Friday, February 26, 2010
Good Breath Gone Bad!
There are several myths around bad breath. Here are some common myths and the truth behind it all:
Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better
Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. If you use mouthwash, just know that you will still need to brush and floss when you get the chance as mouthwash alone will not kill all of the bacteria producing germs in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose comes with the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval!
Myth #2: I brush my teeth; I will never have bad breath
Brushing your teeth will save you from having breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It’s also important to brush your tongue, which is where a majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!
Myth #3: If I don’t smell it, then my breath is fresh
This is a false assumption in every sense of the word! The truth is that the breath you breathe out is not the same breath coming out when you talk to someone. When you breathe you are not using your throat as you do when you are talking; and when you talk more breath moves over the back of your mouth where bacteria is causing bad breath.
#1 TRUTH: Brush your teeth twice a day (for at least 2 minutes), floss at least once and visit your dentist every six months…this way your breath will always be fresh!
--Dr. Tekin
Friday, February 19, 2010
The Great Social Media Adventure
While we’re taking a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Send us your thoughts or give us a call!
--The Art of the Smile Team
Friday, February 12, 2010
Five habits that lead to teeth plaque, from Art of the Smile
Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth. Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth. Also, evading your dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your dentist at least twice a year, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth. You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables.
Finally, before you pick that candy up, think about giving in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be. If you have any questions, contact our office at 404-963-8018
Hope this helps,
--Dr. Tekin and team
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Adult Fluoride - cutting edge application
Dr. Tekin and his hygienist Amanda believe in providing the most up-to-date ADA recommended treatment in preventing cavities and sensitivity. Introducing Vanish™ 5% Sodium Fluoride in-office applications! Vanish™ 5% Sodium Fluoride White Varnish safely delivers fluoride and a protective coating to your tooth surfaces without the use of bulky trays or "tasty" rinses. No tricks, No trays, No Trouble! This fluoride is painted on your teeth and virtually disappears after application. It remains as an invisible "film" on your teeth for 4-6 hours. What's also great about Vanish™ 5% Sodium Fluoride? The fluoride is water and saliva resistant so you can drink immediately; no more waiting one half hour to eat, drink, or rinse anymore! We are excited to offer this great product to you at your preventive recare cleaning appointments!