Andy Yu DDS Blog

Dry Mouth

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 23:54:43 GMT

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We all know the annoying feeling of dry mouth when we are dehydrated. Your mouth feels as arid as a dessert, your tongue sticks to your cheeks, and swallowing is almost an impossible task. Fortunately, most people can alleviate this feeling by taking a few sips of water. However, if you are frequently experiencing dry mouth, it could indicate a different issue. Read on to learn the causes of chronic dry mouth and when to call your doctor.

Xerostomia is the medical term for dry mouth. Patients feel the effects of dry mouth when the salivary glands are not producing enough saliva to properly moisten the oral cavity. Dry mouth itself is not a disease— rather, it is a side effect of medication or a symptom of another condition.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth:

Dehydration
Medications
Radiation therapy
Stress
Aging
Mouth breathing
Snoring
Smoking
Oral thrush
Diabetes
Nerve damage
Cystic fibrosis
Autoimmune disorders

Saliva is an essential part of the digestion process. When you eat food, saliva softens the food to help break it down for easy digestion. Proper saliva flow is also vital to oral health. It protects your smile from tooth decay by washing away excess food particles, neutralizing the acids produced by mouth bacteria, and killing harmful germs. Additionally, the hard and soft tissues in the mouth depend on saliva for optimal function. Patients with chronic dry mouth often report having a constant scratchy throat, burning sensations, difficulties speaking and swallowing, and dry nasal passages.

Symptoms of Dry Mouth

Bad breath
Dry tongue
Scratchy throat
Cracked lips
Burning sensation in the mouth
Poor taste ability
Challenges with swallowing & chewing

Preventing Dry Mouth

Proper hydration can prevent the feelings of dry mouth. If you have a tough time sipping on water throughout the day, try sucking on ice cubes (remember not to chew the ice). Patients can also find relief from dry mouth by stimulating saliva production. Saliva flow is naturally highest right after finishing a meal, but snacking consistently throughout the day can have negative consequences for oral health. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies are healthy ways to trigger saliva production.

Dry mouth is often a symptom of underlying health conditions, so treating the condition can cure these patients' dry mouth. Alcohol, caffeine, sugar, salt, tobacco, and recreational drugs can also contribute to dry mouth. Therefore, limiting intake of these substances has helped many individuals find relief. If you are having difficulties finding a solution to chronic dry mouth, your doctor may prescribe saliva substitutes or other medications.

Relief is Possible!

Chronic dry mouth can be uncomfortable to live with. If you have experienced dry mouth for an extended period, make an appointment with your dentist and your doctor. Your doctor will be able to see if your dry mouth is a side effect of a medication or a symptom of an underlying condition. Your dentist will assess your oral health and create a plan to prevent a dry mouth from affecting it.

Post-Filling Tooth Pain

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 15:03:51 GMT

Post-Filling Tooth Pain

Filling a cavity is supposed to stop tooth pain, right? But what if you are still experiencing sensitivity after your treatment? Sensitivity is a common side effect of dental fillings that typically alleviates quickly after the procedure.

Extreme discomfort is not normal and needs to be addressed by a dental professional promptly. Call your dental provider immediately if you are experiencing severe pain accompanied by fever or swelling after a dental filling treatment.

Dental Fillings 101

Dental fillings are one of the most common procedures in dentistry. In this routine treatment, the dentist will inject an anesthetic near the tooth to numb the area. Then, the dentist will use a dental drill to remove any decay present in the area and fill in the carved-out space with a dental restoration material. Fillings can be made of gold, porcelain, amalgam (silver), or tooth-colored composite resin depending on the patient’s budget and aesthetic desires.

Sensitivity After a Filling

It is common for patients to experience some sensitivity in the area once the anesthetic that was applied before the filling wears off. The sensation is typically described as a sudden rush of pain or cold that subsides quickly. Certain environmental factors are known to trigger or heighten the tooth’s sensitivity.

Common Tooth Sensitivity Triggers

Hot, cold, acidic, or sugary foods and beverages

Cold air or wind

Pressure from biting down or eating

Severe pain is not a typical side effect of dental fillings. If your pain is interfering with your daily life, do not suffer silently. Your pain could be a symptom of a serious condition that needs to be addressed by a dental professional.

Although uncommon, extreme discomfort after a filling could be an indication of the following conditions:

Irritated Nerve

A nerve resides in each root of a tooth (unless you had a root canal treatment, which removes the nerves from an infected tooth). Tooth nerves are protected by the hard outer layers of the tooth. However, it is possible for tooth nerves to become irritated or inflamed during filling treatments. This sensitivity will subside as the nerve heals from the trauma. It can take a few days or weeks before the nerve returns completely back to normal.

Incorrect Bite Alignment

Although dentists do their best to make the filling mimic the patient’s natural tooth structure, sometimes the restoration is slightly taller. This extra height isn’t obvious to the naked eye but is significant enough to put additional pressure on the teeth when biting down. The sensitivity caused by the changed bite alignment is typically more intense than general post-filling discomfort.

Patients who are experiencing discomfort while biting down or chewing should contact their dental provider to have their bite examined. Shaving down the high point of the filling alleviates pain for most patients.

Pulpitis

Pulpitis is a condition that causes inflammation deep within the pulp of a tooth. Although pulpitis rarely occurs after a routine filling, it can happen. A root canal or tooth extraction are common treatments for this condition.

Pulpitis typically occurs when:

The tooth is severely damaged from trauma

The cavity spread to the inner pulp

The tooth has had multiple restorative treatment

Allergic Reaction

On rare occasions, patients have allergic reactions to filling material. One study found that amalgam material is the most common cause of allergic reactions from fillings. However, patients can react to other materials used in the treatment, such as the latex in the dentist's gloves.

When to Call Your Dentists

Mild sensitivity a few days after a filling treatment is very common. You can often alleviate minor discomfort with over-the-counter medication, home remedies, or desensitizing toothpaste. If your pain interferes with your daily routine, contact your dental provider immediately for guidance.

Gum Disease

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 14:04:15 GMT

Gum disease is more common than you think!

Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. It is a chronic infection that damages gum tissue and can potentially destroy the jaw bone. However, since this condition is typically painless, many individuals go years without receiving a formal diagnosis. There is no cure for gum disease, but diligent oral hygiene can stop its progression.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease commonly develops from poor oral hygiene habits that cause plaque and tartar to build up on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-filled film that forms when food interacts with the bacteria in your mouth. When plaque sits on the teeth for an extended period of time, it hardens and transforms into tartar.

Professional dental cleanings are the most effective method to remove tartar. Regular brushing and flossing have the power to keep your teeth relatively tartar-free in between cleanings. Although, if tartar stays on the teeth for too long, the bacteria will spread to the gum tissue.

Signs of Gum Disease

Bleeding gums after brushing or flossing

Swollen or red gums

Gums that are tender to the touch

Receding gums

Bad breath

Loose teeth

Pain when chewing

Teeth fitting together differently than usual

If you have symptoms of gum disease, schedule a dental exam. The sooner the condition is addressed, the better! Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease and is reversible with excellent oral care. However, failing to treat gingivitis can cause it to progress into periodontal disease. This late stage of gum disease can have serious consequences, such as bone and tooth loss. Periodontal disease is also linked to other health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's, asthma, and kidney disease.

Factors that increase the risk of developing periodontal disease

Poor oral hygiene

Tobacco use

Genetically predisposition

Misaligned teeth that are difficult to clean

Pregnancy

Diabetes

Certain medications

Forty-seven percent of adults over age 30 in the US have periodontal disease. The condition gets worse over time if it is not addressed. Although a periodontal disease diagnosis doesn’t mean you are doomed to lose any of your teeth. Countless people have stopped the progression of the disease by committing to diligent oral hygiene habits and staying up on recommended dental treatments.

It is crucial to keep up on your dental cleanings and exams. Dentists and hygienists can detect signs of gum disease that often go unnoticed by patients. When gum disease is detected early, we can create a treatment plan to restore your gum health and retain your natural teeth. Healthy gums start at home; dental treatments can only do so much! Commit to brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and floss daily to ensure your smile stays healthy.

Oral Care When You're Sick

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 19:15:44 GMT

Oral care when you're sick

Cold and flu season is just around the corner! Despite our best efforts, sometimes it can be impossible to avoid getting sick. When it comes to your smile, there are a few special considerations to take next time you catch a bug.

Replace Your Toothbrush

Flu viruses can live up to 72 hours on a moist surface, making your toothbrush an ideal place for the harmful virus to linger. While it is never a good idea to share a toothbrush with someone else, you should absolutely avoid it when you are sick. Storing your toothbrush close to other family members’ brushes also risks them coming down with your bug. It is wise to stash your toothbrush away from others and replace it once you recover to prevent reinfecting yourself. As a rule of thumb, toothbrushes should be replaced every 3-4 months. So, it may be time to get a new one anyway!

Use Sugar-Free Cough Drops

Sugar is a common sweetener in cough drops. Although they may soothe a scratchy throat, most cough drops contain comparable amounts of sugar to hard candies. The longer a cough drop is in your mouth, the more time cavity-causing bacteria have to attack the sugar it transferred to the teeth. It is also wise to avoid cough drops with ingredients like fructose and corn syrup; both are unhealthy for your oral and overall health. Next time you have a sore throat, use sugar-free cough drops to prevent developing tooth decay during your cold.

Rinse Mouth After Vomiting

Many people’s first instinct after vomiting is to brush their teeth, but it is actually better to wait. Your teeth are covered with stomach acid after you throw up. If you brush your teeth too soon, you will end up rubbing harmful stomach acids all over your teeth. Instead of brushing right away, swish and spit with water or diluted mouthwash. A half-hour after vomiting, it is safe to brush your teeth.

Prioritize Hydration

Proper hydration is essential when fighting an illness. Many patients experience dry mouth due to dehydration from vomiting or not drinking an adequate amount of water. Dry mouth is a side effect of certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and pain relievers. This condition is not only uncomfortable, but it also increases your risk of tooth decay. For many individuals increasing water intake can prevent dry mouth, especially after losing fluids from vomiting. Chewing gum or sucking on sugar-free cough drops can also stimulate saliva production.

Drink Tooth-Healthy Beverage

Sports drinks do a great job at replacing electrolytes while you are sick. However, you should still stick to water as your primary beverage. The average 32 oz sports drink has more than 56 grams of sugar; that’s approximately 14 teaspoons! Sports drinks are high in sugar and acidic. Both characteristics contribute to tooth decay. Sugar-free sports drinks are a more tooth-friendly option to drink in moderation.

Many people enjoy a comforting cup of tea when they are sick. Numerous studies have found that green tea has many benefits for oral health. Although, it is best not to add lemon or sugar to your cup. High sugar consumption leads to tooth decay, and lemons are acidic, which erodes tooth enamel. If you do prefer a dash of sugar or lemon juice in your tea, try to brush your teeth 30 minutes after you finish.

Stay Healthy This Flu Season!

It is easy to let simple things, like brushing your teeth, slip when you aren’t feeling well. Stay up on your oral hygiene routine and keep these tooth-healthy tips in mind to prevent your illness from taking a toll on your smile.

Drinking Soda

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 15:20:11 GMT

The do's and don'ts of drinking soda

Many people occasionally enjoy a soda at the movies, while others indulge in a soft drink at every meal. Before you crack open your next can of soda, you may want to learn more about how these bubbly beverages affect your oral health.

The average 12 oz can of soda contains about 10 teaspoons of sugar. When this sugar interacts with the bacteria in the mouth, it forms an acid that attacks the teeth. Then, it takes approximately 20 minutes after you finish your drink for your mouth to neutralize the acid. Therefore, if you sip on a soda for a few hours, your teeth will be under constant attack. Drinking soda like this often can lead to enamel erosion and cavities.

Erosion: Enamel is the strong outer coating of teeth. Enamel protects your teeth while you bite and chew. However, once the enamel wears away, it cannot grow back, making the teeth more susceptible to decay and damage. The acid your mouth creates from the sugar in soft drinks slowly erodes the enamel leaving the teeth weaker. Plus, most sodas contain phosphoric acid and citric acid, which also cause erosion.

Cavities: Drinking soda regularly puts people at a high risk of tooth decay. People who drink three sodas a day on average have 62% more tooth decay than people who don’t drink soda. Not only does soda weaken the enamel, but it also encourages bacteria growth in your mouth, putting individuals at a higher risk for cavities.

But What About Diet Soda?

You may be wondering if diet soda has the same negative effects because it doesn’t have any sugar. Just like regular soda, many diet sodas contain phosphoric acid and citric acid. To put in perspective how acidic diet soda can be: battery acid has a pH level of 1.0, pure water has a pH level of 7.0, and diet soda can have a pH level as low as 3.0. Frequent exposure to these acidic diet sodas can cause significant damage to your smile over time.

It is best to avoid all soda to keep your smile in tip-top shape. However, if you do choose to treat yourself, follow these easy tips to lessen the negative effects of soda:

Finish It in One Sitting: If you want to indulge in a soft drink, drink the soda fast rather than sipping on it throughout the day to lessen your exposure to the acid and sugar in soda.

Rinse Mouth Out After: When you finish your soda, wash your mouth out with mouthwash or water. This will rinse away the excess sugar and acid and minimize damage.

Brush Teeth a Half-Hour After You Finish: You may think that brushing your teeth automatically after indulging in a soft drink will prevent any damage to your teeth, but it actually can inflict further damage. Since your teeth are vulnerable after the acid attack from the sugar, the excess friction from brushing your teeth can further hurt the enamel. It is best to wait about 30 minutes to an hour before brushing your teeth.

Don’t Consume Before Sleeping: Having a soda before bed will leave sugar on your teeth for hours, providing the perfect opportunity for it to eat away at your enamel. The sugar in the soda may also keep you awake for longer.

Drink With Food: When you eat, you produce more saliva, which will help break down the acid and wash away excess sugar.

It is okay to partake in soda every once in a while, but try to avoid drinking soda regularly. Excellent oral hygiene can minimize the harm from soda. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and stay up on your dental cleanings and exams to maintain a healthy smile.

Which comes first? Brushing or Flossing?

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 20:34:58 GMT

The answer may surprise you

You most likely have a well-established nightly oral hygiene routine, but you may be curious if there is an optimal sequence when it comes to taking care of your smile. A 2018 research study reported that flossing before brushing removes more plaque than the other way around.

To keep your smiles as plaque-free as possible in between professional teeth cleanings, try performing your smile routine in this order: floss, mouthwash, and finish with your toothbrush.

Step 1: Floss

Flossing is not a task to rush through. Floss removes harmful plaque and calculus between the teeth. Many people think that just popping the floss in between the teeth is sufficient. However, to effectively remove plaque, it is best to floss slowly. Go up and around each tooth and use a new section of floss for each tooth.

Step 2: Mouthwash

Did you know brushing your teeth only cleans about 25% of your mouth? The rest of the mouth still has harmful bacteria lurking that can easily transfer to the teeth. Mouthwash rinses away bacteria, freshens breath, and rebalances pH levels in the mouth. Incorporating a mouthwash with the ADA seal of approval will take your oral hygiene routine to the next level.

Many people are tempted to finish their routine with mouthwash, but using mouthwash after brushing rinses away the active ingredients in toothpaste. It is best to use mouthwash in between flossing and brushing to remove excess food particles that come loose during flossing.

Step 3: Brush

While flossing and mouthwash may only be part of your nightly routine, you should brush your teeth both after breakfast and before you go to sleep. Brush your teeth for a full two minutes every time you brush. You can ensure you get the full two minutes in by setting a timer, playing a two-minute song, or using an eclectic toothbrush with a built-in timer. You should dedicate 30 seconds to each quadrant of the mouth to get a thorough cleaning. Use a type of toothpaste with fluoride for added protection against cavities.

No matter what order your brush and floss, it is more important that you do them every day and correctly. Give this sequence a try! If it is not for you, don’t sweat it! You can still maintain a healthy smile no matter what order you choose to perform your oral hygiene routine.

Teeth Life Hacks?

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 13:56:11 GMT

Do you really want to try that with your teeth?!?

Almost everyone has tried a life hack or two they saw on social media, but there are some trends you should steer clear of. Multiple videos are floating around social media, showing people filing their teeth to make them appear more even. You may wonder, how harmful can filing your teeth be. People file their nails all the time! However, filing your teeth can cause a lot of damage to your smile.

Unlike nails and hair, teeth are permanent and will not grow back after part of the structure is removed. Your teeth are covered in a layer of enamel that protects them. When filing your teeth, you are removing this crucial restorative layer. Enamel will not regenerate once it is gone, leaving the tooth more susceptible to infection, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss.

Risks of Filing Your Teeth Yourself

Damaged enamel
Exposed nerve
Infection
Tooth sensitivity
Increased risk of tooth decay
Yellow teeth
Increased risk of broken or chipped teeth

What Can I Do About Uneven Teeth?

You may have a tooth that appears longer than the others, or you may have a chipped tooth that looks uneven. You do not have to settle for uneven teeth, schedule an appointment with us to determine the best treatment to perfect your smile.

Sometimes uneven teeth can be corrected from orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners or braces, which keep your precious enamel intact. We can also determine if professional filing, enameloplasty, is a good option for you or if you would benefit from another type of treatment. Enameloplasty is performed by a dentist to ensure it is done safely and looks seamless.

It is important to note that teeth continually shift throughout a person’s lifetime. Your teeth could shift again in a few years and having shorter teeth may cause more alignment issues than you predicted.

Trust Your Smile With The Experts

If you are unhappy with the alignment of your teeth, schedule an orthodontic consultation. We will work with you to safely craft the smile of your dreams. Something as important as your teeth shouldn’t be messed around with. Trust your smile with the experts!

Fluoride: Nature’s Cavity Fighter

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 16:00:47 GMT

Fluoride: Nature's Cavity Fighter

You have likely heard a dentist tell you about how fundamental fluoride is for your teeth. However, you may be curious how beneficial fluoride really is to your smile. Learn about fluoride and easy ways to ensure you always receive enough of it.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that makes the tooth enamel more resistant to acid attacks which helps prevent and reverse tooth decay. Fluoride can benefit teeth before they even erupt. Fluoride from foods and beverages makes the tooth enamel strong and more resistant to tooth decay. Once the teeth erupt, fluoride is still just as beneficial to teeth. It remineralizes weakened enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay.

Common Fluoride Sources

Water: Essentially all natural water sources, such as rivers, lakes, wells, and the ocean, contain fluoride. However, fluoride contents vary in these water sources, so for the past 70 years, many public water sources have started adding fluoride to their water to the ideal amount to fight against tooth decay. Water fluoridation has had a lot of success in communities that participate in it. About 75% of the population has access to community water systems, so double-check if your home water source is fluoridated before relying on your tap water for a fluoride source!
Toothpaste & Mouthwash: Since the 1960s, toothpaste with fluoride has been on the market. Not all toothpaste contains fluoride, so it is important to look for toothpaste with the ADA seal of approval to ensure you are getting the full benefits of toothpaste. Adding a mouthwash with fluoride will give your smile extra protection against tooth decay. However, make sure to never give children under the age of 6 a fluoridated mouthwash. Young children's reflexes are still developing, so they tend to swallow mouthwash accidentally.
Fluoride Supplement: Fluoride supplements come in tablets, drops, or lozenges and are only available by prescription. They are recommended for children ages six months to 16 years old who are at a high risk of tooth decay and are living in a community with a water source that doesn’t have a significant amount of fluoride.
Professional Fluoride Treatment: If you have a history of cavities or are at a high risk of developing them, your dentist may suggest in-office fluoride treatments. Your dentist will directly apply fluoride to your teeth in a gel, foam, or rinse.

Fluoride is an incredible natural defense against tooth decay. Ensure you have a reliable fluoride source to keep you and your family’s smiles dazzling and cavity-free!

Bad Breath Culprits

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 16:26:28 GMT

Bad Breath Culprits

Essentially everyone has experienced a sour smell secreting from their mouth. Not only does it leave a yucky taste in your mouth, but it can also be embarrassing when talking to a friend or co-worker. Bad breath happens for various reasons, from diet to serious oral health conditions. Find out common causes of bad breath and how to keep it smelling fresh.

Oral Health: Poor oral health and hygiene typically cause bad breath. Without proper oral hygiene, bacteria from food particles cause plaque to accumulate on the teeth, and bacteria clings to the tongue and tonsils, resulting in funky smelling breath. The best way to keep your breath smelling fresh is proper home care, and at minimum 2 cleaning and check up visits a year so we can monitor your oral health and give you tips on how to improve it.

Dry Mouth: Ever notice how your breath smells funkier than normal in the morning? Saliva production decreases at night, causing the notorious morning dragon breath. Saliva helps keep the mouth clean naturally by washing away food particles. Most of the time, morning breath goes away after brushing your teeth and drinking water. However, if your bad breath continues into the day, despite drinking an adequate amount of water, schedule a dentist appointment to find an effective solution for your dry mouth.

Flavorful Foods: You are probably well aware that a person’s breath can be a pretty good indicator of what they had for lunch. The smell of garlic, onions, spices, and other flavorful foods can linger in your mouth for hours. These food particles enter the bloodstream and are then carried to the lungs, affecting the smell of your breath every time you breathe out.

Coffee Intake: Daily coffee consumers are likely familiar with the stench their favorite espresso leaves behind. Not only is coffee strong in flavor, but it also causes decreased saliva production, which increases bad-breath-causing bacteria.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Tobacco products such as cigarettes, chewing tobacco, or pipe tobacco tend to leave a distinct smell after use. Additionally, tobacco users are at an increased risk for gum disease and damage to the gum tissue. Ditching this habit will help keep your breath fresh and your mouth happy.

How to Prevent Bad Breath

Great Oral Hygiene
Visit the Dentist Semiannually
Drink Water Throughout the Day
Chew Sugar-Free Gum

The first step to preventing bad breath starts with practicing excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once daily, and clean your tongue with either a toothbrush or a tongue scraper. Incorporating mouthwash into your routine can additionally keep your breath fresh by killing bacteria and masking bad breath. Make sure your mouthwash has the ADA seal of approval to receive the full benefits.

Taking measures to increase saliva flow can also help fight against bad breath. Drinking an adequate amount of water can keep your saliva at optimal levels. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, and carrots, can increase saliva production. Chewing sugar-free gum can also boost saliva flow and keep your breath fresh.

If your bad breath doesn’t seem to cease after making these changes, schedule an appointment with us! We can detect any issues in your oral health that may be causing your bad breath and identify ways to help keep your breath smelling fresh.

Tips for Teaching Teeth Brushing

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 02:01:26 GMT

Tips for teeth brushing

Teaching your child how to brush their teeth properly sets them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Whether your child is itching to take care of their smile themselves or you are having trouble getting a fussy child to brush, here are some helpful tips to ensure your child learns to brush their teeth the correct way and hopefully has some fun along the way.

When to Start Brushing?

Taking care of your child’s smile starts before any teeth have even erupted. A few days after your child is born, use a damp washcloth or gauze to wipe your baby’s gums after every feeding. As soon as their first tooth comes in, it is time to start brushing using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush their teeth twice a day yourself and start transitioning into letting them do it themselves around age six.

During this transition, make sure to supervise them to ensure they brush with the correct technique, use the proper amount of toothpaste, and always spit out all the toothpaste. Once they finish, it is a good habit to go over the hard-to-reach places to ensure they aren’t missing any spots.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Brushing Teeth:

Use the Right Amount of Toothpaste: The ADA recommends using a grain-of-rice-sized amount of toothpaste for children under three years old and a pea-sized amount for kids ages three and older. Make sure your child spits out the toothpaste and never swallows it.
Correctly Angle the Toothbrush: Angle the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gumline.
Brush with the Proper Technique: Use tooth-sized strokes to gently brush the teeth. Make sure to entirely clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
Don’t Forget the Tongue: The tongue is full of harmful bacteria, and it must get cleaned with a toothbrush or tongue scraper every time your child brushes their teeth.
Finish with Floss: As soon as two of your child’s teeth touch, it is time to start flossing. Guide the floss between the teeth, and be sure to curve it along the entire length of the tooth. Use a new section of floss for each tooth.

Let your child know what they are doing correctly and coach them on areas they could improve on. If your child get frustrated, remind them that just like any new skill, brushing your teeth takes practice. You can even show them a healthy smile versus an unhealthy one to demonstrate the importance of locking down the proper technique.

Make it Fun!

Lead by Example: You have likely noticed your little one mimicking their mom putting on makeup in the mirror or pretending to shave their face like their dad. Young kids love to play pretend by imitating their parent’s actions! This is helpful when teaching them to clean their teeth. Have your child watch you brush your teeth and encourage them to try themselves. You can even try to have your child brush your teeth while you brush theirs.
Play Some Tunes: Brushing time doesn’t have to be boring; spice it up with your kid’s favorite soundtrack. Try to shoot for songs that are about 2 minutes, so it only takes the length of one song to brush their teeth for the right amount of time.
Let Your Child Choose: Having your child pick out a toothbrush and toothpaste that they like can get them excited about brushing time. There are tons of toothbrushes with fun cartoon characters and many flavors of toothpaste. You can even have a few toothbrushes on hand so they can choose which one they want when it comes to time to clean their smile.

Excellent oral hygiene is a life skill that your child will use for the rest of their life. Be patient and make sure to let your child know when they are doing a good job. Happy Brushing!

Seamless Tooth Replacements

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 01:37:55 GMT

Seamless Tooth Replacements

Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern. Gaps in your smile can make simple daily necessities, such as speaking and chewing, a daunting task. Missing teeth also affects the bone density of the jaws, causes other teeth to shift, and can even make the face appear older. Although it is not currently possible to grow new teeth, dental restorations or appliances can fill the gaps and restore oral function.

Dental Implants: Dentists surgically place metal or porcelain posts where the tooth’s root used to be. These posts act similarly to natural tooth roots by keeping the replacement tooth stable and securely in place. The replacement tooth is masterly crafted to match the color and size of your natural teeth. Dental implants feel and function just like a natural tooth!

Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, and even an entire smile! Dentures can be kept securely in place with dental implants. To receive an implant, the patient needs to be in good overall health, have enough bone to support an implant, and be ready to commit to an excellent oral hygiene routine. Your dentist will be able to determine if dental implants are right for you!

Benefits of Dental Implants:

Functions very similarly to a natural tooth

Nearby teeth are not involved in placing implants

Lasts for decades

Prevents additional bone loss to the jawbone

Fixed Bridges: A bridge can replace one or several missing teeth. The teeth on either side of the gap are crowned and then bonded or cemented to the bridge. Crowns allow the natural teeth to provide optimal support for the bridge. Your dentists can craft porcelain and ceramic bridges to match the color of your natural teeth. Gold and alloys are other common materials used to make bridges.

Dentists are the only ones who can remove fixed bridges, so cleaning a bridge takes slightly more effort than cleaning natural teeth. To maintain a healthy mouth, patients with bridges must clean underneath the bridge every time they brush their teeth. Floss threaders, interdental brushes, and water flossers make cleaning under the bridge easy.

Benefits of Fixed Bridges:

Generally functions and feels like a natural tooth

Can blend in with your natural teeth

Less expensive than dental implants

Removable Partial Dentures: Partial dentures can replace several missing teeth. Many patients prefer partial dentures because they are removable for easy cleaning and repairs. Partial dentures typically consist of a metal framework covered by a plastic base that matches the color of your gums. Attached to this base are fixed teeth that blend in perfectly with your smile. Removable partial dentures also often have some form of a clasp that attaches to your natural teeth.

Partial dentures may feel tight or uncomfortable when you first start using them, but most patients get used to them within a few weeks. You will be able to eat essentially all foods, including ones that were difficult to chew with missing teeth. Speaking also may become easier with a partial denture.

Benefits of Removable Partial Dentures:

Generally less expensive than implants and bridges

Removable to allow easy cleaning

Typically easier to repair than fixed bridges

One type of tooth replacement does not work for every patient! Many factors go into choosing a tooth replacement, such as budget, bone density, and stability of surrounding teeth. Schedule a consultation for your dentist to walk you through all treatment options and help you determine which one works best for your smile.

Dentophobia

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 17:29:12 GMT

Dentophobia

As many as 75% of U.S. adults suffer from Dentophobia - fear of dentistry and receiving dental care. That translates into millions of people who fail to get necessary dental care because they are afraid to go to the dentist.

Our goal is to help you receive regular dental care with minimum fear and anxiety.

We are sensitive to your concerns and take the time to answer your questions.

We provide a calm, relaxing environment.

Newer technologies such as pharmacologic options & sedation dentistry make many procedures virtually pain-free.

Remember, regular visits will help ensure better overall dental health. The more regular you are about your dental visits, the less time you'll have to spend when you come to see us.

So, don't worry another day. Contact our office today to get more information.

Dangers of DIY Orthodontic Treatments

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:31:13 GMT

Dangers of DIY Orthodontic Treatments

In the age of social media, there are thousands of videos of people attempting to straighten their own smiles. Common trends are using rubber bands to close gaps or even ordering clear aligners online. It may be tempting to give one of these methods a try to save a buck, but leave it to the experts. Orthodontists attend school for at least ten years to learn how to align your smile effectively and safely.

The American Association of Orthodontists conducted a survey and found that 13% of the orthodontists have seen patients who have tried to straighten their own teeth. Some patients experienced irreversible damage from DIY orthodontics, including tooth loss!

Risks of DIY Orthodontics:

Tooth loss
Gum infections
Cracked enamel
Choking on makeshift appliances
Damage to the soft tissues
Painful gums
Exposure to toxic metals
Teeth pulling in the wrong directions
Chronic pain from the teeth moving too fast

Thirty-nine percent of orthodontists who saw DIY patients reported that they provided restorative or corrective treatment to these patients. The majority of these orthodontists also said they felt that treatment for DIY patients would have been cheaper if they sought professional orthodontic care in the first place. Replacing a missing tooth can cost more than $20,000. When considering these risks, professional orthodontic treatment is the safer choice for both you and your wallet.

Online Clear Aligners

You may have noticed advertisements for aligner treatments you can order online. They often advertise that starting orthodontic treatment is as easy as snapping a selfie and sending them self-taken tooth impressions. Then the aligners come in the mail, and eventually, you will have a straight smile. Sounds too easy? Maybe because it is. The AAO does not endorse these companies and encourages patients to seek care from an AAO orthodontist.

Somethings to consider before signing up for online orthodontic services:

Does part of the treatment fee include in-person visits to an orthodontist or dentist?
Do you have to receive x-rays before starting treatment?
Do you know the orthodontist's name who will be providing the care, such as is their name listed on the website?
Is there anyone responsible for checking in on your progress or identifying any problems with your treatment periodically?

If you answered no to any of those questions, it may be wise to seek an alternative opinion before starting treatment. Board Certified Orthodontists create customized treatment plans to correct your misalignments and monitor the progress of your treatment. There is little risk of complications when receiving treatment from a Board Certified Orthodontist.

Orthodontics is a medical service, not a product you can buy. Nothing can replace the expertise a certified orthodontist has. Orthodontists attend four years of undergraduate, four years of dental school, and two to three years of orthodontic residency, all in preparation to give each patient an effective, safe orthodontic treatment. Don’t let a 10 minute online video or impersonal online services replace that. Trust the experts when it comes to something as important as your smile.

Happy Holiday Season!

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 20:48:07 GMT

Happy Holidays!

The holiday season is just around the corner! Don’t let enjoying a hot cocoa by the fire be ruined by nagging sensitive teeth. Discover the underlying cause of tooth sensitivity and how to combat it this cozy season.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity:

• Tooth Decay

• Tooth Fractures

• Gum Disease

• Teeth Grinding

• Enamel Erosion

• Exposed Tooth Roots

Tooth sensitivity generally occurs when the protective layers of the teeth become worn down. The part of the tooth you can see, the crown, is protected by a layer of enamel. While the area of the tooth under the gums, the root, receives protection from a layer of cementum.

Underneath the enamel and cementum is a less dense material that contains small hollow canals called dentin. When these protective layers become worn down, the canals in the dentin allow heat, cold, sweet, and acidic foods to reach the nerves inside the tooth, causing discomfort. Gum recession can also expose the dentin and lead to sensitivity. Treatment varies depending on what the cause of the sensitivity is.

Once enamel gets worn down, it will not come back! Taking precautionary measures to avoid wearing down the protective layers of the teeth is the best way to prevent tooth sensitivity. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and only applying gentle pressure while brushing can preserve these precious protective layers.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist or let them know at your next routine visit. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and suggest treatment options to help you enjoy all your favorite foods without the sensitivity.

What causes bad breath?

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 19:30:02 GMT

Bad breath isn't fun for anyone

Here are a few causes and some ideas to keep your breath fresh. Sometimes bad breath is the result of a garlicky dinner or morning coffee but sometimes it’s caused by a chronic condition called halitosis. If you have persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing and rinsing with mouthwash or if bad breath returns even when you avoid foods known to cause it, you might have halitosis.

Many Causes of Bad Breath:

Dry Mouth - Saliva helps keep your tissues healthy and rinses away stray food particles that would otherwise linger between your teeth. Without enough saliva, bacteria flourishes, causing bad breath. Certain medications, alcohol, mouth breathing, and even smoking can cause dry mouth.
Food – Certain foods like garlic, coffee, onions, and fish have odor-causing compounds in them that can linger in the mouth resulting in bad breath.
Tooth Decay and Periodontal Disease - When bacteria seeps deep below the gum line or into the crevices of a cavity that you can’t reach with your toothbrush, that bacteria can lead to bad breath that can only be helped by seeing a dental professional.
Sinus Infections or Allergies - If you have postnasal drip due to an infection or allergies the bacteria feed on the mucus settling in your nose and throat, causing bad breath. Mucus trapped in your sinuses from a cold or sinus infection can breed bacteria, too. If your sinuses are stuffy, you may also be breathing through your mouth, which can cause dry mouth.
Smoking – Smoking not only dries out your mouth, but also irritates the gum tissue causing periodontal disease.

Bad breath on its own can be relatively simple to treat. See your dentist at least twice a year for an exam and professional cleaning, and brush twice a day (including your tongue) for at least two minutes. Flossing daily removes food particles between the teeth and helps keep periodontal pockets tight against the tooth. If you wear dentures, be sure to clean them regularly to remove food debris.

Be sure to drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep your oral tissues wet. If you are prone to allergies or sinus infections a saline nasal rinse can flush trapped mucus, helping you breathe easier and reduce buildup. Mouth rinses, sugarless gum can help stimulate saliva flow, which keeps your mouth moist and washes away odor-causing food particles.

If you’ve taken all the above precautions and still notice persistent bad breath, make an appointment to see your dentist or physician. You may have tooth decay, the start of periodontal disease, or something more severe. In some cases bad breath can be a sign of an underlying condition like liver or kidney disease or diabetes. Together, you and your doctor can find the cause and work to make your breath fresh again.

Welcome to our practice in Scottsdale, AZ!

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 21:30:02 GMT

Our office is situated in the best part of North Scottsdale, surrounded by the best local community in the Valley!

Dr Yu has been blessed to serve the Scottsdale community for the past 3 years, and he has developed such great relationships with his Scottsdale patient base. He truly believes in treating all his patients like family, and he does his best to get to know all his patients!

We do our best to be as involved as possible with the local Scottsdale community. For instance, we are a sponsor for the Horizon High School Volleyball program. This is something we are truly proud of, and will continue to sponsor.

Our staff truly feels blessed to serve the Scottsdale community and it is always our goal to meet and exceed our patients goals!

Teeth are not tools!

Sat, 18 Sep 2021 21:13:03 GMT

Teeth are not tools!

Teeth are meant for chewing, speaking, and smiling, not opening bottles, tearing packages, or carrying objects. Using your teeth for any of these activities can put you at risk for permanent tooth damage. It may seem easier to just use your teeth, but the risk is simply not worth it.

Find the proper tool to perform these tasks. It will not only keep your teeth safe but will execute the task much better than your pearly whites can!

Clenching and Grinding Teeth

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 20:47:40 GMT

Clenching and Grinding Teeth

Teeth grinding or clenching can cause the teeth to chip, crack, and wear down faster than normal. This tendency can also damage the jaw joints, potentially causing a temporomandibular joint/TMJ disorder. Teeth grinding at night can be harder to identify, but if you are waking up with a sore jaw or are experiencing tension headaches, you may be grinding your teeth.

If you tend to grind your teeth at night, a custom mouthguard can prevent damage. Daytime teeth clinchers can sometimes break the habit by just being aware and making an active effort to stop clenching when they notice they are doing it.

You only get one set of permanent teeth, make sure you protect them. Ditching these risky habits will help keep your teeth in great shape and prevent expensive dental procedures in the future. Make an appointment with Dr Yu if you suspect you are grinding your teeth, as Dr Yu can look for signs of clenching or grinding on the tooth surfaces.

How important is a check up and teeth cleaning visit?

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 01:47:18 GMT

How important is a teeth cleaning?

Teeth cleanings are actually very important, as oral health can impact systemic/overall health. Bacteria in the mouth, which everyone has, has been linked to cardiovascular disease in patients who are not doing a good job of home care, flossing, and having their teeth cleaned.

Also, those who have more long term gum tissue problems, like periodontal disease, are more likely to experience severe complications if they become infected with Covid-19.

It is always easier for the patient to address issues and concerns earlier than later. Please give us a call if you would like to have your oral and gum tissue health assessed.