Andrae Bergeron, Author at Adam Brown Dentistry - Monroe NC Dentist

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So far Andrae Bergeron has created 35 blog entries.

Are You Prepared For A Dental 911 on Vacation?

Andrae Bergeron2023-04-19T16:20:21+00:00April 19th, 2023|Adam Brown DDS, Dental Crowns, Dentist Office Monroe NC, Tooth Infection|

What To Do if You Have a Dental Emergency While on Vacation

As unpredictable as life can be, it’s worth preparing for certain emergencies, especially when traveling away from home. Obviously, with the hope no emergency comes about. Keeping a first-aid kit in your car; setting a security alarm on your home; even bringing an extra set of clothes are examples of our preparedness, but there’s another situation that is often forgotten: a dental emergency. Do you know what to do if you or a loved one has a dental mishap while traveling or on vacation?

Dental Emergency on Vacation - What To Do

Picture yourself on a beach. You can hear the waves moving out and coming back in — that soft, loud rush of sound that works as a charging station for the mind, body, and soul. Now see yourself reaching to the side of your chair to grab your favorite beachy drink, and as you go for a sip…you clink the edge of the class to your tooth and your tooth chips! It can be that easy, and it can be that quick. And without a plan, this sort of emergency can only get worse.

No matter where you are or what you’re doing, an unexpected toothache, broken teeth, and general mouth pain can happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer. Most likely, unless you are truly off the grid, you should be able to find care nearby.

Worst case, you end up in the emergency room and leave with a prescription for pain medication that can get you in the clear until you’re back home. But this can be expensive, and it doesn’t diagnose or solve the issue. It alleviates it and pushes it down the road for later. Adam Brown, DDS explains some of the most common dental emergencies and how to respond to them:

Common Types of Dental Emergencies

If you can imagine the emergency, it can most likely happen. With that in mind, the following are the most typical dental emergencies:

A tooth or multiple teeth fall out due to chewing something hard or taking a blow to the mouth.
You lose a crown or filling from chewing ice, hard candy, etc.
You injure your gums, palate, or mouth by taking some sort of impact to the face.
A tooth becomes loose.
You chip or fracture a tooth. (Maybe from misjudging the distance between your mouth and your favorite beachy drink.)
You feel sudden, unusual, excruciating pain inside the mouth. This could be the roots of the teeth, the gums themselves, etc.
Your gums or mouth starts to swell and change color (deep red or grey/white).

How does one respond to any of these tragedies? In a number of ways. It depends on your exact situation: how threatening the injury is, who is with you, where you are in proximity to getting help.

But one thing to keep in mind is that if you do lose a tooth: immediate action needs to be taken, as the amount of time a tooth is absent from the gums and root system determines the likelihood of a dentist being able to successfully replace it.

How to Respond When a Dental Emergency Happens

Whether or not the dental emergency is yours or not, it’s good to be prepared to handle what could be thrown your way. Here are a couple of those common emergencies along with some commentary on how to respond:

A Toothache and/or Mouth Pain

Such a severe, sharp pain as what’s experienced in this situation can constitute an emergency. What can be tricky about oral pain is that, a lot of times, it begins with a dull pain that seems insignificant. That is until it begins to throb.

Here is what to do: First, examine your mouth to make sure there is no visible source of the pain. If there isn’t, look for discoloration or swelling. If you see either, it’s a good idea to find a doctor or dentist to give it a look. Otherwise, if it’s only a dull pain, take over-the-counter pain medicine until you can reach a dentist.

A Broken, Cracked, or Dislodged Tooth

This can happen due to sport, play, or a freak accident. And, no matter the reason for a broken or chipped tooth, an immediate trip to an emergency dentist or the emergency room will be necessary.

It’s a good idea to research a local (to where you will be) dentist and find the contact information and hours of operation. If you know you’ll be active on your trip — and that a dental emergency is possible — consider contacting the dentist to see if she (or anyone she knows) can be of assistance in case of an emergency.

This might seem like a bit much. But due to the commonality of dental emergencies while traveling, and the fact that you like your teeth and would like to keep them intact, it’s smart to plan for the worst.

*Note: If you do lose a tooth, rinse your mouth with cold water and apply a cold compress to the area where the tooth is missing. This will help control inflammation until you can get proper aid.

Prepping for Your Trip

The following are a few quick tips for when you’re preparing for a trip:

Locate your dental and medical insurance documents and give them a thorough reading, as to see what sort of coverage you have while traveling.
For any and every place you plan to visit, locate their medical facilities so you know where to go if something were to happen — dental emergency or otherwise. Be sure to record the pertinent information so you have it readily available.
If you’re having any sort of pain or oral issues prior to leaving for your trip, schedule a thorough checkup before leaving. Also, mention your plans to your dentist to confirm he recommends travel while in your specific condition.
Always pack pain medicine and oral hygiene products so you can do as much as possible for your oral care yourself while out and about.
Be cognizant of your oral condition while traveling. Consider keeping from hard chewing that could potentially damage your teeth and/or gums (e.g., hard candies, ice, etc.).
If you’re going to play a sport, or you plan to become physically active while on vacation, bring a protective mouth guard to keep your teeth and gums safe.

Finding a Dentist While Traveling

Remember that you’re planning for something that hopefully won’t happen, so you don’t want to expend too much time and energy on this. But you do want to be thorough enough so you’re prepared if anything does happen.

Take 30 minutes to research a local dentist; then, send an email or give them a call. Even if they don’t offer services when you need them, they might be able to point you to someone who does. Worst case scenario, go to the emergency room.

No matter how things pan out while on your trip, if you do have an emergency and you receive emergency care, make it a priority to visit your home dentist as soon as you return. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!

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Do You Need Your Wisdom Teeth? Should You Have Them Removed?

Andrae Bergeron2023-03-17T14:50:55+00:00March 17th, 2023|General, Wisdom Teeth|

The third molars, commonly referred to as “wisdom teeth,” typically erupt in the mouth of individuals between the ages of 18 and 25. These teeth break through the gums when you mature into young adulthood — hence the term “wisdom” teeth.

Though the name and nature of the teeth are rather straightforward, there are often questions surrounding their usefulness and permanence. For instance, why do some people have them pulled and others don’t? Let’s look at the purpose of wisdom teeth, when you can keep them, and when it’s best to have them removed.

Should you get your wisdom teeth removed.

Why do we have wisdom teeth? Do we need them if they don’t show up until young adulthood? Due to changes in diet over the years, our jaws have evolved to a more compact size. Since we have begun refining our carbohydrates, among other things, a full set of molars simply isn’t needed like it used to be.

We’re not crunching on grains all day long. So, with a smaller jaw comes the need for fewer teeth, which is why most people end up having their wisdom teeth removed. Not enough room at the inn for all the pearly whites!

But does everyone need to have them removed?

Keep Them or Lose Them?

Some people can keep their wisdom teeth, and some need to have them removed for oral health reasons. There are typically five criteria for deciding whether or not one should get rid of their wisdom teeth:

1. Jaw Size

Even though we’ve physically changed as a people over time — smaller jaws, walking upright, etc. — not all the evolutionary changes have happened evenly across humanity. Some of us have a larger jawbone, allowing more room for teeth to grow and spread out. When this is the case, the wisdom teeth don’t need to be removed (unless there are other underlying issues – more on this in a bit), and the person should never have any overcrowding issues.

Those with smaller jaws would be the ones who need these teeth taken out. The best way to find out if your jaw can handle a few more molars is to come in and have a dentist give your mouth a look. Within a few minutes, he will be able to tell if you need tooth removal or not.

2. The Size of the Teeth

Sometimes, wisdom teeth come in a bit smaller with less of a root system. These underdeveloped molars cannot chew food as well as they should and may end up breaking and causing infection. When wisdom teeth break through and show to be smaller like this, it’s recommended to have them removed — even if there is enough space in the mouth for them.

3. Cleaning Capability

When looking over your wisdom teeth and determining if removing them is a good idea, one of the most significant factors is the capability — both in the moment and in the long term — that they can be adequately cleaned. By nature, wisdom teeth are a little more challenging to keep clean than others due to their precarious placement in the back of the mouth. If you can’t get floss and the head of a toothbrush between and around the wisdom teeth, plaque will accumulate, eventually leading to cavities and gum disease.

4. More on Cavities

Some people naturally have a higher risk for cavities. Just like cholesterol or high blood pressure can be hereditary, so can elements of your oral health. As noted in number 3, it’s best to pull the wisdom teeth if there is a probability for cavities to be present.

Even if you plan on thoroughly cleaning those back molars, because of their placement — and because you might have the propensity to have cavities — it is best practice to have them pulled. The last thing you want is for bacteria to build and fester in the mouth, as this can lead to all sorts of maladies, even deadly ones.

5. Risk of Gum Disease

The same goes for those of us who suffer from, or are likely to suffer from, gum disease. There are evil little bacteria that love to find hard-to-get-to hiding places inside our mouths to grow and spread gum disease. Since wisdom teeth are prime hiding spots, the risk of gum disease is another reason to consider removing your wisdom teeth.

When to Remove Wisdom Teeth

It’s tempting to wait until they become an issue, but waiting to have your wisdom teeth removed can be a bad idea seeing how any of the five outcomes above can lead to dangerously poor oral health. Don’t let yourself get to that point. If you know or have a good idea that your wisdom teeth will need removal, get it done sooner rather than later.

A quick consultation with Dr. Brown will reveal:

Where in the growth process you are;
How much longer until they break through the gums;
And whether or not it would be best to have them pulled.

When it comes to the timing of removal, think of it like this: The older you get, the more those teeth grow and expand. The teeth’s size and position are affected by the patient’s age.

You also want to consider healing time after the surgery. The younger you are, the faster you will heal! It takes anywhere from six to nine years for teeth to grow, and they like to form from the top down — meaning they develop from the biting surface on down to the root of the tooth.

By removing these teeth when the patient is young, the dentist can use a less intrusive removal method as the teeth are smaller and less rotted into the gums than fully-formed teeth. Less trauma to the jawbone and gums equals faster healing, which is what we are about!

Tips and Advice For Those Keeping Wisdom Teeth

After consulting with a dentist, if you discover you can keep your wisdom teeth, there are still a few things to keep in mind — a few specific problems to look out for.

The most common issue for wisdom-teeth keepers is pericoronitis. This is a condition where the gums surrounding the wisdom teeth become inflamed, causing a “partial eruption.” Essentially, the wisdom tooth is being hampered from growing correctly because of gum swelling. This can even cause the wisdom teeth to twist or tip, which is not good and will end up requiring removal.

When a tooth partially erupts, it also creates openings where plaque, bacteria, and food debris can all build up and create further health issues, not to mention sharp, intense pain. One way to combat this horrible experience is to rinse with salt water and/or over-the-counter anti-inflammatories regularly. These can help reduce the swelling and discomfort for a time, but a visit to the dentist is what can bring permanent relief.

As always, your best option when considering your oral health is to visit us at Adam Brown, DDS. We can assess your jaw size and the area of the mouth where the wisdom teeth grow to let you know your best option!

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Teeth Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Is Right for You?

Andrae Bergeron2023-02-24T17:44:04+00:00February 22nd, 2023|Dental Bonding, Veneers|

Cosmetic and restorative dentistry have seen great advancements in the last twenty years. In the past, if you had a troublesome tooth it had to be removed and you would have to learn to live with that gap in your smile (fingers crossed it was a tooth in the back of the mouth that had to be removed). Missing teeth can be unattractive for sure, but they can also negatively impact your eating habits because these missing teeth make the remaining teeth pick up the slack, which in effect can cause the healthy ones to wear down and need repair as well.

At Adam Brown DDS we repair or replace bad teeth to restore the mouth, and over the years we have gotten quite good at it. This process can involve multiple procedures, including using fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, bonding, dental implants, and even partial dentures.

The goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve natural teeth as much as possible and give you the smile you deserve. Which types of cosmetic/restorative dentistry do we encounter at Adam Brown? All sorts, but bonding and veneers are done on a regular basis, leading us to two important questions: What exactly are they, and which is better to have done?

Bonding or Veneers - Which one is better. Adam Brown DDS Monroe NC

The Benefits of Teeth Bonding

Of the plethora of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments, bonding is the one of the least invasive procedures. The act of bonding teeth does not require any tooth removal – a good thing! – as it is designed to correct minor imperfections on the face of the tooth or teeth.

Bonding is done by using a composite resin that evenly blends into the tooth so that it completely covers any stains present — even chips, cracks, or uneven spacing between the teeth. As a final touch, the resin is perfectly matched to your tooth’s shade so there is no way of telling which tooth or teeth have been bonded from those that have not been.

Bonding is perfect for patients needing repair who also suffer from sensitive teeth. It’s likely that the bonding will help with the sensitivity since the resin used will cover any exposed nerves that tend to get triggered when eating or drinking things that are hot or cold. Plus, the bonding process itself is quick and easy, not to mention it’s virtually painless.

What’s more is that bonding can actually strengthen your teeth.

After all, it makes sense that adding a thin layer of durable resin would help protect anything it covers.

This durability will also keep the bonded tooth from chipping, staining, or moving again; you shouldn’t have to worry about follow-up procedures.

The Benefits of Veneers

Like bonding, the process of adding veneers is done to cover the front surface of the tooth to hide imperfections and to keep a healthier tooth. However, unlike the resin used in bonding, veneers are made up of a special porcelain that keeps the teeth aligned. This porcelain can be perfectly matched to the coloration of your other teeth, like bonding, so there is no way of telling which teeth are natural and which are veneered.

The porcelain used is incredibly durable, especially if taken care of properly, and it will not damage your non-veneered teeth. This is a big point of sale for both bonding and veneers, as braces and even removable spacers can pose the possibility of slightly damaging teeth that are not in need of repair.

One thing people tend to like about veneers is that the care for them is minimal. Regular checkups with the dentist and a healthy regimen of flossing and brushing should be all that needs to be done.

Which To Choose: Bonding or Veneers?

Your first consideration when judging between bonding or veneers is your budget. Right off the bat, you should know veneers are going to be more expensive than bonding because veneers are more durable (porcelain beats resin in this case), meaning you need to consider the price of longevity.

Will it actually save you money in the end if you end up having the bonding redone? The best way to find the most accurate answer to this controversy is to meet with your dentist and have a conversation. He can let you know how serious your particular situation is and help you determine the ideal option.

The next consideration between veneers and bonding is the current condition of your teeth. Bonding might be your best option if your teeth or tooth in need of care are rather healthy but need alignment or a chip hidden. On the other hand, the ultra-hard shell of a veneer would be a better choice if you are dealing with discoloration and decay. Think of it like this:

Bonding provides great coverage but may wear over time; veneers provide more of a protectant barrier and should last a lifetime.

Teeth Whitening

The best ways of whitening teeth are debatable, and there are always new devices or methods popping up. Take, for instance, the recent popularity of Smileactives, a whitening product that comes in a gel (with its own, special toothbrush and whitening pen). Created by Robert Montgomery, a biochemist and inventor, Smileactives touts an ability to work on all forms of teeth — whether veneered or bonded or not — to remove tough stains.

Does it work? A quick online search reveals primarily positive results, but the real question isn’t whether it works. It’s how harsh it is on your teeth.

For some of us, the chemicals used in whitening gels and toothpastes are too harsh and end up causing mouth pain. So what should you do if you have sensitive teeth?

Your first step is to come in and meet with Dr. Brown and his team. They can successfully assess your teeth and gums to forecast which method(s) might be best for you.

But, if you absolutely must start the whitening process immediately, follow these tips until you can come see us:

Stay away from trays and gels if your teeth are indeed sensitive. The problem with this method is that it can take weeks for results to show. Plus, most people who use the tray and gels report having teeth sensitivity afterward.
Use caution with whitening strips as well. Though results can show in about a week, this can cause irritation over time. Also, your teeth can become sensitive if you use the strips too often.
When you have the time to wait, use paint-ons. The paint-on method solves the problem of the whitening agent interacting with interior soft tissues, such as the gums and inner cheek. You simply brush the whitening gel on each tooth and let it sit for a short period of time. The only downside to this method is it can take months before results can be seen, and you have to be diligent in getting the gel on each tooth daily.
Whitening devices are your best option. Go ahead and do a little research and find an LED lighting kit to order — you can get them off Amazon!

When it comes to choosing between teeth bonding and veneers, it’s essential to consider the big picture. Bonding can be an excellent solution for minor cosmetic issues, while veneers may be more suitable for larger cosmetic changes and long-term durability. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, and your dentist should help you make the best choice based on your individual needs.

Both teeth bonding and veneers are care treatments that can help restore the look of your smile. Each has pros and cons, so remember to discuss these with Adam Brown DDS before making any decisions!

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Sugar Is the Root of the Problem!

Andrae Bergeron2022-11-19T01:28:42+00:00November 19th, 2022|Adam Brown DDS, Oral Health, Preventative Dentistry|

For your teeth, sugar is the root of all evil. Humanity’s collective sweet tooth is doing us harm, and without proper care—and perhaps a reevaluation of our daily routines—we will continue to be plagued by the one thing we seem to love the most: sugar.

A fine set of pearly whites does a lot for a person: they restore confidence and connote a sense of hygienic care. There is evidence of our attention to dental care that reaches as far back as the Middle Ages where one used a paste of natural herbs and rubbed it on the teeth with a linen cloth. There is even evidence of herbal mouthwashes being used. Imagine the first person to ever deal with tooth decay: the pain and suffering, the not knowing what to do…Luckily, we know a lot more these days about the root of tooth decay.

There is plenty of evidence that paints a picture of humanity’s battle with the effects of sugar. Since its arrival, even when it was only used as a light seasoning ingredient, sugar has wreaked havoc on our teeth. And though there seems to be no cure for this particular crisis—one that only seems to be getting worse—maybe the answer to keeping sugar from killing our teeth can be found in how we use it. As the rate of sugar intake increases with the prevalence of sugary drinks and foods and sweets, maybe we need to rethink how we take care of our teeth.

Sugar and Tooth Decay

To better understand how to prevent tooth decay, it’s helpful to have a clear idea of what’s happening in your mouth when sugar is introduced. It’s not necessarily the sugar that’s to blame, rather it’s a combination of sugar and another ingredient that creates the danger.

Tooth decay begins when acid inside the mouth attacks the enamel and supporting structures of the teeth. Over time, if not properly addressed, holes and cavities appear and it keeps getting worse. Where does this noxious acid come from? Well, when the bacteria present in plaque interact with sugar, acid is produced. It’s that easy, and it doesn’t take long for this acid to dissolve your tooth bit by bit.

According to a study done by the World Health Organization in 2010, there is clear evidence of the relationship between sugar intake and tooth decay and the rate seems to increase as we age—do we take in more sugar as we get older? The scary thing is that it’s difficult to stay away from sugar. It seems to be in everything we eat and drink, and over years and years of sugars and bacteria combining, it makes sense our teeth are battered the older we get.

There are natural sugars, like those found in fruits, vegetables, and honey; these can do damage to the teeth; however, they are not as damaging as processed sugar. Foods high in white processed sugar, found in the likes of chips and cookies, are particularly rough on the teeth because the sugar leaves a sticky residue covering the teeth that is too tough to be rinsed away by saliva. The only way to remove this residue is to floss and brush. This is why these foods should be eaten occasionally, not every day and proper teeth cleaning should occur immediately after consuming them. So, the next time you enjoy your favorite processed snack, remember to brush afterward!

It’s not only in the food we eat. Drinking sweet drinks can be even harder on your teeth than foods can be because they often come with sugar and added acidity, both attacking your teeth. Sodas, in particular, are packed with processed sugar and acidity—the same with beer and alcoholic seltzer drinks.

Some sodas even have high fructose corn syrup added to them as a sweetening agent, which completely coats your mouth with a sticky, toxic film that breeds bacteria and acid. (Sounds like a scene from Stranger Things!)

Who Is at Risk?

We are all at risk of tooth decay, but children and adolescents—those grouped as most likely to consume larger amounts of sugar than others—are at most risk, as tooth decay and tooth loss are at the highest numbers among youngsters.

Plaque, a key ingredient in the acid that decays teeth, can begin to build as quickly as 20 minutes after we start eating (yes, “start eating,” not after we eat). The sugar in the food we are in the process of eating can begin to combine with this plaque and boom, you are eating food that is now eating your teeth. Clearly, the more sugar in the food you eat—not to mention the type of sugar—the more plaque and acid buildup inside the mouth.

Those who regularly consume alcohol and/or use tobacco, even vaping, are another group at high risk of serious tooth decay. Even coffee drinkers need to be careful. That little bit of creamer, that half a scoop of raw sugar can do some damage.

How To Combat Tooth Decay

Perhaps it’s not sugar that’s the issue, but rather our response to it. Sure, we can go “sugar-free” as often as possible, but the ubiquitous nature of the substance will cause it to always find its way into our foods and drinks. That said, the actions we take immediately after taking in sugar could be a remedy for tooth decay. Let’s be honest: eating or drinking sugar-laden treats will happen. So what then?

Here are some easy ways to keep that plaque and sugar from turning into acid:

Use a Straw

When drinking something you know has sugar in it, use a straw to keep as much liquid as possible from interacting with your teeth—this really works! Keep straws with you wherever you go, but keep away from the metal ones, as they tend to chip the teeth. Stick with paper or plastic straws. Do keep it in mind though that drinking from straws causes one to drink faster so slow it down a bit, especially if you are consuming an alcoholic beverage.

Have a Chaser

Remember, it only takes about 20 minutes for tooth decay to begin once you have begun eating, so you want to rinse as soon as possible. While eating, take sips of water between bites and swish it around a little—without being obnoxious. Once you finish eating, take a big gulp and try and use it to rinse. If you consume something containing processed sugar, a water chaser won’t be as effective. Consider using mouthwash (it’s a good idea to keep a small bottle handy) or, for best results, lightly brush your teeth.

Chew Gum

Chewing gum right after a meal can break free those little seeds or bits of food from your teeth. Most importantly, make sure you are only chewing sugarless gum, otherwise, you are actually doing more damage to those teeth. Note that it’s not a good idea to always be chewing gum. A few times a day, after meals is fine, and don’t chew for too long. Overdoing it can cause discomfort to sensitive teeth. Once the flavor is gone, that’s a good sign to dispose of the gum.

Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year

This is one of the most important things to do. One visit to the dentist every six months is the perfect way to gauge how well your teeth are doing. A dentist can tell you if your teeth are becoming too sensitive or stained and advise you on what to do. It’s also good because you get a professional cleaning where someone is meticulously searching your mouth for cavities, bits of food, or anything else.

Stop into Adam Brown, DDS or visit us online today to set up an appointment. We can help you get on track, no matter your current state of oral health.

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Gingivitis vs. Periodontal Disease: What’s the Difference?

Andrae Bergeron2022-10-19T12:19:53+00:00October 19th, 2022|Oral Health, Preventative Dentistry|

Gum disease can come in many forms, but most often it shows as gingivitis or — the more serious of the two — periodontal disease. Both can have serious side effects and happen to anyone; the good news is that gum disease is preventable. Knowing the differences between gingivitis and periodontal disease, paired with how to avoid them, will help you to maintain proper oral health.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

To begin, it’s crucial to know the signs of gum disease. The typical signs of gingivitis are irritated, red gums that tend to bleed easily (even with the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush). Though gingivitis is a milder form of disease, if it isn’t treated correctly, it can lead to a more mature form of gum disease, periodontitis, which is flagged by inflammation and deep infection that eats away at the gums and teeth (the ligaments, sockets and all!).

The positive news is that both types of gum disease are treatable, even preventable, when you maintain proper hygienic procedures. If you’re experiencing sensitive and/or inflamed gums, your best bet is to come in for an examination right away. At Adam Brown DDS, we can accurately evaluate the health of your gums by taking measurements and x-rays of the jaw if needed. Once we make an assessment, we’ll develop a plan for treating and eliminating the disease through specific preventative methods.

Signs of Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

Unfortunately, noticing a white coloration on the gums or tongue, inflammation of the gums, light aches and pains inside the mouth, even chronic bad breath could mean a number of different things — and they all have varying levels of seriousness. That being said, as long as you catch the onset of gum disease in time and know the possible reasons, you can get your oral health right back where it needs to be. Here are a couple of specific gum diseases and their warning signs:

Gingivitis

This is a mild form of gum disease that is fairly common among American adults. If you notice your gums beginning to recede and turn white, gingivitis is most likely the culprit. A few other signs include swollen and bleeding gums, even painful irritation and loose teeth. The most common cause to gingivitis is poor oral care, so if you have fallen off the wagon a bit, it’s best to get right back into the routine of brushing and flossing regularly to avoid this uncomfortable situation.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a more advanced gum disease that can quickly turn to periodontitis if untreated. Common symptoms if periodontal disease include:

Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth or floss
Bad breath
Changes in the position of your teeth or loose teeth
Receding gums
Red, tender, or swollen gums
Buildup of plaque or tartar on your teeth
Pain when chewing
Tooth loss
Foul taste in your mouth
Inflammatory response throughout your body

Symptoms in the early stages of periodontal disease (and periodontitis) are often not very noticeable. Your dentist will likely be the first to point them out.

How To Treat Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease?

As you can guess, the level of treatment depends solely on the level of progress the disease has made inside your mouth. Once properly cleaned by a professional and oral hygiene is maintained at home, early stages of either type of disease (gingivitis/periodontitis) begin to reverse and return to a healthy state immediately. However, if the gum disease has progressed, teeth may have to be removed and replaced.

When caught early, gum disease can usually be treated before tooth loss occurs. But preventing it altogether is even better than catching it early. Good and consistent at-home oral care (brushing and flossing) and regular dental checkups and cleanings can go a long way in keeping your gums healthy and disease-free. Some tips include:

1. Be Sure To Floss

Nasty rumors recently spread that flossing is bad for your teeth and gums. But any dentist will tell you this is simply not true, though flossing excessively can cause the gums to recede.

The key, and an important one at that, is to floss twice daily. Once in the morning and again at night. And the process should be as follows: rinse with mouthwash, floss, brush, and rinse again with water. Doing this twice a day will drastically help rid your mouth of unwanted residue from juicing or eating. How dare anyone say such a thing as flossing has unwarranted health benefits! It’s simply one of the most beneficial things you can do for your gums and teeth.

2. Get the Right Toothpaste

Many people like to rush right to whitening toothpastes. It makes sense, who doesn’t want white teeth? But when juicing, the acid that comes into contact with your teeth (and no matter what you do, there will be a least a tiny bit that does) makes them softer and more sensitive. Combines with the harsh chemicals in whitening toothpaste, this can cause a lot of discomfort.

It’s better to use toothpaste specifically made for sensitive teeth because it will clean the teeth well without hurting them. And, honestly, brushing twice a day will do well at keeping your teeth white. If you feel you need something more, there are plenty of products out there that do not hurt the teeth, even sensitive strips and mouthwashes that can advance your whitening.

3. Avoid Over-Brushing

Never thought you could brush too much, did you? Well, you can. Too much brushing can actually help the acid erode the enamel off your teeth. As previously said, juicing can leave your teeth extra sensitive. To go and brush excessively after that can cause some problems.

Try to stick to the twice-a-day standard, and use a soft or medium bristle when you brush. Brush lightly, and use a mechanical toothbrush if possible. These are made to get to those hard-to-reach places and they put the perfect amount of pressure on your teeth and gums. And nowadays, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get one. There are plenty of reasonably priced electric toothbrushes out there; you just have to do a bit of research.

4. Chew Gum

Makes sense if you think about it. Chewing gum can break free those little seeds or bits of unblended food from your teeth. Just make sure you only chew sugarless gum. Otherwise, you will add to the harmful agents in your mouth. And it’s not a good idea to constantly chew gum. A few times a day, after meals is fine, but overdoing it can cause discomfort to sensitive teeth.

5. Use Mouthwash Regularly

Just like flossing and brushing, the twice-a-day rule is all you need with mouthwash. Use water if you feel the need to rinse more than that. But once in the morning, then again at night, can do wonders to clean the mouth. Mouthwash also helps keep your teeth white and your breath fresh.

6. Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year

This is one of the most important things to do. One visit to the dentist every six months is the perfect way to gauge how well your teeth are handling the juicing. A dentist can tell you if your teeth are becoming too sensitive or stained and advise you on what to do. It’s also good because you get a professional cleaning where someone is meticulously searching your mouth for cavities, bits of food, or anything else. Keep in mind that it doesn’t matter if you brush or floss first, as long as you consistently do a thorough job of both.

7. Drink Through Straws Whenever Possible

When drinking your favorite blended healthy concoction, it’s possible to keep most of the liquid from having too much contact with your teeth. This is especially true with thicker drinks. By using a straw, you can keep even more liquid from hitting your teeth.

It’s a good idea to have many different types of straws around, including a wide straw for thick juices, narrow or regular sized for normal densities, and a bendy straw just because they’re fun. Just stay away from those trendy metal straws because they can chip your teeth. Basically, any way of transferring your juice directly from the cup to your throat without touching anything (besides the straw) helps. Just be careful; using a straw makes drinking a lot of liquid much easier. You don’t want to overdo it on the juicing!

8. Always Have a Water Chaser

The more time acidic liquids have to rest in-between and on the teeth, the better the chances of stains and erosion. And you know what that means: more trips to the dentist and quite possibly some intensive dental work to be done.

So, even if you use a straw, consider keeping a glass of crisp and clean water to drink from between each gulp of juice you take. This makes those acidic bits even more difficult to stick around and manages to rinse any residue left behind that would stain the teeth. Plus, water will fill you up more, an added bonus for people who want to lose weight.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of gum disease, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible. Gum disease can be treated and prevented if caught early, so don’t wait until your gums start bleeding or your teeth start hurting. Adam Brown DDS is here to help you get your smile back on track — contact us today to schedule an appointment!

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Creating a Healthy Attitude Towards Dentistry

Andrae Bergeron2022-09-14T16:03:21+00:00September 14th, 2022|General|

Tips to Create Healthy Dentist Environment for Kids

Because maintaining one’s oral health is such an important issue—due to the fact that poor oral care can lead to a number of dangerous maladies—it is essential to help children establish, at an early age, a healthy attitude towards dentistry and individual oral care. By taking the time to prepare your child for a dental visit, and by encouraging regular brushing and flossing routines, children realize early on the importance and the benefits of taking care of their teeth and gums.

The patient-dentist relationship is fostered through familiarity with, not only your family dentist but the entire dental staff as well. Due to Covid, we have seen a lack of this rapport between families and dental offices, but it is these relationships that help create positive experiences that reinforce the importance of oral health.

Youngsters who are not taught the importance of regular dental visits, as well as, personal daily care for their teeth and gums can result in poor checkup consistency and resistance to dental care (the use of night guards, braces, etc.). Extreme reluctance to dental care could even result in the necessity of sedation for regular checkups.

Is It Safe?

Though it seems we are mostly passed the big scare Covid gave us all over the past two years, nothing these days is one hundred percent safe. However, with the right safety procedures in place, a family dental visit is nothing to fear.

The dangers of forgoing regular checkups for a prolonged period can cause severe problems, especially after a pandemic where we were confined to small areas and tended to eat more tooth-decaying foods and exercise a bit less. Throw in a few carbonated drinks and sweet snacks every day and it won’t take long for your oral health to drastically deteriorate, and the fact that sugary foods and drinks are especially tempting for children puts them at a higher risk for tooth decay.

The Necessity of Maintaining Your Oral Health

Preventative care and dentistry not only preserve your oral health, but they also save you money. By keeping yourself and your dentist in the know of your level of oral health, your family can take preventative measures to keep harmful bacteria from festering into something dangerous, which requires expensive procedures or surgeries. Your oral health is unique to you, and the more you understand about your particular set of teeth, the better your chances of keeping a healthy mouth. Here are a few more key details of preventative dentistry you should consider:

It takes a community. It’s tempting to go along with the notion that brushing and flossing your teeth every day is enough to keep that mouth sparkly clean. It is true that brushing and flossing are important procedures, necessary for keeping your mouth clean, but without having regular checks where a dentist can give a thorough assessment of your oral hygiene, there is really no way to tell where your level of health is. Always make time for a dentist to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums.
Pay a little upfront to save a ton in the end. Ironically, people tend to skip dental visits in order to save money, however, the price of dealing with a developed condition—that was not caught by your dentist—will end up costing much more money. Imagine paying out of pocket for a tooth extraction—then again for the replacement. The pain and frustration and money simply aren’t worth it.
Visiting your dentist means meeting with a professional who can offer advice on oral hygiene products for purchase that are specific to you and your needs. There are so many products out there to choose from, and without the guidance of someone who knows what works and what does not, you might feel a bit lost.
With poor oral health come a lot of side effects: bad breath, a crooked smile, browning teeth, chipped or lost teeth, and the list goes on. These side effects can do major damage to an individual’s self-esteem and individual health. However, sometimes these issues can be easily dispelled by a quick visit to the dentist.
The most important aspect of preventative dentistry is that one simple visit could identify life-threatening diseases. Like many areas of the body, your mouth is teeming with bacteria, most of them harmless. Normally the body’s natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Certain medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants can reduce saliva flow. Saliva washes away food and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, helping to protect you from microbial invasion or overgrowth that might lead to disease. Studies also suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, might play a role in some diseases.

Once you enter the office for your appointment, the nurse will take your temperature before you wait for the dentist.

Preparing Your Child for a Visit

Trying to explain to your children what they are about to walk into before a trip to the dentist will surely scare them, no matter how nicely you try and say it. Chances are, children will hear something like this: “Someone with a gown on is going to stick sharp, metal objects in your mouth,” no matter what it is you actually say.

Instead of starting with an explanation, try to show what the experience will be like as much as possible. Put on a long gown and have your child sit in a chair like he or she would during a visit to the dentist. Mimic the movements of a teeth cleaning, rinsing, etc. Maybe even get a toothbrush and brush your child’s teeth, and do the same with floss. Let them see that dentists are people too!

Try and make it fun, but also mention that this is what it will be like going to see the real dentist. Include the fact that dental visits are going to be a part of life—at least two times a year. Let your children ask questions and keep the conversation open, you know those little minds will be thinking about this for much longer.

Before making the trip to see the dentist, pull up a picture of the entire dental team and show your child. Along with your child, take special note of the names, hair, and eye color of each individual so when they see them in person they already feel a connection.

It is also important to encourage your child to talk to and ask questions of the staff. Anything that can be done to highlight the fact that the entire dental team is friendly and here to help. At Adam Brown, DDS you can definitely count on the entire staff to engage in conversation as much as possible, so you are not completely alone in your quest to normalize your child’s trip to the dentist.

At Adam Brown DDS, we understand that a trip to the dentist can be especially scary for young ones these days. If you find your child is struggling to understand why we visit the dentist, take the time now to show what it will look like and explain that there is nothing scary about a regular visit to your family dentist.

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How to Tell if Your Tooth is Infected

Andrae Bergeron2022-08-15T15:52:19+00:00August 15th, 2022|Tooth Infection|

How to Know If Your Tooth is Infected

There is nothing fun or exciting about having an infected tooth. The pain and swelling can leave even the toughest of individuals lying awake at night wondering how to find relief.

How do teeth get infected and what should you do if it happens?

Answering these questions is the first step to maintaining proper oral health and keeping your teeth free from infection.

There are a variety of ways a tooth can become infected: an untreated dental cavity can quickly become infected, an injured tooth that is not kept clean, or even prior dental work—if not properly cared for—can result in swelling at the tooth’s root, which then spreads infection.

If you think you might have an infected tooth, see your dentist right away. Then, he can drain the infected area, clean it, and advise on proper care in order to nurse the tooth back to health. If the infection is bad enough, the tooth may have to be removed and replaced. Not treating an infected tooth can lead to major complications, even some life-threatening ones.

Warning Signs of an Infected Tooth

It is never a good idea to try and diagnose your own oral health, and it’s an even worse idea to ignore mouth swelling and/or pain with the hope it will simply go away. That pain and uneasiness you feel is your body telling you to pay attention! Here are some of the most common warning signs of an infected tooth:

Maintaining a low or mid fever can be indicative of many maladies, and a tooth infection is definitely one.
A continuous throbbing tooth that spreads its pulsating pain through the jawbone and neck and ear is probably one of the clearest signs you are suffering from a tooth infection.
A sharp pain when eating or drinking items that are hot or cold temperatures.
A sharp pain when your teeth are active—chewing gum, biting down on food, brushing, flossing, etc.
If you notice any swelling of the face, or portions of the face such as the cheeks, is a good sign of infection. This swelling can also cause difficulty breathing and swallowing.
If ever your lymph nodes and jaw/neck area are sore for a series of days, this could be due to infection.
Bad breath you can’t seem to get rid of even after thoroughly brushing, rinsing can be due to a tooth that is rotting from infection.
To go along with the bad breath, there may also be a bad taste in the mouth that won’t go away—this is when the infection itself begins to leak into other areas of the mouth.

Preventing A Tooth Infection

Clearly, if you have any symptoms of infection it’s best to make an appointment with the dentist, but if ever you are struggling to breathe and swallow to a dangerous degree, head straight to the emergency room.
Hopefully, though, you will never get to that point. By using preventative measures, avoiding tooth infection is not a difficult task. Use these tips to keep your oral health in gear:

Use fluoride toothpaste and be sure and brush for at least two minutes, once in the morning and again at night.
Use an antiseptic or fluoride every morning before brushing. (You can at night before brushing as well, but once a day is all that’s needed.)
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and make sure a lot of the water you drink contains fluoride, which helps fight against the possibility of infection.
Floss—with dental floss or a water pik flosser—at least once a day.
Make sure and use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every three or four months (or earlier if you notice the bristles are fraying).
Stay away from sugary foods and drinks as much as possible. And when you do eat or drink them, be sure and brush right after or at least thoroughly rinse with water.
Visit the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups (at least twice a year).

From Teeth to Gums

Unfortunately, an infected tooth is not the only danger our mouths may face. For instance, noticing a white coloration on your gums could mean a number of different things, and they all have varying levels of seriousness.

Infections of teeth or gums are nothing to play with.

That being said, as long as you catch it in time and know the possible reasons for the infection, you can get your oral health right back where it needs to be. Here are some possible reasons for infected gums:

Leukoplakia: this is an oral disease where white or gray coloration appears on or around the gums. These light spots are created due to mucous membranes that are sensitive and quite painful. Think canker sores, only on your gums! Leukoplakia is often caused by long-term tobacco use, excessive alcohol use, poorly fitting dental appliances, mouth injury, or bodily maladies such as cancer and HIV. If you find painful, white sores on your gums, the best thing to do is see a dentist immediately. Whether it is leukoplakia or not, your gums should never be white.

Anemia: this is a tough one because it can produce in many different forms, making it difficult to identify. The best way to diagnose anemia is to notice if the white coloration on your gums is paired with any of the following happenings:

Cold hands and feet
Constant fatigue
Chronic headaches
Spells of dizziness
Shortness of breath
Bodily weakness
Spells of irregular heartbeat

Another tell sign of anemia is sudden whiteness of skin beyond just the gums. Some common causes of anemia include vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies, Crohn’sdisease, and celiac disease. This is definitely one you want to take care of right away. If you feel any of these symptoms could be true for you, make a dental appointment as soon as possible.

Mouth Ulcers: noticing white spots on your gums could indicate oncoming ulcers. This is much less serious than the previous causes of white gums, but these sores are no fun at all. If you feel the white spots on your gums could be connected to ulcers, it’s a good idea to begin washing your mouth out with salt water. This is a great way to keep them away and the inside of your mouth healthy. Some causes of mouth ulcers are sugary foods and drinks, as well as, tobacco use. There is no need to completely cut these out of your diet, but regulation is a must.

Gingivitis: this is a mild form of gum disease that is fairly common among American adults. If you notice your gums beginning to recede and turn white, gingivitis is most likely the culprit. A few other signs include swollen and bleeding gums, even painful irritation, and loose teeth. The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral care, so if you have fallen off the wagon a bit, it’s best to get right back into the routine of brushing and flossing regularly to keep from this uncomfortable situation.

Lichen Planus: this chronic autoimmune condition can inflame the gums and begin to turn them white in lacy patches. Symptoms of lichen planus are similar to gingivitis, but regular dental check-ups can keep this condition from inflammation.

Candidiasis: simply put, this is a yeast infection that causes creamy white sores on the gums. This type of infection is usually seen in babies and older adults and is often brought on by diabetes. If you happen to fit any of these categories, it is best to maintain a strict teeth-and-gum cleaning schedule and keep up with your dental appointments. Two appointments a year are recommended, but in this case, you might benefit more from three or four check-ups a year.

Oral Cancer: if you ever notice white bumps or growths on your gums, or if you suddenly find it difficult to chew or swallow, see a dentist right away. Most importantly, though, don’t panic. White growths or raised sections on the gums do not always equate to cancer, and even if they do, the faster you get them looked at the better your chances of having them safely removed.

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