Monday 10 December 2012

Migraines and Your Teeth


Migraine headaches can put the brakes on anyone’s day. They can mean time away from family, friends and work, not to mention the inconvenience and personal discomfort. One of the major causes of migraine headaches is dental issues.
Oral Issues that can cause migraines
           Teeth Grinding: Because you may unconsciously clench your teeth during the day or grind them at night, headaches will often follow suit. Treatment options can include stress-management techniques, reducing the amount of caffeine and alcohol a person drinks, or wearing a custom-fitted oral orthopedic splint. Many times there are underlying factors that need to be evaluated, so it is always recommended to consult with a board-certified health professional.

Malocclusion: Malocclusion means that the teeth are not aligned properly, which can affect the bite and ultimately cause severe headaches. Braces or other appliances such as a night guard can be used to solve this problem.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Impacted simply means that the teeth are unable to emerge and take their expected position in the mouth. Impaction is usually caused by a lack of space in the jaw for the new teeth and can be a major cause of headaches. Its best to get these removed.
      Abscessed Tooth: An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and the tooth. Its most commonly caused by severe tooth decay and can cause a throbbing headache as well. A root canal is usually necessary to fix this issue.

      If you have been having severe migraines or chronic headaches, contact us today so we can get to the root of the problem and find a solution.

Smoking - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile


Smoking turns your teeth yellow, but it can be much more damaging than that.
"Using any form of tobacco can harm your teeth and gums in a number of ways," says Halpern.
"It can cause throat, lung, and mouth cancer, and even death. Additionally, the tar from tobacco forms a sticky film on teeth, which harbors bacteria that promote acid production and create irritating toxins, both of which cause gum inflammation, tooth decay, and loss."

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Richardson Dentistry
1231 East Belt Line Road, Suite 103
Richardson, TX 75081
Phone: (972) 690-8617
RichardsonDentistry.com

Saturday 8 December 2012

Bottled Water - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile


Tap water often contains fluoride—about 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their water supply.
However, most bottled waters contain less fluoride than recommended for good oral health (it will be listed as an ingredient on the label if it is an additive).
"Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before damage is even visible," explains Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson, Charles H. Perle, DMD, FAGD. "Studies have confirmed [that] the most effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation."

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Richardson Dentistry
1231 East Belt Line Road, Suite 103
Richardson, TX 75081
Phone: (972) 690-8617
RichardsonDentistry.com

Thursday 6 December 2012

Sports Drinks - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile


In the last decade, sports beverages have become increasingly popular, but they aren't great for your teeth.
"Scientific research has found that the pH levels in many sports drinks could lead to tooth erosion due to their high concentration of acidic components, which could wear away at the tooth's enamel," says David F. Halpern, DMD, FAGD, president of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Additionally, these drinks are often high in sugars that act as "food" for acid-producing bacteria, which then sneak into the cracks and crevices in your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Richardson Dentistry
1231 East Belt Line Road, Suite 103
Richardson, TX 75081
Phone: (972) 690-8617
RichardsonDentistry.com

Thursday 29 November 2012

Tips for a Teething Baby


Tips for a Teething Baby

The teething phase can be quite hard on both the child and the parents. It can begin as early as four months and can cause pain and irritability. The gums will likely be tender and swollen during this phase, so it is important to have some remedies available to help sooth your child and give them some relief.

Teething Remedies

-       A teething ring or beads: A simple chilled (not frozen) teething ring can be quite comforting for a teething child. There is also teething jewelry available that mothers can wear that is safe for the child to chew on.

-       Chilled baby food: Of your child is already accustomed to baby food, then chilled foods like applesauce or fruit can be really good for soothing the gums.

-       A frozen washcloth: This works like a charm! Just make sure to keep your baby’s face and clothes dry to prevent rashes or irritation. Since teething babies drool a lot, a bib is very helpful to keep the neck and clothes from getting too wet.

-      Massage the gums: You can always massage your child’s gums or allow them to chew on your finger for some relief.

-       Teething ointment/tablets: There are medicated ointments available for babies that are having a harder time with teething. If these don’t seem to work, then contact your pediatrician for other solutions.

-       Amber teething necklace: A holistic method of soothing a teething child that has been used for generations. When worn against the skin it can have a soothing and calming effect on the child.

As with so many aspects of parenting, teething can be a difficult stage for you and your baby. But remember, this too shall pass and before you know it, your little on will have a beautiful toothy grin.




Monday 19 November 2012


Prepare Your Teeth for the Holidays
During the holidays, most people are more concerned about what the food is going to do to their weight rather than their oral health. However, it’s extremely important to pay attention to oral health during the holidays as well, as it can play a huge role in your overall health.

There are a lot of foods that you should be weary of this holiday season.

Sugar: As the number one culprit in causing cavities, sugar is everywhere during the holidays. Whether you are eating candy canes or your grandmother’s famous pumpkin pie, be aware of how much you consume. If you do happen to indulge in a lot of sugary foods, try to do so at mealtimes when increased saliva can wash the sugar off your teeth.  Always remember to brush and floss after enjoying your holiday treats!

Starches: Popular traditions during holiday meals include breads, potatoes and anything full of starch. While these starchy foods may not seem as harmful as sugars, the refined flour in white bread and the starch in potatoes are essentially sugars and will ultimately affect your teeth the same way. If possible, cut back on the mashed potatoes, rolls and other starch-ridden goodies.

Alcohol: Because of the acidity in alcohol, it can wear away at tooth enamel and can make teeth vulnerable to cavities. It’s also been known to cause discoloration as well. If you do consume alcohol, make sure to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with water in between so you can keep your teeth protected from erosion and future decay.

Black Coffee: Crisp fall/winter mornings are hardly bearable without a nice cup of coffee, but unfortunately, it is one of the most potent drinks that can stain your teeth.  Remember that your teeth can be professionally whitened to help remove all of the external stain you have accumulated over the years!

On the bright side, there are plenty of foods that are good for your teeth. In general, most fruits, veggies and proteins do not harm the gums or teeth.  You don’t have to avoid everything this holiday in order to keep your teeth happy, just be aware of what you are eating and follow a proper oral health care regimen and you should be in great shape!

Happy Holidays!