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

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

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.

How Can I Keep My Smile Healthy?

how can i keep my smile healthy - Dr. Boals

How Can I Keep My Smile Healthy?

The COVID-19 coronavirus crisis has led to many dentists closing their doors for regular appointments, and only accepting patients with dental emergencies. While this will help slow the spread of the virus, it has a lot of people wondering “How can I keep my smile healthy when I can’t see the dentist?“. 

In this blog from Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, we’ll discuss a few things you should do to keep your mouth healthy, even if you can’t see your dentist for a six-month visit and oral exam. Let’s get started.

1. Ensure Your Dental Hygiene Routine Is In Tip-Top Shape

First and foremost, make sure that you’re maintaining a great oral hygiene routine. You should be brushing at least twice per day for at least two minutes. In fact, you may want to consider brushing three times per day says our friend and dentist in Bethlehem GA, Dr. Hoang. 

If you brush three times per day, once after breakfast, once after lunch, and once before you go to bed, you’ll remove the most bacteria and food debris that you can, and you’ll boost your defense against gum disease and cavities.

Don’t forget about flossing, either. Brushing alone is not enough to clean every surface of your teeth. Flossing once per day will remove food, bacteria, and plaque that may be left behind with brushing alone. 

2. Watch Your Diet And What You Eat 

As a rule, you’ll want to avoid starchy and sugary foods, as well as beverages that are high in sugar like juice, sweetened tea, cocktails, and soda. The bacteria in our mouths thrive on starch and sugar. Eating a diet that consists mostly of lean meat, fresh vegetables, and fruits that are high in fiber, and whole grains can help keep your teeth healthy. 

In fact, some foods can damage your teeth directly. Chewing almonds, ice, and other hard foods with your front teeth could cause them to crack or chip, so you should make sure you chew these kinds of foods with your molars.

You should also avoid gummy and sticky foods (caramel, taffy, gummy candy, etc.) if you have multiple crowns or fillings. Sticky, sugary foods promote tooth decay, and can even pull out your dental work if it’s loose.

3. Avoid Doing Things That Could Damage Your Teeth  

Doing things like chewing pens or pencils or even your fingernails can wear down your teeth prematurely, or even cause them to crack or break. Make sure you only use your teeth to chew food, and not anything else.

That also means you shouldn’t use your teeth as tools to do things like tear open packages or rip tape. They’re not meant to do these things, and could be damaged if you’re not careful. 

Know How To Keep Your Smile Healthy, Even When You Can’t See The Dentist

We hope this guide from Kissing Camels Family Dentistry has helped you learn more about how you can keep your smile healthy, even if you’re not able to see your dentist. Thanks for reading, and stay safe. And when the lockdown is lifted, make sure that you contact us at (719) 301-6604 to schedule your next preventive dentistry appointment in Garden of the Gods, West Colorado Springs, and Manitou Springs. “

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Benefits of Visiting Your Colorado Springs Dentist

Ever wonder why your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO insists on frequent checkups? It’s not just a matter of brushing your teeth and giving you tips on how to keep your pearly whites. Oral hygiene affects the health of the body. Your dentist will not only treat your toothaches and cavities but also identifies any risk factors that could contribute to more severe conditions. That’s why the American Dental Association suggests that your dentist change the duration of your appointments. Brushing and flossing alone will not help you achieve good oral health. It’s crucial to have an expert look at your mouth. Here are some of the advantages of visiting your Colorado Springs, CO dentist.

What to Expect During Your Visit with Dr. Boals

Your Colorado Springs dentist may examine your face, neck, lymph nodes, and jaw before examining your teeth. This protocol is to scan for any odd lumps and bumps and to check your thyroid. What the dentist really is looking for are symptoms of head, neck, and oral cancer, diabetes, and vitamin deficiency. If your Colorado Springs dentist notices something troubling, you can guarantee that your dentist will recommend the next steps. 

A full-mouth examination of the condition of your teeth and gums lets your dentist decide the best way to improve your oral health long-term.

When your dentist looks into your mouth, they do a variety of different things:

  • Analysis of the gums for any signs of disease
  • Checks for missing or broken teeth and signs of tooth decay
  • Inspects the tissue inside your mouth
  • Takes a look at your tongue
  • Checks your bite
  • Reviews fillings or potential dental problems

Dentists in Colorado Springs, CO, have the equipment and experience to thoroughly examine and treat any dental problem that arises. If you don’t see your dentist when an issue arrises, you won’t know how to fix it. 

Did You Miss a Spot?

No matter how good you brush and floss, you will not be able to remove tartar on your own. Don’t worry, it’s normal. During your visit to Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, one of our hygienists will clear up anything you’ve missed. Making your teeth look as good as new. Professional dental cleanings are necessary to decrease the risk of cavities, bacteria, and gum disease.

These professional cleanings include a visual inspection of your teeth and the removal of any tartar build-up. It is accompanied by polishing and probably flossing. After that, Dr. Boals will speak with you about the health of your teeth and gums. They will also make suggestions for improving your oral health or address any concerns that he has. Following this advice, you’ll set up your next dental cleaning t the front desk. 

Dental Problems That Go Unnoticed

Waiting until you have a toothache to see your emergency dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, can be troublesome and expensive. Cavities can begin to develop without causing discomfort, and dentists can diagnose them until they become a major problem. The sooner a cavity is detected, the less likely a major surgery, such as a root canal, is to be performed.

Gum disease is another painless disorder. It’s a big cause of loss of teeth. A lot of people don’t even know they have it. If the gum disease is detected soon enough, it is reversible. Early-stage gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be avoided by skilled cleaning followed by good oral hygiene at home. Advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, can lead to tissue and bone loss that support the teeth. Periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 years of age in the United States.

Dental problems may arise without warning signs, which is why it’s crucial to follow a good oral health regimen and see your dentist regularly. This will save you both money and time in the long run.

Why You Need Good Oral Health

We put a lot of stuff into our mouths in our bodies. It makes sense that our teeth should be in good order, doesn’t it? Healthy teeth allow us to eat the food we want while reducing the number of harmful bacteria we swallow. Don’t forget to give us a whiter smile. Polishing during washing removes all stains and improves the enamel teeth. Enamel is a thin layer of coating that coats every tooth. It helps protect against chewing, biting, and grinding damage. Enamel can be eroded by contact with acids, such as those present in soft drinks and fruit drinks. This can lead to sensitive teeth, discoloration, and indentations. It can also make teeth easier to break and chip. Dr. Kim, an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY, agrees that erosion of the enamel makes the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and decay. Going to regular dental cleanings can help make sure your enamel remains intact, and you can enjoy the use of your teeth.

Visit Kissing Camels Family Dentistry

It’s not just a matter of keeping your teeth clean or a whiter smile. A regular checkup at our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, will help you live a healthier life and worry less about dental, neck, and head ailments.

Regular visits to the dentist are to help avoid major medical complications and save you money in the future. If you missed your last appointment or need to find a new dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, don’t hesitate to contact Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.

Happy National Brush Day

national brush day - Colorado Springs Dentist

Happy National Brush Day

Oral hygiene is important to our teeth and our general health – that’s why we brush our teeth! Any plaque that is not removed on and between your teeth will eventually cause gum disease and tooth decay. If you’re anything like us, you were told countless times to brush your teeth when you were a child. So, you’d think that we all know how to brush our teeth correctly. However, the Academy of General Dentistry says that many adults do not brush their teeth properly. So, to honor National Brush Day on November 1st, we’re sharing the right way to brush your teeth.

The Basics of Brushing Your Teeth

You should brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes. That is, in the morning, when you wake up and right before you go to sleep. To make sure that you brush properly for the allotted time, Dr. Boals suggests using a stopwatch while brushing your teeth. If you want to be even more efficient, you could purchase an electric toothbrush that has an inbuilt timer. 

It does not matter what way you use to time yourself, as long as you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. 

The Tools You Need for Good Oral Hygiene

Which is better, an electric toothbrush or a traditional toothbrush? Colorado Springs dentists have no preference between the two, as long as you use a toothbrush that has soft bristles and can reach your back molars.

Your toothbrush needs to be replaced every 3-4 months or when your bristles fray. Using a toothbrush with frayed bristles will be harmful to your teeth. The toothpaste you choose depends on your preference. Use whichever toothpaste that you like. Just make sure it contains fluoride. Fluoride works by preventing tooth decay and cavity development. If you do have cavities, fluoride works well in fighting those cavities. Dr. Chris Green, a family dentist in Parker, CO, recommends choosing a toothpaste that is FDA approved. 

Another essential that you need for optimal dental health is floss. Flossing helps you get rid of at least 80% of the plaque that is on your teeth, and flossing prevents plaque buildup. Floss also prevents gum disease, and you need to take care of both your teeth and gums. There’s plenty of floss to choose from waxed, unwaxed, floss picks.

How to Brush Your Teeth Properly

We now know the proper tools needed to brush your teeth properly. Now, let’s go over the correct way to do it in a way that is recommended by dentists in Colorado Springs.

  1. Put a pea-size amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush
  2. You should hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
  3. Move your toothbrush gently over your teeth surfaces (the front, back, and tops of your teeth) in a circular motion.
  4. Employ a gentle back and forth motion on your teeth’s chewing surfaces when brushing
  5. Spit the toothpaste out after brushing but do not rinse your mouth. The toothpaste that is left in your mouth after you spit protects your teeth against decay
  6. Brush your tongue to rid it of any bacteria buildup since the last time you brushed
  7. Floss; it does not matter whether it’s before or after brushing but ensure you floss.

What to Avoid When Brushing Your Teeth

Now that we know the proper ways to brush our teeth, here are a few things your 80907 dentist says you should avoid when brushing your teeth:

Apart from picking the wrong brush, you may also be;

  1. Scrubbing your teeth too hard – Because plaque is loose and soft, there’s no need to scrub your teeth. Brushing too hard will ruin your enamel.
  2. You rush when brushing – Let’s say you’re late for work, so you want to rush through brushing. Don’t do it! Use the timer on your phone to ensure you spend the correct amount of time brushing. If you have to get up earlier to brush your teeth, then so be it!
  3. You hold onto your old toothbrush for a little too long – We mentioned above, when your bristles fray, get a new toothbrush. Also, do not share your toothbrush with anybody and keep your toothbrush in the open air. This will prevent bacteria or mold from growing on it when the toothbrush head is wet. This is a very common mistake, and we tell our patients at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry.
  4. You miss the gum line – Most bacteria are usually found where your gums and teeth meet. This area is commonly missed. So when brushing, ensure you also brush the gum line area. To do so, use the 45º angle we talked about above. Tilt your toothbrush up and down in order to reach the inside of your front teeth. 
  5. You forget to brush your tongue – Many people fail to brush the sides of their tongue.  So, remember to brush your tongue for the best oral hygiene.
  6. You brush your teeth immediately after eating – Brushing your teeth immediately after eating may erode your tooth enamel. Colorado Springs dentists recommend waiting at least 20 minutes for the saliva in your mouth to offset the acid before you brush. Alternatively, you can also rinse your mouth out with water to get rid of some of the acids before you brush your teeth.

Visit Your Colorado Springs Dentist Annually

Now that we’ve covered everything about brushing, we can move onto visiting the dentist! Make sure you visit your dentist twice a year for a dental cleaning and checkup! This will ensure that your teeth are as healthy as can be. If you have any questions on how to take care of your teeth or would like to make an appointment, contact your dentist in Colorado Springs, CO. Needless to say, Kissing Camels Family Dentistry is happy to help you with your oral health. Contact us today!