Why You Should Always Brush Your Tongue

boy and dad brushing teethYour dentist in Lewisburg may spend a lot of time talking about the health of your teeth and the best way to take care of them. After all, dentists are responsible for doing everything they can to make sure your pearly whites stay strong for a lifetime. But there’s another part of your oral health that’s often forgotten but shouldn’t be ignored — your tongue. 

Fast Facts

Your tongue is a fascinating part of your body and is responsible for a lot of important things. In fact, your tongue helps you speak, chew, and swallow. It’s also one of the strongest muscles in your entire body! But your tongue can also hide some dangerous bacteria, and if you don’t care for your tongue properly, these bacteria can cause a lot of problems. 

Benefits of a Clean Tongue

Every time you brush and floss, make sure to give your tongue some attention. Properly cleaning your tongue can help: 

  • Food Taste Better. As we’ve mentioned, tongues can hold a lot of bacteria. These bacteria can build up on taste buds and influence the way foods taste. By cleaning your tongue daily, you’re freeing up your taste buds to absorb all of your favorite foods so that you’re able to savor every last delicious bite. 
  • Freshen Breath. Even though bad breath can be caused by many different things, tongue bacteria are often to blame. When you don’t remove all of the bacteria build-up from your tongue, it can put off an unpleasant odor. If you notice that your breath isn’t so minty-fresh, make sure you’re brushing your tongue every day. If the bad breath doesn’t go away, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Lewisburg as it may be a sign of something more serious. 
  • Make Teeth Healthier. Your teeth are in constant contact with your tongue — all day and all night. This means that anything lurking on your tongue can easily transfer to your teeth. So when bacteria are left lingering around on your tongue, it can affect your teeth and cause decay, cavities, or even gum disease. 

How to Brush Your Tongue

It’s just as important to brush your tongue every day as it is to brush and floss. So every time you pick up your toothbrush, make sure to show your tongue some love. Proper tongue brushing includes starting from the back and gently brushing forward, then swiping your toothbrush from left to right. If you have trouble brushing your tongue, try using a tongue scraper. This little tool is also effective at removing tongue bacteria and may be easier for those with a sensitive gag reflex. 

As always, make sure you see your dentist in Lewisburg twice a year, as well as practice good oral hygiene habits at home… including your tongue. 

Accepting patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas. 

How to Care for Your Dentures

lab tech holds dentureIf you’re missing your teeth, getting dentures can restore your smile and your confidence. Dentures are a popular choice among patients and are a relatively simple way to give those who have lost their teeth a reason to smile. But just like natural teeth, dentures require proper care. Your Lewisburg dentist is here to help guide you through the right way to care for your dentures. 

How to Properly Care for Dentures

Even though dentures are not natural teeth, that doesn’t mean they don’t still need a little TLC in order to keep them clean and fitting comfortably. 

  • Use Care When Handling. Dentures can be pretty fragile, so the first step to caring for them is to make sure you use care when handling them and cleaning them. Also, make sure to store your dentures in a safe place where they won’t easily get knocked on the floor. Being gentle with your dentures can reduce the risk of damage or the need for repairs. 
  • Rinse Them After Eating. Remove your dentures and thoroughly rinse them following every meal to remove any loose food particles. If leftover food is left lingering around it can contribute to bad breath and even gum disease. 
  • Brush Your Dentures & Your Mouth. It’s important to brush both your dentures and your mouth at least once daily to remove any bacteria buildup. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a denture cleaner to thoroughly cleanse your denture and remove any excess adhesive. As for your mouth, also use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub any natural teeth and your tongue.
  • Soak Your Dentures Every Night. In order to keep their shape and comfortably fit your mouth, dentures need to stay moist. After you remove your dentures and clean them at night, place them in a glass of water with a denture solution to soak. Your dentist in Lewisburg will be able to recommend a solution that’s best for you. 
  • Rinse Again in the Morning. You should thoroughly rinse your dentures before putting them back in your mouth after soaking, especially if you use a denture-soaking solution. While these solutions are good for denture care, they can lead to illness or burns if not rinsed off of a denture before it’s reinserted. 
  • See Your Dentist in Lewisburg. Seeing your dentist as often as recommended is key to keeping your dentures fitting well. Your dental team may also professionally clean your dentures for an ultra-thorough clean. 

Dentures are an investment in your smile, and you want to take proper care of them so they last a long time and the rest of your mouth stays healthy. If dentures aren’t cared for properly, plaque can build up and cause additional tooth loss, bad breath, and even gum disease. 

If you’re missing some teeth and think dentures may be right for you, call our dental office in Lewisburg to schedule a consultation. We’ll work with you to find the best tooth replacement option for you. 

Serving patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport

The Top 3 Reasons Not to Be Afraid of Your Dentist

young woman in dental chairSpookiness is in the air this month as we move closer to all things Halloween. But there’s one place you should never be shivering and quivering to visit, and that’s seeing your dentist in Lewisburg

Sure, going to the dentist isn’t always rainbows and unicorns, but it’s certainly not the “FrightFest” our brains sometimes make it out to be. There are three BIG reasons why you should feel pretty darn good about going into your dental visit and even better about yourself when you leave.

Reason #1 – You’re Going to Be Healthier

Forget looking (and feeling) like those zombies on TV; when you see your Lewisburg dentist regularly for checkups, you’re setting yourself up for success. You’ll enjoy your natural smile for even longer, without the need for restorations such as fillings or crowns. You’re going to look younger, and you should rest easier knowing that your entire body is healthy thanks to your regular trips to the dentist.

Reason #2 – We’re Too Nice to Be Scary

Everything we do for you, every visit with us, revolves around your comfort. From the moment you come to see us for the very first time, to every followup visit after that, you’re going to feel it. There’s a sense of calm and relaxation in everything we do. You’ll feel assured and soothed, maybe even pampered during your dental visits. (That doesn’t sound scary at all!)

Reason #3 – Not Getting The Care You Need is Worse

Going to the dentist for checkups and cleanings with your dental hygienist is easy compared to what can happen if you put off taking care of your teeth. The next thing you know, you could be in pain or left with a tooth that has been damaged or is coming loose. Letting problems go undetected can turn into more serious dental issues down the road such as:

– Periodontal or gum disease with red, bleeding gums

– Loosening or shifting in your teeth

– Teeth that fall out

– Receding gums 

– Noticeable lousy breath or dry mouth

There are plenty of reasons to have a good scare this Halloween season, but coming to our Lewisburg dental office shouldn’t be one of them. There are so many ways we can help you feel more relaxed during your visits with us. Please take some time to schedule a consultation where we can sit down and listen, one-on-one, to your concerns about any fear you may have about seeing the dentist. We’re excited to show you how fantastic it feels to overcome your dental fears and take care of your smile and your body. Talk to us today and find out how we can help you worry less and be stress-free about dentistry.

Welcoming patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas. 

5 Ways to Say “No Way!” to Sugar Cravings

gummy bearsThis is the time of year when sugary sweets and candy seem to be lurking around every turn of the grocery or pharmacy aisles. There are so many ooey, gooey, colorful, delicious treats we want to eat. But as we all know, your dentist in Lewisburg will tell you to step away from the sweets because they’re bad for your teeth. Now, we’re not saying you can’t enjoy fall-flavored fun this month, just remember to brush your teeth too!

There are some super easy things you can do to avoid those cravings for candies and cakes. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ways you can help steer clear of sugar.

1) Stay Hydrated – Sometimes, when our bodies don’t get enough water, we crave things or become extra hungry, even “hangry.” If you find yourself daydreaming about Devil Dogs or Coffee Cakes, try drinking a full 8-ounce glass of good old water. If you want to make it tastier, try adding some fruit for an infusion that can dress up any beverage.

2) Find Fruit – Refined sugars are very bad for teeth of all ages and stages of life. Instead of having a candy bar, bite into a piece of fruit like bananas, apples, oranges, pears, and watermelon. Sure, fruits contain sugar too, but they’re better for you than sweets.

3) Get SleepYour Lewisburg dentist will tell you that when you’re not sleeping right, it can cause issues throughout your body. When you’re feeling tired or rundown, it’s easy to gravitate towards foods that are not-so-healthy and filled with sugar. Getting the right amount of rest should help ward off cravings and restore your clarity and the ability to make healthy diet choices.

4) Stop Stress – Just like when you’re a sleepless zombie, being crazy stressed is just as bad for your diet. Excess stress leads to cravings for things that we know aren’t good for our oral and overall health. Fighting these urges when you’re stressed and tired can be a big battle. Remember to relax and do your best to stay mindful and in the moment each day.

5) Eat Regularly – This ranks right up there with our first tip. If your body is out of water or food, then you’re basically out of fuel. Your body is going to take whatever it can get for some much-needed calories. Sometimes our bodies tend to go right for the sweets when we’re hungry instead of healthy options like fruits, veggies, proteins, etc.

The easiest way to avoid a sugar craving is to not be around it at all. We know, it’s not easy to do that this time of year. If you have a bite here and there, please remember to brush and floss. We don’t want sugar taking your smile from healthy to scary. Don’t forget to call our dental office in Lewisburg if you have any questions about your oral health! We’re always here for you and happy to help. 

Welcoming patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas. 

Make The Connection to Your Oral and Overall Health

wellness concept

As research continues and more scientific advancements happen each year, there is mounting evidence that your oral and overall health are connected. Your dentist in Lewisburg is here to tell you this is 100 percent true. This gives a whole new reasoning to why it’s super important to brush, floss, and see your dental hygienist regularly. Having teeth and a mouth that are healthy means that the rest of your body can stay healthy, too. It works both ways, though… if you’ve got issues with your teeth or gums, you could increase your risk for more severe health issues elsewhere in your body.

Let’s dig a little deeper to learn more about this powerful connection that you can’t afford to ignore…

Think of Your Mouth as a Window

That’s right. Picture your mouth as a window, giving us a glimpse of what’s going on in other parts of your body. This is key when doctors are trying to detect early signs of systemic diseases. These kinds of diseases are dangerous to your entire body, not just a specific part. The Academy of General Dentistry says that more than 90 percent of all systemic diseases produce symptoms in the mouth. People with AIDS or diabetes often find one of the first symptoms appear in the form of a lesion in the mouth or problems with their teeth or gums. 

Don’t Turn Your Back on Plaque

Did you know that there can be more than 500 types of bacteria in your mouth right now? They like to form plaque on your teeth. This colorless, yet sticky film sticks to your dental enamel and can even lead to health problems. When plaque and harmful bacteria build up in your mouth and around your gum line, this can sometimes lead to periodontal disease or gingivitis. 

Your Lewisburg dentist will tell you that gum disease can lead to infections in your mouth. The bacteria from these infections can sometimes end up in your bloodstream. This is where the research comes into play that we talked about earlier. Scientists are starting to find evidence in their research that oral infections can be associated with health issues such as:

– Diabetes

Cardiovascular disease

– Preterm births

– Pneumonia

– Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

What You Should Do to Protect Yourself and Your Smile

We’re always going to fight against bacteria and plaque to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Because now we know that if your mouth is healthy, the rest of your body can stay in good shape too. You see why it’s so critical to protect your oral health so that your overall health doesn’t suffer. Make sure to:

– Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. (Don’t forget to floss! This is super important for getting bacteria out from in between teeth that your brush didn’t catch.)

– Use mouthwash to remove any unwanted or trapped food particles.

– Keep sugary foods and drinks to a minimum

– Eat a diet rich with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and proteins.

– Replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles begin to break down.

– Avoid tobacco use in its many forms available today.

The biggest and most important step you can take to protect your smile and your overall health is to keep regularly scheduled checkups and cleanings with our dental office in Lewisburg. If you notice a change in your teeth or your gum health, always give us a call as soon as you can. Remember that taking care of your teeth today is an investment in your overall health for tomorrow. 

Welcoming new patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and surrounding communities. 

4 Steps to Take if Your Dental Filling Falls Out

woman receives dental fillingOne of the most common restorative treatments your dentist in Lewisburg uses is fillings. Whether they’re specially crafted for you out of an amalgam (metal) or composite material, we want them to stand the test of time. If your bite isn’t right, then there’s a good chance your filling or dental restoration could fail or even fall out. 

If you have a dental filling that’s fallen out, there’s no reason to panic. We’re going to walk you through what you need to do in just four easy steps. Take a deep breath and read on.

Step #1 – Remove and Replace

If your filling comes loose, you must get it out of your mouth ASAP. You don’t want to run the risk of swallowing it or choking on the material. It might not be a bad idea to keep your filling and bring it with you to your dental appointment. We will then be able to determine if it can be cleaned and restored, or if you’ll need a whole new filling. 

Step #2 – Take Action

If your filling is loose and comes out, it’s also important that you see your dentist right away. But if you’re unable to get to the office, you can take some preventive tips to help preserve your smile health. An unfilled tooth is a welcoming environment for harmful bacteria to make a home and destroy your tooth. Be sure to brush gently and carefully. Rinse with water to make sure you’re removing any debris. (Pro Tip: Saltwater works wonders. One cup of warm water and just a teaspoon of salt will do the trick.)

Step #3 – Find Temporary Pain Relief

Your Lewisburg dentist would recommend that you take over-the-counter pain medication to help with any sensitivity or discomfort. Be wary and cautious of any temporary dental cement, as it can be messy and make your issue worse.

Step #4 – Avoid Certain Foods

Until you have a chance to see the dentist, it’s probably a good idea to avoid certain foods and drinks that could affect your damaged tooth now that the filling is gone. Stay away from hard or sticky foods that could get stuck in your tooth. Be careful with extremely hot or cold foods and drinks too, as your tooth will probably be a little sensitive. Keep your diet simple and soft until you see us!

If you have a filling that’s come loose, the best/first thing you need to do is call our Lewisburg dental office. The simple steps above are meant to be a temporary solution to your dental issues. One of the first steps we’ll need to take is a thorough diagnosis and state-of-the-art photos of your smile. We want to understand why your restoration or filling failed in the first place. We’ll take a look at your tooth, and if it hasn’t deteriorated, we should be able to replace your missing filling. We may need to do a little preparation of the tooth, before getting it filled for you again. Either way, we’ll make sure you’re comfortable and pleased with the results!

If you have questions about how fillings work or if there’s something we didn’t cover here today, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always happy to be your dental partner and make sure your smile gets the very best, VIP treatment – no matter what your dental needs might be!

Welcoming patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas.

How Does Vaping Affect Oral Health?

man smoking e-cigBy now you’ve probably heard of the relatively recent rise in the popularity of vaping as an alternative to traditional smoking. You’ve probably heard that this new craze isn’t as safe as you may have originally thought. New research suggests that vaping has a direct correlation to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart disease. But that’s not all. Our dental office in Lewisburg also wants you to know that vaping can have a serious effect on your oral health, too. 

Limited Research

With the relatively fast increase in e-cigarette popularity, research has been a little slow to catch up. But that doesn’t mean researchers aren’t working hard to report their findings. While more research needs to be done to find out just how bad vaping can be for our bodies and oral health, there are a few things several studies have already found. Here’s what your dentist in Lewisburg knows.

Dry Mouth

One part of vaping is selecting a juice or flavored liquid. However, some of these liquids contain ingredients such as propylene glycol that are known to contribute to or cause dry mouth. Dry mouth may not sound like that big of a deal, but if it’s untreated, it can increase the risk for decay, bad breath, and gum disease. 

Inflamed Gums

Evidence found in a 2016 study suggested that vaping can cause gum tissue to inflame, which can put you at risk for gum disease. One possible explanation for this inflammation may be the nicotine itself. Nicotine may reduce blood flow to the gums, and without proper blood flow, the mouth’s ability to fight off bacteria diminishes and the likelihood of inflammation and gum disease increases.

Cell Damage

Another study conducted in 2018 found that vaping may also cause damage to the cell’s DNA. This lowers or eliminates a cell’s ability to divide and grow and can essentially kill off a cell’s life prematurely. The same study suggests that cell damage is directly linked to bad breath, bone loss, tooth loss, and gum disease. 

Many companies that sell vapes claim that vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking, and some even say it can help people quit smoking. However, studies contradict this. For example, one study concluded that e-cigarettes helped current smokers reduce the number of cigarettes they smoked by about half, while another suggested that smokers who use e-cigs are 59% less likely to quit. Before you decide to use e-cigarettes as an aid to quit smoking, consider trying another option such as:

  • Reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke a day and continue to decrease over time. 
  • Using a nicotine replacement that has been approved by the FDA. 
  • Researching different ways other people have quit. You can start by visiting the American Lung Association

If you’re a smoker or use e-cigarettes, it’s never too late to quit. Work on finding the right solution for you and of course, call our Lewisburg dental office if we can help in any way. 

Welcoming patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and surrounding areas. 

Oral Health for Seniors

seniors take selfieAugust 21st is Senior Citizens Day, and there’s no better way for our dental office in Lewisburg to celebrate than by sharing some oral health information for the favorite senior citizens we have in our lives and their families.  

The truth is, our oral health needs will vary as we celebrate more birthdays, and needs will also differ from person to person. That’s one reason we believe in treating each person with individualized, custom care. When it comes to the senior population, there are a few unique things to be aware of. 

  • Discolored TeethWhile anyone can experience discolored teeth, there’s usually an explanation. Maybe morning coffee is to blame, or perhaps smoking or red wine. But when it comes to seniors, discoloration may occur without any obvious explanation. Most commonly, tooth discoloration as we age is a typical sign that the white outer layer of our teeth (enamel) is wearing away and becoming thinner. When this happens, your teeth can become a little transparent and the inner workings of the tooth become more visible. As it turns out, the insides of teeth are not as white as the outsides, and the more we’re able to see them, the more dark or yellow teeth can appear. 
  • Dry MouthDry mouth is another condition that can happen to anyone, but it does tend to be more common in seniors. Many times, medication is to blame. There are tons of over-the-counter medications and prescription medications that list dry mouth as a side effect. When these medications are taken regularly, saliva production slows down and the mouth becomes dry… and there is nothing bacteria like better than a dry mouth. Without saliva on hand to rinse away bacteria and neutralize acid, teeth are at an increased risk for developing cavities. If these cavities aren’t treated, they could lead to the need for a root canal, cause tooth sensitivity, or even tooth loss. If you’re experiencing dry mouth, do not stop taking your medication as prescribed, but do talk to your dentist in Lewisburg
  • Tooth LossLet’s start by saying that there’s no guarantee that we’ll lose our teeth as we get older. There are plenty of people who keep their teeth for a lifetime, especially if they see their dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene habits. However, tooth loss can be a real concern for many people. The best ways to reduce the risk of tooth loss is to avoid smoking or using tobacco, limiting alcohol intake, and seeing your dentist in Lewisburg every six months. These preventative dental appointments help identify problems early while they’re still often easily treatable and can help save your teeth. 
  • Gum DiseaseOne of the more serious concerns for seniors’ oral health is gum disease. In fact, research suggests a strong link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and stroke. Gum disease occurs when bacteria isn’t removed and it works its way under the gum line. Once this occurs, it becomes difficult to remove and can lead to an infection or advanced gum disease. If not treated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. The common signs of gum disease include red, bleeding, and inflamed gums. 

Unfortunately, there’s no way we can stop ourselves from getting older. But there are things we can do to help protect our teeth for life. Always brush twice a day and floss once a day, and get a professional dental cleaning and check-up at least twice a year. If you’re overdue for your dental appointment, we welcome you to call our Lewisburg dental office to schedule a visit with us today. 

We’re always accepting new patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas. 

A Checklist for Your Next Dental Appointment

checklistA visit to your dentist in Lewisburg is a pretty easy thing to check off your to-do list. But did you know that there are things you can do prior to your visit to make the process even easier? In this week’s blog, we provide you with a free checklist that you can use to make sure you’re prepared for your dental appointment. 

Appointment Confirmation

Many dental offices will send a pre-appointment reminder to you via text or email or call you directly to confirm your appointment. However, if your dental office doesn’t provide this service, you should confirm your appointment 24-hours in advance. These reminders not only help keep your appointment on schedule, so your dental team is able to be courteous of your time, but they’re also a great way to remove any chance of miscommunication. 

Know Your Medical History

Whether you’re visiting a new dentist in Lewisburg for the first time or you’ve been going to the same place for years, make sure you know your medical history as well as any changes that may have happened since your last visit. Things to remember include, new medications along with dosage, a new diagnosis or changes to overall health, and of course any concerns you may have with your dental health. 

Be Ready To Share

If you have any concerns about your oral health that you want to discuss with your dentist, make sure to be ready to share those concerns. The more specific you can be, the better. Consider things such as: 

  • If there’s pain and when it started 
  • The level of discomfort and where you feel it 
  • Any signs that worry you including bleeding or swollen gums 
  • If you’re unhappy with your smile and ideally what you would like to change 

Being open and honest with your dental team will help make sure your appointment is catered just to you and your concerns or desires. 

Look Six Months Ahead

Most people will see the dentist every six months, and you should be prepared to schedule your next appointment at the end of your first visit. Take a quick look at your schedule six months down the road so you know what you may need to avoid. Coming in with dates in mind will help make sure you’re appointment remains on the schedule and you can be seen when you want to be seen.  

However, even though you’ll be set to see your dentist again in six short months, you should always continue to do your part in between appointments to keep your teeth and mouth healthy. Make sure to brush and floss regularly, take it easy on the acidic and sugary foods, and don’t smoke or use tobacco. 

If you’re overdue for a dental appointment, call our Lewisburg dental office to schedule one today. We’ll be happy to see you! 

Welcoming patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport, and nearby areas. 

What To Do For a Dental Emergency

man with dental painNobody ever wants to experience an emergency, including a dental emergency. Dental emergencies, including injuries to the mouth, teeth, or gums, can be painful and scary. Knowing what to do for a dental emergency depends on the nature of the injury. Our dental office in Lewisburg is here to give you some tips on what to do for several of the most common types of dental emergencies.

The Most Common Dental Emergencies

The best thing you can do in the event of a dental emergency is to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Lewisburg as soon as possible. But there are some ways you can relieve discomfort and increase the chances of an easier treatment in the meantime.

  • Knocked Out ToothGetting a tooth knocked out can certainly be scary. Acting quickly and calmly can actually help save your tooth, but there are some things you should know. After you find the tooth, only touch the crown and avoid contact with the roots. If you can, put the tooth back into the socket gently. If you can’t, place the tooth in a cup of milk or store it under the tongue with some spit and get to a dentist.
  • Lost FillingThere are a number of things that can cause a filling to fall out, leaving a hole in your tooth. This can be painful as your tooth roots may now be exposed. The best thing to do is to fill the hole to protect those roots. Many pharmacies and grocery stores have dental cement you can buy and use to fill the hole. While this may help reduce pain, it is a temporary solution, and you should still see your dentist as soon as you can.
  • Chipped or Broken ToothAn injury or even something hard and crunchy can chip or break a tooth. Don’t panic. First, find any pieces of the tooth and rinse them off with water. If you’re bleeding, apply a piece of gauze and press. A cold compress can help with the pain and any swelling that may occur. There are many ways a tooth can be fixed, so again, schedule an appointment with your dentist.

Avoid a Problem

Even though nobody can really anticipate a dental emergency, you can help reduce your risk of one by making sure you see your dentist in Lewisburg every six months for regular checkups. These visits can help identify any potential problems before they become a painful surprise. You can also watch what you eat and make sure you wear a mouthguard when playing sports to further protect your smile.  

The team at our Lewisburg dental office is here to help our patients and community stay healthy. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Welcoming new patients from Lewisburg, Selinsgrove, Williamsport.