If you’re trying to quit smoking, you may wonder if your oral health will improve as a result. The good news is that, yes, your teeth and mouth will likely get better. In this blog, your dentist in Asheboro tells you what to expect when you stop smoking and how to make sure your mouth stays healthy as long as possible after you’ve kicked the habit once and for all.

The Great American Smokeout

The third Thursday each November is recognized as The Great American Smokeout. Its mission is to encourage smokers to pick that day as the day they start working towards a smoke-free lifestyle. So this November, we want to encourage all of our patients and neighbors to pick a date to quit smoking or to support a friend or family member in their quitting journey. Quitting smoking has numerous benefits for overall health and oral health, and together, we can help protect each other from the dangers of smoking. 

Quitting Can Help Oral Health

It’s probably no surprise that smokers are at increased risk for several health problems, such as cancer and heart disease. However, they’re also at increased risk for developing oral health problems, including: 

• Gum disease
• Dry mouth
• Tooth discoloration
• Bad breath
• Tooth loss
• Oral cancer

But there’s good news. Quitting smoking can essentially help reduce or reverse the negative health effects of smoking, even if you’ve smoked for a while. The American Cancer Society lists several whole-body benefits of quitting, but your dentist in Asheboro wants to highlight a few additional reasons why quitting is best. 

Quitting Can Save Smiles — And Lives

No matter how long you’ve smoked, you can benefit from quitting. In fact, quitting smoking can reduce your risk of not only gum disease and tooth loss, but even oral cancer. Study after study shows that quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing or the progression of gum disease. Researchers also found that if smokers kept smoking, they have an estimated 80% higher risk for bone loss and gum disease than non-smokers. Quitting can also lower the risk of oral cancer, heart disease, and other problems.  

Tips to Quit Smoking

There are numerous methods for quitting smoking. Some may work better than others in certain people, so it’s important to continue to try and find a method that works for you. Some tips to quit include: 

• Stick With Support

Quitting is hard, but it can be easier with a support system. Tap on friends, family, or professional resources to help support you through the tough times. 

• Stay Busy & Avoid Triggers

Some people smoke when they’re bored. Others have specific triggers that cause them to light up. Whatever your situation is, try your best to avoid anything that may make you want to smoke. This may mean avoiding alcohol or other friends who smoke for a period of time. 

• Setbacks Are Ok

Quitting smoking is really, really hard. Setbacks may happen. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you do have a setback. As long as you get back up and keep trying. 

It’s never too late to quit smoking, and your dentist in Asheboro is here to help. Make sure you’re honest about any tobacco habits at your appointments and get a dental checkup at least twice a year. We want you to have the healthiest smile and body possible, so let us know if there’s anything we can do to help. 

Dental insurance can be a good thing to have, but the benefits don’t last forever. If you have dental insurance, there’s a chance that it’s going to expire at the end of the year. Unfortunately, many people let their benefits sit unused. However, there are several good reasons why you should see your dentist in Asheboro before your benefits are gone and you have to start over.

Ask yourself: 

• “Do my insurance or FSA benefits expire at the end of the year?”
• “Have I met my deductible but never got around to taking advantage of it?”
• “Will I have to start all over in January?”

If you said “yes” to one or more of these questions, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist in Asheboro as soon as possible to take advantage of all the benefits dental insurance has to offer. 

A New Year. A New Deductible.

Some dental insurance plans will require patients to pay a certain amount of money before patients can take advantage of the benefits. This is called a deductible. Many times, people will reach their deductible but never use the perks that come afterward. However, once the new year is underway, new deductibles will apply and patients will need to start paying all over again. If your dental insurance has a deductible and you’ve met it, don’t miss out on your benefits. Schedule an appointment with your dentist in Asheboro today. 

An Important Note About FSAs

Instead of traditional dental insurance, some employers offer their staff the option to pay pre-tax money into an FSA (Flex Savings Account) that can then be used on dental and medical needs. However, this money doesn’t last forever and usually needs to be used by the end of the year. 

That’s why there’s no better time than right now to call and schedule some well-deserved dental work. 

We’re Here to Help

Whether it’s something as simple as a cleaning or a more transformative treatment like cosmetic dentistry, we know you care too much about your smile, your health, and your investment to throw away the dental benefits you paid for all year long. Let us help you figure out the best way to use your dental benefits before you lose them. 

But don’t wait. The end of the year can be a busy time for your dentist in Asheboro. Call Now To Schedule Your Appointment!

Your teeth are an important part of your body, so it’s normal to be concerned about how wisdom teeth extraction will affect you, especially if you’re not used to dental procedures. After having your wisdom teeth removed, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions closely so that you can recover as quickly and safely as possible. This includes avoiding some of the things that you may normally do on a regular basis. Luckily, your dentist in Asheboro put together a quick guide to show you what you should avoid during recovery. 

Smoking

One of the most important things to avoid after having your wisdom teeth removed is smoking. Smoking is one of the main causes of dry socket, an infection that can happen in the surgical site. Dry socket can cause severe pain that may last for several days, so it’s wise to do everything you can to avoid it. Smoking can also slow down the healing process because it causes blood vessels to shrink which also diminishes the amount of oxygen that can get to the wound to promote healing. Less oxygen means a longer healing time and more risk for infection. Avoid smoking for at least five days after your procedure.

Exercising

You may think that if more oxygen flow means faster recovery then exercising would be beneficial. However, exercising or performing strenuous activities such as bending or lifting can actually encourage bleeding and cause pain and swelling. The best thing to do for a few days after surgery is to get comfortable on a bed or couch, find something good to watch on TV, or read a good book. Relax until you’re cleared by your dentist in Asheboro to exercise. 

Drinking

While it’s important to drink plenty of water during recovery, you should avoid alcohol for at least 72 hours or as recommended by your dentist. It’s also important to remember to avoid drinking anything out of a straw. The sucking pressure required when drinking from a straw can easily loosen the blood clots in the surgical sites. These clots are a necessary part of proper healing so we don’t want them to become loose too soon. 

Brushing

Usually, your dentist in Asheboro recommends that everyone brushes their teeth twice a day. However, after having your wisdom teeth taken out it’s important to not brush your teeth until 24 hours after surgery or as recommended by your dentist. After the first day, you can most likely resume brushing, but make sure to brush gently during healing. 

Eating

Your dentist in Asheboro will recommend eating a soft diet for a few days after your surgery. This is an important part of the healing process, so you don’t want to eat anything too hard, crunchy, or chewy. Avoid foods like nuts, seeds, veggies, pretzels, or crackers. Instead, try some of the following safe foods: 

• Applesauce
• Oatmeal
• Yogurt
• Warm soup (not too hot)
• Mashed potatoes
• Pudding

While wisdom teeth removal can cause stress and worry, there are things you can do to make the experience go quickly. Use these tips and tricks to recover fast and avoid unnecessary pain. The sooner you begin following these steps, the sooner you’ll be able to get back on your feet. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll soon find yourself feeling more refreshed than ever before. 

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in the United States. It can be caused by poor dental hygiene habits, like not brushing and flossing your teeth daily and avoiding regular dental checkups with your dentist in Asheboro. Not only that, but gum disease can even lead to other more serious health issues like heart problems later on in life. If you notice any of these common signs that you may have gum disease, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to receive treatment and preserve your oral health.

Gum Disease Facts

Gum disease is a serious infection in the gums, and more than 60 million Americans have some form of it. One of the most common problems with gum disease is that it needs to be caught early in order for it to be cured. Otherwise, the disease can only be treated and managed. To make matters more complicated, sometimes the symptoms of gum disease aren’t recognized as a problem, so patients go too long without seeking treatment from their dentist in Asheboro. This is why it’s so important to understand what gum disease looks like in its various stages so you can get treatment quickly if you notice any signs of a potential problem. 

The First Signs of Gum Disease

Knowing what to look for can make all the difference in catching and treating gum disease successfully and having it cause bigger problems. Keep an eye out for: 

• Red, swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Pain while chewing
• New tooth sensitivity
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your Asheboro dentist. Diagnosing gum disease in the early stages can help prevent some complications of gum disease such as tooth loss, an increased risk of decay, and heart disease. 

Risk Factors

Even though poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease, there are other factors that can make someone more likely to develop issues. Some risk factors include: 

• Tobacco use
• Obesity
• Hormonal changes (such as with pregnancy)
• Some medications that can cause dry mouth
• Certain diseases like diabetes and Crohn’s 

The Good News

There is some good news when it comes to gum disease — it’s usually preventable since it’s most commonly caused by poor oral hygiene. To reduce your risk of developing gum disease, make sure to keep your gums healthy by: 

• Brushing and flossing daily
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Using an ADA approved therapeutic mouthwash
• Seeing your dentist in Asheboro at least twice a year

If you’re noticing any signs of gum disease, it’s best to visit your dentist right away for treatment. The earlier gum disease is caught, the easier it is to treat. To keep your teeth (and body!) healthy and strong for years to come, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and schedule regular dental cleanings at least once every six months.

Have you been searching for ways to get whiter teeth? Do you feel as though your teeth are stained from all the coffee and wine that you drink? Well, the good news is, there are plenty of ways to reverse staining to get whiter teeth. In fact, if you follow these simple steps from your dentist in Asheboro, you’ll be sure to see a brighter, whiter smile in no time. 

• 1. Avoid Staining Foods

It’s true that certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine, and berries can stain your teeth. A good rule of thumb to follow is – if it can stain a white shirt, it can probably stain white teeth. However, this doesn’t mean you need to avoid staining foods. You can still enjoy them, we just recommend doing so in moderation or rinsing your mouth out with water or a quick brushing after eating. Your dentist in Asheboro suggests snacking on fresh veggies such as carrots for a healthy treat that can also help wear away surface stains on your teeth. 

• 2. Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice a day does a lot for your oral health. It can help wash away bacteria, remove food particles, and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. But brushing can also help remove surface stains and keep teeth white. If you’re already brushing your teeth twice a day, consider brushing after meals as well, just be sure to wait a bit to brush after eating or drinking anything acidic. You can also consider a whitening toothpaste. Talk to your dentist in Asheboro about which toothpaste would be the best for you. 

• 3. Consider Tooth Whitening Treatment

There are so many different smile whitening products available nowadays — from whitening strips, powders and trays, and in-office whitening. When considering your options, remember that there’s no one size fits all here, and what works for one person might not work for another. There are numerous factors that determine how quickly a product will work for you such as sensitivity level, how often you need to use the product, and types of staining. Be sure to discuss your options with your dentist before choosing which method is best for you!

• 4. Evaluate Cosmetic Dentistry Options

There are some cases where tooth whitening treatment won’t be enough to tackle deep stains. But don’t worry, there are cosmetic dentistry options available to cover up imperfections in your teeth, including discoloration. One of the most common cosmetic dentistry treatments used to mask stains is veneers. These thin pieces of porcelain are affixed to the front of your teeth and are custom-colored to give you the smile you want. 

• 5. See Your Dentist in Asheboro Regularly

Visiting your dentist twice a year serves many purposes, such as catching any problems early when they’re still easy to treat. But these bi-annual appointments are also a great opportunity for your dental hygienist to thoroughly and professionally clean your teeth. Hygienists have special tools that help remove plaque buildup, and even some stains, that you can’t remove at home. 

In conclusion, there are a number of different options you can choose from when it comes to whitening your teeth, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try out some of these tips and methods. Once you find what works best for you, take it all one step further by maintaining a healthy diet and routine dental hygiene habits that will help ensure your teeth stay healthy and bright.

What’s the best way to freshen your breath? We’re glad you asked! August 6th is recognized as National Fresh Breath Day, and your dentist in Asheboro wants to take a closer look at what you can do to get that minty freshness all day long, as well as what may cause bad breath in the first place.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Stinky breath, also known as halitosis, occurs when bacteria in your mouth form plaque on your teeth and gums, creating an unpleasant odor that can be embarrassing during even the most normal of conversations. Some of the main causes of bad breath include: 

• Food, which is usually temporary
• Dry mouth
• Poor oral hygiene
• Gum disease
• Certain medications

Did you know that your breath can reveal the health of your teeth and gums? So before we dive into some ways to freshen your breath, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Asheboro to check out your gums and teeth.

How to Freshen Breath

If you have bad breath, don’t fret. There are things you can do to reverse bad breath and keep it minty fresh. 

Eat Smart

Avoiding sugary or processed foods can help reduce the risk of bad breath. We recommend incorporating fresh vegetables into your diet every day. These crunchy veggies can gently remove bad breath bacteria and moisten your mouth.  

Drink Smart

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help wash away bacteria, neutralize acids, and help keep your mouth hydrated. 

Snack Smart

People who have bad breath often turn to treats like gum or mints to mask the stink. This is fine, however, make sure that whatever you use doesn’t contain sugar — this can actually make bad breath worse. Instead, look for treats that contain Xylitol.

Brush Smart

One of the easiest ways to get rid of bad breath is to make sure you’re taking excellent care of your oral health. This means brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Ideally, you should brush in the morning and at night. But that’s not all. Make sure you brush your tongue and floss in between your teeth daily to remove bacteria. 

Schedule Appointments with Your Dentist in Asheboro

Visiting your dentist every six months (or more often) can help keep your mouth healthy and help you avoid a buildup of germs that could be causing bad breath. Additionally, getting regular cleanings helps remove bacteria-filled plaque from around teeth and along gums and helps prevent gum disease, which is another common cause of bad breath. These bi-annual visits provide a chance for your dentist to spot and treat any issues early on, while they’re still easy to handle. 

Your dentist in Asheboro has always told you that you need to brush your teeth twice a day. But how important is that rule, really? The truth is, it’s pretty important to brush your teeth (and floss them!) every single day, twice a day, for two minutes. Skipping a brushing session once in a while won’t be detrimental to your health, but not brushing regularly can lead to some serious oral and overall health problems. 

The Lifecycle of Not Brushing

If you go without brushing your teeth every morning and every night, something bad will start to happen. It starts with almost no warning but can end in some scary results. 

• Plaque Attack

The problems of not brushing begin with plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance that covers our teeth. Normally it’s removed by brushing. However, if it’s left alone, it can quickly harden into tartar. In fact, it only takes 24 hours for plaque to transform into tartar. Tartar can’t be removed through at-home brushing alone and will need to be cleaned off by your dentist in Asheboro. If that doesn’t happen, you may start to see your teeth take on a brown or yellow appearance, and it’s also when the serious problems begin. 

• Gum Disease: Part 1

Even a few days without brushing can put you at risk of developing an early gum disease called gingivitis. You may notice red, swollen gums or bleeding while you brush and floss (note: you should never bleed while caring for your teeth!). Now more than ever, it’s important to quickly turn to a proper oral hygiene routine to reverse the problem. 

• Cavities

Another thing that may happen around this time is your teeth can develop cavities. The plaque we talked about earlier is packed with bacteria. These bacteria will feed on the foods we eat and release an acidic byproduct. This acid will attack tooth enamel and start to decay the teeth. Cavities can often be fixed through a simple filling by your dentist in Asheboro, but if not treated promptly and decay progresses, you may need more complex treatment such as a root canal. 

• Gum Disease: Part 2

Now, back to the dangers of gum disease. Untreated gingivitis can quickly progress into full-blown periodontal disease. At this stage, bacteria have found their way under the gums, and the tissues can become detached from the teeth and bones. If this occurs, there is no treatment available to reverse the disease and it can eventually lead to tooth loss.

• Tooth Loss 

Even though tooth loss probably won’t happen overnight, it can happen gradually, and it can affect both your oral and overall health. Loss of our permanent adult teeth can make it difficult to eat a well-balanced meal, hurting our ability to get all the nutrients our bodies need to stay healthy. Also, when teeth are no longer around to stimulate the jawbones, the bone can deteriorate and make the face appear collapsed. Now, if tooth loss does occur, there are many ways to replace them. Whether it’s with a bridge, dentures, or dental implants, your dentist in Asheboro can find the best solution for you. 

Brushing your teeth twice a day is the best way to take care of your teeth at home and protect yourself from oral health problems. But it’s also important to maintain regular appointments with your dentist and see them every six months for checkups and cleanings.