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What Is Gingivitis?

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Most of us have heard of “gingivitis”… It’s something dentists and toothpaste/mouthwash commercials are always talking about. What is it, though? What does it mean? How do you get it—or stop it?? Well fret not, your questions will be answered if you keep reading!

So, what IS gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It will be the first sign before you develop periodontitis, (a more severe form of gum disease resulting in tooth loss.) When you don’t keep up with your dental hygiene, plaque forms on your teeth… Left alone, this sticky substance will harden into tartar. Tartar acts like a  cement shield to all the bacteria leftover on your teeth and is very difficult to remove without the help of a professional dentist. When tartar and plaque are allowed to build up over time, bacteria festers and multiplies at the “gingiva” where the base of your gums meets your teeth. This results in the development of gingivitis. 

The symptoms of gingivitis may include:

  • irritation and/or swelling of the gums
  • bad breath
  • swollen and tender gums
  • bleeding and/or receding gums.

It’s very important to keep up with dental hygiene and regular dental visits to avoid getting gingivitis. Your dentist will make sure your gums are as healthy as they should be, checking that they are a light pink color and tightly fit around the base of each of your teeth. 

Some things that may contribute to your chances of getting gingivitis are: smoking and/or chewing tobacco, poor dental hygiene, old age, dry mouth, a vitamin C deficiency, crooked teeth that are hard to clean around, hormonal changes, and a compromised immune system.

If you are diagnosed with gingivitis, your dentist will give you the proper home care regimen info as well as treating you themselves. Just be sure to follow their instructions carefully and don’t self-diagnose! 

I hope this has been informative for you! Always remember to keep up with personal dental health as well as maintaining regular dentist visits! 

3 Tips to Help with TMJ Symptoms

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Are you feeling a nagging pain in your jaw when you yawn, chew, or open your mouth? Do you hear it clicking, or feel it locking up too? Then you may have TMJ. Now, this is a pretty common term for anything affecting your temporomandibular joint… I’m sure you’ve heard “TMJ” before, but this issue is not as serious as it sounds and actually affects more than 10 million Americans! 

You’re probably wondering how this happened… There are a number of factors involved with the causes of TMJ, but some of the main ones are: Clenching/grinding your teeth; arthritis or osteoporosis; and of course, any sort of blow to the jaw you may have taken. Some of these are easily remedied with simple behavioral changes, such as using a mouth guard, getting more calcium, and avoiding being hit in the face… obviously… However, before performing any sort of self diagnosis or treatment, you should visit your dentist or doctor to make sure it’s not part of a bigger problem. Common sense is key!

Below are some ways you can cut down on the pain, while you wait for that appointment. 

3 Tips to Help with TMJ Symptoms

  1. Hot/cold compress over your jaw… This will help relax any tense muscles and numb the pain of TMJ.
  2. Focused relaxing… Take a biiig, deep breath in and slooowly let it out… Great job, just make sure you’re focusing on relaxing that jaw and not holding any sort of tension there.
  3. Anti inflammatory drugs. This option for relieving TMJ is, of course, to be done responsibly and should be a last resort. 

While you’re at your dentist/doctor, ask about some guided stretches you can do at home to work out that soreness and keep your jaw nice and limber… Also, remember to absolutely stop any nail, cheek, etc. biting, since this will only aggravate the condition and put you in more pain. You can ask your doctor for tips on how to break these habits as well. 

TMJ will usually go away in its own with minimal issues, but it’s always important to keep an eye on yourself and keep up with appointments! You never know what you could be missing by trying to just use the internet as your doctor. Call the office today, 866-604-3327, to schedule your appointment, and let Dr. Potts aid in your TMJ care. He has extensive training in the treatment of it. Remember, common sense is key and I hope this article helps you on your way through the pains of TMJ.

Back-to-School Basics: Don’t for Get Your Smile!

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Young girls playing visit the dentist

31% of U.S. parents say kids missed school due to dental problems.

Did it seem like summer took forever to get here?

Now that it’s here, can you believe that it’s almost over!? From fun in the sun to family vacations and everything in between, we hope you’ve had time to squeeze in everything on your “to-do” list. And if you haven’t… you’ve still got some time.

But before you know it, stores will start advertising those their back-to-school sales, and if they haven’t already, many school sports teams and marching bands will start practicing.

Those lazy days of summer will suddenly fade away and you’ll be left wondering how it all went  by so fast.

While your checklist might include new clothes, shoes and school supplies, it’s often easy to overlook the all-important back-to-school dental appointment.

Kid’s teeth need to be ready to head back to the classroom, too, and there are several reasons to schedule your child’s dental appointment now:

They won’t have to miss school

Even though the kiddos might enjoy it, taking kids out of school for dentist appointments can be a hassle. If your dentist finds an issue that requires additional dental work/appointments, it’s easier to take care of it now, rather than missing class time later. We recommend setting up those 6-month check-ups so they fall during summer and winter breaks.

Schools may require dental records

Even if it’s not required, it’s still best to stay current on necessary dental and medical treatments for children and adults.

Teen girl at the dentist

Make your back-to-school dental appointments now before school days creep up on you.

Good oral health is an important part of good overall health

Research shows that poor dental health can increase the risk for other medical conditions. Avoid further complications with dental cleanings every six months.

College Kids May Be Far from Home

If your son or daughter will be heading off for college, schedule an appointment before they leave. If they have a toothache or other problems while they are far away from home, it can be difficult to find a dentist to see in an emergency.

Or, what about a mini smile makeover with teeth whitening? It’s a great way to start the year off and give a boost of self confidence.

young athlete with a green mouth guard

Don’t wait for a chipped tooth to happen; protect your young athlete’s teeth with a mouth guard.

Athletes Need Mouth Guards

It’s important for young athletes to wear a mouth guard to prevent dental injuries. Talk with your dentist about the best options available to fit your child’s needs and have one custom-fitted if needed.

We love catching up with our young patients and seeing how much they have grown. Schedule your back-to-school appointments today to ensure and healthy and happy smile to start the new school year.

 

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

 

Superfoods for a super smile!

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Teeth biting into a healthy carrotWe’re constantly bombarded with suggestions to “eat this, not that” because simple food swaps can help us lose weight and live a more healthy life.

It’s no secret that we are what we eat. But, as a dentist, I’ll take that a little further to say… so are our teeth.

We like to think that prevention is the best medicine when it comes to your smile.

Just because we all have access to fillings and crowns to fix broken or decayed teeth as well as teeth whitening to brighten stained and dingy looking smiles, don’t you think it’s better – not to mention more affordable – to avoid cavities and stains in the first place?

That can easily be accomplished by focusing on daily brushing, flossing, and (gasp!) eating right.

The American Dental Association says that what we eat (and when) are both major factors when it comes to dental health.

Check out these superfoods that will help keep your teeth healthy and strong. Many of these are easy to grab-and-go when you and your family are busy and on the run.

Dark Chocolate
Before you pick up that milk chocolate bar while you’re waiting in the grocery line… think again. This stuff that is good for your teeth is 70% cacao and contains a compound called CBH which studies show helps harden tooth enamel and actually prevent tooth decay as well as provide other benefits. Who knew?!

Unwrapped dark chocolate bar

Cocoa beans contain tannins, polyphenols and flavonoids, each of which is a type of strong antioxidant that benefits your mouth and teeth.

Cheese
Who doesn’t love cheese? This tasty superfood combats acid erosion of the teeth — especially when we eat things such as breads, sweets, citrus, or soda that expose teeth to tooth decay causing acid.

Eating cheese after these foods raises the pH in the mouth, lowering the risk of tooth decay and the simple act of chewing it increases saliva. And let’s not forget the calcium and protein that strengthen tooth enamel.

Different kinds of cheese

Just eating a small piece after your meal is a good way to improve the health of your teeth quickly.

Oranges
You might think I’m crazy since since we just talked about acids and how they affect your teeth. The good news here is the vitamin C – which actually strengthens blood vessels and connective tissue and slows down the progression of gum disease by reducing inflammation.

The key is to not brush right after you eat citrus-containing fruits – just rinse your mouth with water (sparkling mineral water is best) and brush a little later (like 30 mintues).

H2O
When you don’t drink enough water, the saliva in your mouth gets thick and can lead to a host of dental problems because saliva can’t properly breakdown food, neutralize bacterial acid that causes bad breath and prevent tooth decay.

Keep hydrated by drinking half your body weight in ounces of water throughout the day. If you’re 150 pounds, that’s roughly 75 ounces of water every day that you need to stay hydrated.

Refreshing glass of water with lemon

Water can also be used in the short-term if you don’t have access to a toothbrush. Rinsing with water after drinking coffee or having other staining foods can help reduce staining to the teeth.

Fruits and Veggies
Apples may be sweet, but they contain a lot of fiber and water. If you don’t have access to a toothbrush right  after a meal, take a bite out of an apple — it produces saliva which rinses away bacteria and food particles and its fibrous texture is also great for the gums. It’s not the same as brushing your teeth with toothpaste, but it’s the next best choice until you can get to your toothbrush.

The same goes for carrots, which are crunchy and also full of fiber. Eating a handful of raw carrots at the end of the meal increases saliva production, which reduces your risk of cavities. They are also a great source of vitamin A.

Xylitol
Xyli… what?! It sounds like a tongue twister, but it’s so good for your teeth and found in sugarless chewing gum. The benefit is two-fold here: chewing gum increases saliva to ward off tooth decay and bad breath and the xylitol helps maintain the proper levels of good and bacteria in the mouth – which also aids in digestion.

assortment of gum pieces

Sugar free gum can do more than freshen your breath. It can actually help improve your oral health.

Green and Black Tea
Polyphenols, which are found in green and black tea, interact with the bacteria that cause plaque by killing or suppressing them. Tea a great choice for during or after a meal, since it suppresses the presence of these acid producing bacteria in the mouth. Polyphenols in tea also have cavity-fighting properties.

What are some of your favorite superfoods? Share with our readers in the comments below.

 

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

Are You Brushing Your Teeth Wrong?

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When you think of poor oral health, what comes to mind

When you think of poor oral health, what comes to mind?

You’ve likely been hearing it all your life… “brush twice a day and floss regularly.” Surely that means you’ll have strong teeth and healthy gums, right?

It’s Oral Health Month, and we want to remind you that when it comes to good oral hygiene, it all starts with a toothbrush. But here’s the thing… a lot of us are brushing wrong and may not even know it.

Do the following for a healthy and happy smile:

Do: Choose the right size toothbrush and make sure it is soft-bristled. Hard is not better… in fact, a hard-bristled toothbrush can injure gum tissue and ultimately cause recession.

Do: Use toothpaste with fluoride. Fluoride prevents and also reverses tooth decay in its early stages.

Do: Brush up and down or in circular motions.  Brushing horizontally can cause abrasions at your gum line. Simply hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and brush up and down or in circular motions, making sure to get all surfaces of your teeth.

Do: Brush for 2 minutes/2 times per day. Many of today’s electric toothbrushes have a timer that alerts you every 30 seconds to move to a different quadrant of your mouth. Try one out sometime!

Do: Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or when the bristles become warn down. To make it easy, line it up with the seasons or holidays and you’ll never forget.

Using a toothbrush with frayed or worn bristles will mean that your teeth get a less effective cleaning

Using a toothbrush with frayed or worn bristles will mean that your teeth get a less effective cleaning.

Do: Let your toothbrush dry out after each use. This will cut down on bacteria growth.

Do: Floss at least once a day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that get stuck between your teeth.

If you’re doing any of the following… Don’t:

Don’t: Brush your teeth right after eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages. Wait at least 30 minutes so that the acid doesn’t soften enamel or the tooth’s structure.

Don’t: Share your toothbrush.  Even if you’re family, it’s not a good idea as it can spread germs and gum disease.

Don’t: Let your toddler swallow toothpaste. Young children need an adult’s guidance when developing good brushing habits and technique, so be sure to show them.

Don’t: Brush too often or too hard. It’s possible to brush too much — which can irritate gums and teeth by exposing the root of the tooth; or too hard — which will erode tooth enamel.

Besides brushing and flossing, a biannual checkup at your dentist will keep your teeth and gums in good shape.

Besides brushing and flossing, a biannual checkup at your dentist will keep your teeth and gums in good shape.

The simple things you do everyday can affect the health of your smile. Don’t fall into a routine of bad habits and be sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis. A cleaning and exam every six months is the best way to keep your smile healthy and avoid expensive and even painful procedures down the road.

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

 

Try These at Home: Temporary Toothache Treatments

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Some minor toothaches and pains can be treated at home until you can get in to see the dentist.

Some minor toothaches and pains can be treated at home until you can get in to see the dentist.

You’ve been looking forward to a couple days off. Time to relax, get outside or enjoy family.

But nothing can ruin a weekend more than waking up with a toothache. They can come out of nowhere and can be a small pain or a BIG pain.

An aching tooth can wreak havoc your daily life. It can affect your speech and how you eat… and it can interrupt your sleep.

Why does your tooth hurt? Sometimes it’s an obvious issue, but it’s always best to have a dentist take a look as soon as possible to check for:

>> Gum recession

>> Cavity

>> Abscess

>> Gum infection

>> Broken crown

>> Bruised ligaments around your tooth

>> Fracture

If you can’t get to the dentist right away, try some of these simple remedies for temporarily easing tooth pain at home.

Ice – Hold an ice pack against your cheek over the sore tooth to try and dull the pain.

Dental Cement – If you have a missing or loose filling, you can Stabilize  it with temporary dental cement from your local drugstore. If you’re in a pinch, a piece of softened sugar-free gum will work, too.

Cough drop – Cough drops usually contain a small amount of anesthetic (menthol or benzocaine)  which can relieve minor tooth pain. One or two in your mouth should do – just be sure to and suck on them – don’t chew!

Home remedies for toothache pain include cough drops, clove oil, a warm tea bag or salt water.

Home remedies for toothache pain include cough drops, clove oil, a warm tea bag or salt water.

Clove – Clove oil is a natural way to numb a sore tooth. You can also chew on an entire clove and then hold it against your tooth as it softens.

Saltwater Rinse – Swish warm salt water in your mouth to bring down inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.

Hydrogen Peroxide – A good rinse with peroxide cane help reduce bacteria present with an abscess or other infection.

When you can’t get to the dentist right away, it’s ok to find relief for your toothache at home. Just remember that all the remedies suggested here are temporary. Only your dentist can cure your tooth.

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

We have a “Heart” for helping people smile

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Every year, for one day, there is a day of free dentistry.

Every year, for one day, there is a day of free dentistry.

When you feel great, a smile comes naturally. A smile can show joy, happiness, appreciation, amusement, excitement, or peacefulness. But for some, smiling is just not that easy.

In fact, millions of Americans don’t go to the dentist because they can’t afford it.

Dental problems can be painful, keeping people of all ages from doing simple things like going to work or school, or eating.

“Smiles from the Heart” is May 19th!

What exactly is “Smiles from the Heart?”

Simply put, it’s a day when those in need — without the means — can finally get dental care. It’s a day of excitement and joy, and best of all… a lot of FREE dental work!

And there’s even more good news.

If we see a patient who requires more dental work than can be completed in on day, we’ll refer you for further care – at little or no cost. Think of it as our way of giving back to our community that has done so much for us.

Smiles from the Heart on May 19th will help people of all ages have access to much needed dental care.

Smiles from the Heart on May 19th will help people of all ages have access to much needed dental care.

Healthy teeth = a healthy and happy life!

Healthy teeth and gums go hand in hand with a healthy mind and body. Good oral hygiene and oral health can:

>> Boost your self-esteem and confidence

>> Lower your risk of heart disease

>> Preserve memory

>> Reduce the risks of infection and inflammation

At Lake County Dental, we believe that everyone has the right to quality dental care.

To be deprived of it because of lack of money, insurance, or availability of care is incompatible with living a truly healthy life. That’s what “Smiles from the Heart” is all about.

 

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

 

Is your smile ready for the wedding day?

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You've got the ring and now it's time to start planning for your big day. Add a beautiful smile to your checklist

You’ve got the ring and now it’s time to start planning for your big day. Add a beautiful smile to your checklist.

Whether you’ve just gotten engaged or your wedding is fast approaching, there’s no better time to start thinking about how you want your smile to look as you walk down the aisle.

After all, it’s an accessory you’ll wear all day – and for the rest of your life!

When it comes time to say, “I do,” every bride wants to look and feel beautiful.

That’s not always easy, especially if you have chipped, stained or missing or crooked teeth. The photographs you’ll have taken will be a life-long reminder of that special day, and if you’re self-conscience about your smile, it will show.

Whether you have a whole year left until your wedding or a mere few weeks, cosmetic dental options are available to ensure you (and your groom, too) will look your very best.

Add a smile makeover to your wedding day checklist and take a few minutes review our wedding day “do’s and dont’s.”

Don’t say “I Do” without Lake County Dental

We would love to be a part of your big day, but call us today! Simple procedures that we’ve listed above can cause pain and discomfort, so plan ahead to ensure you aren’t miserable on your wedding day and honeymoon.

Plus, keep in mind that if you’re a candidate for Invisalign, it still takes six to twelve months.

Schedule an appointment and we’d be happy to recommend options that fit your situation and timeline.

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

Know the Facts About Oral Cancer

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Your dentist is your first line of defense when it comes to early detection of oral cancer. Get screened today!

Your dentist is your first line of defense when it comes to early detection of oral cancer. Get screened today!

Did you know that every year, over 40,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer?

Of that, about 8,000 will die from the disease. That’s approximately one death per hour.

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and at Lake County Dental, we’re here to answer all your questions about oral cancer.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the oral cavity – including the lips, tongue, mouth and throat. The death rate for oral cancer has always been relatively high compared to many other common cancers — not because it’s hard to diagnose or treat, but because in many cases it is found too late – after it’s metastasized to another area of the body (such as the lymph nodes).

It can also be tricky because there are often no symptoms or pain in the early stages, and a person can be completely unaware that the disease is growing and thriving in their body.

Regular visits to your dentist can help you detect oral cancer early, and changing a few potentially harmful habits may help reduce your chances of developing it.

Know the facts about Oral Cancer:

Get screened for oral cancer every year.

Your overall health is #1 with us, so we recommend a yearly screening if you are 18 years of age or older. Make screenings a part of your regular dental check-ups.

Early detection is the key – and can make the difference between life or death. Don’t delay… say, “Ahhhh…” and get your screen on today!

 

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.

Have no fear… sedation is here!

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Dental fear is one of the biggest challenges that keep people from getting good dental care.

Dental fear is one of the biggest challenges that keep people from getting good dental care.

Does your heart pound just thinking about going to the dentist?

What’s worse? The sharp, shiny instruments or the sound of the drill?

For the majority of people, going to the dentist isn’t a painful experience. But that doesn’t mean that we love being in the dental chair.

But what if there’s more to it?

Many people are panicked and even terrified of visiting the dentist.

Fear of the dentist can be paralyzing – so much so that dental visits are put off for years. When you don’t visit the dentist on a regular basis, there’s a greater potential for gum disease and early tooth loss. It can even affect overall health. Do you:

Have trouble sleeping the night before going to the dentist?

Feel your nerves taking over as you sit in waiting room?

Cry or get physically ill at the thought of visiting the dentist?

Panic or find it difficult to breathe when objects are placed in your mouth during dental treatment?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you likely suffer from dental fear or anxiety.

At Lake County Dental, we work with patients to ease anxiety and fear.

When needed, sedation dentistry works for many patients.

We use nitrous oxide to help take the edge off or we can go a little bit further with conscience sedation (a pill taken before the appointment). You’ll be so relaxed and comfortable you’ll be unaware of dental treatment, how much time has passed, and you may not even remember the appointment.

What do you fear most about going to the dentist? Comment or ask us any questions below.

emergency dentist Dr. PottsDr. Potts is a gentle, caring dentist uses the most advanced materials and procedures available. He practices comfortable, health-centered dentistry, with a strong emphasis on getting to know each patient. In addition technical proficiency, Dr. Potts is a careful listener. He makes sure to understand what you want and will explain beforehand what treatment is best for your individual needs, along with all options available to you.