Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Have Healthy Teeth this Thanksgiving!

Remember when eating Thanksgiving this year, the is Healthy food for your teeth.

We eat and we think that food affects our teeth badly. And we are right. But, are there any foods that help keeping our teeth healthy? Is there anything that not only keeps but makes our teeth look and be better? Of course there are such products, and this article is made to describe them.

1. Healthy drink for teeth — Green tea It contains polyphenols, antioxidant plant compounds that prevent plaque from adhering to your teeth and help reduce your chances of developing cavities and gum disease. Tea also has potential for reducing bad breath because it inhibits the growth of the bacteria that cause the odor. Many green teas also contain fluoride (from the leaves and the water it’s steeped in), which helps protect tooth enamel from decay and promotes healthy teeth.

2. Healthy drink and food for teeth — Milk and yogurtUnsweetened yogurt and milk are good for your teeth. They have a low acidity. It means that the gradual wearing away of the teeth, also called dental erosion, is less. In addition they are low in sugar, that means less dental decay, too. Milk also is a good source of calcium, that keeps our teeth healthy. Calcium is the main component of teeth and bones, as we know.

3. Healthy food for teeth — CheeseIt is low carbohydrate and has a high calcium and phosphate content that provides important benefits for your healthy teeth. It helps balance your mouth’s pH, preserves and rebuilds tooth enamel, produces saliva, kills the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Cheese contains calcium, too.

4. Healthy food for teeth — FruitsDifferent fruits like apples, strawberries, citrus fruits, specially kiwis, contain a lot of vitamin C. It is considered the cement that holds all of your cells together, so just as it’s vital for your skin, it’s important for the health of your gum tissue. If you don’t get enough vitamin C, researches show that the collagen network in your gums can break down, making your gums tender and more susceptible to the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.

5. Healthy food for teeth — VegetablesPumpkin, carrots, sweet potato, broccoli are full of vitamin A. This vitamin is absolutely necessary for the formation of tooth enamel. Apart form that, crunchy vegetables cleanse and stimulate your gums, making them healthy.

6. Healthy food for teeth — OnionsThis vegetable contains powerful antibacterial sulfur compounds. Tests showed that onions kill various types of bacteria. Researches indicate that they are most powerful when eaten freshly peeled and raw. It may be not so tasty but good teeth are guaranteed.

7. Healthy food for teeth — Celery This food protects your teeth while extra chewing. It produces plenty of saliva, which neutralizes different bacteria that causes cavities. Additionally, celery massages gums and cleans between teeth keeping them healthy and clean.
8. Healthy food for teeth — Sesame seedsGood teeth can be a result of combining white bread, especially for small kids, and sesame seeds. It sloughs off plaque and helps build tooth enamel. Sesame seeds are also high in calcium, which helps preserve the bone around your teeth and gums. But firstly, it is very delicious.

9. Healthy food for teeth — Animal food Beef, chicken, turkey, eggs – all of them contain phosphorous. Calcium, with the help of vitamin D and phosphorous, creates our bones system. These elements keep teeth stronger and healthier by protecting them from teeth decay.
10. Healthy drink for teeth — WaterHealthy water not only purer, but it cleanses the mouth, allowing the saliva to work wonders depositing essential minerals back into the weakened teeth. Drinking water keeps gums hydrated and helps wash away trapped food particles that decompose in the mouth and cause bad breath.


Every time when you feel that a piece of advice in keeping your teeth healthy is needed remember these 10 foods. They will help you to permanently protect your mouth and gums, earning their names of foods for healthy teeth.

__Compliments of Dental Health Magazine.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Holiday Whitening offers

Why are you paying full price to whiten your teeth? Check out these Holiday Specials!! Holiday Teeth Whitening Offers!
ZOOM! Whitening

Buy one get one 1/2 price Looking for a "White" Holiday Gift?!?! Give someone you love the gift of a whiter, brighter SMILE! ZOOM! Whitening FOR LIFE! Then get a Whiter SMILE for yourself (or someone else) 1/2 Price! $395 for the 1st ZOOM! $197.50 for the 2nd ZOOM! (Offer expires and Gift certificates* must be purchased on or before 12noon December 23, 2011, don't hesitate to call 574.360.2380 for last minute purchases) *Gift certificates should be used within 6 months of purchase, after 6 months (182 days) certificate will begin to reduce in value 10% & an additional 10% each month thereafter)

Nite White Take Home Tray Whitening

Buy one get one $50 off! Purchase Nite White Custom Fitted Trays for someone you love and get a 2nd for $50 off $195 for the 1st Nite White! $145 for the 2nd Nite White! (Offer expires and Gift certificates* must be purchased on or before 12noon December 23, 2011, don't hesitate to call 574.360.2380 for last minute purchases) *Gift certificates should be used within 6 months of purchase, after 6 months (182 days) certificate will begin to reduce in value 10% & an additional 10% each month thereafter)


TresWhite .... Supreme

 Opalescence Treswhite Supreme preloaded whitening trays PRE Order by November 30, 2011 to guarantee to be in your loved one's STOCKING & receive $10 off! TresWhite $64, if ordered by November 30, 2011 $54

 Remember with all whitening procedures, the best time to whiten is immediately following a professional dental cleaning.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Whiten Now and Get Zoom for LIFE!

Zoom now and get Whitening for LIFE! Give Zoom as a gift and give a lifetime of White Teeth! Call us now for more details! 574.272.4441 or visit WWW.SouthBendSmile.com

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

What keeps you away from the Dentist?

What keeps you from coming to the Dentist?
Is it...
Fear?
Financial?
Time/Schedule?
Not a priority?


FEAR!

A lot of people are "AFRAID" of the dentist, but for what reason?
The needles? Who likes needles? We have valium for that! Most patients who are afraid of needles, take valium for the first appointment, but none thereafter.
The Pain? Common misconceptions of dental pain have past new technology. It will more painful for you not to be able to EAT

FINANCIAL!

The FEAR of the Dentist stems more with the FEAR of the UNKOWN Financial part of it. Unfortunately, society and the insurance companies have not made investing in your SMILE a priority. How are you going to know what something costs without asking? Calling around getting price quotes, unfortunately, is not going to give you an accurate quote on dentistry. Make an appointment with a dentist, get an estimate on your dental treatment. There are financial options, you just have to ASK!

Time/Schedule?

Our office has convenient hours to meet most busy schedules. Before work, after work, lunch hour, what works best for you? We will do the best we can to work with your busy schedule and respect your time.

Not a priority?

What is your priority? Your health? Are you aware that your teeth and gums are directly related to your overall health? Diabetes, heart conditions, need I go on? Even if you don't have any of these conditions, your SMILE is the first thing people see, make it your first priority with your health.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

No question is a stupid question!

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Sensitive teeth often come from the fact that your gums have slightly receded. This recession of the gum line allows the underlying dentin to show through which allows water and food easier access to the sensitive nerve. To manage this, there are a number of toothpastes, gels and even some dental procedures that can be applied. Speak to us in more detail if you have very sensitive teeth.

What should I do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay?

Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual basis. By keeping to a daily routing you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The gums can become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended. During your visit, our Hygiene team will teach you the proper flossing techniques and Oral Hygiene protocol for Home Care will prevent the Periodontal Disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms. It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums. The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’. The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed. If not properly treated, the condition worsens. Noticeable symptoms now appear. They include:

•Bad Breath
•Gum Recession
•Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods
•Abscesses
•Tooth Pain
•Tooth Loss

How Do YouTreat Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention. Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, Root Planing & Scaling, Laser Therapy and Local Antibiotics, this condition can be controlled. Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

What is the Difference a White and Silver Filling?


Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades. Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings. The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth. This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure. This restoration is created with a resin material and fits tightly into a tooth to prevent decay. Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match the tooth color.

How Can I Improve My Smile?

There are several ways in today’s Dental World to enhance your smile. Certain procedures include:

•Tooth Whitening
•Bonding
•Porcelain Veneers
•Porcelain Crowns
We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For an exact consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile. Over the years, flouride is has been added to the whitening product. This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity.
Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.

The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly. Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect. Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

What is Bonding?

Bonding is a cost effective procedure used to fill gaps in front teeth and to change a tooth’s color. The immediate results are amazing. Within a few hours, you will have a great smile! Bonding like Tooth Whitening may change color over time due to coffee, tea, cola and wine.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your natural teeth. . This entire procedure can take as few as two visits. Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth. This procedure is used to repair fractured teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile. Many times, patients ask for Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

What are Crowns?


Crowns are a permanent cosmetic procedure that covers the entire tooth. It will change the size, shape and color of the teeth in as few as 2 visits.

What is a Dental Implant?

A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root. Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone. There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure. After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together. This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?


•Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth.
•Dental Implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth.
•Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office.
•Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease, tooth movement, and further tooth loss.
•Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.
•Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing. A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

Who is a candidate for Dental Implants?
With major advancements in Dentistry and Dental Implants, most people are candidates for Dental Implants. There may be exceptions due to chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.
What does the Dental Implant Procedure Involve?

The average Dental Implant Procedure takes 3 - 4 visits. The first visit is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a temporary prosthesis to cover the Implant.
The next visit is to place the Implant. A local anesthesia is applied to the area. (Any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist). The dentist will then make a minor incision to place the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone. The area will then be covered with sutures. The procedure is usually completed with minor pain.

You will next return in approximately 3 months to begin creating the Porcelain Crown to place over the Implant.

How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
Fees from Dental Implants vary from dentist to dentist. Always schedule an Implant Consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.

How long does a Dental Implant last?
With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, A Dental Implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.

Does your office offer financing for services provided?
Please contact us to discuss the options we have available to make your perfect smile today!

Monday, November 7, 2011

Why Brush twice a day?

Many people today feel that, with all the fresh minty wonderful mouthwashes and sprays on the market today, you don't have to brush your teeth but once a day. However, here are the top 5 reasons you should brush your teeth everyday no matter what your age.

1) Bacteria

It takes no time for bacteria to build up in your mouth so when you brush your teeth twice a day you eliminate damaging bacteria that can easily build up over a very short amount of time. If bacteria are left in the mouth and on the teeth for a full 24 hours, it can cause damage to the enamel of your teeth.

Brushing every 12 hours cuts that time in half and if you add a good antiseptic mouthwash and flossing to the mix you will get even better results. Also removing the bacteria will rid you of bad breath and that's always something to smile about.

2) Saliva Production

When you sleep you produce less saliva than when you are awake. What you may not realize is saliva adds an additional tier of defense against bacteria and plaque buildup that can lead to excess cavities. Brushing in the evening before bedtime helps remove bacteria and plaque in your mouth helping to eliminate any damage done by less saliva production.

Brushing your teeth in the morning gets rid of that morning breath by removing acid and bacteria that builds up overnight. Between brushing it is smart to keep your mouth hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day or at least chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free lozenges.

3) Prevent Tartar Buildup

If you don't brush your teeth thoroughly and often there is something called tartar that attaches itself to your teeth and doesn't want to let go. Your dental hygienist or dentist will have to literally scrape your teeth to remove it from the surface. If you don't get the tartar removed, over time it can lead to bleeding gums (gum disease) or periodontal disease, which can damage your overall health.

The one thing that can keep tartar at bay, and thus the gum diseases, is preventing the buildup by brushing your teeth at least two times a day. If you have a history of tartar buildup, then try a tartar control toothpaste and use tartar and plaque fighting mouthwashes. Your dentist can make a recommendation.

If you smoke or have diabetes you should take extra precautions as you are at a higher risk than the average person. This also holds true is you are a sufferer of dry mouth syndrome. Consult your dentist to get the best results from your home care.

4) Protect Gums

Just like in saliva production where bacteria can run rampant in your mouth, not brushing your gums can lead to a number of issues including periodontal disease, tooth sensitivity, tooth shifting, abscessed teeth, and even tooth loss. If you do not treat your gums well, they can come back to really affect your overall health.

While we think brushing and flossing teeth is about cleaning and polishing your smile, there are some serious issues that can happen in your mouth under the tartar, plaque and bacteria. Since it can be detrimental to your health, it is of the utmost importance you take care of protecting your gums along with your teeth.

If you are unable to control gum disease then treatments include plaque removal in the dentist office as well as prescription mouth rinses to kill bacteria. If the disease has progressed you may need a more invasive surgery.

5) Improved Overall Health

As more and more science comes in we are finding that oral health is linked to some pretty devastating diseases. Lack of good oral health practices can be linked to cardiovascular disease (heart disease), diabetes, osteoporosis, and premature or low birth weight babies.

A healthy bright smile says more about you than you might think. However, a healthy mouth that has been taken care of might be the difference between good overall health and some pretty nasty issues including bacteria from your mouth getting into your bloodstream.

Now you know that brushing your teeth twice a day can increase the odds in your favor that you will have good oral health including bright clean teeth and healthy pink gums. Check with your dentist and see if he or she agrees that brushing your teeth twice a day will give you a leg up on your health. Combine what you do at home with regular dental visits and cleanings and you are on your way to a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Brushing teeth twice a day can insure good oral health along with good dental prevention habits that include regular checkups at your local dentist office.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6134115

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Have you seen our updated Website!!!


Check us out!

www.SouthBendSmile.com

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

November Newsletter

Use your benefits before you lose them!

Call our office as soon as possible for an updated treatment plan!

The END of the 2011 is coming soon!


November is National Diabetes Awareness Month
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/oral-health-and-hygiene/
Is There an Association Between Gum Disease and Diabetes?

For the nearly 24 million Americans that have diabetes, many may be surprised to learn about an unexpected complication associated with this condition. Research shows that there is an increased prevalence of gum disease among those with diabetes, adding serious gum disease to the list of other complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.



If I Have Diabetes, am I at Risk for Dental Problems?

If your blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, you are more likely to develop serious gum disease and lose more teeth than non-diabetics. Like all infections, serious gum disease may be a factor in causing blood sugar to rise and may make diabetes harder to control.

Other oral problems associated to diabetes include: thrush, an infection caused by fungus that grows in the mouth, and dry mouth which can cause soreness, ulcers, infections and cavities.

How Can I Help Prevent Dental Problems Associated with Diabetes?

First and foremost, control your blood glucose level. Then, take good care of your teeth and gums, along with regular checkups every six months. To control thrush, a fungal infection, maintain good diabetic control, avoid smoking and, if you wear them, remove and clean dentures daily. Good blood glucose control can also help prevent or relieve dry mouth caused by diabetes.