Keep Your Teeth Healthy this Summer with Simple Dental Care Tips

Let the summer pool parties, barbeques, summer camps, and vacations begin. Summer is a time to slow down, take a break and soak up a little extra time with family.

Summer is NOT the time to let your dental care routines go, which can often be the case when we are on vacation or away from our daily routines.  Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. wants to remind you to keep your teeth and gums healthy over the next few months by remembering these summer tips:

"Sip All Day, Get Decay"

As the temperature heats up, it can be tempting to sip on cold, sweet drinks like soda, juice, lemonade, Gatorade or Kool-Aid throughout the day. Prolonged exposure to the sugar in these beverages can really do a number on the enamel of your teeth.  Sugary drinks are one of the leading causes of tooth decay.

Here's how it works: the sugar in soft drinks, juice and other sweet beverages mixes with the bacteria in your mouth to create acid, which damages your teeth.  This damage happens every time you take another sip, creating an ongoing assault to the tooth enamel.  Of course it's best to avoid these sugary drinks all together, but at the very least try not to sip throughout the day.  And remember to rinse your mouth with water after drinking, brush and floss twice a day, and don't skip your regular dental checkups.

Remember to Brush and Floss When Away from Home

It can be easy for kids to fall out of the habit of brushing and flossing when they are away at summer camp, Grandma and Grandpa's or on a family vacation.  Remind your kids to pack their toothbrushes and to brush and floss at their usual times.  Make it fun with a brushing chart they can take with them.

Take Care of Your Braces

Unfortunately, many summer foods can be bad news for braces.  Barbeques and parties can make it very tempting to throw caution to the wind and dig into that corn on the cob, and much on some sticky candy.  But while it may be satisfying in the moment, a loose or broken bracket or wire will definitely cramp your summer style.  With just a little bit of effort, you can avoid making an extra trip to the orthodontist (cut that corn off the cob; avoid eating sticky candy).

Drink Water, and Lots of It!

Adults and especially kids can often get caught up in fun summer activities and forget to drink adequate water.  It's critically important to stay hydrated when the temperatures rise, and water is important for keeping your teeth healthy. Water helps keep your mouth clean and healthy by rinsing away food and boosting saliva levels in your mouth.  Saliva, which is actually 95% water, contains protein and minerals that fight acid and defend your teeth against tooth decay.

In Case of Dental Emergency...

Summer sports and activities can be risky for your teeth, which is why it's important to always wear a mouth guard during contact sports.  According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), mouth guards prevent over 200,000 tooth, mouth and jaw injuries every year.  Not only can a mouth guard protect braces or other orthodontic appliances, they can also protect against mouth cuts, tooth damage/chipping and jaw injuries.

If you do run into a tooth injury, whether it's from slipping near the pool or falling off a bike, Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. is here for you in case of a dental emergency.  Keep our office number in easy reach in case you do need to schedule an emergency appointment, 800-223-0801.  Have fun this summer!

Summer is Here

Memorial Day yesterday means that the unofficial start of summer begins. Did you know that Memorial Day didn't become an official holiday until 1971, but Americans started gathering annually in the spring to remember those who lost their lives in war during the 1860s, right after the Civil War. Celebrated on the last Monday in May, people still decorate the grave sites of war veterans and hold memorial services, but Memorial Day has also evolved into a day that signifies the beginning of summer.

During the summer months, school is out for most kids and so many people take road trips to visit family members. Others head off to the airport to enjoy a long-awaited vacation far away, while some look forward to spending time with friends and family at home. However you spend the subsequent summer months, there are a few things you can take care of to ensure your summertime is enjoyable.

Checklist for an Enjoyable Summer

• Have your AC Checked. During the hottest days of summer, many families find themselves sweating it out due to a broken air conditioning system. Be proactive so you can avoid waiting for hours or days because the HVAC repair person is booked solid. Have your air conditioning system checked before or around Memorial Day each year. If you do not have AC make sure to get all your fans out of storage as you will want to have the ready to cool off your house.
• Remember to ensure your security while away. When you leave for vacation, the last thing you should have to worry about is the security of your home. Install a home security system, if possible, and put a timer on your lights so they go on and off at normal hours. Have your neighbor look out for you.  You can also alert your local police department that you'll be gone, and ask them to drive by your house once in a while to make sure everything is okay.
• Visit Dr. Alina Bergan before your vacation. Many people put off exams until after their summer vacations. You can avoid the fall crowds and make sure your physical and oral health is in top shape prior to vacation time so there are no unpleasant surprises. The last thing you want is a toothache on vacation.

Our team at Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. wants you to look forward to the days of summer by preparing to spend the time safely and comfortably. As you plan ahead, take care of your health and secure your home, you can place your focus on creating memories with family members and friends while enjoying your favorite summer traditions. Call us for your checkup today at 800-223-0801, at our convenient Cedarhurst, NY office!

Feeding Your Family a Mouth-Healthy Diet

Practicing good oral hygiene will help you avoid dental problems for a lifetime. Brushing, flossing, and making regular visits to Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., can prevent gum disease and tooth decay. However, good hygiene practices are not enough if you don’t eat a mouth-healthy diet. The foods and beverages you consume greatly impact the health of your teeth and gums. To keep your smile strong, keep these diet suggestions in mind:

Focus on Fresh Produce

Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., stresses the importance of eating fruits, vegetables, and other foods that are beneficial for healthy teeth and gums. Many fruits and vegetables are fibrous, which helps with the natural cleaning of oral contaminants. Vegetables typically have low sugar content as well, which limits the ability of bacteria to create plaque. In addition, produce is dense in nutrients, and can provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals that fortify tooth and gum health.

Include Calcium-Rich Products

The bone that supports your teeth is made largely of calcium. This substance helps teeth retain a strong and rigid structure, which is necessary for chewing and eating. Consuming plenty of calcium-rich products—including dark green leafy vegetables, low fat milk, soy milk, yogurt, and cheese—can provide ample amounts of calcium to support your oral health.

Restrict Sweet Beverages

Many people know that residual food particles can get stuck between teeth, hastening the development of plaque and gum disease. As a result, they might wash down their meals with a large cup of cola, fruit juice, or sweetened tea in the hopes of dislodging food remnants and lowering the risk of cavities. Unfortunately, sugary beverages only heighten the danger of tooth decay. If you normally drink soda, juice, or other sugar-laden drinks, they could be the reason for your dental issues. Sodas and sugary drinks can increase tooth decay. To ensure the best oral health, make water your beverage of choice. This single change to your diet could dramatically reduce tooth decay and improve your general wellbeing. Start adding fruits and vegetables to your family’s diet to help your family oral and over all health.  

For more information about how food affects your oral health, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., please give us a call at our convenient Cedarhurst, NY office! Call today 800-223-0801.

Fluoride Use in Teens

Fluoride is a mineral that plays an essential role in oral health. In fact, the significant reduction in American tooth decay in recent decades can be attributed to a greater availability of fluoride in public water supplies, toothpaste, and other resources. When it comes in contact with the teeth, fluoride helps protect the enamel from acid and plaque bacteria. In some cases, it can even reverse tooth decay in its earliest stages.

Despite all the benefits of fluoride, tooth decay is still common, especially among teenagers. The Centers for Disease Control reports that cavities can be found in more than half of young teens and two-thirds of older teens over age 16. Many of those teens are deficient in fluoride, either due to a lack of public water fluoridation or the use of bottled water. So how can parents ensure their teens are getting the fluoride they need to facilitate strong, healthy teeth?

Monitor Fluoride Exposure

Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. recommends you start by measuring your teen’s fluoride exposure. Make sure you purchase fluoridated toothpaste for your household, and find out if your tap water is fluoridated. If your teen primarily consumes bottled water, examine the bottle to determine whether fluoride has been added. The majority of bottled waters are not supplemented with fluoride, but those that are will be clearly labeled.

Fluoride Supplementation

Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. may recommend topical fluoride treatments at routine dental exams. These treatments are painless for your teen and may help establish stronger enamel that is more resistant to plaque and tooth decay. If you have a public water supply that is non-fluoridated, we may recommend fluoride supplementation between visits. These can be administered as drops, tablets, or vitamins.

Keep in mind that fluoride is most important for children and teens under the age of 16. Be proactive about your teen’s oral health by speaking with us about your family’s fluoride needs at your next dental visit.

For more information about fluoride, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., please give us a call at our convenient Cedarhurst, NY office! Call today 800-223-0801.

Electric Toothbrush: How do you choose?

Since the introduction of the power toothbrush in the 1960s, this tool has undergone many technological advances, from design and bristle motions to rotation oscillation and sonic vibration.

What is rotation oscillation? That’s when the head of the toothbrush alternately rotates in one direction and then the other. Power toothbrushes can deliver up to 50,000 strokes per minute, which is much more effective than the average 300 strokes per minute with a manual toothbrush.

A smaller brush head is available for hard-to-reach areas, which is a good alternative for small mouths. The brush heads are replaceable and should be changed every three to six months. Each member of your family should have his or her own brush head while sharing the base motor.  Check the handle size. A large handle is better for members of the household with arthritis, children, or family with other physical disabilities.

A rechargeable toothbrush is ideal. It should deliver enough power on a full charge for one week of brushing.

It is best to brush for a minimum of two minutes. Some electric toothbrushes include a signal you can hear, such as a beep every 30 seconds, to indicate it’s time to switch to a different area of the mouth. Others sound an alert after the full two minutes has elapsed.

Will an electric toothbrush harm the teeth or gums? Studies indicate that people tend to apply more damaging pressure to their teeth and gums during manual brushing than when they use an electric toothbrush. If you experience tooth sensitivity, choose a model with pressure sensors that stop the toothbrush any time you press too hard.

Who would benefit from an electric toothbrush? Everyone! Consumers with a physical disability may have specific needs that power toothbrushes can address. Children also tend to maintain better oral health hygiene when they use an automatic toothbrush. Plus, many of them find it fun to brush!

Automatic toothbrushes really do remove debris better than the old-fashioned way. You may have heard the term “biofilm.” Better known as plaque when it occurs in the mouth, biofilm is the debris and bacteria that cause infections to your teeth. It regenerates quickly, so healthy habits are the best defense for a healthier you! With a healthier mouth, you face a lower risk of gum disease and other conditions like heart disease: mouth health has been linked to heart health.

When you’re ready to make your decisions, be a wise comparison shopper. Consult with Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. to decide what is best for you! Call us today at (800) 223-0801.

The Truth About Chewing Gum

Chewing gum is a popular activity for people of all ages.  While chewing gum may be fun and a good way to kill time or stave off boredom, is it a healthy activity for your oral health?

Chewing Gum is Full of Sugar, Chemicals, and Artificial Sweeteners that Lead to Tooth Decay

Probably the number one reason to avoid most chewing gums is that they are loaded with chemical and synthetic ingredients. 

It is surprising how some caregivers who would never dream of giving a child a diet soda don’t think twice about doling out sugarless gum with similar neurotoxic sweeteners.

Sugared gums can with heavy use cause tooth decay, gum disease and cavities. This happens because sugar coats the teeth, and can slowly cause damaging of tooth enamel if they are not immediately brushed. To reduce harmful effects of sugared gums, seek out gum brands that use smaller quantities of sugar.

Chewing Gum Contributes to the Development of TMJ and Other Jaw Problems

Oral surgeons at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas contend that too much gum chewing causes jaw stress.  Dr. Sinn, a UT Southwestern oral surgeon, warns that jaw soreness, jaw “clicking” or pain in the jaw, head, or neck can be signs of TMJ syndrome and that gum chewing should be discontinued should such symptoms emerge.

Given that gum chewing is commonly used to relieve stress, Dr. Sinn suggests other methods for reducing tension such as squeezing a ball, relaxation techniques or regular exercise to avoid the risk of chronic jaw problems. If you think you may suffer from TMJ, contact your dentist for an exam.

Chewing Gum Releases Mercury from Amalgam Fillings

Probably the most important reason to abstain from chewing gum is that it releases mercury from dental amalgam fillings.  A Swedish study found that people with silver fillings who chew gum for 5 hours or more each day had significantly higher levels of mercury in their blood and urine than those people with silver fillings who chewed gum infrequently.

Mercury levels in the blood, urine, and breath at exhalation increased in proportion to the number of silver fillings each study participant had.

Given that mercury is neurotoxic in any amounts in the body, it seems that chewing gum is an activity that should be undertaken with extreme caution if one has even a single silver filling.

Skip the Gum if Pregnant with Silver Fillings

For pregnant women with silver fillings, chewing gum can prove toxic to the fetus if mercury is released into the bloodstream.  Many pregnant women chew gum to help relieve heartburn or indigestion and yet the dangers of this activity if one has dental amalgams are not readily provided at prenatal visits even though mercury easily crosses the placenta.

In some circumstances such as these, chewing gum can be therapeutic. In most cases, though, it should be avoided as an activity that really is not very health promoting.

Irregular development of facial muscles

Extensive chewing of gum in puberty may lead to the stimulation of jawbone and facial muscles and creation of larger face.

For more information about oral health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S., today at (800) 223-0801.

Heart and Oral Health

This is American Heart Month, sponsored by the American Heart Association. Did you know there may be a link between gum disease and heart disease? In 2012, the American Heart Association published a statement supporting that association. Research has shown how people with gum disease are more likely to also have heart disease.

Preventing heart disease is another good reason to take care of your gums and to see your dentist regularly. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. According to the American Heart Association, people with periodontitis often have risk factors that put both their mouth and their cardiovascular system at risk. Heart disease is the #1 killer of men and women in the U.S.

February is a good time to make sure you are taking care of both your teeth and your heart!

Many of the risk factors for gum disease are also risk factors for heart disease.

Those risk factors for both gum disease and cardiovascular disease that we can control include the following:

Ø  Diabetes

Ø  Diet

Ø  Physical activity

Ø  Tobacco use

Ø  Obesity

Ø  High blood pressure

Ø  High cholesterol

Knowing this connection, it isn't surprising to see how people who have chronic gum disease are people who are at a higher risk for a heart attack. But remember—that’s a list of risk factors we can control and manage through good habits.

To steps to take to avoid gum disease:

1.    Brush teeth at least twice a day

2.    Floss your teeth daily

3.    Eat a well-balanced diet

4.    Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings

To steps to protect your health:

1.    Do not smoke

2.    Manage your weight

3.    Control your blood pressure

4.    Stay physically active

To learn more about ways to help you oral hygiene and overall health call Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. today at (800) 223-0801.