Happy Fall!

Autumn, the year’s last, loveliest smile.  All of us at Richard Osmanski's Dental Office Wish You a Wonderful Fall Season!

What Causes Bad Breath?

Typically, the culprit is your tongue or to be more specific, the white film that builds up on your tongue while you sleep.  It's estimated that 60% of halitosis cases can be attributed to bad smelling sulfuric compounds produced by this layer of microorganisms and dead cells.  The solution:  Try regularly brushing your tongue, back to front, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

** Tooth Sensitivity Is NOT Normal ***

If you have sensitivity to hot or cold drinks and food, or you feel pain when you bite down on something, a visit to your dentist is in order.  Tooth sensitivity is never normal as it's an indication that there’s some underlying issue such as a cracked tooth or cavity and should be evaluated by your dentist. 

Sensitivity may also be caused by tooth whitening products, excessive consumption of acid-containing foods, soft drinks, acid reflux and tooth grinding or clenching. (If you've had a recent restoration, like a filling or crown the pain should calm down in a few weeks). A desensitizing toothpaste may help, but don’t expect immediate relief. You’ll need to use it for a month to see results.

DIET PILLS

Even though they may seem like a quick way to trim your waist, diet pills can also be a fast track to gum disease and tooth decay. 

Like many over-the-counter and prescription medications, diet pills decrease salivary flow, which causes dry mouth and puts you at risk for gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and discomfort. 

Bottom line: A balanced diet and exercise are the safest way to lose weight and protect your smile.

HOMEWORK AND TEETH WORK

Now that the kids are back in school, they not only need to focus on homework, but preventing tooth decay and cavities as well. This involves five simple steps:

1) Have them brush their teeth, tongue, and gums a minimum of TWICE a day with a fluoridated toothpaste. If a child is young, supervise them brushing their teeth.

2) They should be flossing their teeth DAILY after the age of two. Agai

n, supervision may be needed if child is young. I'm seeing more and more cavities between teeth in children, so flossing is a MUST. 

3) Make sure they eat a well-balanced diet and limit or eliminate sugary snacks.

4) Consult your dentist regarding the supplemental use of fluoride and/or dental sealants to protect your child's teeth against plaque.

5) Schedule routine (every six months) dental cleanings and examinations for your child as this is the time in their life when they can let their dental hygiene slip. 

All of us at Osmanski Dental wish your children an AWESOME school year!