Newport News Dentist | Optimal Gum Health for Seniors

Dentist in Newport News, VA

Dentist in 23608For seniors, it is imperative that gum health is a top priority. As you age, your risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases. Periodontal disease is both preventable, and in many cases, reversible. When left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications such as bloody or swollen gums, and even tooth loss. Even more alarming are the numerous studies connecting periodontal disease to other serious illnesses. Here’s what you need to know about gum health as you age.

Periodontal Disease and Your Overall Health

Periodontal disease has been linked to serious health issues. In fact, a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and King’s College London uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an increase in the rate of cognitive decline in those who suffer from early Alzheimer’s disease. In patients with periodontal disease, the study found cognitive decline underwent a rapid change, occurring six times as fast on average. Periodontal disease has also been found to increase your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke. Risk factors for these serious issues increase with age, among other causes, and it is especially important to limit potential risk factors where possible. This can be as easy as improving your gum health with a visit to our office.

The Numbers You Need to Know

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, moderate or severe periodontal disease was found in over 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74. The number increases to more than 20% for those over 75 years of age. Men were found to be more likely than women to have moderate to severe periodontal disease. Smoking was also found to have a significant impact. The same study showed 32% of current smokers had periodontal disease, compared to 14% for those who never smoked.

Steps You Can Take

As you age, it is essential to keep up with your gum health. Doing so is an important link in lowering your risk factors for other serious ailments such as heart disease, stroke, and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. You can keep your gums healthy by brushing twice each day for a full two minutes. Be sure to regularly floss your teeth as well. Flossing is an effective way to clean the hard-to-reach cracks and gaps where plaque builds up. Schedule a visit with our team for a complete gum evaluation. We can work with you to devise a course of action to ensure healthy gums.

Newport News Dentist | Dental Care Tips While Traveling

Dentist in Newport News, VA

Dentist in 23608When you are traveling, it can be challenging to keep up with your usual daily routine. For many people, this can include having difficulty finding the time to properly brush and floss. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, we have gathered a few helpful tips to help you stay on track with your oral health while you are away from home.

Pack Wisely

Be sure you are traveling with enough toothpaste and floss to last your entire trip, if possible. If space is tight, travel sized products can be a great option. You may also wish to purchase a disposable toothbrush for use during your travels. These often require less space and will not cause distress if accidentally left behind. Some disposable toothbrushes even come with toothpaste on already applied. These can be ideal for a one-day trip.

Cover Your Toothbrush

When you travel, you are likely to encounter new and varied germs along the way. Whether you are at a hotel or visiting family, you may be required to share surfaces used by many other people. Consider using a toothbrush cover that slips over the head of your toothbrush to protect it from contact with sinks or nightstands.

Drink Water

One fun part of travel is being able to eat and experiment with new and unusual foods. However, eating and drinking sugary or acidic drinks can be damaging to your teeth. Drinking water is an excellent way to wash away bacteria, as well as helping neutralize the acids that damage tooth enamel. Water also stimulates the flow of saliva, which helps to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Don’t Break Your Good Habits

Be sure to continue your daily oral hygiene routine while you travel. This should include brushing for two minutes, twice each day, as well as regular flossing. Traveling can make this difficult to fit in, but doing so will keep your mouth healthy.

Travel can be both fun and stressful. Don’t lose track of time and forget to brush and floss. Your teeth depend on regular, thorough care. After your return, schedule a visit with us. We will provide a comprehensive cleaning and examination while you tell us about your trip.
To schedule your next visit to our office, please contact our team.

Dr. Heather Pham Listed in Top 3 Dentists in Newport News

Newport News Dentist

Dentist Newport News

Peninsula Dental Care is proud to announce that Dr. Heather Pham has been selected as one of the Top 3 Dentists in Newport News, VA by the business ranking company Three Best Rated®.

Three Best Rated uses a 50-point inspection of each dentist’s reviews, history, reputation, cost, satisfaction, and more to determine their picks for the Top 3 Dentists.

Dr. Heather Pham’s dedication to providing trusted comprehensive family dentistry has earned her a place among the Top 3 Dentists in Newport News, VA. We hope you will join us in offering our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Pham!

 7 Habits that are harmful to your teeth and what to do about it!

Dentist Newport News

  1. Nail Biting

Nail biting may be less common today but I still see it quite often. It can cause teeth and fillings to chip and wear.

Solution: Be mindful. Paint your nails with a bitter tasting clear polish available at your local pharmacy.

  1. Brushing Too Hard

Toothbrush abrasion is one of the leading causes of “notching” along the gum line and gingival (gum) recession.

Solution: Always use a soft bristled toothbrush and never “scrub”. It’s not how hard you brush but how thoroughly. Plaque is easily removed if you are meticulous with your home care. This is also another reason why I prefer electric toothbrushes. They are less likely to cause damage!

  1. Grinding and Clenching

Bruxism (grinding) and clenching, especially at night while asleep, is a very destructive habit. It causes tooth wear, fracturing of dental restorations and can contribute to jaw joint dysfunction and muscle soreness.

Solution: If it’s during the day you can catch yourself and stop. Remember the Rule: Lips together- teeth apart! While sleeping you don’t have that control and therefore would need a Night Guard to protect the teeth and jaw joint and muscles.

  1. Chewing Ice Cubes

It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that chewing ice cubes, “jaw breakers” or other rock hard objects has the potential to break things.

Solution: Don’t do it!

  1. Constant Snacking

“Grazing” may not be so healthy for your teeth depending on what you eat. If you are frequently eating a lot of sugars or other refined carbohydrates, the bacteria in your mouth are constantly churning out acids which attack the enamel causing cavities.

Solution: Snack on nuts and cheese if you’re feeling hungry. It’s better for you and your teeth.

  1. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Teeth are for chewing food and nothing more! I see many emergencies from patients who thought they could use their teeth for something they were not intended for.

Solution: Find the right tool for the job!

  1. Sugary and Acidic Drinks

Sodas and energy drinks are the biggest culprits, especially if you sip on them throughout the day. The acids eat away at the enamel and promote an environment that decay causing bacteria love!

Solution: Drink water. If you must have an occasional soda or energy drink, consume it at one sitting and rinse with water afterwards.  In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding how to protect your teeth, don’t hesitate ask us the next time you visit our office.

Newport News Dentist | Are Dental Veneers Right for Me?

Dentist in Newport News

Dentist in Newport NewsWe often have visitors to our office ask about solutions for fixing stained teeth or filling in gaps between teeth. We sometimes suggest veneers. Veneers are one cosmetic option available for correcting your smile. Here’s what you should know about veneers, and whether they are right for you and your smile.

What Are Veneers?

A Veneer is a thin cover placed over the front of the tooth. Typically, they are made of dental porcelain and designed to cover your existing tooth, not replace it.

What They Do

Veneers are used to fix a broken or chipped tooth, shrink the noticeable gaps in between teeth, or reduce the visible stains on teeth. Our office specially sizes them to fit your teeth. Generally, the structure of your teeth is not altered since the veneers are placed over your teeth.

What You Need to Know

Those who get veneers sometimes experience a minor increase in sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold food and drinks. Veneers are typically nonreversible, as they often require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed. After getting them, it is advisable to avoid drinks such as wine, coffee, or tea that are often culprits of causing staining. Taking care of them still requires you to brush twice each day and floss regularly as well. Your teeth are not invincible to staining or decay so be sure to continue to take care of them.

It is important to know that veneers are a solution to minor tooth issues such as discoloration, gaps, or misaligned teeth. They are not a substitute for braces, bridges, or other dental work. Schedule a visit to our office to meet with our dentist. Together our team can work with you to develop a plan to reach the goals and look you are hoping to achieve.

For more information on how to achieve the smile you have dreamed of, contact our office. We look forward to seeing you during your next visit with us!

Newport News Dentist on Tobacco & Your Teeth: The Risks of Chewing and Smoking

Dentist in Newport News

Dentist in Newport NewsChewing and smoking tobacco are known to cause severe health problems, particularly in the lungs. But the risks to your mouth and teeth can be just as extensive and alarming. If you use tobacco, stop. Here’s what tobacco can do to your oral health.

Chewing Tobacco

According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), tobacco chewers increase their risk of developing gum and cheek cancers by 50 times. Tobacco dissolves the gums which leads to sensitivity from exposed roots. This also makes for an ideal location for bacteria to grow, leading to decay. If you are chewing tobacco, stop, and ask our experienced oral health team about what you can do to keep your mouth healthy.

Smoking

According to a report by the AGD, smoking one pack a day can lead to the loss of two teeth each decade of your life. Smoking increases your odds of losing teeth. Cigarettes and cigars are both damaging to your oral health. Smoking can cause staining as well, leading to an unattractive smile.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can develop in several places in your mouth including on your tongue, lips, mouth floor, and gums. Those over 50, are at an increased risk of developing oral cancer, as are men. However, Oral cancer has been on the rise, especially for people under 30 according to the AGD.  Schedule an appointment with us to receive a thorough oral health examination, and ask us about an oral cancer screening, particularly if you are a tobacco user. Oral cancer screenings are often very quick as our dentist checks your mouth, teeth, and cheeks for signs of irregularities. If caught early, oral cancer can be treated.

If you are a tobacco user, we strongly advise you to quit. You can work with our professional dental team as well as your doctor to overcome tobacco use. Everyone should be receiving regular oral health examinations, but if you are a tobacco user, you need to be especially vigilant in doing so. Schedule a visit to our office so that we can work with you to identify any potential issues.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us.

Top 5 Worst Foods/Drinks for Your Teeth

Dentist in Newport News, VA

newport news dentistIt is easy to eat or drink mindlessly without thinking about our teeth. We simply look at the food in front of us and disregard how it can affect our health. Here we look at the five worst foods/drinks for your teeth, so that next time you’re faced with these items, you’re conscious about how you’re affecting your body.

1) Lemons/Limes
Lemons and limes belong to a group of citrus fruits whose acidic nature can cause serious damage to your teeth. The high acidic is able to break down the enamel that protects your teeth. Over time, you’re left with very little protection from bacteria, leaving you with cavities.

2) Hard Candy
Not only can hard candy easily get stuck in between your teeth, the high sugar content makes your mouth and teeth perfect breeding grounds for bacterial reproduction. Since your mouth is already a perfect place for bacteria to replicate, you don’t want to add to the problem.

3) Alcohol
To a certain degree wine may be good for your heart, but it can be problematic for your teeth. Alcohol dries out the mouth and diminishes your saliva production levels. Salivation is a process that has numerous benefits, and slowing down the process can be hurtful to your teeth and your body. One of the many features of saliva is its ability to wash down the food particles in your mouth instead of letting it degrade on your teeth. Saliva also protects you from acidic foods.

4) Soda/Tea/Coffee
This one is no surprise. Soda is a combination of acidic and sugary ingredients. The two work great to breakdown the enamel in your teeth. Tea and coffee aren’t so great either. They too are able to break apart the protective layer surrounding your teeth, allowing the colored pigments to effectively change the color of your own teeth.

5) Dried Fruit
There aren’t too many food items that can get stuck in between your teeth as well as dried fruit. Without paying too much attention, dried fruit looks very harmless. They are fruit after all. What we don’t realize is their high sugar content and their sticky residue. As we breakdown the sugars from the dried fruit, an acidic byproduct breaks down our own teeth. This can eventually give way to cavities as well. Brush your teeth after eating dried fruit and you should be fine. Also, don’t forget to floss.

Tooth Decay – Something You Need to Know About

Dentist Newport News

Painful, infected teeth are not a pleasant experience, but they are common symptoms of tooth decay. The good news however is that tooth decay is preventable. Your best defense against decay is a daily oral hygiene routine, as well as regular visits to our office. It can be helpful to know more about tooth decay and what causes it so that you are better equipped with the knowledge to prevent it.

More Than Just Sugar

Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay. Sugar build-up and deposits on your teeth lead to the erosion of the tooth. While it is important to be mindful of the sugary products you are consuming, sugar is not the only culprit in causing tooth decay. Acids can also damage your teeth. Foods that are high in acidic content can speed up the process of decay. Our dentist suggests you avoid drinks and candies with high sugar or acid content. If you find yourself consuming such things, make sure to keep up with your daily oral hygiene routine.

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research recommends avoiding snacks between meals, limiting sugary drinks and fruit juices, and not eating or drinking before bedtime after brushing.

You Can’t Always Tell

Decay doesn’t always have noticeable signs. When discomfort is felt, it could be a sign the decay has spread beyond one tooth. In other words, by the time you do feel it decay is far along. This can be prevented by regular visits to our office. Our doctor can help identify potential issues early and you will receive the best possible treatments for your teeth.

Teeth with Fillings Still Need to Be Cared for Properly

Previous fillings do not mean that your teeth are free of decay forever. It is essential you maintain proper daily care of your teeth. It is possible to develop decay around existing fillings, so be sure you are taking extra care especially around fillings. If you feel your existing fillings are giving you trouble, schedule an appointment to see us.

Tooth Decay Not Just a Kids Thing

All age groups are equally at risk of developing tooth decay.  Parents should keep an eye on their children’s sugary snacks and treats, but this advice holds true for everyone. Senior citizens are particularly vulnerable because of certain medications can damage their teeth. It is essential that all age groups are receiving twice-yearly dental examinations.

Tooth decay is a common dental issue. However, with the right knowledge you can prevent damage to your teeth. Watch your diet and make sure you limit sugary candies and snacks. Remember, you won’t always be able to see or feel decay, so contact our office to schedule a regular visit.

For more helpful tips on preventing decay, or to schedule an appointment, contact our office.

April is National Facial Protection Month

Dentist in Newport News

In honor of Facial Protection Month here are 5 quick tips to prevent facial injuries. The idea is to raise awareness and remind parents/caregivers, coaches and athletes to play it safe while playing sports. 10-39% of dental injuries from sports are caused by a direct hit with a hard object, such as a ball, puck or player to player contact, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Protective eye-wear is essential in keeping your sight safe.

Wearing a face shield will avoid scratched or bruised skin. Hockey pucks, racquetballs, and basketballs are just a few that can cause severe facial damage at any age.

Helmets are the second most important safety gear. They can absorb the energy of an impact and help prevent damage to the head. A helmet can save your life and is an essential for biking, riding a horse, and skating just to name a few.

The number one prevention is a custom mouth guard worn when involved in contact sports. Mouth guards not only protect the teeth and jaws but can also protect against injuries to the neck and central nervous system by decreasing the force transmitted through the jaw to the base of the skull.  A custom mouth guard made by a dental professional is much less expensive than a dental emergency. Custom mouth guards will hold the teeth in place and still allow for normal speech and breathing. Custom guards help reduce risk of injuries to lips, tongues, and soft tissue in the mouth as well as guarding against chipped teeth, nerve damage to a tooth, even tooth loss.

Make protective gear mandatory for all sports and use common sense. If the activity carries a risk for injury, gear up. Without it a simple pick up game could end with you in the ER or an emergency trip to the Dentist. Be alert as a spectator at the games. Foul balls, hockey pucks, and even the bleacher steps can trip you up.

If you are interested in a custom mouth guard, contact our office and we will get the process started.

Keep that winning smile looking its best.  Stay safe and have fun this spring!

Peninsula Dental Care, PLLC

www.PeninsulaDentalCareVa.com

757-874-7155

5 Tips for Denture Wearers

Dentist Newport News

Taking care of your dentures can seem like an added chore. Don’t worry, with a little effort your dentures can stay clean. Here are 5 tips for keeping your dentures clean and your smile healthy.

  1. Rinse Thoroughly

Prior to brushing, it helps to rinse your dentures off.  Run them through water to help wash away food and other small particles. Be extra careful when handling your fragile dentures. Avoid using hot or boiling water, as that could damage your dentures.

  1. Clean Your Dentures

Just as you would brush your teeth, your dentures need to be brushed as well. Never use cleaning solutions while your dentures are in. Rather, remove your dentures and carefully brush using a soft toothbrush. Avoid using whitening toothpastes or harsh cleaning materials like bleach products. Talk to our dentist about the right type of cleaner for your dentures. Using too strong a solution can cause damage to your dentures.

  1. Don’t Forget to Brush Your Teeth

You still need to take care of your natural teeth. Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush. Be gentle when brushing and cleaning your gums. Cleaning your gums will help you reduce your risk of developing an oral infection. If your toothbrush is too rough on your gums, an alternative is to use gauze. Be sure to come see us if you are experiencing gum pain and we can make recommendations.

  1. Keep Them Covered

When you remove your dentures for bed, be sure to keep them in a covered container overnight. Use a denture-soaking solution to keep them clean overnight. Water works as a substitute, as your dentures need moisture to retain their shape. If you have any questions about storing your dentures, talk to us and we’ll help you.

  1. Care with Adhesives

It can sometimes be difficult to remove your dentures with an adhesive. If you are having trouble, try swishing warm water or a mouthwash around your mouth. Never use any cleaning solution, tool, or foreign object to remove your dentures. Take special care to ensure the grooves of your dentures that attach to your gums are clean and free of adhesive.

When taken care of properly, your dentures will provide you with a lasting smile. Be vigilant in keeping up with cleaning your dentures. If you have any questions about caring for your dentures, get in touch with our office. We would be happy to work with you to figure out a solution for your denture concerns.

For more tips on keeping your mouth healthy or to schedule your next appointment, contact us today.