Halloween Teeth Care Tips That Scare Away Cavities

It’s never to early to start caring for your little one’s teeth. Especially during this Halloween season when treats and sweets rule. Toddlers, older children and even new eaters given baby-safe Halloween treats are at risk of developing cavities if you don’t make sure to provide proper dental care.

With this in mind the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has some helpful tips for parents that allow your child to enjoy Halloween while keeping their teeth healthy…

• Mix in healthy snacks along with Halloween candy: A balanced diet is one that includes cheese, fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meat, milk and yogurt. Healthy snacks not only build strong kids, but actually help keep teeth healthy.
• Be the tooth-healthy house on the block: Pass out alternative treats to ghouls and goblins such as cracker snack-packs, trail mix packs, rice crispy treats, etc.
• Avoid chewy treats that tend to stick to teeth and cause more damage.
• Monitor candy consumption: Only allow Halloween treats in moderation.
• Take the fear out of flossing: Teach children flossing techniques for improved oral health at Halloween.
• Make tooth brushing fun: Seasonal tooth brushes featuring Halloween themes get children excited about taking care of their tiny teeth. Remember, even newborn babies aren’t too young for tooth and gum care.
• Don’t be afraid of the dentist: With all of the sweet treats consumed around Halloween, now is a great time for parents to schedule a pediatric dental appointment for their children. Babies as young as one year need a dentist. In fact the newest NIH recommendations note that you should schedule a dentist appointment for your baby by his first birthday.

Also remember, baby bottles full of apple juice or even milk can cause tooth damage too.

Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) Capital Conference 9/8/11-9/10/11

ISDS Capital Conference 2011 in St. Louis - McHenry County Delegates 

Annual Session gives members the opportunity to update their scientific knowledge, participate in the decision making process of the House of Delegates, exchange ideas and join colleagues in business and social aspects of the society.

Strawberries are great for your gums!

They're bursting with vitamin C, which builds collagen, an important component of healthy gum tissue. In fact, people who consume less than 60 mg of C each day (@ 6 large strawberries) are 150% more likely to develop gingivitis. But stay away from fizzy vitamin supplement drinks; they have been shown to erode tooth enamel.

Are cavities really contagious?

Yes!  According to two studies people can pass along S. mutans, the bacteria that causes cavities.  In one, the germs were transmitted between spouses who kissed; in the other, between a baby and a mother who shared food, drinks and utensils.  To stay cavity free, brush twice a day, floss nightly and visit your dentist every six months.

Enjoy the last few weeks of summer!  

Green Tea

Hot or iced, this brew is brimming with antioxidants that kill the bacteria that lead to gingivitis.  Bonus:  The beverage also wipes out the germs that cause bad breath.  


Don't forget that Saturday, August 6, 5 to 9 p.m. Downtown Crystal Lake will be having a Block Party (National Night Out).  It's an evening of music, fun, food and entertainment.  Planned activities include:  Karaoke, Baggo Tournament, Police/Fire Rescue vehicles and equipment on display, children's games and live music.  

Toothbrush Tips

Toothbrush Tips

• Keep it rinsed. Wash off your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water every time you use it.
• Wash your hands before brushing your teeth.  
• Don't store it near the toilet.  Every toilet flush sends a spray of bacteria into the air and you don't want the toilet spray anywhere near your open toothbrush.  
• Keep it dry. Bacteria love a moist environment. Make sure your brush has a chance to dry thoroughly between brushings. Avoid using toothbrush covers, which can create a moist enclosed breeding ground for bacteria.
• Keep it upright. Store your toothbrush upright in a holder, rather than lying it down.
• Keep it to yourself. No matter how close you are to your sister, brother, spouse, or roommate, don't ever use their toothbrush. Don't even store your toothbrush side-by-side in the same cup with other people's brushes. Whenever toothbrushes touch, they can swap germs.
• Replace your toothbrush at least every three months.  Or when bristles begins to show wear or after an illness such as a cold or flu

State Requires Exams for Children

Illinois requires dental exams for all children entering Kindergarten, second and sixth grades.  School starts in a month, so schedule your exams today.

Downtown Crystal Lake Sidewalk Sales are held 7/21, 7/22 & 7/23 (Th-Sat).  A bargain hunter's delight!  Downtown merchants offer items at discounted prices.