Posts Tagged ‘ brushing ’

The Importance of Healthy Gums: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Your Oral Health

Posted on: July 17th, 2024 by admin

It’s no secret that good oral hygiene plays a significant role in maintaining overall health, yet, gum health often goes overlooked. The gums are a vital part of our mouths that not only keep our teeth in place but also protect them from harmful bacteria. However, poor gum health can lead to gingivitis, gum disease, and even tooth loss. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of healthy gums, common oral health problems related to gum health, and how to take good care of your gums.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the role your gums play in your oral health. The gums act as a barrier that protects the roots of your teeth, as well as the supporting bones. This means that when gums start to recede, it exposes the sensitive nerve endings to hot and cold temperatures, making them more prone to sensitivity and pain. In addition, gum recession can create pockets where bacteria can thrive, leading to gum disease, which has been linked to various heart conditions and diabetes.

Speaking of gum disease, it’s a prevalent oral health problem that affects more than half of Americans over the age of 30. The early stages of gum disease, called gingivitis, often presents itself as bleeding, swollen, or sensitive gums and can be reversed with proper care. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the bacteria begins to attack the bone that holds the teeth in place, leading to tooth loss.

So what can you do to take good care of your gums and prevent these issues? Start with proper oral hygiene, which includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings. In addition, eating a balanced diet, reducing stress, and quitting smoking can also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy gums.

While anyone can develop gum issues, some factors increase the risk. For instance, aging plays a role in the gum’s health because as we get older, our gums become more fragile and susceptible to wear and tear. Additionally, certain medications, genetics, and hormonal changes can be contributing factors.

Your gums play a vital role in your oral health, and maintaining their health is essential for having a healthy and happy smile. Keep in mind that proper oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can all help prevent gum-related issues. Don’t neglect your gums, as they are the unsung heroes of your oral health. By taking good care of them, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums that will serve you for a lifetime.

Tags: brushing, flossing, local dentist, oral health
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Brushing Your Teeth: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Posted on: May 22nd, 2024 by admin

Brushing Your Teeth: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

Most of us have grown up hearing about the importance of brushing our teeth. However, with so much information out there about the “right” way to brush, it can be hard to know if we’re doing it correctly. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of brushing your teeth, including good technique, facts and statistics about why it’s important and what can happen if you don’t brush. Whether you’re a senior citizen or just looking to maintain a healthy smile, this article is for you.

First things first: how often should you be brushing your teeth? According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Brushing in the morning can help freshen your breath and prep your teeth for the day ahead, while brushing at night removes the buildup of plaque and bacteria that accumulates during the day.

But it’s not just about frequency – technique matters too. When brushing, it’s important to use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. You don’t want to apply too much pressure – a gentle circular motion is all you need. Make sure you’re cleaning every surface of your teeth, including the gum line and the backs of your molars. And don’t forget to brush your tongue – it can harbor bacteria and cause bad breath.

So why is all of this necessary? Well, the statistics speak for themselves. Gum disease affects nearly half of all American adults, with an even higher prevalence among seniors. Poor oral hygiene has been linked to a host of other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. And beyond health concerns, skipping out on brushing can have social consequences as well – bad breath and yellow teeth can impact your confidence and self-esteem.

If all of this feels overwhelming, rest assured that there are plenty of resources available to help you. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide individualized advice and guidance, as well as information about products like floss and mouthwash that can supplement your brushing. There are also many educational videos and online resources that can provide more detailed information about good brushing technique.

Finally, it’s important to acknowledge that there are some circumstances where brushing alone may not be enough. In cases where you have significant tartar buildup, gingivitis, or deeper dental issues, more intensive treatment may be necessary. This is why regular dental check-ups are so important – catching these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the road.

In the end, brushing your teeth may seem like a small thing – but it can have a major impact on your health and well-being. By following best practices for brushing technique and making regular dental check-ups a priority, you can help ensure that your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come. Remember – a little effort now means a lifetime of benefits.

Tags: brush, brushing, dental hygiene, tooth brushing, toothbrush
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It’s time to toss your old toothbrush!

Posted on: August 2nd, 2023 by admin

Take a look at your toothbrush. It is a familiar part of your daily routine, something you see early every morning (or at least we hope so) and just before bed every night (ditto). Your toothbrush is your friend

But the fact of the matter is, that toothbrush is probably due for replacing.

If you’re like a lot of people, you probably brush your teeth a little more energetically that you need to. With time, the brush’s bristles will begin to fray, looking like a used broom or paintbrush. The bristles may even be a touch off-white now, too. Those are all sure signs that it’s time to replace your brush with a new one.

And trust us, you don’t want to use a toothbrush that is past its useful life. If you do, it just won’t do the job that it’s designed to do.

Toothbrush picture Barnegat Manahawkin Dental Office

pexels-photo-298611

If you brush your teeth the way we’ve taught you here at Bayside Dentistry, a dentist serving Manahawkin, Forked River, Barnegat and all of Ocean County, the signs might not be as obvious. They may not jump out at you, but small changes in your toothbrush will make it less effective in doing its job. They include:

Slight curve/slant to the bristles – This can happen after using it over a long stretch of time. Though it can often be barely noticeable, this can prevent the bristles from reaching around the gum line and between your teeth.
Loss of elasticity – Modern toothbrush bristles are made to be elastic and bendable. This is to allow the brush to provide the gentle sweeping movement necessary for the most effective brushing. As the bristles’ elasticity wears down, your brushing becomes less effective.
Harboring bacteria – No matter how clean you keep your brush and its holder, over time bacteria will begin to make a home there. This makes fighting plaque and germs even harder.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If you are seeing the family here at Bayside regularly, you already know that having a new, fresh toothbrush is essential to your oral health. Some things we recommend to ensure it lasts a long while include:

Air dry it; do not store it in a closed container. This helps prevent bacteria growth
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. This keeps the bristles flexible
Don’t share your toothbrush with others! The reasons why should be obvious
Brush firmly but gently. Many people brush too hard, wearing out their brush faster
Replace it every 3-4 months

Doing what you can to make sure your toothbrush is well taken care of is one of the easiest things you can do to be sure you have good oral health. Doing so will guarantee that every time you brush, your teeth they are as clean as can be, your breath is fresh, and your future trips to Bayside will be as smooth as possible.

And let’s be honest, isn’t the whole reason you visit us here at Bayside in the first place to have healthy teeth? We serve Manahawkin, Lacey / Forked River, Barnegat, and all of Ocean County!

Tags: brushing, brushing tips, dental tips, manahawkin dental office, toothbrush care
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How the pros brush their teeth

Posted on: September 29th, 2021 by admin

It might surprise you to learn this, but your Southern Ocean County dentist will verify that it’s true: a huge number of patients do not brush their teeth properly.

It’s true. This part of our daily routine might appear as if it should be something easy and simple to do, but the truth is that even the best of us can start to pick up bad habits over the years.

And as we all know, once those bad habits are formed, they can be very hard to break. And as dentists near Forked River, believe us, bad brushing habits can make your work to maintain good oral hygiene far less effective.

Thankfully, you’re reading this blog post. The team at Bayside, a dental office near Lacey, is about to change your brushing for he better! Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Brush twice a day, three times if you can – In the morning after you get up and in the evening just before bed are the best times to brush, as that’s when you can best target the bacteria that are running amok. Also brush after meals when you can, especially if you’ve eaten acidic foods, sweets, or food and drink that can stain your teeth.

Brush for two minutes – The basic rule of thumb is to brush for two minutes. This gives you enough time to get to all corners of your mouth, brushing away the nasty bacteria that will do damage to your teeth over time.

Don’t brush too hard; it might damage your enamel – Believe it or not, you shouldn’t be too aggressive when you are brushing. Instead, use gentle strokes as you brush. You’re looking to brush away bacteria and food waste, not scrape off your tooth enamel.

Use short strokes as you brush – When brushing, short, swift strokes are ideal. This will focus your energy on specific sections of your mouth. Using long strokes make it too easy to miss spots in your mouth, and when that happens bacteria and plaque can get a foothold in your mouth.

Don’t forget the tongue! – Your tongue is often a haven for bacteria and can be a cause for bad breath, so be sure to brush it! Brush gently, but do so thoroughly. A clean tongue not only gives you a nicer appearance, it’s good for your oral health.

One Last Tip – A good way to make sure your tooth brushing is effective is to mentally divide your mouth into four sections: bottom left, bottom right, top left, and top right. Now you’ve got specific areas to target. Brush each section for 30 seconds.

Make this into a part of your daily routine. Do this two to three times per day, and your dentist near Forked River will probably think you’ve mastered the art of brushing – and you will have!

With good habits like these, you’ll not only save money on your dentist visits and cleanings, you’ll also live a happier, healthier life with more confidence.

Tags: brushing, dental office, south jersey dentist, teeth, tips, toothbrush
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Throw Your Old Toothbrush Away!

Posted on: August 11th, 2021 by admin

But the fact of the matter is, that toothbrush is probably due for replacing.

And trust us, you don’t want to use a toothbrush that is past its useful life. If you do, it just won’t do the job that it’s designed to do.

pexels-photo-298611

Slight curve/slant to the bristles – This can happen after using it over a long stretch of time. Though it can often be barely noticeable, this can prevent the bristles from reaching around the gum line and between your teeth.
Loss of elasticity – Modern toothbrush bristles are made to be elastic and bendable. This is to allow the brush to provide the gentle sweeping movement necessary for the most effective brushing. As the bristles’ elasticity wears down, your brushing becomes less effective.
Harboring bacteria – No matter how clean you keep your brush and its holder, over time bacteria will begin to make a home there. This makes fighting plaque and germs even harder.

Air dry it; do not store it in a closed container. This helps prevent bacteria growth
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. This keeps the bristles flexible
Don’t share your toothbrush with others! The reasons why should be obvious
Brush firmly but gently. Many people brush too hard, wearing out their brush faster
Replace it every 3-4 months

And let’s be honest, isn’t the whole reason you visit us here at Bayside in the first place to have healthy teeth? We serve Manahawkin, Lacey / Forked River, Barnegat, and all of Ocean County!

Tags: brushing, brushing tips, dental care, Forked River dentist, lacey dentist, little egg harbor dentist, Manahawkin dentist, toothbrush
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How to Get The Most Out of Your Toothbrush

Posted on: February 3rd, 2021 by admin

The first line of defense in the war against all things that harm your mouth – tooth decay, gum disease and more – is a deceptive simple weapon: your toothbrush. It’s the tool that will give you great teeth in Forked River!

The toothbrush has been around for millennia, though not always as we know it. The ancient Egyptians frayed tiny branches in order to create their toothbrushes. The 15 Century Chinese used natural bristles to create something very much like to the brushes we use today. But it was less than 100 years ago, in the 1930s, when nylon was invented and toothbrushes finally became modern.

Modern toothbrushes have been refined and redesigned over the decades, with many fine adjustments helping them become more effective at keeping your teeth clean.

But without YOU, your toothbrush can’t do its job properly. Here is what you need to know:

toothbrush-toothpaste-dental-care-clean-40798

How to Brush Properly

A surprising number of people do not brush their teeth properly. Even though this is part of our daily routine and it seems like it should be easy, over time even the best of us can develop up bad habits. Once formed, bad habits are hard to break – and when they are bad brushing habits, they can make your brushing far less effective.

Here is some advice to keep in mind:

Brush twice a day, three times if possible
Each brushing session should last two minutes
Use short strokes when you brush
Don’t forget to brush your tongue (gently)!
Brushing too hard can damage your enamel, so don’t do it!

A good way to be sure that you brush effectively is to divide your mouth into four quadrants: bottom left, bottom right, top left, top right. Brush in each quadrant for 30 seconds, using short, and gentle strokes and/or swirls. If you do this two to three times per day, you’ll be well on your way to taking amazing care of your teeth!

Once you’ve mastered brushing, the next step is to keep your toothbrush in good shape.

How To Care For Your Toothbrush

Your toothbrush is your best tool for ensuring you have a healthy mouth, so naturally you’ll want to take care of it. Toothbrushes that are a gnarled, mangled mess won’t do a good of keeping your mouth fresh and clean.

In order to keep yours in great shape, follow these tips:

Do not ever share your toothbrush!
Be sure to brush gently; let the bristles do the work
Be sure to thoroughly rinse the toothbrush after you’re done
To keep microorganism growth to a minimum, don’t store your toothbrush in a closed container
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Remember, your toothbrush is the single most important part of your oral health routine. Treat it poorly and it will treat your mouth poorly. Treat it well, however, and you can have many years of excellent oral health. When you visit your dentist near Manahawkin, they’ll notice the difference!

And isn’t that what this is all about? Having the healthiest mouth possible?

Tags: brushing, Forked River, Manahawkin, toothbrush
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It’s Time To Replace Your Old Toothbrush

Posted on: August 12th, 2020 by admin

But the fact of the matter is, that toothbrush is probably due for replacing.

And trust us, you don’t want to use a toothbrush that is past its useful life. If you do, it just won’t do the job that it’s designed to do.

pexels-photo-298611

Slight curve/slant to the bristles – This can happen after using it over a long stretch of time. Though it can often be barely noticeable, this can prevent the bristles from reaching around the gum line and between your teeth.
Loss of elasticity – Modern toothbrush bristles are made to be elastic and bendable. This is to allow the brush to provide the gentle sweeping movement necessary for the most effective brushing. As the bristles’ elasticity wears down, your brushing becomes less effective.
Harboring bacteria – No matter how clean you keep your brush and its holder, over time bacteria will begin to make a home there. This makes fighting plaque and germs even harder.

Air dry it; do not store it in a closed container. This helps prevent bacteria growth
Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each use. This keeps the bristles flexible
Don’t share your toothbrush with others! The reasons why should be obvious
Brush firmly but gently. Many people brush too hard, wearing out their brush faster
Replace it every 3-4 months

And let’s be honest, isn’t the whole reason you visit us here at Bayside in the first place to have healthy teeth? We serve Manahawkin, Lacey / Forked River, Barnegat, and all of Ocean County!

Tags: brush, brushing, dental advice, manahawkin dental office, Manahawkin dentist, manahawkin dentistry, manahawkin nj, manahawkin teeth whitening, toothbrush
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5 Easy Tips To Make Sure Your Toothbrush Lasts

Posted on: May 19th, 2020 by admin

Never forget: your toothbrush is your most important tool when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth and a bright, clean smile. Everyone at your dentist office near Forked River will confirm this.

With that in mind, it goes without saying that you have to take good care of your toothbrush in order to be sure your toothbrush takes good care of you. Any dentist near Manahawkin has likely seen countless toothbrushes that after many years of use now look like a complete mess rather than the well-designed cleaning tool they are meant to be.

That’s not good, because brushes that are in bad shape don’t do as good a job of keeping your mouth clean and healthy and helping you maintain good oral hygiene.

And you do want good oral hygiene! That’s the reason why you visit Ocean County dentists, after all – in order to have a healthier mouth!

In order to avoid your toothbrush becoming a mess that does more harm than good, follow these simple tips:

Never share your toothbrush – Your mouth is loaded with bacteria of all types, and brushing can sometimes lead to minor bleeding, usually so minor you can’t even see it. Even a little is enough to help aid the transmission of bacteria from one mouth to another, though, and that’s not a good thing. Remember, your toothbrush is for you and you only. And never use someone else’s and don’t let other people use yours!

Always rinse the brush after you’re done – Residue left behind by toothpaste or your mouth can make your toothbrush a breeding ground for bacteria, plus it can also accelerate the breakdown of your brush’s bristles. Just like your mouth, it’s important to keep your brush clean!

To combat microorganism growth, don’t store your brush in a closed container – Those closed containers are like breeding grounds for bacterial growth. They can be GROSS! It’s fine to use them for a day or so when traveling, but you should never store your toothbrush in a closed container for longer than that. If you do, you’ll actually be making your mouth LESS healthy.

Replace your brush every few months – Modern brushes are tough and resilient, but regardless, you should replace them every few months in order to be sure they are doing the best job possible of keeping your teeth clean. A new brush is much more effective than an old one.

Let the bristles do the work – Aggressive brushing is not only bad for your tooth enamel, it’s bad for your toothbrush, too. It can ruin your bristles and impact the lifespan of your brush. Instead, brush gently and let the bristles do their job. It’s what they are designed for!

Always keep in mind that your toothbrush is an important tool in your regular oral health routine. Treat it badly and it will treat your mouth badly in return. Treat it right and it will treat your mouth right – and that will make your dentist near Manahawkin very happy!

Tags: brushing, dental tips, Manahawkin, Southern Ocean County, toothbrush, toothbrushing, whiter teeth
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4 Tips To Become A Master Toothbrush Expert

Posted on: February 19th, 2020 by admin

By now, all adults know that they should be brushing twice daily. If you are reading this, you know it, too.

But that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to learn. For instance, consider these 4 tips that will make your brushing (and your choice in toothpaste) far more effective:

Tip #1: Sensitive Teeth? Try A Baking Soda-Based Toothpaste

We see a lot of patients who have sensitive teeth, so we know how frustrating the condition can be. We also know that having sensitive teeth means you must take a slightly different approach to oral health than others might. One way is in the brand of toothpaste you choose. Standard brands may be more abrasive than is comfortable for your teeth, or may contain chemicals that trigger sensitivity in your teeth. A good way to get around that problem is to choose baking soda-based toothpastes. These toothpastes tend to be softer and milder on the teeth, resulting in a gentler yet still effective brush that won’t leave your mouth feeling sensitive.

Tip #2: Understand That Not All Toothpastes Are Right For Everyone

It’s a common misconception that one toothpaste is pretty much the same as another. After all, it’s all just toothpaste, right? Wrong. The fact of the matter is, not all toothpastes are created alike. Many types of toothpaste are designed to address specific issues, such as sensitive teeth or staining. Others are made for children – children below a certain age should not be exposed to high levels of fluoride – while still others are ideal for people who prefer all-natural products. Yes, that means you may need to buy more than one tube of toothpaste for your family. That’s okay, though. That just means that everyone will be getting exactly what they need to maintain the best oral health possible. Nothing wrong with that!

Tip #3: Some Toothpastes May Accelerate Tooth Decay!

It may sound counterintuitive, but there are some toothpastes that could contribute to tooth decay even as they are helping you clean your teeth. How? By being overly sweet and full of sugars. You’ve probably seen them, usually aimed at children: toothpastes that practically taste like candy they are so sweet. Well, they almost taste like candy for the same reason candy tastes sweet. They are sweetened! It may be easier to get your little ones to use toothpastes like these, but as a general rule of thumb your dentist near Forked River suggests you should avoid them when possible. In some ways, using them defeats the purpose of brushing in the first place!

Tip #4: Brushing Is Only The Start

For too many Americans, their oral health regime begins and ends with brushing their teeth. While that is a great place to start – if you are mindful enough to be brushing at least twice a day, kudos to you – it is only the start. Good oral health includes mouth rinses, flossing, and regular checkups from your dentist. Remember, brushing is just one part of an overall plan of good oral health.

Keep these tips in mind and we guarantee your Ocean County dentist will have nothing but good news on your next visit!

Tags: brushing, dental tips, dentist in Forked River, dentist in little egg, dentist in Manahawkin, teeth, tips, toothbrush, white teeth, whiter teeth
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These Tricks Will Help You Brush Your Teeth Like A Pro

Posted on: September 26th, 2019 by admin

It might surprise you to learn this, but your Southern Ocean County dentist will verify that it’s true: a huge number of patients do not brush their teeth properly.

It’s true. This part of our daily routine might appear as if it should be something easy and simple to do, but the truth is that even the best of us can start to pick up bad habits over the years.

Thankfully, you’re reading this blog post. The team at Bayside, a dental office near Lacey, is about to change your brushing for he better! Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Make this into a part of your daily routine. Do this two to three times per day, and your dentist near Forked River will probably think you’ve mastered the art of brushing – and you will have!

With good habits like these, you’ll not only save money on your dentist visits and cleanings, you’ll also live a happier, healthier life with more confidence.

Tags: advice, brush, brushing, dental advice, dentist, Forked River, how to brush, Lacey, teeth, tips, toothbrush
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