A clean taste in your mouth, fresh breath and an extra defense against the bacteria that cause plaque buildup and gum disease are among the main benefits that mouthwash delivers. But is it really a necessary part of your daily oral hygiene routine, or do you just believe it is thanks to successful marketing by…
In 1945, Grand Rapids, MI, became the first community in the world to add fluoride to the municipal water supply in order to help prevent tooth decay. When subsequent studies showed a significantly lower rate of cavities in schoolchildren, water fluoridation spread to other towns and cities — including Chicago. The Centers for Disease Control…
Does the toothpaste aisle in your supermarket seem daunting to you? Not only are numerous brands available, but toothpaste (known in the dental profession as dentifrices) is formulated to serve a wide variety of needs. Some promote their whitening ability, others are intended to prevent tartar build-up, and so on. But which type is right…
Whether it’s in your morning coffee, doughnut, or sprinkled on your favorite cereal for that extra sweetness, sugar is the way many people start their day. Yet what we know as sugar is actually refined sugar. Also called processed sugar, it’s extracted from the sugar cane or sugar beet plant and chemically processed to remove…
Many people depend on energy drinks to power them through their demanding day. Although popular for their ability to enhance energy levels, physical alertness and performance, energy drinks have come under scrutiny for their adverse effects on health when consumed in excess. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the potential dangers…
Our most typical concerns about oral health focus on tooth decay and periodontal issues. However, oral cancer is an insidious disease that the American Cancer Society estimates will claim over 11,000 lives this year, and produce about 54,000 new cases diagnosed. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month – a time when dental professionals call attention…
While we all know that the humble toothbrush is the basic, most essential instrument in maintaining oral hygiene and health, we may not be letting it do its job effectively. In fact, neglecting the condition of your brush can actually have a detrimental effect on oral health! The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your…
Many people think of oral health as somehow separate from overall health. When you consider how we’re taught to focus on preventing cavities and periodontal (gum) disease by brushing and flossing regularly – and visiting the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination – it’s easy to see how this division occurs. Of…
As an expectant mom, you have a lot going on – not the least of which are the physical changes you’re experiencing. While you’re scheduling regular visits with your obstetrician to ensure a healthy pregnancy, be sure you also take care of your oral health during this important time! Is it Safe to Visit the…
We like to consider ourselves savvy and sophisticated, but sometimes we accept common misconceptions as fact – especially when it comes to dental health! In this case, of course, ignorance is far from bliss, and can lead to serious issues. Because our team at NK Family Dental is dedicated to keeping your smile healthy for…
