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Diabetes & Dental Health

2020-07-16T17:22:42+00:00November 27th, 2018|General, Oral Health, Teeth Cleaning|

One in 10 Americans — or more than 30 million people — have diabetes, according to the Office of Disease Prevent and Health Promotion (healthfinder.gov). People with diabetes have an increased risk for serious gum disease because they are generally more susceptible to bacterial infection, and have a decreased ability to fight bacteria that invade the gums. These bacteria are what cause periodontal disease, a chronic, inflammatory condition that can destroy your gums, all the tissues holding your teeth, and even your bones. The American Dental Association states that periodontal disease is the most common dental disease among those living with diabetes, affecting nearly 22 percent of those diagnosed. In fact, one in five cases of total tooth loss is related to diabetes. 

Dental complications due to diabetes also include oral burning — a burning sensation inside the mouth that may include a bitter taste and dry mouth that is caused by uncontrolled blood glucose levels — and thrush — the growth of a naturally occurring fungus that the body is unable to control and may cause sore, white — or sometimes red — patches on your gums, tongue, cheeks, or the roof of your mouth.

November is American Diabetes Month, and Carolina’s Dental Choice wants to help you ensure that your efforts to manage the condition include your oral health.

Even if you don’t have diabetes now, that doesn’t mean that you never will. Or, if you’re not someone who regularly goes to the doctor, you could even have diabetes and not know it yet. Approximately 1.7 million new cases are diagnosed each year — and 8.1 million people living with diabetes don’t even know they have it. Another 84 million adults in the United States are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

HOW DIABETES WORKS

There are common misconceptions about diabetes. Diabetes is not simply caused by eating too much sugar. It is not a disease only seen in people who are overweight.

Diabetes is a disease in which the pancreas, a gland situated behind and below the stomach, does not properly produce the hormone insulin. What is supposed to happen is that when you eat food that food is digested in the stomach and broken down and converted into glucose, a type of sugar. That sugar is required for your body to function. The stomach and small intestines absorb the glucose and then release it into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, glucose can be used immediately for energy or stored in our bodies, to be used later. However, in order to store the glucose for later, the body must have insulin. Think of it almost as if food is like going to work, cash is glucose, and your savings account and ability to retire is insulin. Without the savings account, all the cash gets spent!

HOW DIABETES DEVELOPS

It is thought a combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors cause type 1 diabetes though exactly what those factors are is still unclear. What’s known is that in type 1 diabetes, your immune system attacks and destroys your insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leaving you with little or no insulin. Consequently, diabetes can be thought of as an autoimmune disease. You may be familiar with other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, or lupus.

It’s believed that genetic and environmental factors also play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes — although being overweight is strongly linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, your cells become resistant to the action of insulin, and your pancreas is unable to make enough insulin to overcome this resistance. 

RISK FACTORS FOR DIABETES

The Mayo Clinic outlines certain risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes:

  • Weight. The more fatty tissue you have, the more resistant your cells become to insulin.
  • Inactivity. The less active you are, the greater your risk. Physical activity helps you control your weight, uses up glucose as energy and makes your cells more sensitive to insulin.
  • Family history. Your risk increases if a parent or sibling has type 2 diabetes.
  • Race. Although it’s unclear why, people of certain races — including black people, Hispanics, American Indians and Asian-Americans — are at higher risk.
  • Age. Your risk increases as you get older. This may be because you tend to exercise less, lose muscle mass and gain weight as you age. But type 2 diabetes is also increasing among children, adolescents and younger adults.
  • Gestational diabetes. If you developed gestational diabetes when you were pregnant, your risk of developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes later increases. If you gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds (4 kilograms), you’re also at risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome. For women, having polycystic ovary syndrome — a common condition characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth and obesity — increases the risk of diabetes.
  • High blood pressure. Having blood pressure over 140/90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you have low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good,” cholesterol, your risk of type 2 diabetes is higher. Triglycerides are another type of fat carried in the blood. People with high levels of triglycerides have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Your doctor can let you know what your cholesterol and triglyceride levels are.

SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES

According to the Mayo Clinic, Type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, though it often appears during childhood or adolescence. Type 2 diabetes, the more common type, can develop at any age, though it’s more common in people older than 40.

Some of the signs and symptoms of type 1 and type 2 diabetes are:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme hunger
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Presence of ketones in the urine (ketones are a byproduct of the breakdown of muscle and fat that happens when there’s not enough available insulin)
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Frequent infections, such as gums or skin infections and vaginal infections

In addition to gum infections, you can look for other symptoms to show up in your mouth, if diabetes is left untreated, explains the American Dental Association.

  • You may have less saliva, causing your mouth to feel dry.
  • Because saliva protects your teeth, you’re also at a higher risk of cavities.
  • Gums may become inflamed and bleed often, which is called gingivitis.
  • You may have problems tasting food.
  • You may experience delayed wound healing (such as when you bite the inside of your cheek or have a tooth pulled).
  • You may be susceptible to infections inside of your mouth.
  • For children with diabetes, teeth may erupt at an age earlier than is typical.

Note that dry mouth isn’t just an annoyance. It can impact your oral health. Certain medications and other conditions can cause dry mouth, but symptoms include:

  • A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
  • Trouble chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking
  • A burning feeling in the mouth
  • A dry feeling in the throat
  • Cracked lips
  • A dry, rough tongue
  • Mouth sores
  • An infection in the mouth
  • Bad breath

EFFECTS OF DIABETES

Most people have felt the short term effects of their blood sugar getting too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia) such as when eating too much, being sick, experiencing a lot of stress, exercising too much, or not eating enough.

Early hyperglycemia may result in frequent urination, increased thirst, blurred vision, fatigue, and headaches. More severe hyperglycemia may include nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, shortness of breath, and abdominal pain.

Mild hypoglycemia can make you feel hungry or like you want to vomit. You could also feel jittery or nervous. Your heart may beat fast. You may sweat. Or your skin might turn cold and clammy. Moderate hypoglycemia often makes people feel short-tempered, nervous, afraid, or confused. Your vision may blur. You could also feel unsteady or have trouble walking. Severe hypoglycemia can cause you to pass out. You could have seizures. It could even cause a coma or death. If you’ve had hypoglycemia during the night, you may wake up tired or with a headache. And you may have nightmares. Or you may sweat so much during the night that your pajamas or sheets are damp when you wake up.

With diabetes it is not simply a matter of a person having only too much or only too little blood sugar, its that the body can not regulate blood sugar levels. Wild swings in blood sugar can have profound physical effects.

  • Cardiovascular disease. Diabetes dramatically increases the risk of various cardiovascular problems, including coronary artery disease with chest pain (angina), heart attack, stroke and narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis). If you have diabetes, you’re more likely to have heart disease or stroke.
  • Nerve damage (neuropathy). Excess sugar can injure the walls of the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) that nourish your nerves, especially in your legs. This can cause tingling, numbness, burning or pain that usually begins at the tips of the toes or fingers and gradually spreads upward.
    Left untreated, you could lose all sense of feeling in the affected limbs. Damage to the nerves related to digestion can cause problems with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. For men, it may lead to erectile dysfunction.
  • Kidney damage (nephropathy). The kidneys contain millions of tiny blood vessel clusters (glomeruli) that filter waste from your blood. Diabetes can damage this delicate filtering system. Severe damage can lead to kidney failure or irreversible end-stage kidney disease, which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
  • Eye damage (retinopathy). Diabetes can damage the blood vessels of the retina (diabetic retinopathy), potentially leading to blindness. Diabetes also increases the risk of other serious vision conditions, such as cataracts and glaucoma.
  • Foot damage. Nerve damage in the feet or poor blood flow to the feet increases the risk of various foot complications. Left untreated, cuts and blisters can develop serious infections, which often heal poorly. These infections may ultimately require toe, foot or leg amputation.
  • Skin conditions. Diabetes may leave you more susceptible to skin problems, including bacterial and fungal infections.
  • Hearing impairment. Hearing problems are more common in people with diabetes.
  • Alzheimer’s disease. Type 2 diabetes may increase the risk of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. The poorer your blood sugar control, the greater the risk appears to be. Although there are theories as to how these disorders might be connected, none has yet been proved.
  • Depression. Depression symptoms are common in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Depression can affect diabetes management.

MANAGING & PREVENTING DIABETES

For a person with diabetes, the main focus of treatment is to control the amount of glucose in the body so that blood sugar levels stay as close to normal as possible.

Type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented. However, healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent type 2 diabetes.

  • Lose weight if you are overweight, and keep it off. You may be able to prevent or delay diabetes by losing 5 to 7 percent of your current weight.1 For instance, if you weigh 200 pounds, your goal would be to lose about 10 to 14 pounds.
  • Move more. Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity, such as walking, at least 5 days a week. If you have not been active, talk with your health care professional about which activities are best. Start slowly and build up to your goal.
  • Eat healthy foods. Eat smaller portions to reduce the amount of calories you eat each day and help you lose weight. Choosing foods with less fat is another way to reduce calories. Drink water instead of sweetened beverages.

For tips on living with diabetes and caring for your oral health, you can also download tips from the National Institute of Oral and Craniofacial Research:

Talk to your dental hygienist and dentist at Carolina’s Dental Choice, if you have diabetes or have been experiencing any of the oral symptoms of diabetes such as dry mouth, gingivitis, or trouble tasting food. We can make recommendations to help you best manage your oral health now and in the future.

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Why Dental Implants May Be the Right Choice for Your Oral Health

2020-07-16T16:59:46+00:00June 28th, 2018|Dental Bonding, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Dental Trends, Dentures, Fixed Bridges, Implants, Teeth Whitening, Veneers|

Carolina’s Dental Choice is committed to the philosophy of restorative dentistry, which is reproducing or repairing teeth and adjoining bones and tissue, through the use of metal and ceramic materials. Though dental implants have been around, in some form, for more than 40 years, it’s surprising how many people today don’t know the procedure is an option to replace a missing tooth or even multiple teeth. Implants are the closest in comparison to natural teeth. They are just as secure, long lasting, and easy to manage.

 

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND HOW THEY WORK

An implant is a titanium “root” which is placed into the jawbone in order to support a crown, bridge or denture. Ceramic crowns, onlays or veneers address the appearance of the “new tooth.” Over time, the human body completes the process, by growing bone and tissue around the tooth. This provides the artificial implanted tooth with even more stability and permanence.

Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months, according to the American Dental Association:

Step 1) The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering. The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it fuses with the bone, a process called “osseointegration.” There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.

Step 2) The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Some implants require a second surgical procedure in which a post is attached to connect the replacement teeth. With other implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.

Step 3) The dentist makes a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.

 

TOP ORAL CARE TIPS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants can be an option at just about any age, as long a patient has healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant and is committed to maintaining basic oral care. Implants do not require any further care than one would provide for natural teeth, such as rinsing, flossing, and brushing a few times a day.

“Dental implants are very successful and long lasting but as with any surgical procedure, there might be complications,” writes Dr. Anveeta Agarwal, a consultant oral pathologist. “The best way to avoid dental implant failure is to make sure you practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and cleanings.”

Dental implant care tips include:

Practice good oral hygiene – brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes, brushes that slide between teeth, can help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant.

  • Quit smoking – smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure.
  • Visit your dentist – cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way.
  • Avoid chewing on hard foods – don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.

The American Dental Association considers two types of implants to be safe. They are:

Endosteal implants — these are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post-individually, or grouped on a bridge or denture.

Subperiosteal implants — these consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.

Though some patients may be reluctant to undergo dental surgery — as well as the idea of having titanium pieces implanted to the jaw — dental implants offer a viable tooth replacement option when other attempts have failed. Patients may have tried bridges or dentures and been unhappy with the results, but dental implants are a healthy alternative.

“For some people, ordinary bridges and dentures are simply not comfortable or even possible, due to sore spots, poor ridges or gagging,” states Colgate. “In addition, ordinary bridges must be attached to teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. An advantage of implants is that no adjacent teeth need to be prepared or ground down to hold your new replacement tooth/teeth in place.”

Additionally, implants serve a cosmetic function. Missing teeth may impact a person’s ability to get a job. 

How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Ability to Get a Job

“Poor oral health can significantly diminish quality of life in a number of ways – the most obvious being a person’s ability to eat, sleep and speak,” according to a 2016 report from the North Carolina Oral Health Collaborative. “However, there are also social and economic consequences that can impact a person’s job readiness and performance, and ultimately the economic stability of communities. A survey of North Carolina adults revealed that the impact of oral health on job readiness is greatest among those from low-income households.”

 

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND COST

Because dental implants can be used for one or more teeth, and the replacement teeth can vary in size and complexity, assigning a cost-point for the procedure can be challenging. At Carolina’s Dental Choice we usually see prices fluctuating anywhere from the $1,000 to the $3,000 range. Before making any final decisions on payment though, it is a good idea for a potential patient to consult with a dental practice and insurance company in order to clarify how much of the cost may be covered. 

At Carolina’s Dental Choice we provide information about payment, including insurance, Medicaid, and our in-house saving program online, and we are happy to discuss this information with you in person or over the phone.

 

OTHER OPTIONS TO DENTAL IMPLANTS

In addition to dental implants, Carolina’s Dental Choice offers traditional dentures, bridges, partials, which replace teeth. Cosmetic options we offer include teeth whitening and veneers, which are porcelain and permanently bonded to your natural teeth. They can enhance tooth shape, color, length and size. Dental bonding repairs teeth with a tooth-colored resin (stable plastic material) that enhances your smile and can be done in one quick and easy visit.

 

CAROLINA’S DENTAL CHOICE IS HERE FOR YOU

It is our practice to have private consultations with our patients to discuss your teeth, your options, and your treatment. Our dental practice embodies family dentistry by treating our patients like family and working with you to make you smile!

You may find information including new patient forms on our website. Contact us today at 704.239.9519 to schedule your appointment!

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What Do White Gums Say About Oral Health?

2020-07-16T17:00:13+00:00May 29th, 2018|Dentist Office Monroe NC|

Our bodies are amazing machines that like to communicate with us when they are healthy or when there might be something wrong. That’s right, there are little tells happening all the time indicating our current levels of health. This information is likely nothing new, but at Carolina Dental Choice we think it’s important for you to recognize a not-so-common sign that your oral health may be in danger.

 

Paying close attention to your gums is incredibly important. We all know the necessity of flossing and brushing and making sure those gums are not receding, but what about when areas of the gums begin to turn white? What is your body trying to tell you when this happens? White spots on the gums are more common than not, but most people do not understand the possible dangers that could arise because of them. Let’s take a look at some of the probable causes of white gums.  

 

What White Gums Could Mean

Unfortunately, noticing a white coloration on your gums could mean a number of different things, and they all have varying levels of seriousness. That being said, as long as you catch it in time and know the possible reasons, you can get your oral health right back where it needs to be. Here are some possible reasons for white 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 an 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 to anemia is sudden whiteness of skin beyond just the gums. Some common causes of anemia include vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies, Crohn’s disease, 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 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 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 to 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 important to maintain a strict teeth-and-gum cleaning schedule and keep up with your dental appointments. Two appointments a year is 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.

 

 

How to Prevent White Gums

The good news is that you don’t have to just sit around and hope your gums don’t start turning white. There are a number of preventative measures to be taken that can keep your oral health at its peak. Here are a few we at Carolina Dental Choice recommend:

 

  • Begin by brushing correctly. The best way to keep white spots from appearing on your gums is to brush in small, circular motions. This will keep the toothbrush bristles from pushing your gums away from your teeth, which causes irritations that can lead to any of the conditions previously listed.

 

  • Floss every day: despite a completely false rumor floating around lately, flossing is incredibly important for your oral health. This keeps food from resting between your teeth, which begins to rot and aid in gum disease. Floss every morning or at night right before bed. Be sure not to jam the floss down on your gums. Use soft, clean motions, going back and forth. Hit every area between the teeth and rinse with water or mouthwash after.

 

  • Stop using tobacco: this can be a touchy subject, but using tobacco of any form greatly increases the odds of various gum diseases. Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco is much easier said than done, but if you are a user, at least try and reduce how much tobacco comes in contact with your mouth. Your gums will thank you!

 

  • Watch your diet: sugary drinks and foods, alcoholic beverages, even fatty meats can all have a negative effects on your gums. As stated earlier, you don’t necessarily have to cut these things out of your diet completely, but if you are the type of person who enjoys these on a regular basis, try and cut back a bit. At the very least, make sure you brush your teeth right after eating or drinking sugary or fatty substances.

 

The biggest thing to remember is not to panic. Have fun, enjoy good food and drink. Just be smart about it. Brush and floss regularly, and MOST IMPORTANT: come see us at Carolina Dental Choice. We have the capability to detect oral health issues, often before they become apparent even to you. We can then advise you on exactly what steps need to be taken to reduce and eventually eliminate any possible disease or irritations.

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Where Did The Tooth Fairy Come From?

2020-07-16T17:01:03+00:00March 31st, 2018|Dental Trends, General|

Do you remember the excitement of losing your baby teeth as a kid? Maybe even sticking your tooth under your pillow for the Tooth Fairy and waking up to a fun surprise. The Tooth Fairy makes losing teeth so much more exciting and helps children overcome any fears they have when teeth start falling out of their mouth. But where did this tradition come from? Carolina’s Dental Choice wants to share the story of the Tooth Fairy with you.

Each magical figure, like Santa Clause, the Sandman, and the Easter Bunny, has a story and reason that we love them. These stories are all interesting and are so different in many widespread cultures. Everyone’s traditions are all unique and the way people celebrate them make it fun and create charitable moments.

Where does the tradition of the Tooth Fairy come from?

The Tooth Fairy is an old, ancient, mythical figure from western folklore. The tradition began in Northern Europe by the Old Norse. They would reward children for the first tooth they lost. The tradition formed to help children escape the fear of losing teeth and replace the feelings with excitement. The myth goes as follows: children would lose their tooth and tuck it under their pillow at night. Once the child was fast asleep, the Tooth Fairy would fly in, collect the tooth, and in exchange leave the child a small gift or money. This tradition goes back to as early as the beginning of the 20th century.

Before the Tooth Fairy tradition, people did not celebrate teeth in quite the same way. Some actually feared teeth or thought that teeth could bring hardships or even cures. In the Middle Ages, people thought that teeth would bring bad experiences in the afterlife and that they would be searched for after death. To save children from future hardships, they would burn the teeth. Others burned their teeth out of fear that witches would find them and with the tooth, they could control them.

The Tooth Fairy myth came about to distract the fear of losing teeth. Children can be scared when it comes to teeth falling out. They may think that it will hurt or have fears that they won’t be able to eat or speak normally. Many are afraid that their tooth will never come back and that all of their teeth will just fall out. The Tooth Fairy tradition helps alleviate the fear of losing teeth and replaces it with a fun and exciting tradition that leaves children waiting for the fairy.

 

What does the Tooth Fairy leave in place of the tooth?

Twenty years ago, the tooth fairy may have left a quarter under the pillow but as with everything, teeth are subject to inflation. On average children receive between one and five dollars per tooth. Sometimes children receive different amounts based on which tooth is lost. Generally, the first tooth children lose is valued far more by the tooth fairy and children may receive a higher amount as a reward. Many warn against giving too much for a tooth, as it could cause problem amongst the child and their friends. Children love to share their encounters with magical figures. Who wouldn’t? But when the stories don’t add up, some might get angry or feel left out. This fun and exciting myth should stay fun instead of having children compare whose tooth was worth more.

 

When does the Tooth Fairy stop coming?

The Tooth Fairy stops visiting a child when they have lost all of their baby teeth or when they stop believing in the magic. Children begin loosing baby teeth between the age of four and eight. This process continues until a child is around nine to twelve years old. Many children will place every tooth under their pillow: some still believing and others just enjoying the fun in the magic. Others will outgrow the tradition before they have lost all their teeth. If this happens, don’t be discouraged: it is just a part of growing up but they will cherish the memories of the tradition when they are older. Children often stop believing in the magical figures around the same time. So if they have out grown the magic of the Tooth Fairy, be prepared for them to lose interest in the Easter Bunny and Santa Clause soon after as well. When children are around age seven to nine, they are psychologically expanding their mind to begin distinguishing fantasy from reality. They is usually when they begin questioning magical figures. 

Even if the child has figured out the myth, it can still continue in the spirit of fun and tradition. Many children admit that even once they no longer believe, they still enjoy the tradition and find it fun to do with their parents. As long as it’s still enjoyable and you don’t have to lie to keep the children believing, Carolina’s Dental Choice says continue with the fun. Who doesn’t love tracking progress with small rewards along the way? The Tooth Fairy is a great way to keep track of a permanent smile in growth.

 

Why Carolina’s Dental Choice loves the Tooth Fairy

Here at Carolina’s Dental Choice, we love the Tooth Fairy because it helps promote oral health early on. Children can’t learn about their teeth and the importance of the oral health early enough. Starting good habits and educating children on their teeth early in life will help children carry oral health skills with them as they grow. The Tooth Fairy lightens the introduction to dentistry. For children, visiting the dentist, losing teeth, and keeping up with oral hygiene can be scary, but the Tooth Fairy helps take away from the fear and makes the process of dental growth more exciting, less scary, and fun for children.

To get the most out of the Tooth Fairy while teaching children about oral health, we recommend telling your children that the Tooth Fairy likes healthy and clean teeth. This is a great way to encourage your child to brush their teeth and start building healthy habits. At Carolina’s Dental Choice, we love working with children to help them learn the value of their smile early. Our goal is to help you keep your child’s teeth healthy and will make sure your child leaves our office with a smiling face. Also children are able to earn small prizes for every appointment where they make the No Cavity Club! To make your appointment, call (704) 289-9519.

 

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Real or Veneer? The Work Behind Celebrity Smiles!

2020-07-16T17:22:49+00:00February 21st, 2018|Veneers|

It’s no secret that many of us look to celebrities in awe, and often envy, of their straight, white smiles, and wonder ourselves why we weren’t born with perfect teeth. But, the truth is, most celebrities are not gifted with the perfect teeth either.

If we look at celebrities, you’ll be surprised and possibly relieved to see how many of them went through dental work to get the brilliant smiles we know and love today. Let’s take a look at some of celebrity smile transformations to see the power of cosmetic dentistry!

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise, Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice

In his teenage days before his major fame, Tom Cruise’s teeth had major gaps in the top row of teeth, a mono-tooth in his front middle teeth, and teeth were generally yellowed. Cruise underwent a major transformation with braces and dental veneers.

 

Experts recommend dental veneers for damaged, stained, misshapen, or worn-down teeth. Veneers are custom-made shells of tooth colored materials to cover the front of your tooth and improve the appearance of your teeth.

 

A combination of teeth bracing and porcelain veneers gave Tom Cruise the striking, handsome smile he has today.

 

Hillary Duff
Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice, Hillary Duff, Hillary Duff's Teeth

Hillary Duff was America’s sweetheart in the early 2000’s for her Disney Channel stardom days on the Lizzie McGuire Show. When she began to transition from acting into a more serious singing career, she chipped her tooth on a microphone during a concert. Instead of fixing the singular tooth, Hillary decided to get upgrade to a full set of veneers. While her smile wasn’t too bad before, her smile now is stunning!

 

Morgan Freeman

Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice, Morgan Freeman

 

Morgan Freeman is one of the best known and revered actors of our generation, but we probably did not pay much attention to his teeth. Naturally, as we age, our teeth decay and yellow, and Freeman was no exception. Freeman decided to see a cosmetic dentist, close the gap between his teeth, possibly had teeth extractions and teeth implants to get the smile we recognize today. Freeman certainly looks years younger with his straight, whitened smile.

 

Zac Effron

Dental Work, Cosmetic Dentistry, Carolina Dental Choice

 

Right before the filming of the first High School Musical, Zac Effron’s gap disappeared. Using Invisalign, the invisible braces options through a clear aligner, in a matter of months, Zac had a straight smile. His charming grin was also improved with a whitening treatment to get a sparkling, white smile. Admittedly, we might not have ever noticed his smile, due to his latest films focusing on his trademark abs.  Fans speculate that he might have veneers now, but the heartthrob has never commented on the matter.

 

Many celebrities have beautiful smiles, but they worked with their dentists to get the smile they wanted. You also have the power to get the smile you want, and Carolina Dental Choice is here to help. You don’t need Hollywood’s most expensive dentists to get the same work done, whether those are teeth implants, veneers, or whitening.  In fact, most of the dental work you’ve seen done to these celebrities can and has been done in our office! If you want to talk to us about your smile, give us a call today at 704-289-9519 to schedule your next consultation.

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Do People That Exercise Regularly Have Better Teeth?

2020-07-16T17:23:06+00:00January 30th, 2018|Dental Trends|

Exercising, Teeth, Smile, Dental Office, Dentist, Oral Health, Healthy Teeth, Dental Office Monroe

Carolina’s Dental Choice wants to share how important your physical health is for your oral health. The New Year is here and the resolutions to have a happier and healthier lifestyle for 2018 are back again. Whether your goal is to eat healthier, workout more, run a marathon, or join CrossFit, all of these goals can affect your teeth. Yeah, you probably already knew that healthy eating is good for your teeth but did you know that exercising also plays a role in the condition of your teeth?

A huge oral health concern for many people is gum disease. Gum disease is very common and believe it or not exercising can help to decrease the risk. Gum disease is caused by harmful bacteria in the mouth which cause the gums to swell. People who live an active lifestyle and exercise regularly have been found to have healthier gums and are less likely to have gum disease. This is because exercise lowers inflammation in your body, this includes the gums.

Related: The Trendy New Diet That Is Awesome For Your Smile

Exercise really does play a huge role in your overall health and especially your oral health. Exercise helps improve your digestive system; this helps increase blood flow and helps your body tissue resist infection. This allows the mouth to use the minerals and vitamins found in the food you eat. These help strengthen and protect your teeth and gums. Exercising, eating healthy, and getting lots of sleep are all habits that help you lead a healthier life.

Carolina’s Dental Choice wants to make sure you stay healthy, happy, and have an awesome smile. To keep your bright, shiny smile and to keep your teeth and gums healthy, it is important to exercise. Don’t forget: taking good care of your teeth, keeping up with oral hygiene, and visiting our office regularly for routine exams will help keep your oral health in check. 

 

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Can The Holidays Stain Your Teeth?

2020-07-16T17:01:40+00:00December 21st, 2017|General|

At Carolina’s Dental Choice, the goal is to help you keep your teeth pearly white this holiday season. The holidays means those delicious, extra sugary beverages that are likely to stain your teeth or even worse increase the risk of tooth decay. So, pick your poison: extra coffee to stay up late for Santa, red wines to celebrate, or the classic holiday egg nog. All of these holiday favorites, even classic hot chocolate, can do a number to your bright smile.

Dark beverages such as coffee and red wines often stain teeth. They stain your teeth and cause a yellowish color that puts a damper on your bright smile. Sugary drinks like egg nog are also very harmful to your teeth. Key word, sugar! Sugar is a huge factor in causing cavities and tooth decay. Not to mention the alcohol in these beverages can cause dry mouth, which can lead to bigger oral health problems. To avoid staining your teeth and prevent tooth decay this holiday season there are a few precautions you can take:

  1. Drink Through a Straw- It may look a little funny drinking your wine through a straw, but using this technique will minimize the contact the liquid has with your teeth.

 

  1. Brush Often- Brushing your teeth after drinking a dark colored beverage or sugary drink will help minimize any residue it leaves behind.

 

  1. Rise Your Mouth with Water- After drinking a strongly colored drink or sweetened beverage, chase it down with water. The water will help eliminate any substances left behind.

 

  1. Change It Up- Try a light colored tea for caffeine or a white wine for a drink. You can also choose to make your own beverages using a natural sugar-free sweetener.

 

Don’t worry too much about your diet, it is completely okay to splurge over the holidays. Just make sure to keep your oral health a top priority once the holidays are over. If your teeth get a little stained or you feel there is some left behind sugar, schedule an appointment with us at Carolina’s Dental Choice. We can do a whitening treatment or a dental cleaning to get you a healthier smile.

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