5 Signs That Mean You Should See A Dentist

Mar 31st, 2017
Easton Dentists Mar 31st, 2017

You know you should see your dentist regularly, but there are also signs you should see a dentist as soon as possible. If you have any of these experiences, make an appointment for dental services.

1. A Dental Emergency

There are many dental emergencies that require immediate dental care. Some examples include persistent pain in your gums or teeth, an injury to your mouth, and dental appliances that become broken or damaged. Dental visits are more effective than trying home remedies that do not work.

2. Ongoing Issues

Tooth or gum sensitivity, bleeding gums, cavities, and pain when you eat certain foods are signs that you need a dental visit. Another example of an ongoing issue is experiencing pain when you brush or floss your teeth.

3. You Need Dental Work

A cavity may need to be filled, or you have lost a tooth and need a dental implant. Most types of dental work can be accomplished quickly and easily at the dentist’s office.

4. Concern About Your Appearance

If your teeth are stained, discolored, or dull, you do not want to smile or talk to people. A visit to the dentist for teeth whitening is the first step toward self-confidence. If the condition of your teeth is affected by your lifestyle habits, your dentist can recommend changes to keep your teeth healthy and white.

5. You Have Not Seen Your Dentist Lately

Individuals who do not have oral health problems should see a dentist at least twice each year. You can have a professional cleaning and a complete examination. It will also be your opportunity to ask questions about your oral health, and receive useful information.

Twice-annual visits to the dentist are necessary for oral health. However, if you experience any of these other issues, you can make an appointment at any time.

The Why, When, How and Where of Tongue Scraping

Mar 3rd, 2017
Easton Dentists Mar 3rd, 2017

Imagine it’s still winter…not hard to do in Ohio since it changes so quickly… you’re standing at the door, ready to brave the cold. You’re layered-up with three shirts and a sweatshirt, your heavy winter coat, and two layers of socks underneath your waterproof winter boots. Then you’ve got those awesome jeans with the flannel on the inside, your comfy hat, scarf, and gloves. You’re set! But wait. As you step toward the door, you suddenly realize you have an itch … and it’s deep down … buried beneath all those layers. And, try as you may, every attempt to reach that bugger-of-an-itch fails. Defeated, you realize the only relief you’re ever gonna’ get is to remove each one of those layers. Where are we going with this?!

The Tongue

We’re going inside your mouth, of course, to your tongue – this is a dental article, after all! Because whether you know it or not, like you in the wintertime, your tongue is also “all covered up” – buried beneath layers of bacteria, fungi, and food residue that can inhibit your ability to taste, let alone cause your tongue to appear various shades of yellow, white, or green! Remove the bacteria, though, and your food will once again directly interact with those taste buds, and return to its natural hue. So how does one do that? With a tongue scraper, of course!

WHAT is a tongue scraper?

A tongue scraper is a U-shaped device designed to “scrape” the top layer of scum from your tongue. They have been in use since ancient times, and have been made of everything from wood to whalebone. Nowadays, they are made of more hygienic material, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs and colors.

WHY use a tongue scraper?

The residue on your tongue includes things like the cavity-inducing Streptococcus mutans bacterium, fungi, rotting food (that’s not good), and what’s referred to as “volatile sulfur compounds.” In other words, sulfur – that “rotting egg smell.” Talk about ew! So, as you can see, there are several reasons why you’d want to get rid of this gunk in your mouth. Let’s tackle them one by one:

  • Reduce bad breath: ‘nuff said! We have had many patients thank us so much for this little tip because it dramatically improves their overall life! Get a little closer…
  • Reduce your risk of periodontal disease and cavities: Bad bacteria contribute to plaque and tartar on teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities. Bacteria build-up can also lead to inflammation of gum tissue (gingivitis). If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which means a more expensive dental visit (plus other unwanted consequences!). Speaking of avoiding an expensive dental visit, when was the last time you came in to see us? Come see us now if it’s been awhile, by calling in at 614-414-0111.
  • Make room for good bacteria: see our article here on probiotics for your mouth.
  • Prevent heart disease? While the debate is still up in the air, many studies suggest there could be a correlation between gum disease and heart disease.

HOW does one use a tongue scraper?

In general, make sure to rinse your tongue scraper before and after use. Apply the tongue scraper to the back of your tongue and drag it forward. Then, rinse and repeat. Make sure to get the sides of your tongue as well, not just the center!

Make sure not to press too hard or you can cause yourself to bleed. And, if you’re wondering if you should scrape your tongue while recovering from a dental procedure, that’s a good question … ask your dentist for the best advice particular to your situation. Still not sure how this thing really works? The next time you’re in ask Julie, Kate, or Lindsay for a quick tutorial!

WHERE do I buy one?

Your first choice is, believe it or not, us! We may even have a sample we could provide to you at no cost. Tongue scrapers are relatively inexpensive, and can also be found at any local drugstore. It doesn’t matter the material, color, or brand – just find the one you like and get scraping!