Dental Tips for Halloween

Dental tips for Halloween
  • Dental Tips for Halloween

Dental Tips for Halloween

There’s no disputing that Halloween  is loved by many. There’s a surplus of candy, fun costumes, and more. However, this might be a dental nightmare for the entire family.

Though candy is delicious, it can contribute to tooth decay. Luckily, there are a few simple methods to turn Halloween into an opportunity to teach your children about the significance of excellent oral hygiene. Below, our Bethlehem GA dentist shares some tricks to utilize when your kids get their hands on Halloween sweets, according to a family dentist:

1. Before Trick-or-Treating, Eat A Balanced Meal

To start, our Loganville dental office recommends eating a balanced meal for both children and adults. When people are hungry, they tend to make less healthful eating choices, regardless of age. Preparing a healthy, balanced meal for your child before a Halloween party or trick-or-treating will help them avoid overindulging.

2. Allow the children to choose what they want to keep.

Next, our pediatric dentist Bethlehem GA recommends getting rid of some of the candy.When you deny your kids the experience of trick-or-treating and collecting candy, it becomes even more attractive. Thus, they’re more likely to sneak into the kitchen for candy. Deprivation is not the best strategy to maintain a balanced diet, especially when discussing the dangers of eating too much sweets can help children quit bingeing.

In fact, Halloween is a fantastic time to discuss how reducing sugar and starchy foods can help prevent cavities. Additionally, this reduces the need for restorative dentistry such as fillings, and improve general health! Thus, our family dentistry in Bethlehem GA explains that when your children return from trick-or-treating or a Halloween celebration, look over their candy with them. Then, discuss which snacks they prefer and how much they should keep. Our friends over at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs dentist, gave an excellent tip. They detailed that some parents give their kids a few dollars to buy toys or books in exchange for the candy. 

3. Set aside time each day for treats.

Additionally, setting a time to have a treat each day is another pediatric dentistry tip that can help your child establish a good attitude toward sugary snacks and moderation in general. Looking forward to a specific time when they can eat a treat will help them think less about eating sweets throughout the day. Even building a reward system for excellent behavior, assisting with chores, and getting good grades in school might all lead to a tasty gift!

4. Establish an Oral Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing twice a day is essential for good dental health at any age—and we understand that the latter is a sensitive topic for many. Encourage your kids to brush their teeth around half an hour after they’ve had their treat, as well as in the morning and before night. Using a fluoride toothpaste and rinse developed for children can make brushing their teeth more fun and engaging for them, while also giving you peace of mind that their teeth are being safeguarded from decay.

Additionally, we recommend assisting youngsters under the age of eight with brushing and flossing; good oral health requires thorough brushing and flossing. Children over the age of eight should be supervised until they reach the age of adolescence. Brushing and flossing should be a well-established habit by then.

5. Dentist Tips for Making Brushing Fun

Halloween is also an excellent opportunity to purchase a new toothbrush for your child. Make it a fun affair by allowing your youngster to choose a toothbrush and toothpaste. Another excellent dental recommendation for families? Children are more likely to enjoy brushing and flossing their teeth when they like their toothbrush and toothpaste, so letting them choose their favorite superhero or Disney princess for their toothbrush is well worth the extra cost! Check your child’s toothbrush for damaged bristles on a regular basis; it should be replaced every three to four months for the optimum outcomes for their adorable grins.

Contact Gentle Dental Today for Pediatric Dentistry

If your child needs to book their second annual cleaning, after Halloween is a perfect time! Contact Gentle Dental today to get your child on our schedule. We look forward to seeing you soon!

How Dental Crowns Work

How Dental Crowns Work
  • How Dental Crowns Work

How Dental Crowns in Bethlehem GA Work

A dental crown is an increasingly popular cosmetic and restorative dentistry option. They resemble a tooth-shaped hollow “cap” that is placed over a prepared natural tooth. Crowns cover the visible part of the tooth that is at and above the gum line when cemented in place. Today on the blog, our Bethelehm GA Dentist, Dr. Hoang, explains how dental crowns work.

What is the purpose of a dental crown?

Additionally, Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, shares that a crown’s primary role is to restore a tooth’s strength, functionality, form, and size, as well as to improve its appearance.

We connected with our friends at High Desert Dental, Grand Junction Co dentist, to discuss the situations that may require someone to get a crown. The following situations may necessitate the use of a crown:

  • First, a crown may be needed to keep a tooth that has become weakened (for example, due to decay) or broken from breaking by holding it together.
  • Another reason would be a crown needs to replace a tooth filling that is old, damaged, or deteriorating.
  • Additionally, a crown can be used to put a fractured tooth back together again.
  • Also, teeth that have been worn down need to be lengthened (for example from grinding) may need a crown.
  • Next, a crown is used If there isn’t much natural tooth structure left, to cover and support a tooth with a big filling.
  • Additionally, crowns can be used for cosmetic reasons. For example, crowns can be used to fill gaps between them or reshape or rotate them.
  • If you have to get a dental implant, you may need a crown to hold it in.
  • Additionally, any tooth that has had root canal therapy should be given a crown to restore its strength. As follows, a crown will not only improve the tooth’s appearance, but it will also safeguard it from additional wear and deterioration.

Of course, it is always a good idea to discuss tooth replacement options with your dentist in Bethlehem GA, such as an implant and crown.

What is the purpose of a temporary crown?

Whether or not you require a temporary crown is determined on the type of permanent crown you will receive.

A temporary crown is required if you have any other form of crown manufactured in a dental laboratory. Because the tooth must first be prepared (ground down) and fashioned to fit the crown, as well as imprints collected and sent to the dental laboratory. Then, while your permanent restoration is being created, you will have to wait for it to be cemented. During the waiting period, a temporary dental crown protects the tooth and gums, allows for continuing chewing function, and offers an attractive appearance.

Temporary crowns can be manufactured in the Bethlehem GA dentist office or in a dental laboratory ahead of time. Stainless steel or acrylic resin are the most common materials used (which is a metal free alternative that is matched to the natural teeth color). Most patients nowadays prefer resin since it is more cosmetically pleasant. Temporary stainless steel crowns are a wonderful choice for back teeth that are hidden.

The temporary crown is attached to the prepared tooth using a temporary cement glue. This is a particular substance that forms a weak bond, allowing the temporary crown to be readily removed once your permanent crown comes.

What is the process of getting a dental crown?

Dental crown processes will differ based on your specific situation, but we’ll give you a broad idea of what to expect.

Dr. Hoang will undertake an initial evaluation of your tooth and general mouth. This may involve x-rays, before beginning any crown preparation work. If the tooth has considerable decay or there is a risk of infection, a root canal treatment may be required first. Alternatively, there may be insufficient natural tooth structure to properly hold the crown in place. Thus, necessitating the use of a core or a post-and-core operation first (you can read more about this procedure above). If either of these treatments is necessary, you will be provided a treatment plan and scheduled appropriately. However, if everything is found to be in good working order, the appointment will go on as planned. Whether your crown is produced at your dentist’s office or in a dental laboratory, the method is different:

Contact Gentle Dental Group for Crowns in Bethlehem GA Today

Ready to see if crowns are for you? Contact Gentle Dental Group today. Our team would love to schedule a consultation with you to see if you’re the right fit for dental crowns. 

Pros of Teeth Whitening

Pros of Teeth Whitening Bethlehem GA
  • Pros of Teeth Whitening

The Pros of Teeth Whitening in Bethlehem GA

When people meet you, one of the first things they notice is your smile. Straight, white teeth are no longer the preserve of celebrities. Over the last few years, advances in cosmetic dentistry in Bethlehem GA have made teeth whitening safer and more inexpensive for practically everyone who wants a whiter smile. But why is a white grin so important? 

According to a national survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, 96 percent of respondents believe that an attractive smile makes a person more appealing to the opposite gender, while 74 percent say that an unpleasant smile might harm a person’s prospects of career success. Having a clean, straight grin that you are proud of improves your social and professional changes!

Teeth Whitening Methods

At Gentle Dental Group, we provide a variety of teeth whitening solutions. We provide a take-home whitening kit that consists of a personalized tray fitted to your mouth and filled with whitening gel…all in the comfort of your own home! Additionally, we begin in-office whitening by applying the whitening material to the front surfaces of the teeth, and then we send you home with a touch-up kit. Both approaches are quick, simple, and inexpensive, and they provide excellent results.

Teeth whitening has become a common cosmetic therapy in the lives of many people. Whiter teeth may be found everywhere, from social media to periodicals to mall banners.

Maybe you’re on the fence about getting your teeth whitened. Teeth whitening is a safe, life-enhancing procedure that can improve your physical look as well as your psychological health. Dr. Hoang, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, are four advantages of teeth whitening:

1. Teeth whitening improves your self-esteem & confidence.

Your self-esteem will surge as a result of teeth whitening. A smile with bright, dazzling teeth is hard to miss, whether you’re at work, on a date, giving a presentation, or simply walking down the street! Whiter teeth also show others that you care about your appearance and take care of yourself. Those who are close to you will notice!

2. Teeth whitening covers stains from foods & drinks.

You may have the healthiest teeth and the straightest smile, but you are not immune to the harm caused by regular food and drink. Over time, foods, coffee, tea, and soda discolor our teeth. You’ll notice the change immediately after the correct whitening technique, without having to ‘filter’ and/or edit your images. Also, our friends at Green Dental Care, cosmetic dentist in Parker CO,  says that whitening will aid in the removal of stains caused by common foods and beverages.

3. Teeth Whitening is Safe

Whitening your teeth with your cosmetic dentist is safe, and delivers fast results. This procedure won’t hurt your enamel or health of your teeth. 

4. Teeth whitening can distract from other facial features.

If you’re self-conscious about wrinkles, teeth whitening could be a good alternative for you! People are more likely to notice your brilliant white smile than your wrinkles. This will deflect attention away from the look of nearby wrinkles, acne scars, and frown lines.

5. Teeth whitening is affordable.

Teeth whitening is less expensive than plastic surgery! After in-office treatment, a touch-up kit will be enough to extend the effect of your teeth whitening. The combination of teeth whitening with an at-home booster is a low-cost option that yields great benefits.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Bethlehem GA

Our Bethlehem GA Dentistry would love to assist you in achieving the whiter smile you’ve always desired! If you’d like to learn more about our teeth whitening solutions, please request an appointment below and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - gentle family dentist bethlehem
  • Celebrating National Dental Hygiene Month

Happy Dental Hygiene Month!

It’s National Dental Hygiene Month in October! This month is special to us at our Bethlehem GA dentist office for a variety of reasons. The goal of National Dental Hygiene Month is to raise awareness about good behaviors that can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Healthy teeth and gums can also indicate a healthy body as a whole.

What is Dental Hygiene Month?

In 2009, the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) introduced the month of October as National Dental Hygiene Month. The organization saw a need to focus on excellent oral health.

The organization focuses on the promotion of oral health and wellness, through interactions with the dental hygienist and through educational programs.

How Can You Keep Good Dental Hygiene?

Typically, October is a month associated with plenty of candy and sweet fall treats. Our Pediatric Dentist Bethlehem GA explains that trick or Treating candy hauls are the best part of Halloween, but you can work with them to monitor how much of it they eat. Here’s how you can enjoy this fun, holiday month and still keep optimal oral health for you and your children: 

  • Consider substituting Halloween candy for healthier, sugar-free choices. 
  • Be sure that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least 2 minutes, ideally after every meal. Particular after enjoying some of those less than healthy sweet delicious treats.
  • FLOSS.  Our Bethlem family dentist recommends you floss every day. There are some things that brushing alone simply can’t address. Flossing between your teeth can reach those difficult areas that brushing simply cannot get to. Our Bethlem family dentist recommends you floss every day.
  • Use an antibacterial mouthwash that is not alcohol-based. This will help to remove much of the plaque and bacteria in your mouth. This helps prevent gingivitis and tooth decay.
  • Chew sugar-free gum. The production of saliva can help in preventing cavities. If you can’t brush or floss between meals, Easton PA dentist, Dr. David Mogahadam recommends that you simply pop in a stick of your favorite sugar-free gum.

Each of these simple steps can help to keep periodontal disease at bay. Gum disease is the most common factor that impacts the loss of teeth in adults. It is estimated by the ADHA that as many as 75% of Americans are already living with some type of gum disease. Gum disease is closely linked to other illnesses that include diabetes, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Reasons National Dental Hygiene Month is Important

Are you wondering just why it’s important to recognize October as National Dental Hygiene Month? 

It encourages parents and their children to focus on good oral health. No one likes to think of cavities and other tooth decay. Keeping up with your dental wellness routines can help to keep bacteria under control. Without good dental hygiene, you are increasing your risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease.

It’s a great reason to get a new toothbrush! Is there a better time of year to get a new toothbrush than Dental Hygienist Month? A soft-bristled toothbrush is a recommendation for most. But it’s important to speak to your dentist and dental hygienist about the type of toothbrush that is best to meet your dental care needs.

Contact our Family Dentist in Bethlehem GA Today

Be sure to get a new toothbrush for every member of the family. Children love being able to pick out their own toothbrushes, especially if they find one with their favorite superhero or character on. Is it time to schedule your six-month cleaning at our Loganville dentist office? No matter what type of dental services you need, you can always count on the Gentle Dental Group to deliver the best dental services possible. Contact us today to make your appointment.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in October 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.