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Nail Biting

Nail Biting | Fairhope Dentist

Nail Biting: The Affect It Has On Your Teeth

  • Biting your nails can be a hard habit to break. If you don’t break this habit, your dental health may suffer much more than your manicure! According to the Academy of General Dentistry, children or adults that bite their nails can crack, chip, or wear down the front teeth from all the stress of biting. If braces are worn, the teeth are even at a greater risk for root resorption (shortening of the roots) or tooth loss. Braces put increased pressure on the teeth.There was a study published in the Journal of General Dentistry that said patients who bite their fingernails, chew on pencils or clench their teeth may be more at risk for bruxism (grinding or clenching that causes facial pain, headaches, tooth sensitivity, tooth loss, and recessed gums). Some signs of bruxism can include flat-looking tips on the teeth, enamel that has been worn off, extreme sensitivity, indents on the tongue, and popping or clicking of the jaw. Find a Dentist Near Fairhope, AL to learn more information on how Nail Biting damages your teeth. You can also read more on this topic, like how gums can become inflamed by visiting the national library of medicine. 

    Some other dental health risks for someone who bites their nails include:

  • sore, torn, or damaged gum tissue.  This happens because of jagged sharp fingernail edges.
  • Bacteria also can spread from other body parts into the mouth and then from the mouth to the nail bed or bloodstream.Wearing a mouthguard can help with nail biting and prevent further damage to the teeth. Dentists can also give some therapy techniques like learning to rest the tongue upward with the teeth apart and lips shut to avoid any tooth damage.Down by the Bay.

Teen Oral Health Tips

Teen Oral Health Tips

Teen Dental Health: Essential Tips and IssuesIn the pursuit of a lifetime of healthy teeth and a winning smile, good oral habits are non-negotiable, especially for teenagers. Whether braces are part of the equation or not, maintaining proper oral hygiene and staying informed about potential dental issues are crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential dental care practices for teens and delve into the common oral health challenges they may encounter.

Key Oral Habits for Teens

Maintaining optimal oral health during adolescence is critical for ensuring a bright and confident smile. Here are some fundamental oral habits that every teen should embrace:

1. Brush Twice a Day

Initiate your day and conclude it with a thorough brushing of your teeth. Using an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste is essential as it helps remove plaque, the primary instigator of tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque buildup can be relentless, making regular brushing a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.

2. Daily Flossing

Flossing is not a task to be skipped or underestimated. It’s the key to removing plaque from between your teeth and under the gum-line. If plaque isn’t eliminated daily, it transforms into stubborn tartar, a hard yellow build-up that can only be removed by a dental professional.

3. Watch Your Diet

Your diet has a significant impact on your dental health. Limit your consumption of sugary and starchy foods, particularly sticky snacks, as they tend to adhere to your teeth, providing fuel for harmful bacteria. The more cautious you are with your food choices, the better your oral health will be.

4. Regular Dental Checkups

Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial for cleanings and checkups. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that your daily routine might have missed. Plus, your dentist can catch any emerging issues before they become major problems.

Dental Issues Every Teen Should Know About

Teenagers can face a range of dental issues, and being aware of them can make life much easier when it comes to oral health. Here are some common problems that teens should be informed about:

1. Orthodontics

Orthodontic issues are common among pre-teens and teens. Crowded or crooked teeth can create difficulties in maintaining proper oral hygiene, as they are more challenging to clean. This increases the risk of early tooth loss and puts added stress on chewing muscles. An orthodontic examination will determine if braces are necessary and, if so, which type is best suited for the individual. If you’re currently wearing braces, paying extra attention to dental hygiene is essential.

2. Mouth Guards

For teens who engage in sports, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect their smiles. These devices typically cover the upper teeth and serve as a barrier against broken teeth, lip injuries, and other mouth-related damage that can occur during sports activities. Prioritizing mouthguard use is a simple yet effective way to safeguard your oral health during physical activities.

3. Nutrition and Dental Health

What you eat significantly influences your dental health. Many snacks and drinks contain sugars and starches that can wreak havoc on your teeth. Every time you consume such items, your teeth are exposed to acids for extended periods, leading to enamel erosion and decay. Being mindful of your dietary choices and opting for healthier alternatives can preserve your oral health.

In Conclusion

Taking care of your oral health as a teenager sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth, fresh breath, and a dazzling smile. By following essential oral habits, staying informed about potential dental issues, and seeking professional guidance when needed, teens can enjoy a confident and radiant smile well into adulthood.

Don’t wait to prioritize your dental health. Schedule an appointment with a qualified dentist to join our dental family and receive expert guidance on maintaining your beautiful smile.

 


FAQ

1. How often should teens visit the dentist?

Teens should visit the dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. However, individuals with specific dental issues may need more frequent appointments as recommended by their dentist.

2. Are braces the only solution for orthodontic problems in teens?

Braces are a common solution for orthodontic issues, but there are other options such as clear aligners. The best treatment will depend on the severity of the problem and the individual’s preferences.

3. Is it essential for all teens to use a mouthguard when playing sports?

While it’s highly recommended, not all sports require mouthguards. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Using a mouthguard can prevent potentially serious dental injuries during physical activities.

4. What are the long-term consequences of poor dental hygiene during the teen years?

Neglecting dental hygiene during adolescence can lead to a range of issues, including cavities, gum disease, and orthodontic problems. These issues can persist into adulthood, affecting both oral health and overall well-being.

Remember, investing in your dental health today will pay off in the form of a bright and confident smile for years to come.

Visit our website today to schedule an appointment with us and join our dental family!

Treating Cavities

 Treating Cavities 

ebner glands

Do Cavities Hurt?

When you visit the dentist, sometimes you will get the news that a cavity is present. Your dentist will give you the best options to have it filled, and with that information, you may wonder if it hurts.
When you are concerned about the pain, it may cause you to put off treatment. This, however, can just make things worse. If you treat the cavity when it is first discovered, it is usually less painful and less expensive.

Here are some things you can expect during the treatment and even after:

  • At minimum an hour long appointment.
  • Numbing of the area and surrounding area to prevent discomfort during the filling process.
  • Finally, drilling out the decay where the cavity exists.

Procedure for Cavity Filling

Before even starting, your dentist or dental assistant will help to minimize the pain. An example of this is they will use a local anesthetic to numb the gums and even parts of your mouth. The local anesthetic will only numb the area that is being treated. You are still awake and are able to interact with your dentist. Lidocaine is what is usually used for an anesthetic. Best Family Dentist Mobile AL

When the anesthetic is administered, there is a three-part process.  First, your mouth will be gently dried with a piece of cotton or air. There is then a gel dabbed onto the injection site. The gel will numb the gum tissue which helps to reduce the pain that is felt when your dentist will inject lidocaine into the mouth.  You may still feel a bit of a stinging sensation when the anesthetic is injected. The sting that you do feel, isn’t from the needle. It’s from the anesthetic, working to numb your gums and mouth.

Once the area is completely numb, you won’t feel anything while the dentist is working.

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Benefits of Fluoride

Benefits of Fluoride

Fluoride is something everyone needs from the time they are just a baby. Visit us today to get your fluoride treatment and daily dose of love!

If you are looking for a family dentist serving the Foley, AL area, Sweet Water Dentistry is the place to come!
We strive to create an atmosphere were patients feel welcome at Sweet Water Dentistry “Down By The Bay.”  Our beautiful practice is nestled on Sweet Water Creek, setting the stage for tranquility and a relaxing dental experience.  We love our patients of Mobile Bay, especially the little ones, and enjoy serving them one smile at a time. We look forward to meeting you and being your encouragement for healthy living and a beautiful smile.  We hope you choose Sweet Water as your dental home. Our patients are important to us and we strive to develop long-lasting, trusting relationships with you. We are always welcoming new patients and would love to have your family become a part of our dental family.

Thank you so much for choosing Sweet Water Dentistry, the best family dentist serving Foley, AL!

Please visit our website with any additional questions at http://www.sweetwatersmile.com

Importance of Fluoride

Fluoride

The Importance of Fluoride

Fluoride is something everyone needs from the time they are just a baby.
You may even save money on dental treatment costs by just turning on your tap and drinking the water!

Scientists have discovered that patients with access to fluoridated water had fewer dental restorations and lower dental care costs during a 5 year period.  Older adults seemed to have benefited the most.

According to the CDC (center for disease control), approximately 67% of the US population that receives water from public water supply now drinks it with optimal fluoride levels that will help to prevent decay.

So, what is Fluoride?  And how does it help you?  Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in all water sources, even the oceans.  There is research that proves fluoride not only reduces cavities in children and adults but also helps to repair the early stages of tooth decay, even before the decay is visible.  It is the best cavity fighter for the whole family, regardless of age!

When fluoride reaches the teeth, it is absorbed into the enamel.  It helps repair the enamel by replenishing any lost calcium and phosphorous.  This is what keeps the teeth hard, called remineralization. When fluoride is introduced during remineralization, the minerals will deposit into the tooth enamel.  It will help to strengthen the teeth and prevent any dissolution.  Fluoride will help stop the decay process and prevent tooth decay.
Best Family Dentist Foley AL

Most bottled water does not contain fluoride, so make sure your family is drinking water that contains fluoride.

If you’re looking for a Family Dentist serving the Foley area visit Sweet Water Dentistry today!

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