My Gums Hurt When I Brush What Should I Do?

My Gums Hurt When I Brush What Should I Do?

Why Do My Gums Hurt While Brushing?

My Gums Hurt When I Brush What Should I Do?

While brushing your teeth, if you feel like your gums are bleeding or swollen, then you need to take action. This is because brushing your teeth shouldn’t hurt. There are several reasons why your gums may be sore or bleeding. It could be because you’re brushing too hard, you have gum disease, or you have sensitive teeth. If unsure of the reason, make an appointment to see your Colorado Springs dentist. They will be able to examine your mouth and give you a diagnosis. In the meantime, try using a softer toothbrush and being more gentle when you brush.

What Your Brushing Technique

When you brush your teeth, it’s important to use gentle, circular motions rather than scrubbing them back and forth. This is especially true if you have sensitive gums or use a toothbrush with hard bristles. Brushing too vigorously can cause gum soreness, so it’s best to take it easy. Use soft, nylon bristles instead of hard ones, and brush gently in circular motions. This will help to keep your gums healthy and prevent gum soreness.

Gum Disease Could Be An Option

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two types of gum disease that can cause various symptoms, including swollen or tender gums, redness, and bleeding. These conditions can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems if left untreated. If you suspect gum disease, it is important to consult a dentist near me as soon as possible. The sooner you receive treatment, the less likely you will experience permanent damage to your teeth and gums. Treatment for gum disease typically involves a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary to restore the health of the gums. Our friends at College Hill Dental Group, dentist Easton Pa, say with proper treatment, most people with gum disease can expect to keep their natural teeth for life. 

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry To Protect Your Gums 

As anyone who has ever had sensitive gums knows, they can be a real pain. Brushing your teeth becomes a balancing act of being gentle enough not to cause pain but firm enough to get rid of plaque and other build-ups. Flossing becomes an ordeal, and mouthwash can sometimes feel more trouble than it’s worth. However, there are some things you can do to help ease the discomfort of sensitive gums. One way is to provide a gentle massage to the gums from the outside of your mouth. This can help to increase circulation and promote healing. Another way to help ease discomfort is to take preventive measures. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice regularly after every meal, flossing, and using mouthwash. These measures will help to reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth, which can help to reduce sensitivity. Finally, visit the best dentist in Colorado Springs Co for a routine dental visit. Contact your dentist to help identify any areas of concern and recommend specific treatments that can help ease your discomfort.

Do You Have Healthy Gums?

Do You Have Healthy Gums?

Find Out More About Your Gums

Do You Have Healthy Gums?

Healthy gums are an important part of oral hygiene. They should look firm and pink, and should not bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Some signs of unhealthy gums include redness and swelling, gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth, and gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. If you have any of these signs, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, which is an early form of gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of gum disease. Periodontitis can cause tooth loss and other serious problems. Therefore, it is important to take care of your gums and the best dentist in Colorado Springs if you have any concerns.

Maintaining Your Healthy Gums 

It’s important to take care of your gums for two reasons: to have healthy teeth and a nice smile. Good gum health starts with daily brushing and flossing. You should also regularly visit your dentist in Colorado Springs for professional cleanings.

If you have bleeding gums, it could be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can eventually lead to tooth loss. The good news about our friends over at College Hill Dental Group, the best dentist in Easton PA, is that gum disease is preventable and treatable. Some of the things you can do to keep your gums healthy include: brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking. If you have any concerns about your gum health, be sure to talk to your dentist.

Regular Dental Visits Will Prolong Your Gum Health

Regular dental visits are important for maintaining good oral health. During a dental visit, your dentist will clean your teeth and check for signs of gum disease. If caught early, gum disease can be treated with a simple procedure known as scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, while root planing smooths the roots of your teeth to prevent bacteria from clinging to them. In addition to scaling and root planing, your dentist may also recommend other treatments, such as antibacterial mouthwashes or fluoride treatments. With early detection and treatment, you can prolong your gum health and avoid more serious problems down the road. 

Contact Us Today!

Good oral hygiene starts with healthy gums. Your gums provide a foundation for your teeth, so it’s important to keep them healthy. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that they have gum disease until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important to see a dentist on a regular basis. Your dentist can check for signs of gum disease and provide treatment if necessary. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is committed to providing quality dental care for the whole family. We offer a wide range of services, from basic teeth cleanings to more complex procedures. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!

 

Caring For Your Teeth As You Age

Caring For Your Teeth As You Age

Tips On Taking Care Of Your Teeth

Caring For Your Teeth As You Age

Caring For Your Teeth As You Age

A healthy mouth is important at any age, but especially as we get older. Good oral hygiene helps to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other problems that can lead to tooth loss. It’s important to brush and floss regularly and to see the best dentist in Colorado Springs CO for regular checkups. Additionally, if you have any existing dental problems, it’s important to get them treated as soon as possible. While it’s true that some degree of tooth loss is inevitable as we age, taking good care of our teeth can help to minimize this. With proper care, our teeth can last a lifetime.

 

The Way You Brush Your Teeth 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for several reasons. It helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Additionally, it can help to improve your overall health. brushing twice a day with a toothbrush with soft bristles is a good way to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You may also benefit from using an electric toothbrush. Cleaning between your teeth once a day with floss or another flossing tool helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, be sure to visit your dentist in Colorado Springs CO regularly for professional cleanings. By following these simple tips, you can maintain a healthy mouth and improve your overall health.

Visiting Kissing Camels Family Dentistry 

A complete dental check-up should be scheduled every six months. During the visit, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of problems. They will also assess your risk for tooth decay and gum disease. If necessary, the dentist may take X-rays or perform other tests to get a better idea of your oral health. Based on the findings, they will develop a treatment plan to address any existing problems and prevent future ones from developing. Regular dental check-ups are an important part of maintaining good oral health. Our friends over at New Providence Dentistry, the best dentist in New Providence NJ, say seeing your dentist on a regular basis, you can catch problems early and avoid more serious issues down the road.

Contact Us Today!

At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy and beautiful smile. We are proud to offer a full range of dental services, from routine cleanings and cavities to more complex procedures such as implants and veneers. No matter what your needs may be, we will work hard to ensure that you receive the best possible care. We understand that going to the dentist can be a daunting experience, which is why we take the time to get to know each of our patients and make them feel comfortable. We also offer convenient appointment times and flexible payment options. If you are looking for a family dentist in Colorado Springs, we invite you to contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today. We look forward to meeting you!

Why Is My Mouth Dry?

why is my mouth dry

Why Is My Mouth Dry?

Dr. Johnson, the best dentist in Colorado Springs explains that, in a nutshell, saliva is underappreciated. We don’t always consider how vital saliva is to our oral health. However, it can lead to significant problems when we don’t have enough. Saliva is essential in the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease. When we do not produce enough saliva, we develop a condition known as dry mouth. Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is not a disease in and of itself but rather a symptom of something else. It’s unpleasant and inconvenient, but your dentist has various prevention and treatment options. Below, our dentist in Colorado Springs explains common causes.

What Factors Contribute to Dry Mouth?

We frequently see dry mouth in older adults. This is because our bodies respond differently to medications as we age, and our lifestyle habits impact. Below, our dentist office in Colorado Springs shares common reasons for dry mouths. 

  • First, dry mouth can be caused by various medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, pain relievers, and diuretics.
  • Also, dry mouth can be a sign of an underlying illness such as diabetes, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and others.
  • Additionally, dry mouth is a symptom of Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body’s moisture-producing glands, including tear and salivary glands.
  • Unfortunately, cancer radiation treatments can also have an impact on saliva levels.
  • Lastly, Tobacco and alcohol use and recreational drug use such as methamphetamine and marijuana can cause dry mouth.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms?

We worked with our friend Dr. Kim, dentist Lexington KY, shares that the signs of dry symptoms are as follows.

  • A sensation of dryness or stickiness in your mouth.
  • Saliva is thick and stringy.
  • Breath problems
  • Having trouble chewing or swallowing
  • Sore or dry throat
  • A parched tongue
  • Changes in taste perception
  • Having difficulty wearing dentures

When Is Dry Mouth an Issue?

Saliva protects your teeth and gums from bacteria and aids in the enjoyment and digestion of food. When your mouth does not produce enough saliva, it can cause tooth decay and other oral health issues such as:

  • Periodontal disease
  • Sores in the mouth
  • Yeast infection in the mouth (thrush)
  • Appetite loss

If you have dry mouth symptoms, see your dentist near me right away to prevent tooth and gum damage.

How Can I Avoid It?

Maintaining regular dental checkups twice a year is one of the most effective ways to prevent dry mouth and other oral health issues. Here are some additional ways to collaborate with your dentist to avoid dry mouth:

  • Inform your dentist of any changes in your medication or medical history.
  • Hydration is essential for saliva production, so drink plenty of water.
  • Consume coffee in moderation.
  • Tobacco products should be avoided or avoided entirely.
  • Eat a nutritious diet–good nutrition can help increase saliva flow.
  • Brush and floss every day.
  • If you must use an over-the-counter antihistamine or decongestant, keep in mind that dry mouth is a possible side effect.
  • Sleep with an air humidifier and breathe through your nose rather than your mouth.

Getting Help From Your Dentist in Colorado Springs

Dry mouth frequently has both medical and dental causes and consequences. As a result, your dentist and doctor work together to prevent and treat disease. When you notice symptoms, your dentist is an excellent first point of contact and will refer you to your doctor if necessary. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we understand that good oral health extends beyond just taking care of your teeth. Oral health issues can sometimes alert us to the presence of more complex medical problems. In other cases, simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products can alleviate dry mouth. In any case, going to the dentist is the first step toward feeling better.

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

how often should i change my toothbrush?

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

How often should you change your toothbrush?  If you’ve been brushing your teeth with the same instrument for several months, it’s probably time for a change. In fact, our dentist Colorado Springs explains that regularly replacing your old toothbrush with a new one may keep you healthy. Plus,l it guarantees that you’re getting the most out of your brushing sessions. But how often should you change your toothbrush? Our dentist in Colorado Springs explains below.

Replacing Your Toothbrush

Dr. Boals, the best dentist in Colorado Springs, recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. One of the reasons you should replace your toothbrush after this period is that the bristles lose their cleaning effectiveness. They could drop out or change shape. When the bristles get spread, they lose their energy. Frayed bristles do not efficiently reach the areas between the teeth and along the gum line.

Additionally, germs can also be found on toothbrushes. While viruses are unlikely to make you sick again, bacteria can live on the bristles. When you load up on toothpaste, those bacteria can move to the tube, making other people in the house sick if you share toothpaste.

When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush More Frequently?

In rare circumstances, they are replacing your toothbrush more frequently than every 12 to 16 weeks may be necessary. Some people opt to wash their teeth with great vigor. They may clean their teeth after each meal or consume a sweet snack. Brushing your teeth more than twice a day can cause your toothbrush to decay faster.

You might be tempted to use your electric toothbrush to the fullest extent possible. Our dental office in Colorado Springs explains that this is because the heads are typically more expensive than disposable alternatives. However, if you do not change the tool within the suggested time limit, it will not function properly.

Also, our friend Dr. Helgerson, dentist in Grand Junction, explains that if someone in the family is unwell, you should also consider tossing away everyone’s toothbrush. You’re unlikely to reinfect yourself if you use the same toothbrush you used when you had a cold or another virus. In addition, most people acquire antibodies to an illness, making it less likely that they would contract the same disease again soon after renting it.

On the other hand, cold and flu viruses can live on a toothbrush for up to three days. You can spread germs by keeping your toothbrush in the same cup as the rest of the family’s toothbrushes.

Furthermore, germs can survive on a toothbrush longer than viruses. One bacteria-caused ailment is strep throat. Once you’ve been on antibiotics for 24 hours, your chances of passing the sickness on are usually reduced. However, bacteria on your toothbrush may stay. If you have strep throat or another bacterial infection, throw away your toothbrush to avoid reinfecting yourself after you’ve finished your antibiotics.

When Should You Throw Away Your Toothbrush?

If you inspect your toothbrush after each usage, you’ll notice when it starts to deteriorate. Maintain your focus on the bristles. They should be elastic and sturdy while remaining soft. In addition, they must be robust enough to remove food particles and plaque.

When the bristles stop bouncing back to their former shape, it’s time to throw out the toothbrush. Toss that toothbrush if the hairs are no longer straight and stiff.

Inspect the Cleanliness

It would help if you also inspected the cleanliness of the area. For example, if you don’t thoroughly rinse your toothbrush, toothpaste residue might accumulate at the base of the bristles or along with the handle. This muck has the potential to trap microorganisms and make you sick. Replace your toothbrush if it is no longer as fresh as it once was.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Today

If you have questions about your dental health, please don’t hesitate to contact our team! We are here for you and can answer any questions you may have. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry today.

Dental Appointments in Colorado Springs

Dental Appointments in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Dental Appointments

Dental Appointments in Colorado Springs

One of the best ways to maintain optimal oral health is to practice preventative dentistry. For example, seeing your dentist twice a year for a tooth cleaning is a great way to maintain proper oral health. Of course, to establish a good diagnosis and build a complete treatment plan if any areas of concern do arise, you must have a dentist you can trust. At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, dentist in Colorado Springs, we are always accepting new patients. We work hard to track the progress of any treatments and any potential adjustments so you can smile bigger and live better. Today on the blog, we discuss what to expect at your dental appointments in Colorado Springs.

Colorado Springs Dental Visits

Various topics will be discussed during the first oral examination. Your Colorado Springs Dentist dentist will perform a visual inspection and charting. Probing, appropriate diagnosis and discussion of the proposed therapy may also be included.

Examination of the Basics

Every six months, you should get a basic dental checkup from dentist Colorado Springs. This will assist your dentist in detecting problems early on or preventing any future dental issues. Each time you come in for a dental checkup, the procedure will be different. We’ll begin by going over your list of concerns, as well as your dental charts and history. This will assist CO Springs family dentist in determining the best course of action for you.

Visual Assessment 

A visual examination of the oral system will be included in dental checkups. On the surface of your teeth, we’ll look for symptoms of tooth decay, as well as cracks, fractures, and damage. We’ll also look at any differences in your tooth structure. In addition, the form and color of the patient’s gums will be examined. The usual indications of periodontitis, such as swollen and red gums, must be taken seriously.

Cleaning

Cleaning your teeth helps us to see the condition of your gums and teeth in detail. It’s also vital to get rid of germs, tartar, and plaque, which may lead to gum disease and tooth damage.

Probing

A periodontal probe will be used in our dental office to determine the depth of the space between your gums and teeth. If it’s more than 3mm, it’s frequently a sign of gum disease.

Diagnosis

Our friend Dr. Kim, the best dentist Lexington KY,  explains we’ll figure out what’s wrong with the lesions and ulcers we detected in your oral system’s soft tissue. Some issues are difficult to detect with a basic eye inspection and probing. To see these issues, we may need to take dental X-rays. Abscesses, cysts, and other problems will be easier to spot using X-rays.

To urge the patient to be proactive about their dental health, a complete oral exam is required. We’ll collaborate with you to create a strategy that will help you maintain, if not enhance, your oral health. We’ll keep an eye on your oral system’s health and search for any indicators of a growing oral condition, such as tooth decay or gum disease.

Radiography in the Digital Age

Thanks to advancements in dentistry, we may now employ electronic software and computerized technologies to get a crisper picture of your dental system. This offers us the ability to perform a more thorough examination.

Making an All-Inclusive Treatment Plan

We are now ready to construct an all-inclusive therapy once we have completed the primary method. We’ll discuss your objectives and the results you may anticipate after the therapy with you. We’ll go through a list of remedies that we think will help you with your current issue. This is also an excellent time to inform you about the risks and advantages associated with each therapy. We’ll tell you how much each therapy costs, what procedures are required, and what to expect afterward. If you have any questions or concerns, you should bring them up during your oral test. We will alleviate all of your problems and ensure that the procedure runs well. Our first focus is always you.

Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Today for Dental Appointments in Colorado Springs

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry will lead you along the road to better oral health. We will not only address the present issues, but we will also work to avoid future dental issues. We will also provide you with helpful information that will help you maintain the health of your gums and teeth for many years to come. 

Remember, prevention is always preferable to treatment! Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment.

Dental Myths Debunked

Dental Myths Debunked

Dental Myths Debunked

Dental Myths Debunked

As we all want to maintain our teeth sparkling white and healthy, it may be difficult to separate reality from fiction regarding the best ways to do so. Our Colorado Springs Dentist has put together of debunked dental myths just for you.

Untrue Dental Myths

Here are some of the most popular dental misconceptions, as well as the facts behind them from your dentist in Colorado Springs.

Myth #1: You should brush your teeth after every meal.

Truth: While it is true that you should clean your teeth after each meal, don’t go for the toothpaste too quickly. Cleaning your teeth should be done after 30-60 minutes. What is the explanation behind this? The acidity in your mouth weakens enamel briefly after you eat, as saliva breaks down food particles and washes them away explains Dr. Boals, dentist Colorado Springs CO. Brushing your teeth while the enamel is weakened can also remove the enamel from your teeth. Therefore it’s best to wait a while.

Myth #2: Wisdom teeth have no function.

Truth: Wisdom teeth are the molars at the rear of the mouth that usually appear between 17 and 25. These days, they’re more likely to get impacted, grow sideways, or crowd the rest of your teeth, which may be unpleasant. In recent ages, it has been hypothesized that the development of human food has modified the function of wisdom teeth. These ‘extra’ molars would assist fill in the gaps and enable our forefathers to continue eating since they ate a lot of coarse foods, which caused tooth abrasion and tooth loss. On the other hand, wisdom teeth have nowhere to go because dental hygiene has improved, and they must be extracted by your CO Springs family dentist often to prevent creating complications.

Myth #3: Teeth whitening weakens them.

Truth: The hydrogen peroxide used in at-home whitening kits is only 3-10 percent, compared to the 15-18 percent used by a dentist. It is safe to use on teeth to remove surface stains as indicated and in moderation. While a minor enamel erosion may occur if used too often or improperly, this procedure will not harm the tooth’s structure. Always check with your dentist before using whitening solutions because of the possibility of damage to the enamel and possible dental sensitivity.

Myth #4: Putting aspirin on a tooth will relieve pain.

Truth: No, putting aspirin on a tooth won’t make it go away. In reality, this may cause your gums to burn and the soft tissue surrounding your tooth to deteriorate. If you have a toothache, you should:

-Clean all teeth and gums in the painful region thoroughly, looking for any trapped food or debris.

-Next, rinse your mouth with warm salt water vigorously.

-If your face is puffy, use a cold compress.

-For discomfort, use Tylenol or Motrin.

-Call during business hours to schedule an appointment with emergency dental Colorado Springs.

Myth #5: Baby teeth are unimportant because they will eventually fall out.

Truth: Primary teeth are cared for in the same way as permanent teeth are, and good baby teeth typically predict healthy adult teeth. Baby teeth also help with speech development and keep adult teeth in a position that might otherwise become crowded.

Myth #6: Hard-bristled toothbrushes are the finest for cleaning teeth.

Truth: Stiff and medium bristles brushes, in particular, may harm enamel if handled too forcefully, states Dr. Green, Parker CO Dentist. On the other hand, soft to incredibly soft bristles are the most incredible instrument for cleaning your teeth since they need to be cleansed softly and attentively.

What other dental-care misconceptions have you heard? Sift through the myths to discover the truth about your teeth and how to best care for them. But don’t accept popular wisdom at face value; if you have any concerns about the best methods to care for your teeth, contact us today.

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

dental tips for thanksgiving

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends, family, and loved ones for a feast and to enjoy one other’s company. All of that tasty food is tempting, but you should be careful of the consequences it will have on your teeth in the long run. There are a few things to bear in mind if you want to do more for the well-being of your oral health. Today on the blog, our family dentist Colorado Springs shares dental tips for Thanksgiving.

Sweets Should Be Limited

First, our Colorado Springs dentist explains that sugary meals are among the worst for your enamel. For example, a slice of pumpkin pie after a meal is okay, but you must be careful not to overdo it. This is especially important because Thanksgiving involves a lot of leftovers. Additionally, make sure you don’t overindulge in sweets and candy over the holiday weekend without brushing your teeth afterwards.

Consume a Variety of Foods

Secondly, our emergency dental Colorado Springs team urges patients to  be sure that you get get a proper balance of food while you’re loading up your plate for the holiday feast. Make an effort to consume a variety of vegetables, fruits, carbs, and other vital dietary categories. Our neighbors at OG Dental Denver, Denver Highlands dentist, suggests that some foods, such as raw carrots, are really good for your teeth because they work as natural cleaning agents.

Have Your Toothbrush Ready

Additionally, if you’re going to see relatives, don’t forget to bring your toothbrush. If you forget it, you can acquire one at the airport or a local store. You don’t want to go a whole weekend without brushing your teeth thoroughly.

Avoid Snacking Between Meals

While everyone is focused on the main dinner, you should also be cautious of how much you snack during the weekend. It’s easy to consume a handful of little sweets or chips without recognizing how much you’re actually eating. As follows, exposing enamel to acidity on a regular basis might wear it down. Make sure you have plenty of time while you aren’t eating.

Although Thanksgiving is frequently linked with overindulging during a weekend, our Colorado Springs dental office urges you to always take care of your teeth. You may enjoy the holidays without worrying about your dental health if you take the necessary measures.

Kissing Camels Family Dentistry Wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving!

From the bottom of our hearts, we hope you all have a beautiful Thanksgiving holiday this year. Contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry to schedule your final teeth cleaning of 2021 today. 

Dental Tips for Thanksgiving

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Halloween Dental Health Tips

Dental Health Tips for a Healthy Halloween

Halloween Dental Health Tips

Halloween Dental Health Tips in 2021

It’s that time of year again! At Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we love to celebrate Halloween just like the kids do. From the hilarious and spooky costumes to the festive Halloween decorations, parties, and going trick or treating of course. However, with all of this fun comes an influx of candy and other sweet treats. Halloween fun can soon turn into a scary dental emergency. The good news is that as your favorite dentist in Colorado Springs, we have found ample opportunities to turn that decay train right around and get back on track to good oral health. Our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry has some great Halloween dental health tips to ensure everyone enjoys the holiday.

Fill Those Hungry Bellies

It doesn’t matter how young or young at heart we are. If we’re hungry, we will typically choose something quick and easy. Sometimes this is a less than healthy choice. Even our best dentist in Colorado Springs is guilty of occasionally reaching for the less than healthy option! Enjoying a healthy meal right before going out trick or treating, or before going to enjoy other Halloween festivities, can make it less likely that candy and other sugary treats will be consumed in large quantities. 

If you’re hosting a small celebration, be sure to offer healthier alternatives to candy and other treats that could be considered less than healthy. Even fresh fruit, cheese, and crackers can be a good alternative.

If you have sugar-free sweet treats to set out at a party, Colorado Springs dentists will give a thumbs up to this healthier alternative.

Let the Kids Pick Out Their Favorite Halloween Treats

Everyone should be able to enjoy their Halloween. Depriving your children of the trick or treating experience and their haul’s enjoyment can make it much more likely that they will sneak more when you’re not looking. This could result in late-night snacking and un-brushed teeth. 

As a family dentist in Colorado Springs, we know that this is a truly spooky thought! Imagine, teeth going without brushing before bed, after those sticky, sugary treats… Moderation and balance is the key to a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle. This also offers the opportunity to explain to your kids just how important it is to find that balance particularly, as it relates to limiting sugar due to the increased risk of cavities.

Allow your children to go through their Halloween candy haul and pick out their favorites. Dr. Beth Herko, a family dentist in New Providence, NJ recommends offering a candy exchange for a book or toy that you know they’ll love! You could also donate the candy that they don’t keep.

Skip any of those sticky and chewy sweet treats like gummies or caramels and even Tootsie Rolls. They can prove difficult to remove from teeth, and the stickiness causes them to linger on teeth. Be sure to avoid sour sweets, if possible. They are known for being incredibly acidic, leading to damage to tooth enamel and the potential for decay. As your dentist in Colorado Springs, we’ve seen our fair share of decay due to these treats. It’s even scarier than that zombie hanging on your front door!

Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

There’s no better time than Halloween to encourage and establish an oral hygiene routine that will last a lifetime. Brushing and flossing is an essential part of maintaining oral wellness at any age. Your children should be brushing their teeth about 30 minutes after enjoying sugary treats, and of course, when they first wake up and before they turn in for the night.

Ensure that they are using a fluoride toothpaste and a mouthwash that has been made for children. This will encourage them to take better care of their teeth. A good oral hygiene routine is to visit your dentist in Colorado Springs for checkups and cleanings. Preventative dentistry is key, Dr. Boals says!

Parents and kids often ask what they can do to make brushing more of a routine. We like to think that the trick to avoid cavities is to make brushing and flossing fun. Let your kids pick out their toothbrushes. Perhaps a spinning brush with a favorite superhero on it. Let them pick out their favorite flavor in toothpaste. The more involved your children are with their dental wellness, the more they will take ownership of their teeth.

You can trust Kissing Camels Family Dentistry when you need dental services in Colorado Springs, CO. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see all of our spooky updates!

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month

National Dental Hygiene Month 2021

Happy National Dental Hygiene Month! That’s right, all October long, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is celebrating your dental hygiene. Why, you may ask? Proper oral hygiene habits and professional routine cleanings are key to avoiding dental issues. Small dental problems such as cavities can quickly escalate into dental emergencies. To avoid the pain and the cost of these dental problems, Dr. Boals, our Colorado Springs Dentist, recommends incorporating the following tips into your daily routine. 

Dental Hygiene Tip: Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes is the first step to good dental hygiene. There are a few things to consider before brushing your teeth. Do you have the right toothbrush and toothpaste? Yes, these things do play a role in your oral health. It’s important to use the correct size toothbrush. Using a kid’s toothbrush as an adult wouldn’t do you any good. Dr. Boals says that you should be able to brush one to two teeth at a time. Don’t forget to switch out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. He also recommends finding a toothbrush that has soft bristles. You could irritate your gums if the bristles are too rough. Most family dentists in Colorado Springs recommends brushing your teeth with toothpaste that is ADA approved.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Floss Daily

Flossing should be done on a daily basis. Many dentists say that if you’re not flossing, you might as well not brush your teeth. That’s because 40% of your teeth are not properly cleaned and, as a result, cavities and tartar form. Over time, this will lead to gum disease and other dental problems. Avoid dental issues and floss at least once a day!

How to Floss: 

  1. Wrap about 18 inches of dental floss around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  2. Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, insert the floss between two teeth.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth. Try to avoid hitting your gums. 
  4. Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  5. Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above until you’ve flossed between all your teeth.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Rinse With Mouthwash

Mouthwash can help you fight against bad breath, plaque, cavities, and yellow-teeth. Consider it as your secret weapon. When shopping around for mouthwash, you may be overwhelmed by how many different types are available. Try to find a mouthwash that will help you achieve your dental hygiene goals. Dr. Boals recommends using an ADA approved mouthwash that has some fluoride. Our friend Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, points out that not every mouthwash is used the same way, so read the directions carefully.

Dental Hygiene Tip: Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Did you know that there are many benefits to chewing sugar-free gum after a meal? Patients are often surprised when they hear their hygienists recommend it. Sugar-free gum naturally helps produce more saliva in the mouth. Therefore, it washes away food particles and harmful bacteria. Those suffering from dry mouth can benefit from chewing sugar-free gum regularly. Some popular sugar-free gum brands are Orbit and Trident. 

Celebrate Dental Hygiene Month With Kissing Camels

As you can see, practicing good dental hygiene is very important. Implementing these habits every day will help you keep your smile happy and healthy for life. If you haven’t seen Dr. Boals for your routine check-up and cleaning, please contact our office. If you’re looking for a family dentist in West Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, Centennial, or Fillmore, we’d be happy to see you! 

 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.