7 Dental Concerns for Those Over The Age of 50

Jul 13th, 2023
Easton Dentists Jul 13th, 2023

When they say “age is all in your head,” they’re probably right. But then again, your teeth ARE in your head — so you likely can’t escape having to pay a little more attention to them after the age of 50. Although some oral health concerns are seen as common as we age, if you adopt a proactive mindset and educate yourself, these concerns do not have to be common for you. Anticipating and recognizing changes in your mouth can help you be on top of your health in this area — so let’s take a look at the main ones you have to watch out for.

Dry Mouth:

The most common oral health concern you’re likely to experience as you age is dry mouth. In the medical world, dry mouth goes by the name xerostomia, and can be brought on by a number of contributing factors, including the over-consumption of drying beverages like coffee and alcohol, as well as the frequent consumption of salty foods. Another big offender is the medication we take over a lifetime to treat various illness. And the list isn’t a short one – there are over 400 medications that can contribute to xerostomia, including medications for high blood pressure and depression. We have been able to help many patients find relief and prevent them from greater harm.

Ill-fitting Dentures: 

First off, it’s important to note that the need for dentures is not a must as we age. Today, healthier living and better access to dental care has reduced the percentage of seniors wearing dentures to 27% from nearly 50% just a few decades ago. That said, should dentures be a part of your life, or that of a loved one, wearing properly-fitting dentures is critical. Sometimes, all that’s needed is a denture reline. Give Easton Dental Center in Columbus Ohio a call at (614) 414-0111 and we can see if that will help. Dentures that cause pain or shift in the mouth tend to alter a person’s eating habits, which can lead to nutrition deficits if healthy, but hard-to-chew, foods are avoided. Ill-fitting dentures can also cause thrush.

Physical Obstacles to Good Oral Care: 

As we age, we sometimes find ourselves having to contend with physical ailments that limit our desire to maintain good oral care. Arthritis, vision loss, or injuries are a few of the most common. To combat these concerns, using a floss pick to get between teeth can be helpful, and the regular use of oral rinses can assist in dislodging difficult-to-remove food debris, while adding to the overall health of one’s mouth and gum tissue. Here’s how to choose the best mouth rinse for your needs!

Naturally Receding Gums: 

The old expression “long in the tooth” isn’t just a quaint idiom about how one accumulates wisdom with age – it also refers to how our teeth appear to “lengthen” as we age. In other words, it’s a fancy way of saying our gums are receding. While some degree of gum recession is indeed natural as we get up in years, this predisposes us to cavities along the root structure of the tooth where enamel doesn’t exist. So, as one ages, flossing, brushing and rinses are more important than ever.

Gum Disease: 

Natural gum recession is one thing, and a part of “growing up,” if you will. Gum disease, however, is preventable. So, if it’s been longer than six months since you’ve seen us, please do give us a call at (614) 414-0111. Each of the above items in this list can contribute to gum disease, and good oral care can prevent it. Failing to do so can lead to a need for dentures at its most extreme, and pain and swollen gums at its least. We’d prefer you experience neither concern!

Tooth Loss: 

If a tooth is lost due to trauma or decay, and not replaced with an implant or other prosthetic, it can have serious complications for the health of the jawbone. Teeth can shift out of place and fall out, and bone tissue can be resorbed back into the body. Not a good thing.

Loss of Insurance Coverage:

Retirees without dental coverage can sometimes cover the expense of dental care on their own; sometimes they cannot. But a lack of funds to take care of one’s teeth can be devastating to the health of our mouths, and our overall health. So we need to plan for two things: a care routine that allows us to take care of our teeth as much as humanly possible and some sort of financial backup plan for when problems do arise.  We help dozens of patients a week to discover what the plan that best fits their needs!

Why Is The Condition of Your Tooth Enamel Important?

May 25th, 2023
Easton Dentists Jul 13th, 2023

 

Enamel, which is the hard mineral-rich outer layer of your teeth, is the number one defense against tooth decay.  Unfortunately over time, enamel can be eroded by acid, which is found in food, drinks, and bacterial plaque.  As enamel erodes, your teeth become more susceptible to tooth decay.  When acid levels rise, calcium in enamel becomes soft which is called de-mineralization.  Your mouth can counteract this process with salvia.  Saliva has the ability to neutralize acid and the calcium within saliva helps bind to your teeth to help replace the lost enamel.  This is a process known as re-mineralization.

If there is too much acid in your mouth, saliva is not able to neutralize the effects.  Drinks that contain high citric acid such as soda and sports drinks can be very damaging to enamel.  Not only are these drinks high in acid, they also have a high buffering capacity that slows down the neutralizing effect of saliva.  Although brushing your teeth after drinking highly acidic beverages seems like a way to protect enamel, it can actually have a counter effect if done to promptly.  Acid found in food or drink softens the enamel and if you brush your teeth too quickly, the brushing can essentially brush away some of your enamel.

There are several methods in maintaining a healthy pH balance in your mouth.  The most effective way is to limit the amount of acidic food or drinks you consume.  If you decide to drink acidic drinks, use a straw in efforts to reduce the amount of time the acid is in contact with your teeth.  Also try and drink these during your mealtime.  The final step is to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after drinking or eating something acidic before brushing your teeth.  Because tooth enamel is the main component in maintaining healthy teeth, keeping your enamel strong is the best way to keep your teeth from decay.

To ensure your tooth enamel is intact with proper dental care consult The Dental Center at Easton today!

How to Have a Brilliant Smile in Your Christmas Photos

Dec 20th, 2022
Easton Dentists Dec 27th, 2022

You’ve just returned home from a great holiday party, and smiling as you walk by the hallway mirror, you see it – a big green blob is stuck on your front tooth. Why didn’t anyone tell you?

To help you avoid embarrassing dental disasters during this holiday season, here are some tips to help your smile shine as brightly as the Christmas tree.

  • Alleviate some of the discoloration of “red wine mouth” by eating a bit of cheese or even drinking water between sips of wine. You should also avoid alternating between white wine with red, which is a definite stain maker.
  • Since acids in wine temporarily dissolve a microlayer of tooth, wine drinkers should avoid brushing their teeth immediately after drinking. Since teeth remain in this weakened state for about 20 to 30 minutes, rinsing with water instead of brushing right away will help protect the teeth.
  • To avoid getting food stuck in teeth at holiday gatherings, avoid broccoli, spinach, and other “stringy” foods that often lodge themselves between teeth. Sugary sweets are an obvious no-no, but if you must indulge, chocolate is a better option than caramels or lollipops. You may want to carry toothpicks or dental floss in your pocket to use when you visit the restroom.
  • Try to avoid chewing hard nuts, hard candy, and unpopped kernels because they make your teeth particularly vulnerable to cracking since they tend to weaken enamel
  • Need a cold beverage? Don’t forget that many people habitually chew on ice, which can cause gum injuries and, most frequently, cracked or broken teeth. In addition, never open containers with your teeth because that can put tremendous pressure on teeth and may result in cracking or even breaking teeth, preventing you from having a brilliant smile.

If you feel that your teeth did look their best in your Christmas photos, there is still time to set an appointment at the Dental Center at Easton (in Columbus, Ohio) to fix whatever bothered you in time for those New Year’s photos!

Secrets To A Healthier Smile

Jun 12th, 2022
Easton Dentists Jun 13th, 2022

You are probably aware of the popular saying, ‘you’re never fully dressed without a smile.’ It’s true! There’s not a single person out there who doesn’t want a bright, beautiful smile.


What’s the secret to a secret to healthier smile?

The first thing you need to do is get to the dentist. Most dental plans cover a standard, twice a year teeth cleaning, but many people should see their local dentist more often. In fact, the American Dental Association encourages adults to see their dentist every 90 days for a checkup and quick cleaning. This will ensure your teeth and gums are in optimal health. Frequent visits will also help stop any cavities dead in their tracks.

If you tend to hide your smile due to some alignment imperfections, consider checking out a clear straightening system like Invisalign. Invisalign is a wildly popular, efficient method for correcting minor tooth imperfections. Typically, users are supplied with a pair of clear, computer-generated trays. The user then wears the trays for 24 hours per day and switches to slightly different trays about every two weeks. The best part is often people have no idea the user is even wearing clear braces.

But adults aren’t the only patients who should be concerned with oral health. How can you ensure your kids have a healthier smile?


Your Child’s Dentist

We know your kid’s first visit to the dentist can be stressful, however, the professionals at Easton Dentists work with children each and every day and will ensure your little one is comfortable and relaxed.

Need some tips? Make sure you talk to your child about where they are going and what is going to happen. Prizes are also a great way to advertise the dentist as a fun and exciting place. Consider offering your child stickers, crayons, finger puppets, or key chains after a successful visit.

Holiday Treats That Can Lead to Unhealthy Teeth

Dec 18th, 2021
Easton Dentists Jan 2nd, 2022

Christmas is almost here which means sugary treats are everywhere.  Although it’s hard to turn down that delicious holiday cookie grandma just baked, we want to remind you about the effects sweets can have on your oral health.  Here are four of the most common treats we suggest to eat and drink in moderation during the holiday season:

Holiday Cookies – It’s enticing to grab one of those delicious holiday cookies that always seem to be available and laying around.  Before you reach for the second or third, it’s important to remember the amount of sugar each cookie contains and the amount of damage it can have on your teeth.

Holiday Drinks – There are a number of seasonal beverages like hot chocolate, eggnog, and warm apple ciders that are perfect for the holidays and make you feel warm inside.  Whenever you decide to drink one of these sugary drinks, try to keep it to only one cup or a small serving.  After you’ve finished, make sure to drink a glass of water afterward to help wash out some of the sugar residue and protect your teeth.

Candy Canes – This minty treat can cause a couple of negative effects on your teeth.  The prolonged amount of time these take to dissolve in your mouth leaves sugars lingering.  Also the hard and sticky structure makes it temping to bite, which could crack a tooth.

Caramels – Caramels are sticky treats that you find yourself chewing forever.  Even after you’ve finished, there always seems to be some lingering caramel left in your teeth.  The amount of sugar that is in a caramel treat can negatively affect your oral health.

All of these holiday temptations have a main ingredient, sugar.  We all know that sugar is bad for oral health because it mixes with bacteria on your teeth and will produce acid that erodes tooth enamel.  When you are enjoying these holiday sweets, just remember to keep your teeth in mind and try to take counter actions.  Make sure you are bushing twice daily and flossing regularly.  Also after your indulging, try to squeeze in an extra brush to remove the lingering sugar to keep your smile vibrant.  Everyone here at Easton Dentists wishes you all a happy and healthy holiday!

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Apr 9th, 2021
Easton Dentists May 6th, 2021

Someone dies every hour of every day of every year of oral and oropharyngeal cancer (cancer of the mouth and throat).  This disease used to predominately affect people over the age of 50 who were heavy drinkers and smokers. More recently, these diseases are detected more frequently in younger people who neither smoke nor drink.

Early detection is key with cancers of the mouth and throat, through oral cancer examinations. A regular exam, performed by your dentist regularly, such as Dr. Gilmer in Columbus,  can catch signs of oral cancer before it’s too late.  Catching and treating cancer early can ultimately lead to a complete recovery. In addition to regular exams, part of early detection includes contacting your dentist if you have any of the following symptoms that persist for longer than 2 weeks:

  • A lingering sore or irritation
  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness in the mouth or lips
  • Difficulty speaking, chewing or swallowing
  • Difficulty moving your jaw
  • Red or white patches in your mouth
  • A change in your bite when your mouth is closed

April is the perfect time to take action in preventing oral cancer. Contact the dentists at The Dental Center today to schedule an appointment for an oral cancer examination. Remember – early detection can save your life!

Save Money with Regular Dental Checkups

Mar 9th, 2021
Easton Dentists Apr 14th, 2021

Do you put off going to the dentist because of the expense? Maybe you think that you can get by skipping regular dental exams to save some money. However, by skipping regular dental checkups you are putting yourself at risk of seeing bigger bills than the cost of a routine appointment.

People who don’t receive regular dental exams often end up going to the emergency room for oral problems.  Did you know that the emergency room is unequipped to solve underlying dental health problems and the visit there usually costs 10 times more than seeing a dentist to address the same problem?  Seeking routine care can prevent the need to seek emergency dental care after the damage is done, at a much lower cost.

Additionally, oral care has a substantial impact on your overall health. By neglecting regular dental checkups, you are not only putting your oral health at risk but also your overall health and wellbeing. Many diseases can be diagnosed and treated early during regular and routine oral care. Astronomical hospital bills for diseases that could have been prevented can be avoided with an annual dental exam.

Don’t let yourself get stuck with a sky-high hospital bill because you didn’t get regular dental checkups. Call The Dental Center today to schedule your appointment!

Diet And Dental Health

Jan 22nd, 2021
Easton Dentists Feb 3rd, 2021

A person’s dental health starts with good nutrition and dietary habits. What you eat and drink can affect not only your weight and overall health but also your dental health. Taking good care of your teeth and involves more than just brushing and flossing your teeth every day.

It goes without saying that eating sugary foods and drinking dark beverages can damage your teeth, but there’s plenty to understand about diet and dental health. Certain foods can accelerate the level of decay, leading to bad breath (halitosis), caries (cavities), and other dental problems. On the other hand, other foods can improve your oral health by helping to limit decay over time.

Which foods to eat

When choosing a diet that will promote both dental and overall health, bear in mind that there are plenty of foods out there that can help you achieve your goal. For the best results, you will need to take note of foods that will help you avoid a host of dental issues while also helping you to increase your energy and manage your weight.

Research has established that foods such as almonds, leafy greens, cheese, poultry, fruits, vegetables, cheese, eggs, and fish can help you fight cavities, reduce the risk of or effectively manage gum disease, and embrace an overall healthier lifestyle. Beverages you should incorporate into your diet include water, milk, and plain yogurt.

Foods to avoid

It’s also critical to understand some of the foods you need to avoid or limit in order to improve your overall dental health. For healthier teeth and gums, it pays to limit or avoid sugary, processed foods and foods that are high in sugar or sugar substitutes.

For good dental health, always remember to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and visit your Columbus Ohio dentist regularly. Regular dental care can help prevent oral problems and detect those that occur in the early stages, while they’re easily treatable.

Choosing the Best Toothbrush

Nov 15th, 2020
Easton Dentists Dec 1st, 2020

We all have had this moment.  There we are, standing in the dental aisle and staring.  What kind of toothbrush should I get?  I like these little rubber things but do I need a soft or medium bristle?  Do I really want to pay that much for something that scrubs my teeth?  It’s inevitable.  We close our eyes, play a quick game of eeny meeny miny moe, and grab a brush.

No one likes that feeling.  Here at Easton Dentist, we want to alleviate your dental care struggles and have come up with a few tips and tricks for picking that new toothbrush.

Manual vs. Electric

This particular argument comes down to your preference.  If using a toothbrush that whistles, while it works, reminding you to brush your teeth every day, go for it!  The same goes for the toothbrushes with chunky handles – kids and adults with arthritis find these handles easier to grip. Studies show that the best way to brush your teeth is using a back and forth or rotary motion on the tooth itself.

Soft vs. Hard Bristles

Survey says: Medium!  When brushing your teeth, you should be careful not to brush too hard as it can erode the enamel.  The same is true for the bristles on your brush.  Some people prefer the harder bristle brushes, saying that they give more of a clean feeling.  Be careful, though, as this can also erode that enamel as well as damage your gums and root surface.  If your brush is too soft, then you’re not going to get the job done.  For most people, that soft bristle brush is going to be the winning choice.  For extra protection, check that the bristles on your brush have rounded tips.

Ok, but what about all those shapes on that brush?  Do I need those?

Besides needing to use a toothbrush, there isn’t any particular kind of toothbrush you should get.  Toothbrushes that are being manufactured now are being crafted with longer bristles to help get those hard to reach places.  Just be aware of the size of the head of the brush; your brush should maneuver around your mouth easily.  For adults, that size is about a half inch wide and one inch tall.

Still lost?  Ask the experts!  Look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval.  Brushes with this seal have undergone rigorous testing to ensure that the safety and quality of your toothbrush.

Schedule your next appointment with Easton Dentists in Columbus Ohio and we’ll be happy to guide you on your road to success.

PSA for the Kids

Oct 28th, 2020
Easton Dentists Nov 2nd, 2020

The majority of dental experts agree that it’s good practice to brush your teeth at least twice daily. As Elmo from the popular kid’s show Sesame Street says, “brush you teeth every day and every night.”. Elmo may not be a “dental expert”, but he offers kids great dental advice in his song “Brushy Brush”. The song is a perfect way to teach kids the importance of brushing their teeth.

Watch it here.

“Brushy Brush” is about a minute and a half long, so it may be useful to play it to remind kids to brush their teeth. Having kids brush for the duration of the song helps them to make sure they get each and every tooth. Elmo give kids reminders to brush up and down and all around each tooth, and encourages them not to neglect the teeth in the back. He also reminds kids not to swallow toothpaste even though it tastes good and to spit excess toothpaste in the sink.

Teaching kids good dental habits can be difficult, but with Elmo to help, it’s fun and rewarding. Getting toothbrushes for kids with their favorite characters on them adds to the fun of brushing. Flavored toothpaste also makes kids want to brush (you have to spit it out though!). There are many ways to create a fun routine for kids that will keep their smiles bright and healthy.

Healthy dental habits will keep kids’ teeth in great shape for years to come and will make dentist trips quick and painless. Elmo will help you teach good dental habits at home, and The Dental Center is here for regular checkups and any emergencies that may arise. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for everyone in the family… and don’t forget to brush your teeth every day and every night!