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Tips and Tricks for Handling Halloween Candy

October 28, 2016 · Children, Preventative Care · Comments Off

Surviving Candy Season with Healthy Teeth!

Halloween is such a fun holiday for kids and adults alike. But, did you know that the days and weeks following Halloween is a busy time at the dentist’s office? All that sticky, gooey, sugary candy can end up doing a lot of damage to teeth and dental work. Want to skip the extra time in the dentist’s office this year? Take a look at our “tricks” for maintaining your family’s dental health through the candy season:

First, don’t allow your children to take their candy haul to their rooms. Not only will they end up with stomach aches, they will probably have candy multiple times throughout the day and evening. That’s a lot of sugar on their teeth!
Have candy for dessert, right after meals. The increased saliva in the mouth at mealtimes will help wash away the sugar and acids from the candy. Have everyone floss and brush soon after finishing.
Parents, be extra vigilant about everyone flossing and brushing for at least 2 minutes, twice per day. This is your best line of defense against cavities.
Add in crunchy, raw veggies and fruits to the family’s diet. Most kids love to munch on raw carrot and celery sticks. The crunchy texture helps remove bacteria from teeth.
Offer sugar-free gum after meals and candy, and chew for 15-20 minutes. Only give gum to children who are old enough not to swallow it. Gum poses a choking hazard for toddlers and young children.

All Halloween Candy Is Not Equal

Do you know which types of candy are better for teeth? And which candies are riskier to dental health? Here’s a quick run-down of the good, the bad, and the ugly:

Hard candy: Be extra careful allowing children to have these. They pose a choking hazard for young children. They take a long time to dissolve in the mouth so teeth are bathed in sugar for a lot longer. When bitten or chewed, hard candies can cause cracked teeth.

Sticky candy: Things like caramels, taffys, and gummies stick to teeth and are harder to remove, even with good brushing. This allows acids and bacteria to flourish on teeth and cause decay. Very sticky candies, when chewed, have been known to pull out caps, crowns, and fillings, which will require an immediate dentist visit.

Chocolate: Great news for chocoholics! Chocolate is the best candy for teeth (other than sugar-free candy). It is easier to clean off teeth and is usually not sticky, unless it’s combined with caramel or toffee.

Sour candy: Did you know that sour candies are very acidic? The high acidity weakens and breaks down the enamel on teeth and makes them more vulnerable to decay. It’s probably best to minimize consumption of sour candy.

For more great tips about enjoying Halloween candy, check out the American Dental Society’s article here.

From all of us at Raleigh Family Dentistry, including Dr. Hoyle, have a safe and fun Halloween with your family! As always, don’t hesitate to call our office at 919-981-6021 if you have any questions or concerns about your family’s dental health.

Don’t Let Your Dental Insurance Benefits Expire!

September 30, 2016 · Dental Insurance · Comments Off

Did you know, more than 90% of dental insurance plans are based on the calendar year? Usually that means you must use your benefits by December 31 or they are lost. Typically, benefits do not accrue or roll over to the next year. You or your employer paid for those benefits, use them!

How does it work?

Most dental insurance plans cover the full cost of twice-yearly cleanings and exams. For treatments, dental insurance often works a lot like a discount coupon. You save a certain percentage off (usually 50%) for common treatments. For more extensive treatments, it is always wise to call your insurer’s customer service helpline.

Basic things to know about your plan

At the beginning of each calendar year, check the following details about your dental insurance plan:

Is there a deductible?
What is your plan’s annual benefit limit (this is often a low number, like $1,000)?
How often are X-Rays covered?
If you have children covered, does your plan cover sealants?
What are the plan’s restrictions and exclusions?

Why not wait?

Again, it’s “use it or lose it” when it comes to your dental insurance benefits. Here are several reasons why you should not wait until the last minute to see the dentist:

End-of-the-year appointment calendars fill up quickly.
Many dental issues require more than one visit to complete treatment. In order for your insurance to cover the entire cost under your 2016 plan, all visits need to be completed in 2016.
Often staff use vacation and holiday days off at the end of the year, so dental offices may have fewer appointments available.

A tip for Veterans

Are you a veteran? If yes, be sure to let your insurance carrier know. Some (not all) insurance carriers offer extra benefits to veterans.

If you need dental treatment, don’t be afraid to ask the staff at your dental office how to maximize your insurance benefits. At times, this can save you significant dollars!

Your best defense against high dental costs is prevention. Be absolutely certain everyone in your family receives their cleanings and dental exams twice per year.

Don’t let your 2016 dental insurance benefits expire unused. In Raleigh, call the offices of Dr. Hoyle at Raleigh Family Dentistry at (919) 981-6021.

What Everyone Ought to Know About TMJ

August 31, 2016 · Dental Blog, TMJ · Comments Off

Don’t Let Bruxism Compromise your Dental Health

Do you grind your teeth, either during the day or night? Do you sometimes have pain in your jaw area? You could be suffering from TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, a very common dental problem.

TMJ is an ailment of your facial jaw muscles and bones. The disorder can begin at any time in life. Injury, bite changes, and stress are some of the most common causes. TMJ is on the rise particularly due to our high-pressure lifestyle. We’re stressed out! These symptoms could be a sign you have TMJ:

Pain in your jaw, ears, or neck area
Frequent headaches, especially in the morning
Multiple cracked teeth
Restricted movement in jaw
Clicking, popping, or locking of jaw

If you suspect you or a family member have TMJ, make an appointment to see your dentist soon because symptoms usually do not improve on their own. Most treatments are simple, low-cost, and don’t involve surgery.

Before you see the dentist, if your jaw pain is bothering you, try switching to a soft foods diet for a few days. Avoid gum chewing and don’t chew ice or candy. Try to rest your jaws as much as possible.

One of the reasons you should see your dentist if you suspect you have TMJ and not rely on OTC remedies is that dental problems, not stress alone, may be the cause. If your bite is uneven or you have loose or missing teeth, this can trigger clenching. Bite adjusting procedures or appliances, such as a bridge, can resolve the issue and reduce TMJ.

What are some of the solutions to TMJ? The easiest and most effective solution is usually a custom made night guard or bite guard. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and bite and will custom design a night guard just for you. Night guards protect your teeth from damage when you grind in your sleep. Custom night guards are recommended by the American Dental Association.

If stress is the only underlying cause of your TMJ, then we recommend you proactively seek to reduce your stress. Most of us can’t change our jobs or most other sources of stress, but we can change our response to it. Try meditation, massage, and slowing down when possible. Relax and stretch your jaw muscles before bedtime or any time you catch yourself clenching your teeth. Medical treatments for stress may be available from your family doctor.

At Raleigh Family Dentistry, we would love to assist you with any of your dental concerns, including TMJ. If you suspect you have TMJ, call our office today at (919) 981-6021 for a consultation with Dr. Hoyle in Raleigh.

Common Questions About Children’s Dental Health

July 7, 2016 · Children, Dental Blog, Preventative Care · Comments Off

As parents, we love our children and want them to be healthy. Did you realize that dental health is a big part of overall health? By following a good cleaning routine and being prepared for an emergency, parents can help their child’s smile remain healthy. Here are some of the most common questions parents have about children’s dental health:

Q: How old should my child be for his 1^st trip to the dentist?

A: A child needs to be seen by a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth. Since this usually happens between 4 and 8 months of age, the first dentist visit can occur around the first birthday.

Q: Should I take my child to a pediatric dentist or to my own dentist?

A: This is parents’ choice. If your dentist sees pediatric patients, it may be more convenient to have the entire family seen at one practice. This enables your dentist to establish a relationship with the whole family. In some instances, a pediatric dentist may be preferred. Their offices are often less intimidating and more child-friendly. Either way, a “happy visit” to a dental office is recommended before the actual visit, in order to help your child feel comfortable.

Q: Do young children really need to use a fluoride toothpaste?

A: According to the ADA, the answer is yes. For children younger than 3 years old, a tiny swipe of children’s fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) is recommended. For children 3 and up, use a pea-sized amount on a children’s toothbrush. Parents must supervise and manage the toothpaste and brushing routine for young children.

Q: Should I get sealants on my child’s teeth?

A: The answer is that it depends on your child’s age. Sealants are not typically recommended before the 6-year molars erupt. Dentists usually recommend sealants for children between 7-10 years old. Sealants are a great preventative measure and are often covered by insurance.

Q: What are those little white spots on my child’s front teeth?

A: A valid diagnosis can only be given in person by a dentist, but it sounds like Enamel Hypoplasia. White spots on teeth are extremely common. Usually they are not serious and don’t need treatment. Occasionally, the enamel in that area is broken down or decay may be present. It’s a good idea to ask your child’s dentist to take a look at them.

Q: What should I do if my child is injured and knocks out a tooth?

A: If your child knocks out a permanent tooth, quick action is needed to save the tooth. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface) and rinse it in warm water or milk. Place the tooth back into the socket if you can, or else place it in a cup of warm water or milk. Another option is to have the child hold the tooth in his mouth, between the cheek and gums. The child needs to be seen by a dentist or in the ER within 30 minutes of the accident if at all possible. For a knocked out baby tooth, follow the same directions but treat the situation as less of an emergency. If the baby tooth cannot be saved, a spacer can usually hold space in the child’s mouth until the permanent tooth erupts.

Would you love more information about children’s dental health? Want to teach your child great dental habits? Try a few of these quizzes with your child:

The more you as a parent show a positive attitude about taking care of your teeth and visiting the dentist regularly, the more your child will embrace good dental habits. Dr. Robert Hoyle, DDS, at Raleigh Family Dentistry, is always happy to welcome children and their parents to his practice. If you have further questions or would like to make an appointment, please call Raleigh Family Dentistry at 919-981-6021 today.

8 Great Reasons to Choose Sealants

June 8, 2016 · Dental Blog, Preventative Care · Comments Off

Are you looking to up your dental protection game, especially for your children? Sealants are the answer! Sealants are a plastic resin that is applied to the grooves and pits of the chewing surfaces of teeth, particularly molars. They are widely used to protect the most vulnerable areas of teeth from decay, infections, and disease. Here are 8 great reasons we recommend sealants to our patients, especially our youngsters:

Around 70% of children will have at least one cavity that requires filling before age 19. Dental sealants are a great way to prevent cavities. They seal out the acids and bacteria that lead to tooth decay.
Sealants can be applied any time after the 6-year molars appear. Most dentists think it’s best to apply sealants before the teen years, the sooner the better.
Sealants are appropriate for adults, too. For adults with particularly cavity-prone teeth, sealants may be a great preventative solution.
Sealants last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. After they have worn away, they will need to be reapplied. The condition of your sealants will be checked at every dental exam.
They are easy and painless to apply. No numbing medicine is needed. A full set of sealants can be applied in one dental visit.
Sealants are usually covered by dental insurance. (Check with your dental insurance carrier.) They are relatively inexpensive and cost less than filling a cavity in a tooth. In this case, the protection is cheaper than the cure!
Sealants are invisible and won’t stain. No one will know you have them except you and the dentist.
Sealants are safe. The ADA recommends them for nearly everyone.

If you are ready to choose sealants for yourself or your children, here’s what to expect:

Sealant material will be “painted” on to the chewing surfaces of the teeth, especially along the grooves and pits. It will bond to the tooth and harden. Sometimes a special curing light is used to harden the sealant material. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to clean your teeth for the rest of the day. Be sure to follow those instructions carefully. Usually patients return to their normal brushing and flossing routine the next day.

Regular cleanings and dental visits twice per year are still required to maintain dental health. Sealants do not provide protection against gingivitis, gum disease, oral cancers, and some other dental problems. Be sure to keep your dental appointments and your daily oral care routine at home.

Dr. Robert Hoyle at Raleigh Family Dentistry would love to help you and your family with all your dental needs, including sealants. Give his friendly staff a call today at 919-981-6021 .

Understanding the Connection between Dental Infections and Heart Disease

May 4, 2016 · Dental Blog · Comments Off

Did you know there is a correlation between dental health and heart health? It’s true. Dental infections, including periodontitis (gum disease) are linked with other health concerns such as heart disease, diabetes, premature birth, and chronic health problems. Not coincidentally, gum disease and heart disease have many of the same risk factors: smoking, advanced age, and poor self-care. It’s important to understand this connection and act to protect your overall health.

The main reason for the correlation between oral disease and other medical problems is inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to bacteria and infection. The signs of inflammation in the mouth are red, swollen gums that are tender or painful. In more advanced cases of gum disease, the gums are receded from the tooth and there are pockets of pus present. Doctors now know that inflammation, especially in the mouth, leads to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This condition is damaging to blood vessels and will ultimately lead to heart disease and stroke.

An overabundance of harmful bacteria in the mouth is the trigger for gum disease. Since gums are very vascular, meaning they contain a lot of blood vessels, bacteria in the mouth easily gets into the bloodstream. It is these bacteria that can trigger inflammation in other parts of the body, especially in the walls of the blood vessels. Certain types of oral bacteria contribute to stroke risk as well.

When gum disease is treated and reduced, the amount of bacteria found in the bloodstream is also reduced. Doctors and dentists know that antibiotic use is not the solution. Overuse of antibiotics is an overall health threat that leads to bacterial resistance and superbugs. Treatment of gum disease is the solution. More information about treatment options can be found in our previous blog here. Of course, regular dental visits and great dental cleaning habits at home are the first line of defense.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable, which is a positive step towards overall health. A report in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine finds that those who received proper treatment of gum disease had fewer hospital stays and lower medical costs overall than those who were not treated.

Getting treatment for periodontitis with Dr. Hoyle at Raleigh Family Dentistry is an investment in your good health. Dr. Hoyle can evaluate your oral health and design a treatment plan that is appropriate for you. Let Dr. Hoyle and his caring staff welcome you and your family to their office today. Call Raleigh Family Dentistry at (919) 981-6021.

Are You at Risk for Gum Disease?

April 12, 2016 · Dental Blog · Comments Off

Your gums are the foundation of your mouth and are critical to your dental health. Many people have gum disease, also called Periodontitis, and don’t know it because the disease is painless in it’s early stages. Gum disease is inflammation and infection in gum tissue. It occurs when food, saliva, and bacterial plaque combine on teeth and gums. The bacteria multiply and produce acids. It is these acids that attack tooth and gum tissues.There are some signs and symptoms of gum disease. If you notice any of the following issues, be sure to discuss them with your dentist:

* Red, puffy gums
* Bleeding gums
* Persistent bad breath
* New spacing between teeth
* Loose teeth
* Pus around the teeth and gums
* Receding gums
* Tenderness or discomfort

There are some risk factors that can make some people more susceptible to developing gum disease. Be especially vigilant about your oral care and alert your dentist if you have any of the following:

* Family history of gum disease
* Smoke or chew tobacco
* Diabetes, blood cell disorders, or HIV/AIDS
* Pregnancy or oral contraception use
* Use of certain medications that inhibit saliva production
* Have ill-fitting dental appliances

Since oral health is something everyone should be concerned about, what steps can be taken to reduce the risk of developing gum disease? Brushing at least twice per day and flossing once per day are the essentials, as they remove the plaque, food debris, and acids that cause gum disease. Get regular dental care; visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and have any other needed dental procedures performed.

There are treatments available to address gum disease. In the early stages of gum disease, treatment can begin with an improved daily routine of dental hygiene. Adding an oral rinse to your routine may be prescribed by your dentist. If you smoke or chew tobacco, quitting will increase your gums’ ability to heal. Next, your dentist may offer in-office deep cleaning treatments called scaling and root planing. Further medical treatments may be performed by your dentist or a periodontist, a specialist. Some treatment options include:

* Debridement, the removal of unhealthy tissue
* Medication, such as antibiotics
* Oral surgery: gingivectomy and/or gingivoplasty

For more information about the treatment of gum disease, see the website for the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.

If you’ve been diagnosed with any level of gum disease, you will want to take action to reverse the problem. In severe, untreated cases, teeth can be lost and irreversible damage to underlying bone can occur. At Raleigh Family Dentistry, we are experts at helping patients regain their healthy smile. Dr. Robert Hoyle treats each patient with care and respect. Call us today at 919-981-6021 to schedule your appointment in Raleigh.

Fear of the Dentist’s Drill – and what to do about it!

March 4, 2016 · Dental Blog · Comments Off

Most of us are familiar with that high-pitched whirring sound that emanates from the dental drill. Studies have shown that up to 10% of Americans, including those here in Raleigh, have a true phobia. Very few of us would say we like the sound of the drill, but there are those among us (like me) for whom the sound of the drill can trigger panic mode: breaking out in a sweat, racing heart, a desire to flee. Sometimes the root of the problem is a painful past experience at the dentist’s office. For others, it’s the loss of control over the situation. And for a few of us, the real fear is dreading the bill!

Is sedation the only solution for those who are fearful? No, and sedation carries extra risks and expense (sometimes in the thousands!). Of course, sedation is a valid option for those having dental surgery. While some anxiety is common, if your fear of the dental drill is causing you to avoid the dental chair until there’s a painful problem in your mouth, then here are some tips to help you overcome and keep your mouth healthy.

1 – Talk to the dentist and the assistant about your fears. Don’t say “I hate the dentist,” as no one likes hearing that and it won’t help establish a trusting relationship with your dentist. Instead, tell the dentist what makes you feel anxious and if anything has gone wrong in the past. Your dentist is willing to explain the procedure you need in detail, step by step, if that is helpful for you. You might request to see and touch the dental drill and instruments if that would give you a sense of control.

2 – It also helps to ask your dentist to test you to make sure you are completely numb before beginning to drill. Some of us think we can’t ask for more anesthetic but in most cases your dentist is happy to top-off your dose to ensure numbness.

3 – If the sound of the drill is what really bothers you, then bring headphones and an mp3 player or earplugs to drown out the sound. Most dental offices don’t offer these to their patients because they would need to be cleaned after each use. Usually you are welcome to bring your own. Think ahead about what kind of music will help you most in the dental chair – soft and relaxing music or something with a fast beat? Either way, turn it up loud enough that you don’t focus on the sound of the drill. Just keep a finger on the pause button in case you need to communicate with your dentist.

4 – Agree on a hand signal with your dentist that you can use at any point during the procedure if you feel pain or need a break. Just knowing that you can stop at any time can increase feelings of control and lessen fear of pain.
For more helpful ideas, visit the non-profit Dental Fear Central.

Our dentists at Raleigh Family Dentistry are sensitive to our anxious patients’ needs. In Raleigh, call us today for your consultation at (919) 981-6021.

28 Awesome Foods to Eat Following Dental Surgery And the Best Places in Raleigh to find Them!

February 4, 2016 · Dental Blog · Comments Off

It’s easy for us to understand that you might not be looking forward to your recovery period following dental or oral surgery. You will most likely be prescribed a soft diet for several days following your dental procedure. Buy some of these foods in advance (whenever possible) so you can take it easy at home for a few days. Patients who are well prepared often have a smoother recovery period. Maintaining a healthy, varied diet after your surgery will help your body heal and fight off infection.

Be careful with hot foods and drinks after dental surgery. Prepare or cool these items to a lukewarm temperature to avoid burning or bleeding in your mouth. Some extra sensitivity is normal for a few days following surgery.

Jell-O is a great food to start with after you return home. Add in a greater variety of foods as you and your body feel ready. Here are some foods to try, and some great places to get them:

Vegetables:

For fresh veggies, nothing beats locally grown. It’s better for you and our local economy. Try The Produce Box delivery service, which serves all of Raleigh, Cary, and many other areas of North Carolina.

Soups (smooth rather than chunky)
Mashed avocado/guacamole
Fresh spinach, kale or other greens, cooked very soft
Sweet potatoes, baked until very soft
Soft-cooked carrots, soft cooked squash (mashed if necessary)
Vegetable juice (such as tomato juice)

Fruits:

We love our nearby Lowe’s Foods for a great selection of fresh fruits and juices. Take a peek at recipes, too, on LowesFoods.com.

Fruit juice
Fruit smoothies
Mashed bananas
Baked apples
Applesauce
Canned peaches or pears

Proteins and Meats:

When you feel ready to go out, or if someone can bring food in, try the Pho at Pho Far East on Capital Blvd. in Raleigh.

Soup with soft meats (be careful with pieces of meat in soup, they can be too firm)
Soft-cooked fish
Scrambled egg or poached egg
Beans (mashed if necessary)
Tofu

Starchy Carbs:

For non-perishable dry goods, try ordering in advance from DirectEats.com. They offer free shipping too!

Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
Pasta or noodles (not al dente!)
Cooked rice, risotto
Cooked cereal, oatmeal, cream of wheat (with or without mashed fruit)
Muffins, pancakes (without nuts)

Dairy:

Nothing beats dairy products from Publix. Their store-brand yogurts are fantastic!

Milkshakes, milk drinks
Yogurt, with or without soft fruit
Cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, other very soft cheeses

Desserts and sweets:

Who doesn’t love frozen custard? Yum! Without the candy add-ins, it’s easy on your mouth, too. Try Goodberry’s Frozen Custard!

Popsicles
Ice cream
Soft moist cake – moisten in milk, coffee or other liquid if necessary

Just as important as what you do eat post-surgery is what you don’t eat. Please avoid chewy or tough meats (like steak), popcorn, pretzels, crusty breads, chips, and very spicy foods. Many of these things can aggravate the tender area in your mouth.

If you have any questions about your dental care, pre- or post-op, feel free to call us at (919) 981-6021.

*Always follow your doctor/dentist’s post-op instructions!

Top Eleven Reasons to Choose Veneers

January 4, 2016 · Dental Blog · Comments Off

Porcelain veneers are a great choice in today’s dentistry. A veneer is an ultra-thin layer of porcelain or composite created specifically for you in a lab, then bonded to the surface of your tooth. Many of our patients choose veneers for these great reasons:

Veneers can give you a beautiful smile without the cost and time of orthodontia. Veneers are used to fill in gaps between teeth and give the appearance of straight teeth.
Porcelain veneers are natural looking, as porcelain imitates the luster and look of enamel. Together with you, our dentists choose the most natural shade to match your teeth.
Veneers can whiten teeth that are otherwise hard to whiten. Not all teeth respond to whitening procedures. Since porcelain is not porous and won’t stain, your bright new smile is easier to maintain.
Veneers can fix damaged teeth. Porcelain veneers are used to repair chipped or (in some cases) broken teeth.
Veneers can be used to fill in the dark “triangles” or spaces left between teeth due to receding gums or gum disease. Porcelain does not irritate gum tissue.
Veneers can be applied to one tooth or to many teeth. Multiple veneers can create a youthful, model-worthy smile!
Veneers can strengthen weak or worn down teeth, thereby prolonging the useful life of your natural teeth.
Veneers require very little patient prep and are painless to apply. You and your dentist can decide if any numbing anesthesia is needed for you.
Veneers are a more conservative, less invasive option than crowns. Installation of a crown requires removing some healthy tooth, but veneers need much less tooth shaving.
Veneers are very durable. Today’s porcelain veneers are very strong and should last 2-3 times longer than composite fillings.
Veneers can be completed quickly! Even if several veneers are ordered, the process usually takes only two dental visits. You can be wearing a beautiful new smile in under a month, with no down time!

Are you ready to have the smile you’ve always wanted? If you have any questions about veneers or other dentistry, please call Raleigh Family Dentistry today at 919.981.6021 to schedule your consultation.

Tips and Tricks for Handling Halloween Candy