Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Dry Mouth and Dental Decay

Xerostomia or Dry Mouth is a common problem we see among older adults.  Many people with certain illnesses (Sjögren’s Syndrome, Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis) or taking certain medications (for high blood pressure, allergies, depression) have significant reduction in salivary flow.

Reduced saliva flow causes patients to have difficulty with chewing, swallowing, and tasting food.  It also puts the patient at high risk for tooth decay.  Saliva is the main natural defense against cavities with antibacterial properties and providing a neutral pH in the oral cavity.

Follow these recommendations to reduce the risk of Dental Decay if you are suffering from Xerostomia

  • Avoid acidic foods and beverages that can be irritating to oral tissues, instead drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent enamel erosion and decay. 
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages which can cause dehydration and increase oral dryness.
  • Don't smoke or chew tobacco.  Nicotine from tobacco reduces salivary flow.
  • Drink plenty of fluids with meals to aid in chewing and swallowing.
  • Use Alcohol Free or Xylitol based mouthwashes.
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless mints after meals to stimulate saliva flow.
  • Your dentist at Preferred Dental Practice may recommend in office Fluoride Treatment or Prescription-Strength Fluoride Toothpaste to prevent tooth decay.
Call Preferred Dental Practice today and let your Dentist and Hygienist know if you are experiencing any dry mouth symptoms (constant sore throat, burning sensations, cracked lips, mouth sores, dry nasal passages, difficulty chewing and swallowing). 

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Keep Your Little Ghosts and Goblins' Teeth Healthy this Halloween

Don't be spooked this Halloween season.  Take this opportunity to establish healthy habits for those trick-or-treaters and keep those tiny teeth healthy.  Here are some tips recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.


  • Establish Healthy Habits- Parents who take care of their own oral health will instill proper life-long lessons for their children.
  • Brush Before and After- Tooth decay and cavities occur when sugar reacts to bacteria and dental plaque.  Brushing before and after candy consumption reduces the amount of bacteria and plaque on teeth.  
  • Help Your Kids Brush- Most children under the age of 8 are not ready to brush on their own.
  • Monitor Candy Consumption- Limit the amount of candy kids eat.  Consider providing a treat with or after a meal.
  • Limit Hard Candy- Encourage kids to eat candy that melt quickly and try to avoid gooey or chewy candy that linger in the mouth which increases their cavity risk.
  • Fluoride and Flossing- Fluoride has been shown to reduce tooth decay by as much as 50%, and flossing may help prevent gum disease and tooth decay in between teeth.  Teach children to brush twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste and floss once a day as soon as the first two teeth come into contact.  
  • Don't Be Afraid of the Dentist- With all of the sweet treats consumed around Halloween, now is a great time for parents and caregivers to schedule a pediatric dental appointment for their children.  Children should visit the dentist every six months for a check-up to avoid dental problems and keep smiles healthy. 

Welcome to Our Blog

Welcome to Preferred Dental Practice! Our elite team of general dentists, pediatric dentists, orthodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons provide quality care and work together to customize a treatment solution for you and your child's needs.  We understand the importance of time management.  Our office can provide expanded dental services from implants to braces, sedation dentistry and treating patients with special needs in one location.  Please use this blog as a resource for oral health information and discover what is new at our office.