reduce stain and brighten your smile.
  • You will set a healthy example. Chances are you are a role model to someone. Sometimes its children and sometimes it is a peer. By quitting you may inspire someone else to do the same.

Tips to Quit:
  • Make a list of personal reasons for quitting and keep it in a place that you will frequently see.
  • Set a date to quit in the future and do everything you can to stick to it. Try to find a time during the year that is ‘low stress.’
  • Get help: ask your physician, family, friends and anyone else for their support in quitting.
  • Find a healthy substitute. When you have a tobacco craving, try sugar-free gum or sugar-free candy. There is a sugar substitute called xylitol that has been shown to actually fight tooth decay.
  • The four D’s:
    • Delay- the craving will pass in 5-10 minutes
    • Drink water- it gives you something to hold and put in your mouth
    • Do something else- distract yourself by being active
    • Deep breathing- this will help relax you.

We know it sounds a lot easier than it actually is, but hopefully you can use some of this information to help you or someone you know quit using tobacco. For more information go to www.dentistwestchester.com.

Lee T. Brown, DDS

Brown and Kupper, DDS