MK & C Dental Group, Author at MK & C Dental Group

Is Your Toothbrush Scary?

Posted on October 21, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

We’ve all seen one before. The frayed, worn-out toothbrush with bristles stretching and poking out every which way. Our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester know that sometimes we forget, and we use our toothbrushes until they reach the point of no return. But did you know that this can be bad for your oral, and even your overall health? It’s true! Worn down brushes and their battered bristles are a lot less effective at helping your teeth get clean.

Change is Good

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months — and our Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester dental offices couldn’t agree more! As a matter of fact, you don’t even have to wait that long. If the brush starts looked ragged and scary earlier than that, change it anyway. And keep an eye on your kid’s brushes too, as they need new ones even more frequently.

The Bacteria-Toothbrush Connection

There’s been some conversation about the possibility of bacterial contamination in toothbrushes, but the ADA wants to set the record straight. Here’s the bacteria breakdown:

FACT #1: The mouth does contain germs that do get transferred to your toothbrush.
FACT #2: Airborne germs can land on your toothbrush when it’s not in use.
FACT #3: New toothbrushes may even have germs because they’re not in sterile packaging.

But guess what? Even though these germy scenarios exist, it doesn’t necessarily have any effect on your body. This is due to another interesting fact: your body is regularly exposed to germs and can usually fight them off.

Keeping Toothbrushes Clean

While some germs are bound to inhabit your toothbrush, there are a few steps you can take to limit any extra ones from nestling in.

1) Keep it to yourself – don’t share your toothbrush with anyone else.

2) Rinse well – use tap water to help remove debris and toothpaste.

3) Return to upright position – store your toothbrush standing up and allow to air-dry.

4) Separation works too – store multiple brushes separately to avoid germ transfer

The ADA also recommends avoiding using a toothbrush container that covers the brush completely. The moist environment could help germs multiply and grow. Gross!

Your dentist in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester knows how important it is to keep your smile healthy. The same goes for your toothbrush. Make sure you’re changing it regularly, especially if it’s starting to look like it’s seen better days. Don’t forget to store your new brush properly to keep both you and your smile free from bad bacteria and germs. We always want you to feel your very best!
Accepting new patients from Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester.

Straw Power: The Benefits of Using A Straw

Posted on October 11, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

Our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester know there are many choices when it comes to choosing beverages. There are display cases of drink options at the local convenience and grocery stores – not to mention all of the different drinks available at your nearest drive-thru or coffee shop. Beverages on the go often come with straw, but how often do you think of taking a swig through a straw at home or at work?

It’s All In The Straw

We’re here to tell you that the oral and overall health benefits that straws have might make you reach for one all the time. Our Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester dental offices are pleased to share these benefits with you as another way you can help protect your teeth from disease and decay.

Benefit #1 – Avoid The Stain Game

Using a straw when enjoying your favorite beverage is a good way to help protect teeth against common staining often associated with long-term exposure to dark-colored foods and drinks like coffee and tea. By using a straw, you can help avoid constant and direct contact with your teeth.

Benefit #2 – Less Exposure = A Healthier Smile

Allowing beverages to come in contact with your teeth can not only allow discoloration, but can also have a direct effect on your oral health. The more of the liquid that comes in contact with your teeth, the more exposure they have to sugar, and we all know that sugar isn’t good for teeth. Straws help direct beverages away from your teeth, and even though some contact does occur, it’s minimized when you’re slurping through a straw. This means less bacteria and sugar actually stick to your smile, reducing the chance of decay.

Benefit #3 – Hygiene Happiness

Bacteria and germs are always lurking in and around your home and restaurants on cups and glasses. And when you put those cups to your mouth to sip, there’s a chance the bacteria can inhibit your oral health. Avoid this by using a straw.

Your dentist in Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester always wants you and your teeth to be as healthy as possible. Consider using a straw when enjoying your favorite beverages, both hot and cold. We think you’ll enjoy seeing these benefits and so much more!

Accepting new patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

Top Dental Concerns for People Over 50

Posted on September 22, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

As we get older, we tend to experience more health concerns than we did when we were younger. Our dental health is no different. At our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester, we want all of our patients to be aware of some of the most common oral health issues that tend to affect those 50 or older.

Gum Disease

Like many oral health problems, gum disease can affect overall health. Research has shown a positive correlation between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, as well as some cancers. In those over age 50, 30% are affected by gum disease.

Decay

Many times we think of cavities and decay as something that affects the younger population when, in fact, anywhere up to 60% of those over 50 have recently had a cavity. Decay can be caused by a variety of things including inadequate dental hygiene, softening of teeth as we age, or even dry mouth.

Dry Mouth

We already know that dry mouth can lead to decay, but why? When the mouth is dry it means there’s not enough saliva production to rinse away bacteria. Saliva also helps keep teeth from softening thanks to its levels of calcium and phosphate. Dry mouth tends to affect the older population more so because of the increased use of medication. Many medicines’ side effects include dry mouth, so it’s important to tell your dentist everything you take.

Oral Cancer

The name itself describes how serious this particular concern is, but even more so for those over 50. In fact, the likelihood of developing oral cancer greatly increases in those 50 and older. While 45,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year, and 8,000 actually die from it, the chance of survival greatly increases if caught early.

All of these common oral health concerns can eventually lead to tooth loss or more serious issues if not treated. To help avoid them, see your dentist at least twice a year for regular dental check ups and cleanings.

If you’re concerned about any dental issues at any age, we encourage you to call our Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dental office to schedule an appointment. We’ll discuss your concerns and determine the best treatment options to help you keep your teeth for a long time.
Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

A Gluten-Free Diet and Your Teeth

Posted on September 12, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

Eating gluten-free has been increasing in popularity over the past couple of years. Sometimes this dietary change is due to choice. Other times, it’s out of necessity. Those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance avoid gluten because it makes them incredibly sick. In these individuals, gluten can also cause irreversible tooth damage and other serious oral health concerns.

What is Gluten?

Gluten is used to describe the proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley. These proteins act like a glue that allows foods to maintain their shape. Many foods contain gluten, even some that may be surprising like some condiments.

What Oral Health Problems Does Gluten Cause in Patients with Celiac Disease?

When someone who is hypersensitive to gluten is exposed to it, they can become very sick. Usually symptoms of celiac disease are found in the gastrointestinal tract, but all parts of the digestive system, including the mouth, can be affected.

Gluten ingestion by those with an intolerance actually blocks the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals. This includes Vitamin D. Without this nutrient, tooth enamel isn’t protected and begins to erode. In fact, 85% of those with celiac disease have enamel damage. Without the protection of enamel, teeth are left exposed to decay and other oral health problems. But that’s not all. For these individuals, consuming gluten may also cause:

Canker sores
Painful, red, swollen gums
Tooth discoloration
And pitted teeth

It’s important to note that gluten itself doesn’t affect individuals without celiac disease the same way it does those who do have it. Seek medical advice before making any significant changes to your diet.

At our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester, we support any diet that makes you feel healthy, including if you choose to eat gluten-free. For our patients that do have celiac disease, we encourage you to avoid gluten, not only for your oral health, but for your overall health as well.

If your teeth have suffered enamel loss or you’re at risk for losing your teeth, whether caused by celiac disease or not, there are ways to help. Schedule a visit with your dentist to discuss your options, which may include dental implants, restorative dentistry options, or cosmetic dentistry treatment.

Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

What to do About a Toothache

Posted on August 12, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

There’s nothing quite like the discomfort of a toothache. While the pain could be because of something small like a cavity, it could also be something serious like gum disease or infection. Whatever the reason may be, it’s important to call our dental office in Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester as soon as possible so we can determine what’s happening and the best way to fix it. But what do you do if you get a toothache and can’t get to your dentist immediately?

At-Home Relief

If your toothache happens when you’re nowhere near your dentist, or on a weekend when they aren’t open, don’t panic. There are some ways you can ease toothache pain until you can schedule an appointment.

Cold Compress. Take a gel ice pack or a frozen pack of peas, wrap it in a shirt or towel, and gently hold it to the outside of the mouth near where it hurts. The cold helps reduce swelling and less swelling means less pain.

Salt Water. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, focusing on the painful area. Don’t swallow it! Salt water naturally pulls any liquid in the area away, relieving pressure on the nerves and easing pain.

Floss. Gently wiggle floss in between your tooth and up into the gum line. This can help dislodge any pieces of food that may be wedged tightly in the crevices, which may be causing the toothache.

Antiseptic. Buy an over-the-counter antiseptic with benzocaine and apply it directly on the tooth and gum. The benzocaine numbs the area, giving you temporary relief.

Never Get a Toothache Again!

Well, we may have exaggerated a bit. While there’s no way to completely guarantee you won’t ever get another toothache, there are things you can do to greatly reduce your chance of one. First, make sure you’re brushing twice a day and flossing everyday. Good oral hygiene at home is half the battle in keeping your mouth healthy and free of toothaches. Next, see your dentist twice a year. Dental cleanings and exams every six months help catch any decay or other toothache-causing culprits before they have a chance to become painful.

Our Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester dental offices are here to help you in case you do get a toothache. But we’re also here to help you avoid it in the first place with preventive dentistry and gentle treatments for any problem we may find. Whether you’re struggling with toothache pain now, or it’s been awhile since you’ve seen a dentist, call us to schedule an appointment today.

Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

E-Cigarettes & Oral Health

Posted on August 5, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

There’s a new trend sweeping the nation that some claims to be a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes, also known as E-cigarettes, are purported to be less dangerous and perhaps a successful smoking cessation aid. But at our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester, we wanted to know about their effect on oral health. Here’s what we found.

What is an E-Cigarette?

Before we dive into any potential oral or overall health issues associated with smoking electronic cigarettes, it’s important to identify what exactly is in these popular devices. Perhaps what makes them so attractive and believed to be better for you is that the juice (often call e-juice) has all the nicotine of regular cigarettes, but less or none of the harmful ingredients. The liquid comes in a variety of flavors and allows smokers get their nicotine fix without smoking an actual cigarette.

So, Are They Bad for You?

Ever since the increase in use of e-cigarettes began, scientists and health professionals have been working hard to figure out whether they’re actually less harmful than lighting up. Research is still pretty limited on the effects of e-cigarettes, but early studies allude to some possible concerns, and also some potential positives.

Some of the main concerns revolving around e-cigarette use are pneumonia, rapid heart rate, congestive heart failure, seizure, airway resistance, and potential for gum damage. However, there is a growing amount of research suggesting that e-cigarettes may help people quit smoking. In one study, using e-cigarettes with nicotine helped current smokers reduce the amount of cigarettes they smoked by about half.

In short, more research is needed to determine if the benefits of smoking e-cigarettes outweigh the risks.

As science works on catching up with the trend to identify the risks of smoking electronic cigarettes, there are some things you can do to limit the effects of smoking anything.

Try quitting on your own without the use of nicotine replacements.
Keep up with visits to your Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dentist every six months to catch any potential oral health problems, like oral cancer, early.
Look for organizations that can help. The American Lung Association has some great advice and is a good place to start.

Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester and the surrounding areas.

Tooth Pain? You May Need a Root Canal.

Posted on July 22, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

When your tooth hurts, it’s incredibly unpleasant and often described as a pain unlike any other. There could be any number of explanations for the discomfort, but sometimes the problem is pretty serious and may require a root canal. But how can you tell? Let our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester help.

Signs & Symptoms

Besides the obvious sign that your tooth hurts, there are other symptoms that may mean you need a root canal including:

Increased pain while chewing or with applied pressure
Sensitivity to heat or cold that doesn’t go away quickly
A small, raised bump on the gums near the tooth that hurts
Tooth discoloration
Gum swelling or pain

It’s Not So Bad — Really!

Root canals have a pretty bad reputation as being painful. But the truth is, root canals actually stop the tooth pain. When your tooth becomes so infected or decayed that it hits the inside pulp, it can be incredibly painful. Once your dentist cleans out the area where the roots are located (the canal), and covers it with a filling or dental crown, relief will feel so good.

What’s The Process Like?

Before beginning, you’ll be numbed to avoid any discomfort. Once the medication kicks in, your dental team will get to work. First, a tiny hole is made in the infected tooth which allows access to the middle of the tooth, known as the pulp chamber. This is where the root canals are located. The root canals house pulp, nerves, and blood vessels. Your dentist will remove any and all of these materials, making your tooth no longer able to feel anything. After a thorough cleaning, the canals are sealed and the tooth is capped with a restoration.

Avoiding a Root Canal

The best way to prevent the need for a root canal in the first place is to brush and floss everyday to rid your mouth of the day’s bacteria and food particles. And speaking of food, limit eating sugary or acidic foods. These types of eats can weaken enamel and increase bacteria, leaving your teeth at higher risk for decay. Lastly, always keep your dental cleanings at least every six months for an extra-deep, extra-thorough cleaning you just can’t get at home.

If you’re having tooth pain and think you may need a root canal, give our Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester dental offices a call. We’ll get you scheduled as soon as possible, get to the root of the problem, and discuss the best treatment options. Don’t let tooth pain linger, call for an appointment as soon as possible.

Welcoming patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

So Many Toothpaste Options! Find Out Which is Right for You

Posted on July 11, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

You go to the supermarket in search of a toothpaste that not only freshens your breath, but also protects your teeth. In the healthcare aisle, you’re assaulted by boxes and boxes of multicolored toothpastes in a variety of flavors. How do you know which one to choose? Our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester can help you find which is right for you.

For a Whiter Smile…

Foods, drinks, age, and some habits can all contribute to a dull, dingy, or even yellowish smile. Sometimes, a whitening toothpaste can take the edge off of discoloration. The most effective whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives that contain magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate. If your whitening toothpaste isn’t quite giving you the boost you’re looking for, veneers or a professional whitening treatment can help.

For Extra Cavity Protection…

Some people tend to get more cavities than others. If this is the case for you, make sure your toothpaste has fluoride (tip: most do). Fluoride is a natural occurring mineral that coats teeth and helps keep damaging bacteria off.

For Those Who Are Sensitive…

When we say sensitive, we aren’t talking about emotions. We’re talking about those who have sensitive teeth and experience pain when heat or cold are introduced into the mouth. As long as cavities or a root infection is ruled out, chances are those who suffer from sensitivity are brushing too hard or with a toothpaste that’s too abrasive. If you fall into the sensitive category, look for a toothpaste with ingredients like strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, both of which can help desensitize your teeth or gums.

Look for the ADA Seal of Approval

Toothpastes that earn the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval have been tested and the ingredients were shown to do what the box says they’ll do. So no matter if you’re looking for a sensitivity blocker, cavity fighter, or tooth whitener, make sure to scope out that seal before making a purchase.

Although that toothpaste aisle can seem intimidating with its rainbow boxes of possibilities, there is a toothpaste for everyone. Your dentist can help determine your specific needs and recommend a toothpaste that fits your oral health goals. Just make sure that you use it each and every time you brush — which should be twice a day.

If you’re not sure you’re using the right toothpaste for you, or you’re looking to schedule your next dental cleaning and exam, call our Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dental office. We’ll be happy to help.

Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

Attention Men: Why Are You Avoiding Your Dentist?

Posted on June 23, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

The benefits of regular dental exams and cleanings are applicable to everyone from women and men to children. Yet, according to research, American women are ⅓ more likely to get preventive dental care than men. At our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester, we wanted to know more about our male patients, and even those who we may not yet have the pleasure of knowing, so we explored a few reasons why men seem to avoid going to the dentist.

The Academy of General Dentistry surveyed several dentists and asked them why men tend to forego regular dental visits. The results include:

18% blamed busy schedules
30% said men are more embarrassed or afraid to go to the dentist
45% believed men don’t see a need to visit the dentist

We found a few other reasons, too. Men tend to avoid preventive dental care and rather just go to the dentist when there is a problem, even though the problem itself may have been avoidable through regular dental cleanings and exams. Additionally, societal norms insinuate that men should “tough it out,” and visiting a doctor may be perceived as a sign of weakness (which, for the record, isn’t a weakness, it’s smart).

Why Are Regular Dental Appointments Important?

Visiting the dentist at least twice a year is crucial to maintaining a healthy mouth and a healthy body. Many oral health problems affect overall health, and if not caught and treated early, some of these issues can be severe. Scheduling and keeping appointments with your dentist can help keep these serious, scary problems away or at least catch them before they have a chance to affect the rest of the body. Some of these concerns include:

Oral cancer that can affect the lips, tongue, throat, and cheeks
Gum disease which can increase the risk for heart disease
Sleep apnea which commonly leads to high blood pressure

Besides keeping your mouth and body healthy, dental appointments can also be used to discuss anything about your smile that you may not like. If you’re embarrassed to smile or are missing teeth, there are plenty of options available to get you a smile you’re confident of including whitening, veneers, dental implants, bridges, and so much more.

If you know a man in your life who has been avoiding dental care for whatever reason, we encourage you to to have him call our Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dental office to schedule an appointment. Even if he hasn’t seen a dentist in years, we don’t guilt trip our patients. In fact, we celebrate the important things — the fact he made an appointment and is taking the right steps towards better health.

Accepting patients from Middletown, Kettering, West Chester.

Other Uses for Toothpaste

Posted on June 13, 2016June 13, 2016 by MK & C Dental Group

When we think of toothpaste, we obviously think of the main purpose… to clean the teeth. That is what it’s designed for, after all. But at our dental offices in Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester, we always hear of other uses for toothpaste, and while we haven’t tried them all, we still thought it’d be fun to share them with our patients.

De-Fog a Mirror. After a relaxing, hot shower, the bathroom tends to resemble a steam room with fog everywhere. And the mirror is no different. This can be a pain if you need to get ready fast and nothing you do seems to make it clear enough to see as well as you’d like to. We may have a solution. People have credited the use of toothpaste for a clear, fog-free mirror. True? Maybe. Worth a shot? Absolutely. Just apply some toothpaste to the mirror and wipe it down prior to turning on the shower water. Legend has it when you step out of the shower, the mirror will be clear.

De-Stink Hands. Cutting garlic, onions, or other exceptionally potent food can leave your hands pretty stinky, sometimes for what seems like days. No matter how often you wash them, no matter what fantastically fragrant soap you use, the stench lingers. Some foodies insist that toothpaste can rid your fingers of smells from last night’s dinner preparations. Slather some toothpaste on your hands, scrub together, rinse off. Then let us know if this worked for you.

De-Spot Your Faucet. Gunk from spit, residue from soap, and who knows what else may be lurking on your sink faucets, giving them that spotted appearance. Sometimes people can’t seem to remove the spots completely for a sleek, shiny clean. However, the word on the street is that if you wash the faucet with toothpaste, you just may be able to get that pristine clean finish. Apply it with a clean cloth, gently scrub, and thoroughly wipe away.

If you’re up to trying any of the above, let us know if you have success, but make sure to always leave enough toothpaste in the house to use for its intended purpose — brushing your teeth. We recommend brushing at least twice a day to keep your mouth free of cavities. That, paired with regular dental cleanings and exams with your Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dentist, is the best recipe to avoid the need for dental treatments like crowns, fillings, root canals, or onlays.

If it’s been awhile since you’ve been in to visit, or if you’re in need of a new dentist, call our Middletown, Kettering, or West Chester dental office to schedule an appointment today.

Welcoming patients from Middletown, Kettering, and West Chester.