Why Is Candy So Bad For Teeth?

Moms, teachers and dentists like us are always telling you that candy will rot your teeth, but we usually leave it at that without explaining. So why do those sweet treats have such a bad reputation? It’s not necessarily the sugar itself that’s tearing up your teeth. Rather, it’s the chain reaction that occurs if the sugar remains on and in between your teeth. See what happens and how you can prevent damage to your pearly whites.

What’s Inside a Tooth?

Your teeth are the hardest surface in your mouth and in your body. Harder than bone, each tooth is made up of soft pulp on the inside and dentin, a layer of cells on the outside that produces a hard, mineral surface of calcium phosphate called enamel. This hard, outer layer protects the blood vessels and nerves that live inside the pulp of the tooth. When your teeth are healthy, nothing can penetrate the enamel, and your teeth stay strong.

What Happens in Your Mouth?

Your teeth are there to tear foods apart when you eat so your body can digest the nutrients and use food for energy. The saliva in your mouth contains natural bacteria that helps start the process of breaking down foods for digestion even before you swallow. This is great for foods that make a smooth transition from your mouth to your digestive tract, but if food sticks to your teeth, the bacteria start to eat away at your teeth because the chemical chain reaction has already begun.

What Makes Sugar Different From Other Foods?

The bacteria in your saliva love to eat sugar, just like you do. Unfortunately, you suck on hard candies or chew on sticky candies like caramel and taffy. The sugar sticks to tooth enamel and can become lodged between teeth, providing bacteria with an all-day smorgasbord of tasty treats. The bacteria turn the sugar into acid, and then the acid eats away the enamel and destroys the dentin. When the dentin breaks down, the pulp is no longer protected — and you feel pain because the nerves are exposed.

How Can You Prevent Dental Damage?

You don’t have to give up candy altogether. Moderation is key to healthy eating, but you can also choose sugar-free versions of your favorites. The bacteria can’t break down the xylitol used to replace sugar, so the chain reaction doesn’t start. No matter what you eat, brushing at least twice a day and flossing after you eat helps remove the sugar that’s been left behind.

At Kremers, Forbes & Associates, we take great pride in providing quality dental solutions for our patients and their families.  REMEMBER WE HAVE OUR MONTHLY REFERRAL REWARDS PROGRAM.  REFER FAMILY AND FRIENDS.  WIN COOL PRIZES!  Thank you for stopping by the Kremers, Forbes & Associates blog.  Proudly serving Shawnee, KS and Mission, KS.

 

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Mornings

How you start your day can greatly impact how you experience the rest of it. Mornings can be crowded with other responsibilities, making it hard to add healthy habits to your routine. Here are five things you can do in 15 minutes or less to start your day on the right foot:

1. Meditate

Meditation has been around for thousands of years.  The medical community is also starting to note benefits associated with taking the time to “tune out” during the day.  Typically, the best time to meditate is first thing in the morning.  Your mind is most calm before your daily to-do’s and other stimulus start to creep in. Take advantage of this naturally calm mental state and enjoy how much easier it will be to focus.  If you’re a parent, be sure to schedule yourself 20 mins or so before your children typically wake up.    If you’ve struggled with meditation in the past, try an app like Calm or Headspace to guide you through the process.

2. Take an early morning walk or run

For many people, the idea of hitting the gym before work is daunting. Getting up, putting on exercise clothes and driving to and from the gym sounds like a major to-do list before sunrise.  If this sounds like you, maybe consider skipping the gym.  Instead, step right outside your front door for a light morning cardio session. Even just 15 minutes of fresh air and brisk movement will get your blood flowing and clear your mind for the day.

3. Have a healthy breakfast

It really is the most important meal of the day, but so many people neglect it – or worse – opt for something without proper nutrients, like a pastry or fast food meal. Instead, opt for overnight oats, chia pudding, or mini frittatas, all of which you can make the night before or prep in large batches on the weekend.

4. Write in a gratitude journal

It’s no secret that expressing gratitude is directly linked to personal happiness and fulfillment. Use your morning once or twice a week to reflect on something you’re thankful for. Just a few minutes of morning writing can lead to better mental – and even physical – health.

5. Make your bed

It might sound silly, but starting your day by making your bed sets you up for a great day. Not only does it de-clutter your physical space, potentially helping you de-stress, but it also allows you to start a day with an accomplishment. Even though small, taking two minutes to feel a sense of success can lead to a more confident and assured sense of self throughout the day.

Mornings can be chaotic, but try integrating one, two, or even all five of these simple practices into your day for a happier, less stressful, and more productive day.  Obviously, we want you to remember to floss and brush in the mornings as well.  Your dental health is our number one priority!  Call us today if it’s been awhile since your last visit.  If you’re a new patient looking for a dentist, we are happily accepting new patients!  Call us:  913.721.6477!

4 Must Have’s For The Business Traveler

If you travel a ton for work, packing is part science, part art form.  Your carry on becomes an extension of your being.   We made a list of some of the coolest things around to add to your business travel arsenal!

1. Mobile Power: Mophie Powerstation Plus 8X

If you take long flights, your quick dying cell phone battery can be a huge pain.  Check out the Mophie Powerstation Plus 8X.  This external battery pack has two connectors which allows you to connect your phone and your tablet… at the SAME time!  The Powerstation is small and easy to store in your purse or laptop.

2. UO Smart Beam Laser Projector

Do you haul around a huge projector?  Do you always worry if the venue you’re visiting will have connections for your laptop?  Check out the UO Smart Beam laser projector. It’s super easy to setup and you can connect to it via Wi-Fit or Apple Airplay.  That means you can STREAM to the projector.  How cool is that?  The projector is HD and has power built-in speakers.  The coolest part?  You can hold it in the palm of your hand.

3. Dash-i MicroSD Reader

If you’re an Apple user and want some additional storage, you’ll love the Dash-i MicroSD reader.  This little guy plugs into the lightning port of your iPhone or iPad and allows you some valuable and much needed space in a quick easy connection.

4. Knomad Mini Portable Organizer

Do you hate searching through your bags or luggage to find the exact cable you need to charge your devices?  Then you will love the Knomad Mini portable organizer.  Cable ties will keep cords organized and contains while you use the internal pockets to hold your phone, IDs, etc.  You can also skip your wallet and utilize storage for cards and passports!

Business travel can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be.  We know there are a lot of professionals in our patient base, and we hope this blog will help you find some cool tech options to make your business trips a little easier.  Make sure you’re brushing and flossing while you’re on the go, and swish water after meals and between meetings to keep your teeth clear of debris!

We are accepting new patients at our Shawnee and Mission office!  Call us today to schedule your appointment!  913.721.6477

3 Tips For An Excellent Dental Visit

We understand that going to the dentist is not always fun.  However, it is necessary.  The best way to get through your visit is by maximizing your time in our chair.  Make the most of our time together!?  How does that work?

Here are 3 easy ways to have an excellent visit:

1. Stick To The Routine:  When your appointment is coming up, please do NOT think you can make up for missed brushing and flossing by suddenly kicking your oral health routine up!  We’ve discussed the brushing mistakes and dangers to your teeth and gums when you’re over brushing or brushing too hard.  Aggressively brushing can also be detrimental to your tooth enamel.  Just stick to your normal routine, brush and floss at least twice.
2. Ask Questions:  If you find yourself wondering about dental topics, write them down!  We try to discuss topics affecting our patients, like what kind of toothpaste to use, what mouthwash they need, what kind of toothbrush, etc.  We want to build a dental health plan specific for YOU and your family.  The best way to do that is by working TOGETHER!
3. Tell The Truth:  Not flossing as much as you should be?  Forget to brush sometimes?  Be honest when we ask questions.  This is the best way to make an accurate and effective assessment of your oral health and our treatment plan.

A lot goes in to a successful dental visit.  Our tips above are just a few of the ways we can provide you with outstanding care.  Our doctors and staff are constantly striving to provide you with the best care possible.  We focus on patient care and we’re always available to take calls and answer YOUR questions when you need us.  Call our office today to schedule a consultation or if it’s time for your next visit.

 

4 Tips To Care For Your Teeth At Work

When you’re at work, your dental health might not be the first thing on your mind. However, the time you spend at work can have a big effect on your teeth and gums. From sweet snacks to multiple cups of coffee, your workplace can have a big effect on your teeth. Here are a few tips for taking care of your teeth while you work.

Clean After Lunch

After you eat your lunch, wait around half an hour and then brush and floss your teeth. Flossing and brushing remove traces of food from your mouth, preventing bacteria from feeding on them. Bacteria are the primary cause of cavities, so it’s important to keep them in check. Cleaning your teeth after lunch can also freshen your breath, helping you to avoid embarrassment in afternoon meetings.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

When the urge to snack hits, try chewing gum to keep the cravings at bay. Sugar-free gum doesn’t pose the same risk to your dental health as sugary snacks; in fact, it could even be beneficial for your dental health, as chewing increases saliva production. The extra saliva naturally neutralizes acids in your mouth, reducing their damaging effects on your teeth.

Drink Water

The best thing to drink in the office is water. Coffee and tea can stain your teeth, while soda contains sugars and acids that are harmful to dental health. Even juice contains harmful sugars and is highly acidic. On the other hand, water keeps you hydrated, washes traces of food away from your teeth, and keeps your mouth moist throughout the day. Fill a reusable bottle with water and keep it on your desk so you can keep sipping water throughout the day.

Make Healthy Food Choices

The foods you eat while you are at work can have a big impact on your dental health. Swap sweet foods like cake or cookies for healthier lunchbox items, such as carrot sticks and hummus, unsweetened yogurt, and whole grain crackers. Not only will these healthier foods lower your risk of cavities, but they could also help to stabilize your blood sugar so you don’t feel as tired while you are working.

If you have an issue arise, especially a dental emergency while at work, call our office in Shawnee or Mission today!  We have CEREC which means we have single visit dentistry available for YOU.  Call us today:  913.721.6477

Don’t Get Faked About Flossing

You may have heard some news recently with regard to flossing.  The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion removed flossing from its health guidelines while the Associated Press claimed that flossing wasn’t necessary for preventative oral care.  Are you flossing?  Do you feel you’re wasting time and money?  The truth is… you’re not.

Studies on the effectiveness of flossing are not as widespread as you may think.  Periodontal disease is slow developing in nature.  There isn’t strong evidence of flossings effectiveness, however, there isn’t strong evidence that it IS NOT effective either.  Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are the best way to achieve lasting oral health.  Your dentist knows your dental history and can provide treatment options based on your needs.

The guidelines from the ODPHP don’t correlate to the timeless recommendations of the Surgeon General and other federal health agencies that still advise flossing and removing debris and plaque from between our teeth.  Yesterday, the American Dental Association provided a statement based on the recent story lines about flossing.    The ADA says:

“Flossing is an important oral hygiene practice. Tooth decay and gum disease can develop when plaque is allowed to build up on teeth and along the gumline. Professional cleaning, tooth brushing, and cleaning between teeth (flossing and the use of other tools such as interdental brushes) have been shown to disrupt and remove plaque. At HHS, NIH’s National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), CDC’s Division of Oral Health and Healthy People 2020 have additional information and resources about efforts to address and improve oral health.”

As you know, flossing does help remove debris and plaque from between your teeth.  Plaque and bacteria are what lead to oral health issues.  If cleaning between your teeth combats both bacterial growth and plaque, then one could ascertain that there are indeed benefits to flossing.

Remember, flossing is an important part of your oral health routine.  Your toothbrush can’t reach all areas of your mouth, especially between your teeth, and it’s important that these areas do not suffer from neglect.  Despite what you may hear, it’s important to keep brushing twice per day, at least two minutes per day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once per day (at least).  Be sure to keep up your regular dental visits and enjoy all the benefits of the healthiest mouth you can achieve.

Call our office today for a checkup and cleaning.  If it’s been awhile since you’ve seen a dentist, don’t worry.  Our initial patient visits include x-rays and a thorough examination of your teeth and gums.  Superior care is what we strive to provide!  Come see us today in Shawnee or Mission.

The Parent’s Guide to Teeth

Do you want what is best for your children?  If you’re a parent, the answer is a resounding YES!  At Kremers, Forbes & Associates, we want the best for your children, too.  Knowledge and practice of a great oral health habits need to start at a young age.  Before your child has teeth, wipe their gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings.  Brushing needs to start as soon as the first tooth becomes visible.  Yes, if your child has just one tooth, it needs to be brushed.

The best “kiddo kit” for your child’s dental needs is a child size toothbrush with soft bristles, some pediatric toothpaste with fluoride, and spool of pediatric dental floss.  For toothpaste, be sure you’re using a very small amount.  Typically a child under the age of two only needs about a pencil tip sized dab.  After the age of two, you can start using a pea sized amount.  As soon as they develop two or more teeth next to each other, it’s time to start flossing.  Make sure you go over the importance of brushing twice per day and flossing with your kids.  Let them see you taking great care of your teeth while having fun, and they’ll want to join in as well!

It’s important to remember that sharing utensils and drinks with your child can pass on harmful bacteria from your mouth to theirs.  Adult bacteria can be hard on pediatric teeth.  Also, watch sugar consumption, even in natural fruits, and be sure your kids are brushing and rinsing after eating any sugary products.  At nap or bedtime, make water the drink of choice.  Sugars found in juices and milk are prominent in the development of cavities.

The best thing you can do for your kids is make oral care fun!  Come up with a game or song that takes two minutes while they brush.  There are Apps available to make this process easier.  Teach your children how important their teeth are.  They’re watching everything you do.  Lastly, bring your child in twice per year for dental visits.  We love our little patients and making their dental visits something they look forward to!

The Toothpaste Tutorial

The toothpaste aisle can be overwhelming.  There are so many brands and types, all with different ingredients and claims of this or that.  It’s tough to know which product is right for you, isn’t it?  Well, we’re here to help you find the exact toothpaste you need.

Toothpaste Types:

Most toothpastes come in either a gel or paste.  This is really up to you as the consistency is personal preference.  Toothpaste is effective in either form.

Ingredients You Need:

Most toothpaste contain similar ingredients.  Let’s take a more in depth look at what each ingredient does.

• Abrasive agents are added to help get rid of bacteria on your teeth caused by, food and stains. The most common ingredients are calcium carbonate, hydrated silica, hydrated alumina and dicalcium phosphate.
• Flavoring is obviously a BIG decision to make.  Nobody wants a toothpaste that taste awful.  Different artificial and natural flavors are used to improve taste. Saccharin, a sweetener, is also commonly used.  If you can locate a toothpaste with xylitol, you’ll be doing great things for your overall oral health!
• Detergents help break down substances that are difficult to get rid of. Detergent is responsible for the foaming action. The most common detergent is lauryl sulfate. Quick note, if you have a history of canker sores may want to opt for toothpastes without lauryl sulfate.
• Fluoride might be the most important ingredient found in toothpaste because it prevents tooth decay. Fluoride also helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it less susceptible to acids.  If you’re checking ingredients, look for stannous fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate or sodium fluoride.
• Humectant systems are the glue that keeps all of these ingredients together. They keep your toothpaste from drying out and keep the ingredients bound together properly. Glycerol and binders such as gum arabic are the most common.

What’s Right For You?

Your dental needs should be assessed before you choose a toothpaste.  Whitening toothpaste will battle surface stains.  Tartar control toothpaste will help prevent new tartar, but won’t do a lot for removing existing tartar.  If your gums are inflamed or bleeding, you might check out a toothpaste for gingivitis.  Sensitive teeth benefit from toothpaste made to fight aches and pains with potassium nitrate or stronum chloride.

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics of toothpaste ingredients, it should be a little easier to find the right one for yourself and your family.  If you still have questions or concerns, call our office.  If you’re not a patient yet, come by for our in-depth initial visit.  We do a thorough exam and can advise you on the best toothpaste for your personal oral health situation.

How To Deal With Sensitive Teeth

What Is Tooth Sensitivity:

Tooth sensitivity is very common.  While the condition can be quite bothersome, a visit to your dentist may bring some relief.  There are a variety of treatment options available, however, finding the underlying cause of the sensitivity will provide you with the most effective treatment plan.

Your enamel covers your teeth, protecting the nerve from temperature variations.  When damage to the enamel occurs, the nerve becomes exposed which then triggers pain.  Conditions such as cavities, gum disease, worn out fillings, and chipped or broken teeth can induce tooth sensitivity.  If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth, it’s important to see a dentist immediately.

Treatment Options:

The most common initial treatment for sensitive teeth is a desensitizing toothpaste.  The toothpaste is made of compounds that essentially block sensation from reaching the nerve in the center of the tooth.  The paste can take a few days or weeks to become effective.  Another common option is for your dentist to apply a gel of fluoride to your teeth to strengthen the enamel and protect the nerve(s).  If a cavity or cavities are the culprits, a filling or replacement filling might remedy your pain.  If the decay is more advanced, a root canal may be your most viable option.

What Should You Do:

If you have sensitive teeth, don’t ignore them.  The could be sending you a very important message about your gums & teeth.  Visit our office to determine the cause of the sensitivity and how to effectively treat your specific case.  Your dentist will likely recommend the desensitizing toothpaste we mentioned above or another treatment option.
If your teeth are sensitive or you’re experiencing pain, call our office today.  We’re accepting new patients and would love to see you and provide the excellent dental care we’ve been known to provide for over 30 years!

Periodontal Disease & Your Health

As time goes on, the American public is becoming more aware of periodontal disease and it’s affect on our overall health.  Gum disease can and does increase your risk for a number of diseases including diabetes, stroke, cancer, and heart disease.

Think of your mouth like a container.  An open-container at that.  If you don’t scrub the container, bacteria and leftover materials start to build up.  In your mouth, this accumulation is referred to as plaque.  Plaque then starts to harden and turns into tartar.  Tartar removal needs to be done by a dental professional.

Tartar causes infection.  The infection can be mild at first.  This mild infection is called gingivitis.  Left untreated, gingivitis will turn into full blow periodontal disease.  The infection can and does spread and can exacerbate or worsen all sorts of other diseases like diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, cancer, etc.

So what can you do?  Luckily, mild periodontal disease can likely be reversed.  THIS IS NOT ALWAYS THE CASE.  Adopting an effective oral care routine is the greatest and best defense and battling periodontal disease.  These steps include:

• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing regularly
• Visiting your dentist for routine examinations and professional cleaning
• Quitting smoking

If you’re eating right and working out, well done!  Be sure you’re keeping your oral health in mind, too.  It can have a huge impact on your overall health as well.