Blog
Does a Healthy Smile Lead to a Healthy Heart? Research shows a link between oral and overall health
February 8, 2011
February is National Heart Disease Awareness Month, in recognition of the fact that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. This month is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and increasing knowledge about prevention. But did you know that better dental health can help improve your heart health? Read More
Your dentist may be able to relieve chronic headaches caused by TMJ
February 1, 2011
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problem. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and the TMJ headache is a tension type of headache. It is often described as a feeling of wearing a hat two sizes too small, with pain in a ring around the head, or as a migraine headache. Read More
Braces-Friendly Eating Tips: Dietary Guidelines for Orthodontic Patients
January 22, 2011
When you abide by the rules of what to eat and what not to eat when wearing braces, you're doing yourself a favor. Your orthodontist gives you dietary guidelines for a reason. When you are wearing braces, it is important to avoid certain foods that can damage the orthodontic appliances, brackets, and wires, which may cause delays in treatment. The key rule is: nothing hard, sticky or chewy! Here's a handy red-yellow-green light list of do's and don'ts when it comes to snacking while wearing braces. Read More
How Do I Know If I Have Gum Disease & What Can I Do About It?
January 17, 2011
You may have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, if you answer yes to one or more of the following questions. Read More
Fluoride: Too Much of a Good Thing?
January 10, 2011
A recent news article announced plans by The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to lower the recommended level of fluoride in drinking water for the first time in nearly 50 years, based on a fresh review of the science. This plan echoes the recommendation that your neighborhood First Choice Dental team has been sharing with patients for years. First Choice Dental and the American Dental Association continue to advocate the use of fluorides as a proven method to prevent tooth decay. Read More
Does flossing really make a difference?
January 1, 2011
Sure does! Looking for a New Year's Resolution to add to your list that's super simple and will improve your overall health? Make 2011 the year you commit to flossing your teeth every day! Your dental hygienist speaks the truth. Flossing makes a big difference. Daily flossing helps to prevent gum disease. Flossing also removes plaque, prevents cavities and benefits your overall oral health by removing the bacteria that gets between teeth and can cause infection in your mouth and body. Some adults floss daily, but most don't. Read More
Can the health of my smile affect my overall health?
December 10, 2010
Absolutely! Your mouth is a window to your body's health and your family dental center can do a whole lot more than simply keep your teeth clean. Oral health and overall health are more connected than you might realize. Sometimes the first sign of disease shows up in your mouth. In other cases, infections in your mouth, such as gum disease, can cause problems in other areas of your body. Research shows and experts agree that there is an association between periodontal disease and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and other illnesses. Read More
How can I make my smile look better with help from a cosmetic dentist?
December 7, 2010
Cosmetic dentistry can improve the look of your smile, make you look younger and help alleviate something that's getting the way of a more confident, more joyful you. The right cosmetic dentist with the proper training in this dental specialty can help explore ways you can achieve your goals for a new and improved smile. Read More