Activity
-
Carol Jahn answered:How do I teach my kids good hygiene habits?
Helping children develop good oral hygiene habits at an early age can help ensure they can have good oral health for life. The challenges for children and good oral hygiene can be related to dexterity, orthodontics, the mixed dentition (having both baby and adult teeth at the same time), or even a dislike...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Are there alternatives to flossing?
There are many great, easy, effective alternatives to string floss. Some of these include interproximal brushes, wooden toothpicks, floss holders, and oral irrigators, also called dental water jets or water flossers. Scientific studies have shown that these products can work as well as traditional floss...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Should I continue with dental healthcare if I am pregnant?
During pregancy, the increase in hormones can cause the gums to feel more tender, bleed more easily, and even feel a bit swollen. This is often called pregancy gingivitis. If you haven't had a dental visit for a while, now would be a good time to schedule an appointment. Your dentist can advise you on...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How often must I floss my teeth?
Everyone needs to clean between their teeth; optimally once daily. Tooth brushing is not enough. Between teeth is where most gum disease starts. While floss is generally the most recommended way to clean between teeth, it is the most challenging product to use. Fortunately there are many great, c...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Do children need to floss their teeth?
Most children don't have the manual dexterity to use dental floss effectively. That leaves two options. The parent can floss for the child or find a product that the child can use more easily. A couple of good product suggestions would be small child friendly floss holders or a water flosser (oral...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How should my kids brush their teeth?
Oral care can be challenging for children. During brushing, they may miss back teeth and often do not brush long enough to thoroughly remove plaque. They may not have the dexterity to thoroughly floss. Therefore, it's helpful for parents to assist with or supervise daily oral care. There are many...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How can I prevent dental problems before pregnancy?
The best way to prevent dental problems before pregnancy is to get your mouth in the best shape possible prior to pregnancy. This means having regular dental visits that including a cleaning and exam and practicing good daily oral hygiene at home. The most common oral health problem women face during...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Why does a dental hygienist clean my teeth and not a dentist?
Dental hygienists are licensed dental professionals who have specialized education and training in preventing and treating oral diseases. They spend over 600 clock hours learning clinical skills like cleaning teeth. Many dentists delegate this duty to a dental hygienist because of their expertise
...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
What are some over-the-counter oral hygiene products?
There are hundreds of different types of over-the-counter oral hygiene products in your local stores, and it can be confusing to know which ones you should invest in. Two products that can help do the most to improve or maintain oral health are a power toothbrush and a water flosser. Power toothbrushes can...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Can I develop periodontitis as an adult?
Yes, periodontitis is primarily an adult disease generally diagnosed in middle life. Teens and young adults who develop periodontal disease are generally considered to have an early on-set case. The number one risk factor for the development of periodontal disease is smoking. More than half of all cases
...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How do I manage my gingivitis on a daily basis?
Good oral hygiene is the best way to manage gingivitis. Thorough tooth brushing for about two minutes in the morning and before bedtime is the standard along with once daily between teeth cleaning. Many people recommend floss as the first choice but it is difficult and technique sensitive so unless you can...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How long does gingivitis last?
Most studies indicate that gingivitis can be resolved within a few weeks with good oral hygiene -- twice daily brushing and interdental cleansing. However, each individual is different so if you think you have gingivitis, you should consult with a dental professional. For example, if you have not...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How can I prevent gingivitis?
The best way to prevent gingivitis is to have regular dental visits (generally twice a year) in conjunction with good daily oral hygiene -- brushing and interdental cleansing. Most people brush twice a day but only about a third clean between their teeth. Even the best brushers can develop gingivitis...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
How does plaque cause gingivitis?
Gingivitis occurs due to plaque buildup around the teeth and under the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film (also called biofilm) that is teeming with bacteria. The longer the plaque is on your teeth, the strains of bacteria grow, change, and become more virulent. The gums or gingiva react to these...Read More -
Carol Jahn answered:
Is gingivitis serious?
Yes, gingivitis is serious because it means a part of your body is inflamed. From an oral health perspective, untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease which can lead to tooth loss. From a general health view, emerging data is finding that inflammation is a root cause of many systemic illnesses
...Read More