Month: October 2008

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily.

• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is
recommended to use soft bristles).

• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between +
the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.

• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink.

• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up.

Do you brush your teeth two to three times a day? If you do that’s great!!! Don’t forget that it’s also important to also visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times daily. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems you might not see of feel
• Detect cavities and early signs of decay
• Treat oral health problems early

During an oral exam the doctor will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Your checkup will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment. Call us at 425-451-7388 or feel free to email us at: info@thebellevuedentist.com.

You can feel it when you have a cavity. But unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you realizing it. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort. Because of this, it’s very important to watch for the warning signs of the disease:
• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position
• Any change in the way partial dentures fit

If you or someone in your family is showing these signs, make an appointment right away by calling 425-451-7388. Or, feel free to email us at info@thebellevuedentist.com. We can diagnose the problem, find out how far the disease has advanced, and start treatment.

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth”, but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:
• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced meat