Cavities in Baby Teeth

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There are many important topics to consider when it comes to your child’s dental health, and we’ll discuss them here.

• Is more fluoride better?

• Does limiting sugar and starch intake help prevent cavities?

• Is the use of a sealant a good idea on baby teeth?

• Are regular check-ups important since baby teeth are only temporary?

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Every February, the American Dental Association (ADA) puts on National Children’s Dental Health Month. Good oral health is something that needs to happen all year round, though, especially for children. By far, the most common chronic disease children face is dental caries or cavities. Cavities in baby teeth are very common and making your children’s teeth a priority is a necessary part of their overall health. The easiest way to prevent cavities in baby teeth is to brush with a fluoride-based toothpaste twice a day.

While maintaining good oral health for your child can at times seem like a daunting task, it doesn’t have to be. Read below to see what tips we have to offer that might make your life easier, and your child’s mouth healthier.

The list of questions is quite possibly endless. The fact of the matter is, repetition creates habits. The earlier your child or children start practicing these habits, they quicker they will become second nature. In the end, it’s something they can do without being forced or asked to do. We’re here to make your life as a parent easier. Keep reading for helpful tips – we think you’ll find them useful.

How Cavities in Baby Teeth Develop

Cavities form when teeth are frequently exposed to acid through overexposure to excessive sugars and starches. Foods that are packed with sugar attack the teeth and cause mineral loss. Unfortunately, there are many foods out there for children that are full of sugar, predisposing your baby to cavities.

Tips To Avoid Cavities in Baby Teeth

Use More Fluoride

– Be sure they drink water from a fluoridated water supply, like tap water rather than bottled water.
– Brush their teeth with a fluoride toothpaste.
– Use fluoride mouthwash like ACT or Listerine Total.

As a parent, be sure to supervise your children while they brush their teeth. Be sure they do a good job and don’t be afraid to give them the freedom to do it themselves over time, as this will lead to better oral health habits as an adult.

Cut Down on Sugars, Starches

Paying attention to the types of food your child eats is a necessity for any parent, but especially to avoid cavities in baby teeth. Every time sugar or starch is consumed, the mouth responds by producing acid that eats away at teeth enamel, making it likely for cavities to form. Saliva can help in the fight against these acids, but eating and drinking too regularly can also work against the problem.

The Importance of Baby Teeth

Baby teeth are significant for many reasons. For one, they encourage the healthy development of the jaw bone, and they reserve the space needed for permanent teeth. They also allow your child to chew food efficiently and assist in speech development. Moreover, they contribute to your child’s positive feelings about his or her appearance and help to build confidence from a young age.

When baby teeth begin to touch each other, add daily flossing to your children’s routine. With adult supervision, most children can brush and floss their own teeth by age four, but we still recommend being a part of their oral hygiene routines at least once a day to continue to reinforce healthy habits.

Consider Using Sealants to Avoid Cavities in Baby Teeth

To take every step possible to prevent cavities in baby teeth, speak with your dentist about sealants. These are coatings made of plastic that is painted over the parts of the teeth children use to chew. The grooves in baby teeth are very deep, often allowing food to fall inside and cause cavities. Using sealants can stop this from happening, avoiding cavities in baby teeth.

If you have any questions or concerns that your child may be developing cavities, or if they have untreated cavities in baby teeth, don’t hesitate to give our gentle, family dentists a call or make an appointment online. We care about your child’s oral health, and we’re happy to discuss how things are going. And we don’t stop there. We offer dental services for the entire family. Your oral health is our priority!

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The information on this page was written by Dr. Ben Joekel.

This gentle Lincoln, NE dentists says: “My goal as your dentist is to listen to your concerns and needs when it comes to your dental health. Once your concerns are addressed, our goal as a team is to provide you with exceptional care that makes you feel comfortable.”

You can schedule with this Lincoln, NE dentist online 24/7 at his West Lincoln Location of Nebraska Family Dentistry. This Lincoln, NE dentist serves the local communities in Garland, Pleasant Dale, Denton, Crete, Milford, Hickman, Roca, Martell, and Panama.

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Make easy, affordable payments for your procedure with dental payment plans we offer.

Nebraska Family Dentistry has multiple locations!
Choose any location convenient for you.

How To Brighten Your Smile Quickly

Fast Teeth Whitening in Lincoln,  NE: All You Need To Know

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All of this information and more are covered in our article. Here’s what we think you need to know: Let us help you make an educated decision about the future of your oral health!

• Which teeth whitening option will provide the quickest results – Listed below are the top three options for teeth whitening today.

• Learn whether or not you are a good candidate – If you proceed with whitening, can you achieve your desired results.

• Alternative options – If teeth whitening isn’t a good option for you, what else can you do.

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As you age, you may notice that your teeth are not quite the same shade of white as they once were. Typically, noticeable discoloration begins to occur in the late 20s and early 30s. A variety of factors can speed up the discoloration process.

These factors can include chemical staining due to drinking dark-colored liquids, smoking, a genetic predisposition to early yellowing, trauma to the teeth, illness, certain medications. The good news is that most teeth can return to a whiter shade with professional whitening treatments.

What is the fastest way to whiten teeth?

In-office whitening is the go-to for fast teeth whitening. With applications of a 35%-45% hydrogen peroxide solution, it penetrates the porous outer layer of your teeth and breaks apart stain compounds using a chemical reaction called oxidation.

Number One Solution for Fast Teeth Whitening:
Professional in-office teeth whitening

In-office teeth whitening is performed in a dental office and only takes an hour. In this process, a strong bleaching solution is applied to the teeth. This leads to dramatic and instant results. This procedure should be under the direct supervision of the dentist due to the strength of the bleaching solution. Any family dentist at Coddington Dental would be happy to help, should you decide to proceed with in-office teeth whitening.

Second Solution:
Custom whitening kit made for you

With this treatment, custom-molded teeth whitening trays are created for you to take home. Filled with a highly-consecrated whitening gel, custom trays are a better option than over-the-counter products. The trays are worn over the course of a few weeks for specified periods of time. The amount of time is dependent on the level of fast teeth whitening desired. The dental trays ensure maximum contact with the teeth as well as consistency with results.

Third Solution:
Over-the-counter whitening

Although over-the-counter treatments are used as a supplemental whitening enhancer, they are not recommended as alternatives to professional, fast teeth whitening. The concentration of over-the-counter whitening agents may be significantly lower than what is provided in the office. Due to the lower concentration, many patients won’t receive the results they desire. Over-the-counter products are not custom made and often lead to more sensitivity and burning gums. If you choose to purchase an over-the-counter teeth whitening product, make sure it has a seal of acceptance from ADA (American Dental Association).

If whitening is not a good option for you:

Because it is possible to have teeth resistant to whitening, veneers are a great option to give you a brighter, whiter smile. Porcelain veneers offer a dramatic change while being an instant solution to whiter teeth. They are as thin as contact lenses and bond directly to the tooth with minimal drilling. Veneers mask imperfections and add strength and durability. Made of high-grade porcelain, they look natural, blend beautifully with the surrounding teeth, and are resistant to staining or discoloration.

Although we discussed a few options for teeth whitening, you might still be wondering which one of them, if any, will be effective for your particular situation. Here are a few commonly asked questions that may further help you.

1. Can I whiten a filling or a crown?
   Unfortunately, no. Only natural surfaces and tooth structure can be whitened. Fillings or crowns that you have will not react to whitening products, therefore, making whitening of those particular surfaces ineffective. If you have a visible crown or filling, you may want to talk to your dentist. He or she might have other options available for improving your smile.
   
   
2. How old do you need to be to do teeth whitening?
   It is recommended not to begin the whitening process before age 13. This may vary depending on the patient. Due to the enlarged pulp chamber in children and young adults, the nerves of the teeth can be very sensitive, and it may not be advisable.
   
   
3. Why does bleaching create sensitivity?
   Reason #1: Dehydration of the tooth. Large amounts and high concentrations of peroxides naturally dehydrate the teeth. Dehydration occurs during bleaching. The use of an LED or UV light can make the problem much worse and cause even more sensitivity!
   
   Reason #2: Gums become sensitive due to teeth whitening solution spilling over. That is the reason why it is essential to have custom trays and not to add too much teeth whitening solution.
   
   
4. Is there anyone who should not whiten their teeth?
   It is recommended not to begin the whitening process before age 13. Young adults and children and have pulp chambers that are enlarged, and the bleaching process can cause these teeth to be very sensitive. If there is any question, consult your dental professional because this can vary depending upon the patient.
   
   Lactating and pregnant women are advised to avoid any whitening procedure.
   
   Anyone with gum disease, those that have incomplete dental work, damaged and broken teeth, or those who have restorations, roots that are exposed, or hypersensitivity are advised to seek dental care and treatment of these conditions before beginning any whitening procedure. Failure to address these conditions first could put you at risk for additional damage. Thus, causing severe side effects.
   
   Whitening is not practical or advisable for those undergoing orthodontic treatment. Whitening can be considered once treatment is completed.
   
   If you have dental work that completely covers the front surfaces of the teeth, whitening will not be sufficient. Whitening agents do not alter fillings, crowns, veneers, bridgework, and implants. Whitening will only affect the natural tooth surface.

While this might not answer all of your questions, we hope it’s an excellent start. However, should you decide you still have more questions, our skilled, compassionate team awaits your call. We’d love to help you make your smile shine again.

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Make easy, affordable payments for your procedure with dental payment plans we offer.

Nebraska Family Dentistry has dental clinic locations in all parts of Lincoln! Choose “near me dentist” location that is convenient for you.

Are You Grinding Your Teeth? What Can You Do?

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Here we will discuss many important factors that relate to teeth grinding. Topics discussed include:

• Risks and solutions for Teeth Grinding: What are the consequences and what can be done to fix it.

• Nightguards: Are they an effective solution?

• Side effects of nighttime grinding: Do you experience jaw discomfort, neck discomfort, or have headaches?

• Teeth grinding in children: Is it dangerous?

• Price: What’s the cost of a custom nightguard and where can I get one?

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While you might not realize it, your discomfort could be the result of teeth grinding. Teeth grinding can occur in children and adults. One way to target grinding is to cut back on caffeinated drinks and foods like soda and chocolate, and for adults, eliminate alcohol. Also, don’t make daytime chewing on non-food items a habit.

Risks and Solutions

During teeth grinding, we apply extra forces to our teeth and present dental work, leading to grave consequences of this uncontrollable habit. So many people suffer from teeth grinding both during the day and at night. Many don’t even realize that they are doing it.

Nighttime teeth grinding is often more damaging as it can not be controlled while we sleep. Uncontrollable nighttime teeth grinding can chip teeth, wear down the enamel, cause facial discomfort, jaw problems, and also increase tooth sensitivity (to hot and cold drinks). If you have been grinding your teeth regularly at night for many years, by the time you get between the age of 40-50, there is a very high chance you might need dental work to fix the effects.

All about nightguards:

A solution to end nighttime teeth grinding

A simple solution to nighttime teeth grinding is a nightguard. Nightguards are devices that should be put into your mouth when you sleep. The goal is to prevent further damage to your teeth and pre-existing dental work.

Some things you can do to help relieve these side effects include minimizing jaw movements, eating softer foods, and using relaxation techniques. By using an ice pack on your jaw, it can also help lessen the discomfort. However, none of the methods mentioned will get rid of any discomfort completely. The most effective way is to wear a nightguard, which is a simple device that can be worn to help you break the habit over time.

At all of our offices, we can make soft nightguards. Custom-made, soft nightguards, are custom made just for you. Soft nightguards are effective for many people, however, if  you present with symptoms (jaw pain, headaches, etc.), a soft night guard might not be as effective. In this case, a person may find greater benefit greater from a material that has a more rigid outer layer. These particular night guards are often referred to as heat-and-seat nightguards.

Soft night guards, can in some patients, send signals to the brain that can tend to make them bite down even harder. As a result, there could be an increase in inflammation of the joint system, ultimately leading to an increase in symptoms.

What’s important to keep in mind, is that night guards do not stop grinding, but rather they provide protection and help keep the teeth from making contact with each other.

 

2. They can eliminate discomfort and headaches.

Some of the things that can occur from teeth grinding are headaches, earaches, jaw and neck discomfort, and stiffness within the facial area. These symptoms are signs of a stressed TMJ and can make you feel miserable in your day to day life. Nightguards can make a difference when it comes to these symptoms. The device stops the upper and lower teeth from coming into contact with each other, eliminating tension to the face and taking the pressure off of your TMJ. The nightguard also helps to slightly re-position the teeth, which decreases jaw discomfort significantly.

3. They can help improve your sleep pattern.

Nightguards are so comfortable in your mouth that they can significantly improve your quality of sleep and also help you have a more structured sleeping pattern. The guard is positioned in a way that relaxes your jaw. Thus, keeping the muscles in your mouth as relaxed as possible. Also, the fact that the nightguard alleviates discomfort is another reason why it improves sleep – making for a happier you!

Do you have TMJ?
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/tmj-quiz

How much for a custom nightguard for teeth grinding in Lincoln, NE?

It’s crucial to get a custom nightguard because it will fit you, and only you. Nightguards that you can buy for $10 or so in most stores won’t be useful because they are not designed for you or your mouth. A custom nightguard will give you the maximum possible benefit, which you will experience shortly after beginning to wear it. We are a high-quality Lincoln dental clinic, and we can make your custom nightguard for $75. Now, that’s pretty affordable!

Because we think you can never be too informed when it comes to your health, we’ve listed some of our most frequently asked questions below.

How do you treat bruxism naturally? Your Lincoln dental center answers: Bruxism is the process of grinding one’s teeth. It tends to occur while sleeping and, therefore, can be challenging to control. By protecting the teeth with a nightguard, the wearing away of the tooth structure is decreased.

Can bruxism be cured? Your Lincoln dental center answers: By practicing stress management, yoga, and meditation, one can try to stop grinding their teeth naturally. Muscle relaxers can be used, if necessary, to relax the muscles that support the jaw to lower the chances of grinding. There isn’t a cure for grinding, but there are preventative measures that can be taken to try to reduce the possibility of bruxism or to help protect the teeth during the process.

Why do I keep clenching my teeth? Your Lincoln dental center answers: One of the main reasons for clenching is stress. Some tend to do it as a habit even though they aren’t necessarily stressed. Occlusion, or the way our teeth come together, can also affect how much we clench our teeth. If clenching starts after the placement of a filling or crown, please be sure to have your dentist check your bite.

Can a nightguard shift your teeth? Your Lincoln dental center answers: If a nightguard is not correctly made, it can cause some slight shifting of the teeth. However, within the first 10-30 minutes of waking up, the teeth should start to feel normal again. Mouthguards are meant to fit tightly and are only worn on one arch, and usually while sleeping.

On the whole, there are many benefits to wearing a nightguard, and you can learn more about bruxism here from the Mayo Clinic. This way, you’re well informed and can make an excellent decision when it comes to your oral health. Locally, you can visit one of our Lincoln dentists to find out how we can help alleviate your jaw discomfort and minimize the effects of teeth grinding.

Wishing you health and happiness,

Your Lincoln Family Dentists

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The information on this page was written by Dr. Jodi Day.

This gentle Lincoln, NE dentists says: “My patients deserve personalized, quality dental care in an atmosphere they feel comfortable in. At Nebraska Family Dentistry, our team of caring professionals are committed to providing you with a comfortable and positive dental experience. Our goal is to partner with you to help you achieve and maintain optimal dental health throughout your lifetime.”

You can schedule with this Lincoln, NE dentist online 24/7 at her West Lincoln Location of Nebraska Family Dentistry. This Lincoln, NE dentist serves the local communities close to Coddington Dental in Garland, Pleasant Dale, Denton, Crete, Milford, Hickman, Roca, Martell, and Panama.

I am looking forward to meeting you soon, Dr. Jodi Day

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Make easy, affordable payments for your procedure with dental payment plans we offer.

Nebraska Family Dentistry has multiple locations!
Choose any location convenient for you.