Monday, October 30, 2017

BEST AND WORST HALLOWEEN CANDIES FOR YOUR TEETH


Whether you are you are planning to go trick or treating, go to a party dressed in a clever, silly or scary costume, or simply get-together with friends and family to watch scary movies, we hope you have a fun and safe holiday!
We also wanted to give you some Halloween tips for the Best and Worst candies that you could receive this year, courtesy of the Academy of General Dentistry:
Worst:
Chewy/sticky sweets, such as gummy candies, taffy, and even dried fruit can be difficult for children and adults to resist, and even more difficult to remove from teeth.
Sour candies are highly acidic and can break down tooth enamel quickly. The good news: Saliva slowly helps to restore the natural balance of the acid in the mouth.
Sugary snacks, including candy corn, cookies, and cake, all contain high amounts of sugar, which can cause tooth decay.
Pop Corn Balls, keep floss handy if you’re enjoying one of these fall favorites. Kernels can get stuck in-between your teeth and they are also sticky, sugary and can be hard.
Best:
Sugar-free lollipops and hard candies stimulate saliva, which can help prevent dry mouth.
Sugar-free gum can actually prevent cavities as it not only dislodges food particles from between the teeth but also increases saliva—which works to neutralize the acids of the mouth and prevent tooth decay.
Dark chocolate and its antioxidants, according to some studies, can be good for the heart and may even lower blood pressure."
Make sure you drink lots of water and brush your teeth after eating your candy.
Happy Halloween everyone!
 If you have questions about your oral health call us today at 800-223-0801 to schedule an appointment. You can also schedule online at http://www.alinabergandds.com/appointments/

Monday, October 23, 2017

WHAT IS THE SECRET TO LIFELONG TEETH WHITENING?


Have you ever noticed your attention being instantly drawn to peoples’ teeth when they smile at you? Why do some people have dull and yellowing teeth, while others have teeth that appear bright white. Everyone’s teeth naturally dull over time because of aging and the contact your teeth have with staining foods, such as chocolate, wine, and coffee. However, teeth-whitening treatments can help you keep your teeth white for life.

Get Regular Treatments
The effects of teeth whitening or bleaching treatments are only temporary, so regular treatments with Dr. Alina Bergan DDS are necessary to keep your teeth white for life. Bleaching too often can wear away your tooth enamel. The effects of in-office bleaching can last for several months to a year, while you may need to repeat your use of at-home bleaching kits every few months to maintain your white teeth. Whitening toothpastes do not contain bleach, so you can use them daily. The American Dental Association suggests asking your dentist for advice on which treatment is best for you.

Have Realistic Expectations
Not everyone’s teeth can be turned bright white, according to the American Dental Association. Your teeth may naturally be a light yellowish color that lends itself well to teeth-whitening procedures, but bleach is not likely to be effective for grayish teeth. Brownish teeth fall somewhere in between.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintain good oral health to keep teeth white as your efforts will not be as effective if your teeth are in poor health. Visible fillings, implants, or bridges that are metallic stand out against the white color you want to achieve. You can help prevent tooth decay and reduce your risk of needing these unsightly treatments by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day to remove dirt and potential staining agents, the actions below can promote a healthy mouth.
Floss every day
Visit Dr. Alina Bergan DDS regularly
Rinse your mouth with water after each meal and snack
Limit sugary and starchy foods and beverages, especially between meals


If you have questions about teeth whitening or your oral health call us today at 800-223-0801 to schedule an appointment. You can also schedule online at http://www.alinabergandds.com/appointments/