Why is it important to have regular teeth
cleaning?
Did you know "teeth cleaning" does more than
just clean your teeth? Removing plaque is absolutely essential if you want
to preserve your teeth. It builds up on the tooth surfaces and between the
teeth. Brushing and flossing are, of course, vital, but everyone needs
their teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Remember – only a
dental hygienist can completely clean your teeth.
Does the doctor check for oral cancer?
Yes, we do. Dentists and hygienists are your first line of defense in
detecting and treating oral cancer. Each year in the US, approximately
30,000 people are newly diagnosed with oral cancer. Worldwide, the problem
is far greater, with new cases annually approaching 300,000. In the US
alone, a person dies from oral cancer every hour of every day. If you add
the sub category of laryngeal cancers, the rates of occurrence (about
10,000 additional new cases per year) and death are significantly higher.
However, the good news is, when found early, oral cancers have an 80 to
90% cure rate.
Why are soft drinks bad
for your teeth?
Sugar and acids are your teeth's worst
enemies. What are we talking about? Soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit
juices, and candy. Because of the acid content, Mountain Dew seems to be
the worst of the worst. Dentists even have a name for the damage it does –
they call it "Dew Mouth." These soften the tooth enamel, making it highly
susceptible to decay. Parents, watch your kid's consumption of these,
because young children's enamel hasn't developed fully. This makes these
drinks even more damaging for kids. As well as eliminating the above (or
at least reducing their consumption), use a sugar-free xylitol chewing gum
after meals. Also, rinse your mouth with a high-quality dental mouthwash.
My 12-year-old likes to chew ice. Is this
harmful?
Tooth enamel is very hard, but that doesn't
mean you can't break it. Try to avoid eating "hard foods" such as popcorn.
Don't crack nut shells with your teeth or chew on ice. Opening packages
with your teeth can also damage the enamel.
Is fluoride bad for you?
Fluoride
is fine... in small amounts. Excessive fluoride can cause tooth enamel
irregularities. Young children, especially, often swallow too much
toothpaste while brushing. So parents, supervise your young kids while
they brush. Kids (and even adults) often use way too much toothpaste (a
pea-size drop is plenty). A little goes a long way.
I think I grind my teeth at night. What can I do about
this?
Do you wake up with pain in your jaws or a
persistent headache? If so, you may be grinding (called bruxing) while you
sleep. Persistent bruxing can damage teeth and cause them to get shorter
and shorter. It can also damage your temporomandibular (jaw) joints and
even affect your hearing. If you suspect that you are a bruxer, ask us
about this. Dr. Bork may recommend a night guard or other oral appliance.
This is just a sampling of often-asked questions. Have one of your own? Don't hesitate to give us a call at 908-537-4248 so we can assist you.
General Dentist
Route 31 N
One Manor Drive
Hampton, NJ 08827
908-537-4248
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