Lake Oconee Dentistry Blog

ARE YOU A RUNNER? Or, do you know a runner? Here’s an important question to ask… “Does your training include specific consideration for your oral health?” Do those two things sound unrelated? There’re not. Read on!

With Each Extra Training Hour, Decay Risk Goes Up

The rest of your body may be in tip-top shape. But a recent study published in the Scandinavian Journal Of Medicine & Science In Sports found two very specific oral health problem areas for athletes.

1. Dry Mouth Effects

Think about the way your mouth feels when you’re racing or on a training run. You’re likely breathing heavily through your mouth. Your mouth becomes dry as a desert. In addition, because there’s higher susceptibility to dehydration (at some level) you don’t recover from dry mouth as quickly as you would otherwise. Dry mouth creates a danger zone for your teeth.

2. Sport-Related Nutrition Effects

When you’re racing or on training runs, what are you putting into your body, and how are those things affecting your teeth? If you’re like most runners, you’re often consuming:

• acidic sports drinks, some of which have lots of sugar
• energy gels or gummies that stick to your dry teeth
• energy bars that are often loaded with sugar and starch

These kinds of substances inside a dry mouth, coupled with the likelihood that they will sit on your teeth for long periods of time, creates an unfriendly environment for your healthy smile.

This DOES NOT Mean You Should Stop Running!

Of course not! Just be aware! And, here are some helpful suggestions…

Be Cautious About What You’re Eating & Drinking

• Drink lots of water! Water, not energy drinks are best.
• If you DO consume energy drinks, rotate them with water. Rinse, rinse, rinse.
• Drink water BEFORE you get dehydrated, not after.
• Brush before and after workouts.
• If you’re consuming gels or other sticky substances, mix in some carrot or celery sticks (scrubber foods).

And, Avoid Embarrassment Too (haha)…

Don’t be that awkward runner…

What Are YOU Training For?

Are you an avid runner? Or maybe you’re just jogging a little bit. Talk to us if you’re starting any kind of new workout plan. As you know, we like to keep up with any health-related changes in your life. It helps us keep your mouth healthy. Let us know!

Thanks for being our valued patient and friend.

A GROWING BODY OF RESEARCH linking periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis suggests that taking care of our teeth may also be a really good way to take care of our joints. Researchers found that porphyromonas gingivalis, the same bacteria primarily responsible for gum disease, can also be found in the knee joints of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Oral Health Problems Don’t Remain Isolated In Our Mouths

There are significant links between our oral health and our whole body health. The connection between gum disease and RA isn’t the only evidence studies have found of oral bacteria migrating to other parts of the body. Gum health has also been linked by some researchers to many other systemic conditions including diabetes, heart health, Alzheimer’s, and more.

The Common Thread

RA is an inflammatory immune disorder. Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria in your mouth may release an enzyme which makes the residue of certain proteins in your body appear to be foreign intruders. If you have RA, this can cause your immune system to attack your own body.

What Can You Do?

When monitoring the health of our bodies, a great place to start is with our mouths. The simplest of things can help prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing and spreading throughout the body.

• Brush once or twice each day.
• Floss daily.
• Schedule regular cleanings and exams (remembering that you may need more frequent appointments if you have signs of gum disease).

Rheumatoid Arthritis Can Make Dental Hygiene More Difficult

Do you have RA? Or, does someone you care for (an aging parent, for example) have RA? Don’t forget that it may be harder for people who suffer from RA to do simple things like properly and thoroughly brush teeth. And, flossing can be even harder because of limited hand flexibility.

If you’re in a position where you need to assist someone with RA (or yourself), please let us know! We can help you brainstorm alternate methods for oral health care that will help.

Thanks for your trust in our practice!

AT FIRST GLANCE the title of this post may seem a little ambitious. We admit that. But we’re passionate about what we do and we hope you feel that each time you visit us. And in some small (yet very significant) ways, team members here really do feel like we change the world.

It’s Not About Teeth

Does that sound strange coming from our dental practice? We’re being a tiny bit facetious to illustrate a point. Here are some of the ways you can have a powerful impact for good through the dental profession:

1. You Will Dispel Fears & Stereotypes

Modern dentistry isn’t your grandparent’s dentistry. Never before in history have dental materials and services been so comfortable, so effective, so life changing and accessible to so many as they are today.

2. You Will Build Trusted, Lifelong Friendships

It’s one of the things we love most. When it comes to connecting broadly and deeply with so many people and with our community—while helping patients stay healthy and confident—few careers provide the rich opportunities dentistry provides.

3. You Will Restore Confidence For Many You Serve

There are no greater feelings than the ones that come when you see a patient smile who was embarrassed to smile before. Truly life enhancing. You’ll feel like you’re walking on clouds (alongside your patient).

4. You Will Educate For Better Health (and you may save a life)

Our oral health is inextricably linked to our overall well-being. It’s a privilege and serious responsibility to continually educate about important topics such as oral cancer.

5. You Will Help Sustain Quality Of Life For “Seasoned” Patients

As live expectancies continue to increase, we love helping people keep healthy smiles decades longer. We do that through continuing education, modern technological developments, and thoughtful preventative maintenance.

Do You Know Someone Considering A Dentistry Career?

If so, please pass this blog post along to them regardless of whether they’re considering becoming a hygienist, dentist, dental assistant or dental administrator.

And if that person would like to visit with us, please have them give us a call. We’d be happy to visit with them.

Check Out This Related Video…

This was shared by the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) which provides students with information and assistance in reaching their dental career goals. Students in the video share the reasons they’re pursuing dentistry:

Thanks for being part of our practice family. We love what we do because of you!

If you have more questions about this topic, ask below or directly on our Facebook page.

INDEED… DENTISTRY IS SERIOUS business. But that doesn’t mean we have to take ourselves TOO seriously all the time, right?

9 Dental-Related Fun Facts

1. A typical elephant’s molar weighs nearly nine pounds.
2. In 1994, a West Virginia prison inmate braided dental floss into a rope to escape!
3. The first toothbrush with animal hair bristles was made in China in 1498.
4. A snail’s mouth is no larger than the head of a pin, but can have 25,000 teeth inside!
5. Some of the world’s most choked on objects are toothpicks! Be cautious when picking your teeth or holding one in your mouth.
6. Like cows, humans actually chew side to side—not just up and down.
7. In North America, over 3 million miles of dental floss are purchased each year… Enough to circle Earth 120 times!
8. When you skip flossing, you’re missing 35% of your teeth’s surface area!
9. The first modern(ish) braces were constructed in France in 1728. They were made from metal and string.

Some Interesting Animal Teeth Trivia

Thanks for trusting us to keep your mouth and teeth healthy!

We know it’s a big responsibility and we take it very seriously. Any time you have questions about your oral health, let’s visit.

A SIP OF COFFEE, A SPOONFUL OF ICE CREAM… you never thought that these simple pleasures could cause pain! But when you have sensitive teeth, your favorite foods and beverages can turn against you. Even sour foods and cold weather can drive you crazy!

Sensitive teeth are a common problem. Here are four great tips for easing the discomfort:

#1: Check Your Brushing Technique

Sometimes the problem is that you’re actually TOO enthusiastic with your routine care. If you’re brushing too much or too hard, it can contribute to receding gums. When gums recede, sensitive areas of your teeth are exposed. Always brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently in a circular motion without sawing back-and-forth.

#2: Minimize Acidic Foods & Drinks

One major culprit in an over-acidic diet is soft drinks—but sports/energy drinks, fruit juices, and sour candies can also contribute. Acid erodes your tooth enamel.

Detailed Info About The Causes Of Tooth Sensitivity

#3: Consider Changing Your Toothpaste

Do you use a whitening toothpaste? Check the usage instructions. Whitening toothpastes can be more abrasive which can contribute to sensitivity. If your teeth are hurting, try a toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth instead.

#4: Come Visit With Us!

If you’re experiencing continued sensitivity, we should take a look. Receding gums can be a sign of gum disease. Sensitivity could also indicate a cavity, or be a warning that you’re grinding your teeth at night. To be sure it’s not a serious problem it may be necessary for us to take a look.

Thanks for your trust in our practice. We appreciate you!

If you have questions about tooth sensitivity, please ask below! We love to hear from you. Or message us directly on our Facebook page.

THE HEALTHY ENAMEL THAT COVERS YOUR TEETH is the hardest substance in your body… It’s even harder than your bones! That’s great news when you consider the amount of pressure our jaw muscles exert on our teeth.

However, your teeth can still be cracked and chipped. Here are four “don’ts” for avoiding a cracked tooth.

#1: Don’t Chew On Ice

High powered blenders have special blades and settings for crushing ice. So imagine what chewing on ice can do to your teeth! Some people do it out of habit—and others do it when they’re nervous or bored. Just stop! It can chip or crack teeth.

#2: Don’t Chew Hard Sweets

Hard candy isn’t good for your oral health anyway. Besides the high sugar content, and the long periods of time the sugar sits on your teeth, hard candy can also crack your teeth. Jawbreakers, suckers, and frozen candy bars are common culprits. If you enjoy these occasionally, consider licking them instead to avoid damage.

#3: Don’t Bite Down On Unpopped Popcorn Kernels

We know that they’re difficult to avoid! When you’re enthralled in a movie, the last thing on your mind is the popcorn you’re enjoying. Just try to be aware of those pesky unpopped kernels!

#4: Don’t Use Teeth As Tools

They’re not bottle openers. They’re not scissors. They’re not pliers. You get the idea.

Contact Us Immediately If You Crack A Tooth

Together, we’ll figure out the best course of action.

Thanks for the trust you place in us. We appreciate having you as our valued patient!

TODAY THERE ARE AS MANY WOMEN AS THERE ARE MEN in dental schools. But 150 years ago it was very different. We admire and honor those women who paved the way.

Unofficially, Women In Dentistry Go Back A Long Way

Although a dental education wasn’t available to women until fairly recently, women have been practicing dentistry for a long time. This ranged from neighborhood women using traditional remedies, to women like Emeline Roberts Jones and Amalia Assur.

Amalia Assur learned dentistry in her family’s business… Her father was a dentist, and so was her brother. In Sweden, the Royal Board of Health granted her special permission to independently practice dentistry in 1852.

Around the same time in America, Emeline Roberts Jones was married to a dentist and served as his assistant for years. When her husband died in 1864, Emeline continued serving their patients. Later, she was awarded an honorary membership into the Connecticut Dental Society.

Lucy Hobbes Taylor Was The First Woman To Receive A Dentistry Degree

Lucy Hobbes Taylor earned her dental degree in 1866, but her road there was long and hard. She was initially denied entrance to medical school based on gender. Looking for a warmer welcome into dentistry, she started studying under the dean at the Ohio College of Dental Surgery. She applied for the college in 1861 and was denied.

Lucy persisted in apprenticing under several prestigious dentists, then boldly opened her own practice. After successfully treating patients for years and being admitted to the Iowa State Dental Society, she was finally accepted to the Ohio College of Dental Surgery in November, 1865. Because of her experience, she was only required to take one course before she was awarded her D.D.S. in 1866.

A Short Video Tribute From The University of Michigan School of Dentistry

Many Others Made A Difference

Other women struggled through societal restrictions, bureaucracy, and disadvantage to contribute to the field of dentistry. These include Ida Gray Nelson Rollins, the first African American dentist, and Grace Rogers Spalding, who co-founded the American Academy of Periodontology and helped spearhead the preventative dentistry and gum care movement.

Thanks for your trust in our dental practice!

We appreciate having you as our valued patient. If you have comments about these great women, we’d love to hear them in the comments section below. And, you can always reach out to us on our Facebook page!

Lucy Beaman Hobbs Taylor photo courtesy of the Kansas Historical Society
Emeline Roberts Jones photo courtesy of The New Haven Museum & Historical Society

OUR TOOTHBRUSHES fend off plaque and bacteria, help keep our teeth sparkling, and leave our mouths feeling squeaky clean! But how squeaky clean is your TOOTHBRUSH?

Toothbrush DON’Ts

Don’t Store Your Toothbrush In A Closed, Dark Space

A moist, enclosed environment (like a container or cupboard) is not a good place to keep your toothbrush. Bacteria thrive in dark, wet conditions without circulation.

Don’t Share Your Toothbrush (Gross)

When you share your toothbrush you share bacteria, including bacteria that can cause dental decay and periodontal disease.

Don’t Keep Your Toothbrush Near The Toilet

Put your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible—at least six feet is a good rule of thumb. Because of “airborne particles”, always flush with the lid down. Enough said.

Toothbrush DOs

Replace Your Toothbrush

Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles get frayed. This not only ensures that it cleans your teeth better, but it eliminates the bacteria buildup issue. If you’ve been sick or are recovering from a cold, consider changing your toothbrush.

Rinse Your Toothbrush After Using It

Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush with water after each use. Rinsing it washes out debris and bacteria left behind. You can also deep clean it by swishing it around in mouthwash.

Keep Your Toothbrush Dry

Store your toothbrush upright in the open air. This allows it to dry out and not develop mold.

Care For Your Toothbrush And It Will Care For You

Keeping your toothbrush clean will help both your overall health and your oral health. Where do you keep YOUR toothbrush? Let us know in a comment below. We love to hear from you!

Thanks for your trust in our practice!

YES, YOU’RE PRETTY TOUGH… You kill it at work, you’re a remarkable significant other, you’re training for your next triathlon, and you volunteer at the soup kitchen on weekends. But guess what? You’re no match for gum disease, tooth decay, or oral cancer without a little assistance.

Men’s Oral Health Risks Are Higher

Medications

Do you take medication for a heart condition, or to regulate blood pressure? Because this is more common in men than women, men are more likely to suffer dry-mouth side effects—and dry mouth increases gum disease and cavity risk.

Tobacco and/or Alcohol Consumption

Men tend to consume more alcohol than women, which greatly increases oral cancer risk.

Routine Oral Hygiene

Men are less likely than women to brush twice a day. Score: Men 66%, Women 86%. C’mon guys…

Regular Checkups

According to a 2011 study, women are almost twice as likely as men to have received a regular dental check-up in the past year.

Your Oral Health Is Connected To Your Body Health

Consider these facts:

• Some studies have linked periodontal disease to heart problems, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.
• Men with periodontal disease are 49% more likely to get kidney cancer, and 54% more likely to get pancreatic cancer.
• Gum inflammation is connected to prostate inflammationwhich affects many men as they age.
• Oral cancer kills one person every hour, and the majority of those are men. Screenings during regular check-ups is the best preventive strategy.

This Isn’t JUST About Your Health!

In your professional life, a confident smile helps establish authority and supports memorable business connections. In your personal life, it can open doors in amazing ways. Most importantly, you should feel confident about your healthy, functional, engaging smile.

No More Neglecting Your Oral Health, Guys

Now that you’re convinced how important this topic is, pass the information along to your buddies. And thanks for being our valued patient. We’re interested, and we care about you.