Why do we all dread going to the dentist? Or why do we wait to see the dentist until we are in pain? Well, lack of education about your teeth is a big reason people have so many views on dentistry. Here are some tips to keep you educated about the health of your teeth and gums and remember we only get one set of permanent teeth, so let's work together to keep that smile healthy and white!
At Bradshaw Family Dentistry, we believe in building long-term relationships with our patients through leading edge dentistry and a genuine expression of caring for them and their families. We invite you to experience that level of care first-hand.
Step 1 –
Know How You Get DecayThe sugar/decay break down:
• Sugar in carbonated drinks and foods combine with bacteria in your mouth to produce acid. Acid is the first source of breaking down tooth enamel.
• Acid “attacks” your enamel with every sip and lasts twenty minutes each sip, thus weakening your enamel.
• Soda has its own acid, including diet and sugar free. Once enamel is damaged, bacteria may start causing decay.
Step 2 –
Fit It Into Your DayYou may reduce decay and gum disease by:
• Eating a healthy and balanced diet.
• Reducing your snack foods and refrain from drinks that are high in sugar.
• Brush at least twice a day and floss on a regular basis. Flossing is the only way to remove plaque between your teeth and under your gum line where your toothbrush can‚t reach.
• Use a tooth paste with the main ingredient of fluoride that has the ADA seal of approval.
• Use a toothbrush recommended by your dentist and replace every three to four months and after an illness. (All our patients can come in, in between visits for a free toothbrush)
• Visit your dentist regularly. Get an exam and cleaning, which is the only way to remove tartar.– Tartar seals plaque along the gum line, making it more difficult to remove, which then causes decay.– Tell your dentist about any recent illnesses or lasting conditions.
Step 3 –
Take ControlTo help reduce decay:
• Drink as few carbonated drinks as possible.
• Use a straw to help by-pass sugar away from teeth.
• Swish your mouth out with water after drinking.
• Do not drink before bedtime.– The sugars can accumulate in your mouth and then produce a coating of acid on your teeth and tongue.
• Drink water instead of carbonated drinks.
• Visit your dentist regularly.
• Always use a fluoride toothpaste – this is the main ingredient to protect your teeth.
Step 4 – Awareness
Information About Periodontal Disease/Medical Conditions:
• Is an infection of the gums that can destroy bone and other tissues that support the teeth.
• Develops when a sticky film of bacteria, known as plaque, becomes built up on teeth.
• Can be prevented by proper daily cleaning and flossing, along with visits to your dentist
Biography
Q
Do you do anything special that adds beauty to either yourself or the world?A
I am a dentist with a mission: To give everyone a reason to smile! What can be more beautiful than a gorgeous smile! I hope to enrich lives by helping people to be educated in the field of dentistry and have them enjoy coming to my office.Q
What are some beautiful things that you appreciate?A
A SMILE!Q
If you could change one thing about yourself or the world to make it more beautiful, what would it be?A
For people to understand that having a beautiful smile is not a hard thing to do and it shouldn't be painful. By coming to the dentist regularly you should be able to have a great smile that people notice and remember.Q
What is the most beautiful thing about your life?A
I would have to say the satisfaction I get from being able to help people get the most from their smile!JUNE 2008
GO FOR IT MagazineH E A L T HBabak Pahlavan, DMD
Bradshaw Family Dentistry
Cutting Edge Dentistry with a Personal Touch
Experience Our Intra-Oral Camera:
See a clear photo of your teeth up close for the first time!
So what can you do to keep your teeth glowing white? Here are some easy to
follow tips:
Avoid Foods That Stain Teeth —
Foods with lots of pigment such as soysauce, balsamic vinegar, most varieties of berries, cherries, and curry will stain teeth.
If these cannot be completely avoided, it is recommended to brush your teeth as
soon as possible after eating these foods.
Drink Water —
You can help prevent stains to your teeth by swishing amouthful of water around immediately after eating or drinking a staining beverage.
This also helps to keep breath fresh..
Use a Straw —
Coffee, Red wine, Colas and other dark soft drinks, teas, andcranberry juice can cause staining. Using a straw for these drinks will allow the
staining liquid to bypass the front teeth.
Eat Crunchy Foods —
Celery, apples, and other crunchy foods will removefood particles in your teeth and help to prevent stains. Sticky foods are more likely
to cause staining.
Brush Your Teeth The Right Way —
Brushing your teeth is essential forgood oral hygiene. It also helps to remove plaque and keep your teeth white.
Here are some tips for getting the most out of brushing:
• Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Use a whitening toothpaste
• Use a soft bristle brush
• Use an electric toothbrush if possible
• Brush thoroughly in a gentle circular action
• Brush where the gums meet your teeth
• Replace your toothbrush every three months
• Don't brush too hard!
• Floss
(and see a dentist regularly!)At Bradshaw Family Dentistry, we believe in building
long-term relationships with our patients through
leading edge dentistry and a genuine expression of
caring for them and their families. We invite you to
experience that level of care first-hand.