Tips to Help Sensitive Teeth

Do you have sensitive teeth or gums? Do you notice a pang when you eat hot or cold foods? Do sugary treats leave your teeth zinging?

Sensitivity in your teeth can greatly affect your quality of life, but you’re not alone! A survey of dentists across the U.S. reports that as many as 1 in 8 Americans suffers from sensitive teeth and/or gums.

How can you stop the pain in your teeth so you can enjoy things like ice cream, cold drinks, and sugary snacks again? We’ve got the answers!

According to the American Dental Association, the most common causes of sensitivity include:

• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Fractured teeth
• Worn fillings
• Gum disease
• Worn tooth enamel
• Exposed tooth rot

Underneath the gum line of your teeth, and beneath the enamel and cementum that protect your teeth, there’s dentin. Dentin is less dense than enamel and contains small hollow canals. When these small canals are exposed to heat, cold, or acidic and sticky foods, the nerves in your tooth are affected, leading to hypersensitivity.

Here’s the good news: sensitive teeth can be treated by your dentist! You can also use over the counter products like a desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride gel, or even have a root canal to help protect the nerves inside your teeth and gums.

If the sensitivity in your teeth and gums is because of a larger dental issue, we can help! Our team of specialists works hard to ensure your comfort by only using gentle dental procedures to help lessen your pain.

To find out how we can help treat your sensitivity, contact us today! We’re ready to help you and make sure you can get back to normal again.

Side Effects from Teeth Whitening

Are you considering getting a teeth whitening procedure done?

Are you concerned about side effects that could affect your health?

At Dr. DiStefano’s office, we care about the health of you and your family, and we want to make sure you get the best information possible before deciding on a cosmetic procedure like teeth whitening!

Your smile is important to your self-esteem, and we want you to achieve the smile of your dreams. There are many options available for teeth whitening, and like any medical procedure, some side effects.

Being well informed prior to making a decision on a whitening solution could save you money and unnecessary pain!

Common Side Effects

Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of teeth whitening.

If sensitivity occurs, it is often temporary and will go away once you've completed the whitening process.

Here at Dr. DiStefano’s office we recommend using a sensitivity toothpaste while using any whitening system and limiting your consumption of acidic foods and drinks.

According to the American Dental Association, using a whitening product too much can also damage the tooth enamel or gums, so when considering a whitening option, make sure you follow the guidelines recommended by your dentist before putting anything on your teeth.

Looking for More Information?

Are you still not sure what teeth whitening option is best for you? Visit our website for more information about our new in-office whitening product and to talk to knowledgeable and friendly dental professionals about your options!

How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist?

Are you seeing the dentist as often as you should?

Does the anxiety and even fear of the dentist keep you from making regular appointments?

You’re not alone! Many people experience anxiety and fear before seeing their dentist.

Here at Dr. DiStefano & Associates, we are committed to your oral health, and we do our best to make sure that you have all the gentle dental procedures available to keep your visits relatively pain-free.

According to the American Dental Association, “there is no one-size-fits-all dental treatment”, and they recommend that you should visit the dentist at least once or twice a year, and then consult with your dentist to find out how often you need to visit in the future.

Since every person is different, each person’s individual needs must be taken into account when planning visits to their dentist. When you visit Dr. DiStefano’s office, we will work with you to find a plan that not only works with your busy schedule, but allows for anxiety-free, pain-free, gentle dental options.

Don’t allow your anxiety about visiting your dentist to compromise the health of your mouth! Your smile is important to you and to us! Visit our website today to see how we can help you!

6 Foods That Lead To a Great Smile!

Have you always dreamed of having a Hollywood smile?

Do you waste a lot of money on teeth whitening, but are never satisfied with the results?

A smile is often the first thing you notice first about someone. It makes a statement! 

What does your smile say about you?

Teeth whitening doesn’t work for everyone but can be worth a shot. However, there are natural ways you can whiten your teeth without buying expensive products at your local drugstore or going to the dentist.

An amazing little-known secret that most people don’t realize is that whitening your teeth is as simple as watching the foods you eat. The darker the food or drink, the likelihood it will stain your teeth becomes at higher risk. 

According to WebMD, mouth healthy food and drinks include:

1. Water (especially fluoridated water)
2. Milk
3. Unsweetened teas
4. Cheeses
5. Chicken or other meats
6. Nuts

However, keep in mind, these tips are for a person in relatively good health who goes to the dentist for regular checkups. Some stains on teeth are far beyond fixing by just eating the right foods and using bleaching tools; you may need to schedule a thorough cleaning and examination at your favorite dentist in Howell, Michigan.   

Our dedicated dentists in Howell at Dr. DiStefano & Associates provide excellent personalized care and services to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Our ultimate goal is to help improve yours and your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best dentists in Howell Michigan. We’ll get you on your way to better health! 517-546-8983

Learn to Teach Your Child to Care For Their Teeth

Does your child brush his or her teeth every day?

Is your child using the best technique when brushing?

Good dental hygiene starts at home with the parents! Teaching your child how to brush effectively is crucial to prevent future decay.

Many parents just like you find it a challenge to get their child motivated about brushing, especially late in the day. We’re here to tell you that you’re not alone!

If you’re unsure about the best way to teach your child about brushing their teeth, feel free to stop by your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan. We can show you the best techniques! In addition, there are a few guidelines that the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends, including:

1. Clean your baby’s mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth.
2. For children younger than three years, caregivers should begin brushing children’s teeth as soon as they begin to come in by using fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice. Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician. Supervise children’s brushing to ensure that they use of the appropriate amount of toothpaste.
3. For children three to six years of age, caregivers should dispense no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician. Supervise children’s brushing to minimize swallowing of toothpaste.
4. Until you’re comfortable that your child can brush on his or her own, continue to brush your child's teeth twice a day with a child-size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. When your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily. 

Teaching your kids how to care for their teeth early on can save you time, energy, and money. Don’t break the bank! Start teaching your child best practices for a healthy lifestyle today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know that my child can handle brushing on his or her own?

You’ll know when the time is right, because you’ll be getting good reports back from your child’s dentist.

Is caring for a newborn’s gums necessary?

Yes. It is necessary that you care for your newborn’s gums because it will prevent bacteria from building up and damaging your child’s teeth when they are ready to grow in. 

How do I know my child is ready for the dentist?

The recommended time that it’s necessary for your child to visit the dentist is when they are either 1 year old or when their first tooth arrives. Which ever comes first!

Our ultimate goal is to help you and your family improve your dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best Howell family dentist. Call Doctor DiStefano, your favorite Howell family dentist to schedule your 6-month appointment today! 517-546-8983

A Whiter, Brighter Smile With Dr. DiStefano, Howell Family Dentist!

Whiten Your Smile While You Sleep!   It’s Easy With Dr. DiStefano, Your Howell Family Dentist!

Have you looked in the mirror and noticed that your smile isn’t quite as bright as it used to be? 

Do your teeth look discolored or just darker than you remember? 

Have you considered teeth whitening, but have heard that the bleach tastes gross, and may even hurt your teeth after a few minutes? 

Our number one priority is your oral health.  However, we also want to help you feel good about your smile.  Your teeth have probably become discolored due to diet, tobacco use, or even your age!   It happens to most of us, and you shouldn’t feel bad because there’s something you can do about it!  We’re here to help you get your bright smile back! 

We offer two different teeth whitening systems: Sheer White Professional Grade Whitening Strips and Opalescence Professional Whitening Trays.  Both Sheer White, and Opalescence have a higher level of bleach than what you’d find in at-home whitening systems.  Plus, Dr. DiStefano and his staff are available to answer your questions and support you on your journey to whiter, brighter teeth! 

Visit our website to learn which teeth whitening system is right for you! 

It could take less than ten days to get that smile you’ve always wanted!

Acids From Foods You'd Never Suspect

Improve Your Family’s Dental Health  

With Advice from Dr. DiStefano’s Howell Dentist Office! 

Some days it’s a challenge to get your kids to sit still enough to eat, let alone eat something healthy.   

Some foods that are known as healthy can still harm your tooth enamel.   

Like, yogurt, honey and even some cereals have acid!    

Who knew?

Being aware of which foods are acidic and ways to decrease mouth acid is beneficial to improve your families dental health. 

Acidic Food.  It’s Not Just Orange Juice Anymore! 

Other foods/ Drinks that contain Acidic are:

• Fruit and fruit products that contain citric and malic acid

• Soft drinks contain phosphoric acid

• Fermented products like yogurt contain lactic acid

• Grapes and wine contain tartaric acid

• Vegetables processed in vinegar such as pickles, beets, sauerkraut are also acidic.

A few tricks to prevent the decay of your tooth enamel when consuming acidic food and drink:

• Finish your meal with milk or a small piece of cheese to promote saliva.

• Chew sugar free gum which promotes saliva flow.

• Get a fluoride treatment from Dr. DiStefano, Howell Family Dentist

• Use fluoride toothpaste

• Drink fluoridated water

• Snack less especially on sugar and carbs.  After you eat your mouth becomes acidic to break down foods. 

• Drink more water.

• If you have Acid Reflux or other gastrointestinal problems –see your M.D. for treatment   

• Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after consuming the acidic food or drink.  Why?  The acid softens your tooth enamel and brushing could do harm.  Wait at least an hour before brushing.

• Don’t swish the acidic drink in your mouth.  Or perhaps, drink with a straw.

Please contact us if you have any questions and thanks for reading our blog! 

Dr. Gary R. DiStefano, DDS & Associates 

517-546-8983 

http://howelldentistoffice.com/