December 1, 2021 When many people think of mouthwash, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a quick way to freshen their breath in the morning or after a meal. But if you choose the right mouthwash, rinsing daily can be another weapon in the battle against tooth decay and gum disease. At Dental Life we encourage our patients to take an active role in their oral health, including getting regular checkups and cleanings, and following a flossing and brushing routine to guard against cavities. Mouthwash can be a positive addition to that routine — if you choose a brand that has therapeutic value, rather than one that’s purely meant to wash away bad breath and leave your mouth feeling refreshed. Therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients that fight bacteria and reduce plaque (that sticky film that coats the teeth), tartar (hardened plaque) and fight tooth decay, gum disease, as well as bad breath.  Therapeutic mouthwash, much like dental floss, can get in between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. It can really come in handy at times when you don’t have a toothbrush or dental floss with you while on the go. Most therapeutic mouthwashes are sold over the counter, but there are some varieties that require a prescription.  We recommend that our patients look for the American Dental Association’s seal of approval on over-the-counter brands, which signifies they have been tested for effectiveness and safety. The ADA includes some natural and organic products among its selections. It is also important to note that some brands contain alcohol and should not be used by children younger than six years of age. At Dental Life we discuss all aspects of oral health with our patients, including whether mouthwash should be a part of their daily routine. Contact our office today to arrange a comprehensive examination with our friendly, attentive staff!

January 1, 2022 Everyone knows about teeth, but does everyone know all there is to know about teeth? No way! One reason is that there are so many aspects of the pearly whites. Though it may not seem like it, they are complicated components and play significant roles in the health of the entire body rather than just the mouths in which they “live.”  We at the office of Dental Life are oral healthcare experts and know “all things dental.” In emphasizing the importance of preventive dental care, we are dedicated to helping every patient enjoy the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile. We provide a comprehensive program of preventive care designed to protect your teeth and reduce your risk of dental disease. Read on for six fun facts! A tooth is like an iceberg in that its visible portion is only 25 to 33 percent of its whole structure. The remainder of the tooth is firmly ensconced in the surrounding gum and bone.  Baby teeth, also known as milk teeth, deciduous teeth and primary teeth, act as placeholders for your permanent teeth. That’s why it’s essential that each of these 20 teeth stay in place for as long as possible, until the permanent 32 are ready to present themselves.  Not all teeth have a good sense of direction. One or more can grow in backwards, sideways or upside down.  Teeth don’t always debut in flawless condition. Some erupt already dinged with a cavity.  Your body is great at healing itself—except when it comes to a cavity. This divot of decay grows only worse until a dentist drills away the corrosion and replaces it with a filling.  Some folks get a raw dental deal when one of their baby teeth doesn’t have a permanent tooth under it. Attribute your genes for this regrettable rip-off. But not every genetic trait is disadvantagous. People are sometimes born with only either upper-jaw or lower-jaw wisdom teeth.  Now that you’re armed with these fun facts, you’re ready to bedazzle your friends and family with your extensive knowledge. When searching for a dental practice that’s dedicated to providing the topmost standard of personalized care, look no further than the office of Dental Life. We offer an extensive menu of high-quality dental services for people of all ages. Our skilled team has your needs in mind. For more information about our many services, please call to schedule an appointment.

February 1, 2022 Your gums play an essential role in the wellbeing of your teeth and overall oral healthcare. Strong gums hold each tooth in place, protect the lower portions or your teeth and lessen your risk of developing bad breath, dental decay and a host of diseases. If one or more parts of your gums start to bleed, you need to see a dentist.  At the office of Dental Life, our elite team of dental professionals has the ability, focus and flexibility to demonstrate unparalleled professional knowledge. Our high-tech, cutting-edge diagnostic equipment will give us an overall view of the health of every aspect of your mouth and teeth. All of our patients sense the quality of our care from the moment they step through our door. Blood on your toothbrush, in your saliva or your spit could be a sign of the gum disease gingivitis. When bacteria-infused plaque builds up and forms a sticky film on your teeth, your gums can get swollen, turn bright red and bleed. They are symptoms of gingivitis, a destructive oral disease you don’t want.  Here are some ways to stave off bleeding gums. Brush your teeth after each meal and at bedtime, and use toothpaste that shows the American Dental Association’s stamp of approval. Floss daily and visit your dentist at least twice per year.  Follow your dentist’s guidance regarding which texture of toothbrush bristles is best for you. Toothbrushes are available with bristles that range from hard to extra-soft.  Check your dentures. If they don’t fit properly, they can slip around and make your gums painful and develop sores. Warm compresses against your gums and rinsing your mouth with salt water can heal the sores and soothe the pain. Nonetheless, your dentist must refit your dentures.  Cease with the cigs. Smokers are twice as likely to develop gum disease. Tobacco smoke has chemicals that undermine your immune system, which lessens its ability to stave off gum infections.  Chill out. In addition to impairing your mental health, stress can take a lasting toll on your physical health. Your body responds by increasing stress hormones that lead to inflammation and gum disease.  When you need the services of a top-notch dentist, rely on Dental Life. We consider every patient to be unique regarding his/her wants, needs and preferences. We look forward to hearing from you and hope to establish a long-lasting relationship. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.

March 1, 2022 There are right ways and wrong ways to execute certain tasks. Using dental floss is one of those tasks.    At the office of Dental Life, our skilled professionals are experts at diagnosing dental issues as well as providing the treatment needed to maintain excellent oral health. Your care and comfort are our top priorities. We take as much time as you need to address your every concern and explain your options in care.  An 18-inch strip of floss provides you with the best benefits and control of the floss. Wind the strip around each of your index fingers until you can hold a few inches of it tautly between each index finger and thumb. Softly slip the floss between two teeth and glide it gently in a “C” shape from the top of each tooth to its gum line. Then move the floss back and forth along each tooth’s gum line.  Release clean floss from one hand while winding the used floss around the forefinger of the other hand. Progress around your mouth until you’ve flossed between all of your teeth. And remember to go behind each back tooth. To prevent missing an area, it’s helpful to establish a method. In other words, start with your upper right teeth and proceed around the arch; then do the same with your bottom teeth. If you’re unsure about your technique, your dentist or hygienist can demonstrate. You can also discuss if you should use waxed or unwaxed.  Dental floss comes in several varieties. Which one you decide on is usually a matter of personal choice. In certain cases, however, one may be better than another. Waxed floss works well between teeth that are tightly spaced. Dental tape (broader and flatter than standard floss) or super floss (spongy with a stiffened end to guide it) is good for teeth with a more-than-usual amount of space between them. Other folks prefer disposable flossers with a plastic handle.  Dental Life’s professional team is made up of friendly, highly trained specialists who are eager to help you feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the very best in dental care. We will scrupulously evaluate your total oral health and patiently answer any questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment.

April 1, 2022 Halitosis, otherwise known as bad breath, can take a toll on your social life and self-confidence. While bad breath might be the result of an underlying medical or digestive issue, a medication, or smoking, it is often due to oral health issues such as periodontal disease, dry mouth, or an infection. Bad breath can also be caused by something that you eat or drink. At the office of Dental Life, we care about the oral health of all our patients and offer these tips to help keep your breath smelling fresh -- and you feeling confident! Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth at least twice each day. Brushing after mealtimes will remove the food particles that can taint your breath. Rinse your mouth with water or a mouthwash to remove any lingering debris. Stay Hydrated: Halitosis is a common symptom of dry mouth. When your mouth is dry, it doesn’t have enough saliva to wash away food particles and bacteria. Correcting dry mouth can be as simple as staying hydrated. Avoid Food and Drink Triggers: Certain foods and drinks can make your breath smell bad, such as garlic, coffee, onions, and alcohol. The substances that impact your breath can enter your bloodstream and travel to your lungs, waiting for you to breathe out and spread their odors. Quit Smoking: Smoking is not only hazardous to your health, but it’s also bad for your breath. Foul-smelling smoke particles linger in the mouth, throat, and lungs long after you stub out a cigarette, which creates an unappealing stale aroma. See Your Dentist Regularly: Bad breath can also be a symptom of poor oral health. That’s why regular checkups are so important. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth and diagnose any problems in your mouth that could easily turn into major ones if left untreated. The state-of-the-art office of Dental Life consistently offers the highest quality of skilled and compassionate care. For more information on our office and the many services that we provide, give us a call today.

May 1, 2022 Some people always use a manual toothbrush, while others swear by their rechargeable or battery-powered devices. Other folks like to alternate between the two. Each version has its advantages. But in the end, your mission is to always clean your teeth efficiently.  At the office of Dental Life, our experienced professionals are well equipped to provide you with the highest level of care to preserve and maintain your oral health. If you want to know which type of toothbrush is best for you, we’ll be happy to provide expert advice.  Battery-powered versions cost as little as $20. Rechargeable models cost as much as $200. While you can dispose of the budget-friendly models when their bristles get worn and purchase a whole new one, you’ll have to continuously buy new heads for the rechargeables.  Some people don’t like the vibrations of a powered toothbrush. Other individuals find that powereds make it easier to clean each tooth’s surfaces. This ease of use is important for those with limited hand mobility. As for the effectiveness of manual versus powered, numerous scientific studies say there are no substantial discrepancies between their proficiency at removing plaque, which causes gum disease. However, evidence suggests that a rotation oscillation version of a powered toothbrush is more effective than a manual because its bristles spin and move back and forth.  Some folks are better off using one instead of the other. For example, people who use a manual and brush too hard can harm their gums and teeth. When they use a powered toothbrush, however, they tend to get the same cleansing results with less physical force. Individuals who like their tooth-brushing method are apt to brush for the recommended two minutes. As long as you clean your teeth at least twice a day and employ the proper brushing technique, you can reduce plaque build-up and keep your gums healthy with a toothbrush that’s manual or powered.  The office of Dental Life offers a clear picture of all the options available to you and delivers the results you expect. We utilize state-of-the-art knowledge and technology to plan and perform your care with the utmost precision. For more information on all of our services, please call today.

June 1, 2022 Have you ever considered how much your teeth do for you every day? Not only do they help you chew and digest your food, but they help you speak and provide the centerpiece of a smile that shapes your face. But how much do you know about these small, hard-working pearly whites?  Our dentist at Dental Life wants patients to understand how important their teeth are to their general health. We promote a strong oral hygiene routine for our patients that includes regular checkups and cleanings to keep plaque, tartar, and bacteria from making themselves at home in your mouth. Here’s a brief primer on the four different types of teeth and their functions: Those eight thin, straight teeth in the front of your mouth are the incisors . There are four in the upper jaw and four in the lower jaw. Your incisors help cut your food into chewable pieces that are easier to swallow and digest. The canines are those four teeth on each side of your incisors. These sharp, pointy teeth — which dentists call cuspids — are the longest teeth and help tearing our food. Canines may also play a role in guiding our other teeth into position. In an adult set of teeth, there are eight premolars, behind the canines — four in the upper and four in the lower jaw. These bicuspids are flat on top and good for crushing and tearing food.  A dozen molars — behind those premolars and evenly distributed between your top and bottom teeth — are the flattest, widest teeth. These are primarily for grinding and crushing our food. So-called wisdom teeth are also molars, and are the last to erupt in adulthood. Our friendly dentist at Dental Life hopes this brief primer will help our patients appreciate the importance of those pearly whites. Let’s work together to keep them healthy for years to come! Please contact our office today for an appointment.

July 1, 2022 If you’ve become a bit lax about taking good care of your oral health, there’s no time like the present to reevaluate your cleaning routine. As with many other important tasks in life, a focus on oral care is all about turning it into a new habit that you’ll stick to.  The office of Dental Life emphasizes preventive dental care. We’re dedicated to helping every patient enjoy the benefits of a healthy and beautiful smile. We provide a comprehensive program of treatments designed to protect your teeth and reduce the risk of dental disease. Even if your current oral care habits aren’t stellar, it’s never too late to start a new regime. Try these tactics.  Don’t leave home without it, with “it” being a clean mouth. Greeting the day (and anyone with whom you have a close encounter!) with a pleasant kisser is a terrific way to build your confidence. It’s also great for scrubbing away your breakfast’s leftovers, freshening your breath, preventing coffee stains and dispatching bacteria that have formed overnight. If you have never been or have stopped being a flosser, holy cow! Using dental floss is key to ridding your teeth and gums of damaging plaque, which can lead to periodontal disease. Ask your dentist to demonstrate the proper technique.  Give it time—at least 2 minutes. Many people are good about the frequency with which they brush but not with how much time they spend doing it, which reduces how effectively they remove plaque. Set a timer for 2 minutes to ensure that you’re brushing for the recommended amount of time. Use a tongue scraper. They’re easily found at drug stores and pharmacies, and some toothbrushes come with a scraping pad that’s on the other side of the bristles. Gently scrubbing your tongue helps clear away damaging bacteria and food particles, as well as to stave away bad breath.  Stick to straws. If you insist on not giving up beverages with copious amounts of sugar and acids (soda, energy drinks and fruit juice), use a straw to prevent their destructive elements from making contact with your pearly whites. Make it easy for yourself by keeping straws readily accessible. Stockpile them in your kitchen, desk drawer at work, purse, backpack and car. When you’re searching for a dental practice that’s dedicated to providing the topmost standard of personalized care, look no further than the office of Dental Life. We offer an extensive menu of high-quality dental services for people of all ages. To learn more about our many services, please contact us today.

August 1, 2022 A full set of upper and lower dentures can be a godsend for people who have lost all of their natural teeth. Tooth loss is frequently the result of decay, injury or severe gum disease. Wearing dentures enables people to speak and eat much more efficiently than they would without dentures.  The office of Dental Life is an excellent one-stop solution for the oral healthcare needs of your whole family. We’re experienced in treating patients of all ages. Whether it’s time for the kids’ back-to-school checkup or you have a toothache, we will provide the expert service you need and expect. Without the support from all of your teeth, the muscles in your face will sag and sink into your mouth. But, as with natural teeth, dentures fill out your face and improve your appearance. And they will undoubtedly enhance your smile.  Traditional dentures are removable and custom-fit to your mouth. If some teeth had to first be extracted, the gum tissue will have to be healed, which could take a few months.  Immediate dentures are put in your mouth the same day that your remaining teeth were removed. Before that appointment, a dentist will measure and make models of your jaw. You won’t be without dentures while your gums heal, but your dentures may have to be relined or reconstructed after your jaw has healed.  If you have a few remaining healthy teeth, a dentist will prepare them for an overdenture, which will be placed over them and serve as anchors.  Your new dentures will likely feel awkward for a few weeks while your cheek and tongue muscles acclimate to them. Minor irritation or soreness and increased saliva flow are also not out of the ordinary. You’ll need to have follow-up visits with your dentist so he (or she) can check and adjust the dentures’ fits.  People who wear full dentures need to practice excellent dental hygiene. They must use a soft-bristled brush to clean their gums, tongue and roof of their mouth to remove plaque and particles of food. And as with their natural teeth, they must brush their dentures to remove plaque, food particles and stains. Your dentist will answer all of your questions about your adjustment period and cleaning technique.  Dental Life has a solid reputation for providing excellent care and compassionate service. New patients are always welcome to our state-of-the-art facility, your resource for the best in modern dentistry. Please call us to schedule an appointment.

September 1, 2022 How many times have you brushed your teeth? If you’ve done it twice a day every day, then that’s a lot of times! And because brushing your teeth plays a crucial part in your oral health as well as the health of the rest of your body, you want to get the most out of it. Beautiful smiles start with the professionals at Dental Life. We provide comprehensive treatment options for your dental needs and those of your whole family. We possess the skills and experience to give all of you your best smiles. Here’s how to make each cleaning a thorough cleaning.  Use the proper technique. Tilt the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and start at the gum line. Brush each tooth’s surface: the outside, the inside and the top.  Establish a pattern so you don’t miss an area. For example, begin with the outer surfaces of your top teeth, then do the outer surfaces of your bottom teeth. Then move on to the inner surfaces of your top teeth and the inner surfaces of your bottom teeth. Finish it off by attending to every top surface.  Don’t rush it. Have each session last for at least two minutes.  Pick the brush that’s best for you. If you can’t decide on bristle firmness, the head size, or between a manual or powered brush, talk about it with your dentist.  Use the best toothpaste. That means any brand that has the American Dental Association seal on its packaging. The ADA’s approval means that the toothpaste is safe and effective, and it will fight plaque and tooth decay.  Floss the right way. Every time you do it, use about 18 inches. Wind the strand tightly around your middle fingers, leaving 2 inches to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth and under their gum lines, using a clean section as you progress from tooth to tooth.  Keep your brush in good shape. That means keeping it clean by rinsing it off and letting it air dry. Use a new toothbrush every three to four months, when bristles start to fray and become less effective. It’s also important to toss your toothbrush after you recover from an illness.  Put your tongue in the mix. Use a tongue scraper to put the kibosh on bacteria and food particles that like to hang out in its nooks and crannies. Some toothbrushes come with scrapers on their backs.  At the office of Dental Life, our highly skilled, knowledgeable professionals are at the forefront of new technologies to make your dental treatment efficient and effective. For more information about our office and our many services, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment today.

October 1, 2022 Youngsters like to participate in a variety of activities. Unfortunately, brushing their teeth probably isn’t one of them. But a change in attitude can make a world of difference. Parents can help their offspring by drumming up enthusiasm for it in them. When you need the services of a top-notch dentist, rely on Dental Life. All of our patients recognize the quality of our care from the moment they enter our office. We consider every patient to be unique regarding his/her wants, needs and preferences. Turn each session into two minutes of fun. In other words, don’t make kids just stand there performing a dull routine. Create an engaging two-minute event twice a day. Turn up the volume on your kid’s favorite songs and transform it into a dance party. They’ll be shocked by how quickly the time passes. Young children might be more amused if you use funny hand gestures and dance moves. Whatever tactic you employ, switch things up so brushing time is always an entertaining time. Make it a routine from which they won’t stray.  Have brushing their teeth in the morning and before bedtime be a no-big-deal standard practice. If your kids make an adverse fuss about their oral care and consider it an unnecessary inconvenience, tell them about all consequences—cavities, fillings, bad breath, loose teeth—that can result from dental neglect.  Use positive reinforcement. Who doesn’t like praise and reward for excellent work? If your child is big on stickers, create a chart and add one each time he brushes. If he likes bedtime stories, let him pick one out or read one to you. Or, you can simply tell him he did a great job and you’re proud of him.  The family that brushes together… Parents are their children’s biggest influencers. You and/or your spouse (and any other youngsters at home) can make it a group effort in the morning or at night—or both. It will instill a sense of camaraderie and not make your child’s brushing a solitary task.  At the office of Dental Life, our team of dental professionals has the cutting-edge equipment and expertise to provide our patients with unmatched care. We welcome people of all ages and look forward to establishing long-lasting relationships. Please call us today for an appointment.

November 1, 2022 Third molars are called “wisdom teeth” because they usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. That’s when we’re supposed to be maturing and, in the process, gaining insight and intelligence. Those four choppers came in handy when our predecessors needed them to pulverize their diets of nuts, twigs and raw meat, but those days are long gone. Wisdom teeth are usually nuisances if they erupt in the wrong position or if your mouth can’t accommodate them. A dentist might have to remove them.  The office of Dental Life is an expert in the field of dentistry. We will gladly take as much time as needed to tell you about the health of your teeth, explain to you in detail any issues you have, and offer clear explanations of your treatment options. Wisdom teeth are impacted if they’re trapped under your gums or in your jaw, which invites a host of problems. An impacted tooth can cause a cyst to form on or near it, which could damage the roots of nearby teeth or injure the supporting bone.  Wisdoms that erupt in incorrect positions hinder effective flossing between them and the molars in front of them. Food can get stuck, grow bacteria and lead to cavities. Even worse, partial eruptions give bacteria entries into gums and subsequent invitations for infections. Wisdoms without enough room to come through can misalign and damage nearby teeth.  Though each patient is unique, there are particular conditions in which wisdom teeth must be extracted. Those conditions include pain, infection, tumors, damage to nearby teeth, cysts, gum disease, tooth decay and preparation for orthodontic treatment. (Fun fact: Some people, for genetic reasons, develop no or only two wisdom teeth.) Before deciding on a course of action (if needed), a dentist will X-ray the area and monitor the wisdoms’ development. You and she (or he) will talk over the best treatment approach.  The dentist will continue to monitor the wisdoms that stay in place because issues could crop up down the road.  Dental Life is dedicated to providing excellent and considerate care. For more information, please don’t hesitate to call us today for an appointment. We look forward to finding out how we can help you.