Sniffling, sneezing, and coughing can make it challenging to maintain your daily routine. However, it’s crucial not to let a cold or flu be an excuse for neglecting your oral hygiene. At Family 1st Dental, we emphasize the importance of continuing your regular brushing and flossing routine, even when you’re feeling under the weather. Here are some tips to help you stay on track and support your recovery.

Brush After Each Meal:
When you’re sick, it’s beneficial to brush your teeth shortly after each meal. Your mouth can become a hotspot for bacteria, so being extra diligent with your brushing routine can help minimize the spread of germs and bacteria.

Be Selective with Cough Drops and Lozenges:
Many cough drops and throat lozenges contain sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, producing acids that damage your teeth. Opt for sugar-free drops or those without corn syrup and fructose to protect your teeth.

Rinse Carefully:
If you are vomiting, keeping your mouth clean is essential as stomach acids can harm your teeth. However, brushing immediately after vomiting can spread the acids over your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash and wait at least 20 minutes before brushing.

Drink Plenty of Water:
Staying hydrated is key to recovery and helps prevent dry mouth, which can lead to decay and bad breath. Some cold and flu medications can dry out your mouth, so ensure you drink water throughout the day.

Replace Your Brush:
After recovering from an illness, consider replacing your toothbrush. While it’s unlikely you’ll reinfect yourself, it’s better to be cautious. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months.

When you’re sick, it’s vital to keep up with your oral health. Medications or over-the-counter remedies can impact your dental health, so watch out for sugar content in cough drops and stay hydrated with water to avoid dry mouth. Maintaining a healthy mouth is the first step to keeping your entire body healthy.

For more oral health tips or to schedule a visit, please contact Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Creighton. We’re here to help you maintain your dental health through every season.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

It’s well-known that our diet plays a crucial role in our overall health, but many overlook its significant impact on dental health. At Family 1st Dental, we want to shed light on how the foods and drinks we consume affect our teeth. Studies suggest that diet contributes to approximately 50% of all cavities.

How Tooth Decay Occurs:
Tooth decay happens when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel. This process is often accelerated by consuming sugary and acidic foods and beverages. Sugars like sucrose, fructose, and glucose feed oral bacteria, which produce acids that damage teeth. Additionally, acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, and sodas, can weaken enamel and increase the risk of decay.

Nutritional Choices for Strong Teeth:
Not all foods are harmful to your teeth. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can strengthen your teeth and promote oral health. These foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support teeth and gums. Furthermore, calcium-rich foods like dairy products, nuts, and leafy greens help fortify enamel, reducing the risk of decay.

Good Oral Hygiene Practices:
In addition to maintaining a nutritious diet, practicing good oral hygiene is vital. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day removes plaque and bacteria, reducing decay risk. Regular dental check-ups are also essential; they allow your dentist to identify and address potential issues early.

Conclusion:
The connection between diet and tooth decay is clear. By eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, you can keep your teeth healthy and strong. Coupled with good oral hygiene habits, these dietary practices significantly reduce the risk of decay.

For personalized advice and comprehensive dental care, contact Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Creighton. Schedule your next appointment today to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

In the contemporary landscape of dentistry, technological advancements have ushered in a new era of treating tooth decay. At Family 1st Dental in Creighton, we embrace these innovations, recognizing their transformative impact on diagnosis and treatment processes. Through cutting-edge dental technology, we’re revolutionizing the way we address dental issues, offering enhanced precision, efficiency, and patient care.

Tooth decay, a prevalent concern affecting millions worldwide, stems from bacterial activity fueled by sugars and starches in the mouth. These bacteria generate acid, corroding tooth enamel and precipitating cavities and related complications, such as pain, infections, and tooth loss. However, with the advent of dental technology, dentists now possess powerful tools to combat tooth decay with unprecedented efficacy.

Advanced imaging technology stands at the forefront of this revolution, enabling dentists to capture detailed, comprehensive images of the oral cavity, encompassing teeth, gums, and jaw structures. This high-resolution imagery empowers dentists to detect tooth decay in its nascent stages, facilitating timely intervention and preventive measures. Furthermore, advanced imaging facilitates the identification of concealed cavities and underlying issues, ensuring thorough and accurate diagnoses.

Laser technology emerges as another indispensable asset in our arsenal against tooth decay. Capable of precisely targeting enamel decay and treating gum disease, lasers offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional interventions. From teeth whitening and plaque removal to tooth reshaping, lasers afford versatility and efficacy in addressing various oral health concerns, augmenting patient comfort and outcomes.

Moreover, digital tools have revolutionized the realm of personalized dental care, enabling the design and fabrication of bespoke dental appliances tailored to individual patient needs. Whether crafting crowns, bridges, or dentures, our digital workflows ensure optimal fit, comfort, and functionality, enhancing treatment efficacy and patient satisfaction.

In essence, dental technology has catalyzed a paradigm shift in the approach to treating tooth decay, empowering dentists at Family 1st Dental in Creighton to deliver superior care with unprecedented precision and efficiency. Through the seamless integration of advanced imaging, laser technology, and digital workflows, we’re advancing the standard of dental care, ensuring optimal outcomes and patient well-being. Join us in embracing the future of dentistry, where innovation meets excellence in dental health. Contact us today to embark on your journey towards a healthier, brighter smile.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

Botox, renowned for its prowess in combating wrinkles and fine lines, has transcended its cosmetic realm to redefine dental care. Family 1st Dental in Creighton proudly incorporates Botox as a safe and effective solution for an array of dental concerns, from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders to bruxism and facial pain conditions.

The burgeoning popularity of Botox in dentistry stems from its remarkable ability to alleviate discomfort by relaxing muscles and mitigating pain. Botox injections, administered swiftly and seamlessly, yield enduring results that can span several months, offering patients substantial relief from their dental woes.

Among its multifaceted applications, Botox emerges as a staple in treating TMJ disorders, which stem from diverse sources such as stress, teeth grinding, or jaw trauma. By targeting the overactive muscles responsible for pain and discomfort, Botox injections effectively alleviate symptoms, enhancing patients’ overall quality of life.

Similarly, Botox presents a compelling solution for bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding, which often manifests as worn teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. By relaxing the muscles implicated in teeth grinding, Botox injections effectively reduce the frequency and severity of this condition, offering respite to sufferers.

Moreover, Botox holds promise in addressing a spectrum of facial pain conditions, including trigeminal neuralgia and chronic migraines. By intercepting the release of pain-inducing chemicals, Botox injections provide relief from inflammation and discomfort, fostering a sense of well-being for patients.

While Botox serves as a transformative tool in dental care, its efficacy hinges upon collaboration with a skilled and knowledgeable dentist. Dentists at Family 1st Dental in Creighton undergo specialized training in Botox administration, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of facial anatomy and precise injection techniques for optimal outcomes.

It’s important for patients to acknowledge that Botox offers a temporary solution, necessitating periodic retreatment to sustain its effects. Additionally, patients should be mindful of potential side effects, such as bruising, swelling, or muscle weakness, although these are typically transient.

In essence, Botox represents a pivotal advancement in dental care, offering a safe and effective remedy for various dental issues at Family 1st Dental in Creighton. With meticulous attention and expertise, our dental team endeavors to enhance patients’ dental health and quality of life through the transformative potential of Botox. For further insights, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our dental office.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

Dealing with tooth sensitivity can be both frustrating and uncomfortable, disrupting daily activities with sharp pains triggered by hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or even just a rush of air. Surprisingly, about 1 in 8 individuals experience tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives. Let’s delve into what tooth sensitivity signifies and how to tackle it effectively.

Enamel erosion stands out as a primary culprit behind tooth sensitivity. Enamel, the sturdy outer layer of the tooth, shields the softer dentin and pulp layers beneath. As enamel wears away, the dentin is exposed, paving the way for sensitivity. Several factors contribute to enamel erosion, including acidic foods and beverages, tooth decay, and aggressive brushing. To thwart enamel erosion, it’s crucial to limit acidic food and drink intake, maintain diligent oral hygiene practices, and opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to preserve enamel integrity.

Gum recession emerges as another leading cause of tooth sensitivity. When gum tissue recedes, it exposes the tooth roots, often triggered by periodontal disease, vigorous brushing, or genetic predisposition. Preventing gum recession entails adhering to excellent oral hygiene, opting for a soft-bristled toothbrush, and steering clear of tobacco products.

Tooth sensitivity may also serve as a red flag for more serious dental issues like a cracked or damaged tooth, cavity, or abscess. If sensitivity is accompanied by additional symptoms such as toothache, swelling, or fever, seeking prompt dental attention is imperative to stave off potentially severe dental complications.

Alleviating tooth sensitivity can involve various strategies. Incorporating a desensitizing toothpaste into your oral care routine can effectively block pain signal transmission from tooth to nerve. Additionally, using a fluoride rinse, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and practicing impeccable oral hygiene can help alleviate discomfort.

In some instances, your dentist may recommend more advanced treatment options to address tooth sensitivity. These may include applying fluoride varnish or gel to affected teeth, bonding teeth with resin material, or even resorting to a root canal if nerve damage is detected.

In summary, tooth sensitivity stems from an array of factors, spanning from enamel erosion to gum recession and beyond. Consulting a dentist to pinpoint the root cause and devise a tailored treatment plan is paramount if you’re grappling with tooth sensitivity. In the interim, adopting proactive measures to mitigate sensitivity can significantly enhance your dental comfort and overall oral health. At Family 1st Dental in Creighton, we’re committed to partnering with you on your journey to optimal dental wellness.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

Sugar often finds itself in the crosshairs of blame when it comes to cavities, yet the truth is a tad more intricate. Dental caries, colloquially known as cavities, arise from mouth bacteria generating acid as they metabolize carbohydrates, including sugar. This acid, in turn, corrodes tooth enamel, paving the way for decay and cavities.

While sugar indeed stands as a significant contributor to cavity formation, it’s not the lone villain. Sugary edibles and beverages furnish bacteria with ample fuel to initiate cavity formation. Moreover, sticky delights like candies and gums adhere to teeth, providing a constant sugar source for bacterial proliferation.

Yet, it’s not merely the sugar quantity that impacts cavity development; frequency plays a pivotal role too. Regular snacking or sipping on sugary drinks fosters a perpetual sugar supply for bacteria, heightening cavity risks.

Moreover, not all sugars are equal in their impact on dental health. Simple sugars like glucose and fructose pose a higher cavity risk than complex sugars like lactose found in dairy products. This divergence arises as simple sugars are more readily metabolized by mouth bacteria, fueling acid production.

So, does sugar single-handedly cause cavities? The answer is affirmative, but it’s crucial to acknowledge that sugar is just one facet in cavity development. Other factors such as subpar oral hygiene, genetic predisposition, and the presence of diverse mouth bacteria also influence cavity formation.

The silver lining lies in the proactive measures individuals can take to mitigate cavity risks, even while indulging in sugary treats. Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing aid in plaque and bacteria removal. Opting for water over sugary beverages and chewing sugar-free gum post-meals can further curb cavity risks.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings play a pivotal role in cavity prevention. Dentists can detect cavities early, facilitating prompt intervention before they escalate.

In conclusion, while sugar’s contribution to cavity formation is undeniable, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. By embracing good oral hygiene practices and making informed dietary and lifestyle choices, individuals can stave off cavities and revel in a radiant, cavity-free smile. At Family 1st Dental in Creighton, we’re dedicated to empowering you on your journey to optimal dental health.

Family 1st Dental of Creighton
Phone: (402) 358-3484
Url: https://www.ffdcreighton.com/
615 Main Street
Creighton, NE 68729

Mouth guards are an essential piece of protective gear for children who play sports. Sports-related dental injuries can be serious, painful, and costly to treat. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, athletes who don’t wear mouth guards are 60 times more likely to experience dental injuries. This is why it’s important to make sure your child wears a mouth guard when playing sports.

Mouth guards are designed to absorb shock and protect the teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue from injury during sports. They can help prevent broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and cuts or bruises to the mouth. They can also prevent concussions by reducing the impact of a blow to the jaw.

There are different types of mouth guards available. Stock mouth guards are pre-formed and ready to wear, but they may not fit well and can make it difficult to breathe or speak. Boil-and-bite mouth guards are made from thermoplastic material that softens in hot water and can be molded to fit the child’s teeth. Custom-fitted mouth guards are made by a dentist and provide the best fit and protection.

When choosing a mouth guard, it’s important to consider the type of sport your child plays, as well as the child’s age and size. Some sports, such as football, hockey, and wrestling, have a higher risk of dental injury than others, so a more protective mouth guard may be necessary. Younger children may need a smaller mouth guard that fits their smaller teeth and mouth.

In addition to protecting teeth, mouth guards can also improve performance by helping to stabilize the jaw and reduce muscle fatigue. They can also help athletes breathe better, which can improve endurance.

It’s important to make sure your child’s mouth guard fits properly and is in good condition. A mouth guard that is too loose or too tight can be uncomfortable and may not provide adequate protection. Mouth guards should be replaced if they become worn or damaged.

Overall, mouth guards are an important piece of protective gear for children who play sports. They can help prevent serious dental injuries and improve performance. Parents should encourage their children to wear mouth guards and help them choose the right type and fit. By taking these precautions, parents can help ensure that their children stay safe and healthy while playing sports. For more information on how you can keep your child’s smile safe while playing sports, contact our dental office to schedule a consultation.

Brushing your teeth is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. However, is there such a thing as over-brushing? 

The American Dental Association recommends you brush your teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day. People sometimes brush after every meal, or brush midday to freshen up. Although this is not always a bad thing, when you start brushing too much or for too long, you can ultimately damage your teeth. 

Brushing more than three times a day, and for longer than 2 minutes, can sometimes lead to your tooth enamel wearing down as well as cause damage to your gums. Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and helps fight against tooth decay. Over-brushing can damage this shield and cause teeth to become sensitive and prone to cavities. 

Practicing proper oral hygiene care at home is an important part of your overall oral health. However, being aware of how much is too much is equally important in keeping your smile healthy.  

Using the right kind of toothbrush helps prevent unnecessary enamel erosion. It is recommended you use a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. The Seal of Acceptance shows that: 

• All of the toothbrush components are safe for use in the mouth. 
• Bristles are free of sharp or jagged edges (a soft-bristled toothbrush helps prevent the wearing down of enamel). 
• The toothbrush can be used to provide a significant decrease in mild gum disease and plaque. 

Scheduling regular professional cleanings and exams with our dentist will keep your mouth healthy.  

Contact our office today to schedule a cleaning and comprehensive exam with our dentist.

You may be unaware of how your oral health can be an indicator of your overall health.  The warning signs of systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can often be found by during a routine examination at our dental office.  You may be surprised to find out that hypertension (high blood pressure) may also be linked to your oral health habits. 

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests that there is a link between oral hygiene and high blood pressure, based on the results of almost 20,000 adults surveyed in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).  It was found that individuals with poor oral hygiene habits, such as infrequent brushing of teeth, were more likely to suffer from hypertension.  Individuals that brushed their teeth more than once daily and also utilized other oral health products such as floss or mouthwash were less likely to suffer from hypertension.  The study concluded that maintaining good oral hygiene habits may help prevent or control high blood pressure. 

Good oral hygiene is essential to a healthy life and regular dental visits are important in maintaining good oral health.  Contact our office to schedule your appointment for an examination and cleaning. 

No time to brush or floss your teeth? When brushing or flossing isn’t convenient, you can still keep your mouth feeling fresh by eating certain foods. When you’re on the go or in a hurry, try grabbing one of these foods to munch on to help fight plaque and keep your teeth healthy.  

Cheese provides several benefits for your teeth, such as preserves and rebuilds tooth enamel, prevents plaque and balances your mouth’s acidity level. It also helps to produce saliva, which kills the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

Tea contains polyphenols, which slows the growth of bacteria associated with tooth decay and gum disease. It prevents the bacteria in your mouth from turning sugar into plaque. Tea also fights the bacteria that cause bad breath. 

Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots and celery, require extra chewing which produces saliva. Saliva helps to neutralize bacteria that cause tooth decay. Also, chewing on naturally abrasive foods removes stuck food particles, massages gums and cleans between teeth. 

Vitamin-rich foods containing calcium and phosphorus can help keep tooth enamel strong and healthy. Acidic foods may cause tiny lesions on tooth enamel. Calcium and phosphate help redeposit minerals back into these lesions. 

Sugarless gum contains xylitol that helps to prevent plaque and aids in producing saliva. Chewing sugarless gum also keeps your breath smelling fresh. 

Raisins contain phytochemicals, which fights bacteria that causes tooth decay. Some compounds in raisins also affect the growth of bacteria that is associated with gum disease. 

Water is the best way to stimulate saliva, which is your body’s greatest defense against bacteria that cause plaque and cavities. If you can’t brush after eating, rinse your mouth with water to assist in preventing tooth decay. 

It is important to have a balanced diet for your oral and overall health. While these foods help to combat plaque buildup and tooth decay, no food can take the place of daily brushing and flossing. It is vital to continue your daily oral hygiene regimen and keep up with regular scheduled appointments with our dentist.