Month: May 2014

We all know that when you are either planning a pregnancy or experiencing one, that visiting your doctor is extremely important. What you may not know is that it is just as important to talk with your dentist in Lewisburg.

In 2009, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry developed oral health guidelines for pregnant women to help them understand the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth during pregnancy and after delivery. The need for these guidelines was made apparent when a concrete connection was made between gum disease and preterm births.

Oral health complications that can result in preterm birth are even more common than you might think. In fact, pregnancy gingivitis, which tends to develop in almost half of all pregnancies, is the main culprit. However, it doesn’t always have to lead to scary results. If regular visits to my dental office in Lewisburg are maintained, and treatment is received when needed, pregnancy gingivitis can be kept under control and generally ends shortly after the mother gives birth. However, if dental care isn’t a priority during pregnancy, the gingivitis can also progress into a more serious dental concern.

If pregnancy gingivitis progresses into periodontitis – an advanced form of gum disease – preterm labor is possible. In fact, mothers with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to go into preterm labor and are at greater risk for potentially dangerous situations with their baby. Preterm births are a scary and dangerous pregnancy complication that can lead to additional health concerns for the baby including, but not limited to, a low birth weight.

And don’t forget, if you are experiencing morning sickness, the additional acid that your teeth come in contact with can be damaging. Don’t forget to rinse your mouth after vomiting, brush more frequently, and talk to us about keeping your teeth safe.

If you’re thinking of getting pregnant, are already pregnant, or are just overdue for a dental checkup (periodontitis can happen to non-pregnant people too!), give my Lewisburg dental office a call today. We’ll make sure your appointment is thorough, relaxed, and comfortable. We’re always dedicated to your, and your baby’s, overall health. Give us a call today!

We’ve covered a lot of information about how to get and keep your smile healthy and strong at my dental office in Lewisburg. However, there are many common habits and situations that can cause damage to your teeth, and chances are, you’ve done at least one without ever thinking about the fact that you could be hurting your smile.

Crunching Ice

Using your teeth to crunch the unmelted ice in your drink can be detrimental to the health of your smile. Ice cubes can chip away at your tooth enamel and can even lead to a broken tooth or broken restoration.

Brushing Too Hard

While I’m happy you’re brushing (and hopefully flossing too!), at my dental office in Lewisburg, we always encourage our patients to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and to brush in small circles. This can actually protect your enamel. Toothbrushes with hard bristles, or using rough, horizontal strokes, can damage enamel and leave you open to experiencing sensitivity.

Whitening Too Often

We all want our pearly whites to be exactly that – pearly white! And while teeth whitening is safe and effective, doing it too often can cause damage to your smile. Too much whitening can cause sensitivity, irritation, and can even result in a smile that’s too white. If you’re interested in a whiter smile, my Lewisburg dental office can help get you the brightening you’re looking for, safely and effectively.

Eating Too Many Acidic Foods

Acidic foods and drinks like lemons, orange juice, and wine can wear away your enamel. And once your enamel is gone, you can’t grow it back. This can cause sensitivity or even pain. As your dentist in Lewisburg, I’m not expecting you avoid these types of food and drink, but I do encourage you to minimize the damage by drinking water with anything acidic. And if you’ve got to have that morning glass of orange juice, use a straw to limit how much juice comes in contact with your teeth.

Using Teeth as Tools

You know the feeling. You have a stubborn package that just won’t open, so instead of finding the scissors, you put the package in your mouth and use your teeth as a opening tool. Using your teeth as tools is always a bad idea and can result in broken teeth, mouth injuries, and damaged restorations.

In addition to these five smile-harming habits, there are many other ways you can be causing damage to your teeth without even knowing it. During a visit to my Lewisburg dental office, we can talk about any habits you may have that could be harming your smile, and how to fix them. If you’re due for a checkup, or if you’re concerned with your grin, give me a call today!