toothbrush Archives | Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Farhat of Dental 1 Care

Tips for Brushing Habits

February 20, 2020 by dental1admin Leave a Comment

It’s a common fact that every person should brush their teeth every morning and night, but there are a few more things that must be done in order to keep your mouth healthy. As a matter of fact, you might have some bad habits that you think is beneficial for your mouth.

It’s never too late to start taking good care of your oral health. To start, check out the list below of common habits that might be causing harm to your teeth and gums.

You Brush Too Hard

Of course, you put a little force when you brush your teeth; how else are you supposed to get the plaque and food residue off your teeth? However, applying excessive force when you brush can irritate your gums and damage your teeth. Too much force can even lead to scratches and infections if done often.

It may come as a surprise but plaque is loose and soft which makes it easy to remove from your teeth. It only becomes harder to remove when it turns into tartar. Even if you put excessive force into brushing, it still won’t be removed. The only way to remove would be to get a teeth cleaning service by a dentist. And besides plaque wouldn’t even form on your teeth if you brush two times a day every day.

You Share Your Toothbrush

If you are willing to use your partner’s toothbrush when you cannot find yours then you are not alone. Most couples do not think there is anything wrong with it. All in all, it’s almost disgusting to share your toothbrush with someone else. Even though at first it may not seem that bad but sharing your toothbrush can result in different types of germs transferring into another person’s mouth which can become a serious problem.

You might notice yourself getting sick more frequently than normal since the flu virus can stay on a surface for several hours, which is, in this case, the toothbrush. The bacteria can even lead to cavities which are also very contagious. Your partner might not even know they have a cavity; hence you are putting the health of your mouth at risk.

You Keep Using the Same Toothbrush For Too Long

Here is a fact that not too many people know about; your toothbrush needs to be changed every three to four months

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you change your toothbrush at the start of every season. That is because your toothbrush accumulates germs over time and the bristles of your toothbrush also start to fray or break with extended use. These older bristles will not clean your teeth the way they are meant to, which will allow plaque to form. This can harm your teeth and gums if the plaque turns into tartar, which will then require a professional orthodontist to perform a dental cleaning session. If you are wondering where to go to do that if in case tartar has formed on the surface your teeth or you just want to get your teeth shining white, then you should visit Dr. Fardi Farhat. In Sterling Heights, MI. Dr. Fardi Farhat combines his years of experience with his skills to guarantee that the client is fully satisfied.

10 Important Oral Care Tips For Seniors

August 13, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Aging diminishes one’s physical health in so many ways; this is why it’s essential for seniors to be more conscientious of their lifestyle and habits.

To ensure good health even in old age, one of the most important components is proper oral care. With proper oral care, periodontal disease — which is often linked to flare-ups of cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and cancer (illnesses that commonly plague the elderly) — can be prevented.

Here are 10 important oral care tips for seniors that a trusted dentist in Sterling Heights, MI strongly recommends:

Daily brushing is a must – even for those who wear full dentures. Brush twice a day to keep the mouth free from bacteria.
Floss once a day. For those who still have most of their original teeth, flossing is imperative in preventing calcular deposits from resulting in tooth decay.
Switch to “sensitive teeth and gums” products. Stop using those hard bristle toothbrushes and switch to soft bristle ones. Also, if flossing is proving to be tricky, switch from traditional dental floss to air floss. This air floss is better for people with compromised fine motor skills; it releases jet streams of water to dislodge food particles between teeth without hurting the gums.
Use the right toothpaste formula. For those with dry mouth, it’s better to use a toothpaste that is specifically formulated for it.
Visit the dentist regularly. Older folks are more prone to oral cancer, so it’s imperative to go to the dentist on a regular schedule for oral screening, cleaning, and other necessary treatments. It’s important to make dental visits regularly as well to make sure that gum recession is addressed. Gum recession is highly likely for older people and this can expose teeth roots, making teeth hyper sensitive.
Use special mouth rinse products to maintain the healthy pH balance of the mouth, as well as keep breath fresh.
Quit smoking. For those who still can’t kick the habit, it’s crucial to do so as soon as possible. Smoking not only dehydrates the mouth, which makes it the perfect environment for bacteria growth, but it can create other health issues as well.
Improve diet. Bread is an enemy because it can contribute to the fast development of plaque and tartar. Eat more fruits and vegetables, which are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals to keep gums and teeth healthy.
Drink water often. This will do the body a lot of good and it can help flush out bacteria from the mouth and maintain healthy pH levels.
Chew a freshening, sugar-free gum after eating. This will stimulate the salivary glands to produce more saliva to maintain the mouth’s appropriate pH level, and at the same time, more saliva in the mouth will help dislodge food debris between teeth and gums.

There you have it — 10 oral care tips for a healthy mouth. Seniors are advised to follow them all consistently in order to effectively prevent oral health woes.

What do White Spots on Teeth Mean?

May 10, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What White Spots On Teeth Mean

Everyone wants to have white teeth. They are some of the best natural accessories you can present to the people around you to feel more confident. Because of this, many often visit their dentist to undergo teeth whitening treatments, or decide to pick the DIY option.

White spots on teeth, however, can have a different effect on a person’s smile. If they are numerous, they become too unappealing and will have a negative impact on your smile. Aside from this, though, most of the time these spots shouldn’t really be a cause for concern.

Causes

Discovering the cause behind the white spots on your teeth is a good step to know if you should start worrying about this dental issue or not. A dentist in Sterling Heights explains the usual causes of white spots on teeth below:

Flourisis. This is a dental condition common among children which damages the tooth’s enamel due to excessive intake of fluoride before their teeth are fully developed. People who often drink water with high fluoride content are also prone to getting white spots on their teeth.
Decalcification. In certain cases, white spots can also be a sign that a cavity or tooth decay is beginning. The spots will appear where the tooth is weaker, usually toward the bottom of your tooth where your gums are. If you are particularly fond of eating and drinking sugary and acidic food or beverages, your teeth will more likely develop these white spots due to mineral loss. Decalcification is also known as plaque buildup.
Plaque buildup. Failing to make sure your teeth is completely clean, particularly before going to sleep, can cause hard, scaly spots to appear near the gum line. They can appear as spots and will cause your teeth to look more discolored.
Brace removal. Lastly, some persons with orthodontic braces usually have trouble properly brushing their teeth. Because of this, it is highly likely that there was a plaque build-up which can now be easily seen after having their braces removed. In this instance, the white spots have already developed or will turn into cavities.

Treatment Options

A visit to your dentist can help you determine the cause behind the white spots on your teeth. Once this has been identified, your dentist will recommend the best treatment option.

If the spots are plaque, you will have to undergo oral prophylaxis. Bleaching and fluoride treatments are usually the first procedures a dentist will recommend if a less invasive option would be sufficient. For more difficult cases, an air abrasion procedure may be needed. Under this treatment option, the dentist will use a device that blows crystal particles toward the calcium deposit. Because of the high speed or force, the calcium deposit will be removed from the teeth without causing any damage.

If air abrasion still doesn’t work or the spots are too big, you may need fillings to cover them. A dentist can also recommend dental veneers or caps to cover up the spots.

Practicing good oral hygiene also plays an important role in preventing the appearance of white spots. Regular brushing and flossing will help you avoid plaque and cavity buildup. It is also important to visit your dentist every six months so that any possible dental issues can be checked, diagnosed, and treated immediately. Call us today to schedule an appointment!

Other Uses For Listerine You Should Know About

April 20, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Listerine is the most popular brand of mouthwash. You see it in nearly all medicine cabinets or bathroom counters, from homes to hotels to hospitals and dental clinics. The small bottles are also quite handy; you can place them in your bag and use it to gargle with after a meal, allowing you to have instant fresh breath wherever you are.

But aside from giving you fresh breath and helping keep your teeth plaque-free and your gums healthy, there are other uses for Listerine that are quite surprising and you may not even know about. These include the following:

As an anti-dandruff solution.

In the past, Listerine was marketed as a product that can help you get rid of dandruff. This solution didn’t really gain popularity but various studies show that this is an effective solution. If you want to try this remedy, combine ¼ cup Listerine and 1 cup of water and rinse your hair and scalp with the mixture. Afterwards, rinse your hair thoroughly.

As a lice removal product.

Nothing can be more uncomfortable and embarrassing than having lice nesting on your hair. The good news is that you don’t have to buy shampoo that will help you get rid of them; you can use Listerine. Simply apply the mouthwash to your lice-infested hair and cover it with a shower cap. Leave the treatment on your hair for at least an hour and then rinse your hair thoroughly with water.

As a skincare product.

Because of its ingredients, you can use Listerine as an alternative to your usual toner or astringent. Its alcohol content, in particular, can clean your pores and help you get rid of bothersome, unsightly acne. Your skin will also smell fresh after every use, too.

As an anti-itch remedy.

If you’re feeling itchy on some parts of your body because of bug bites, rashes or poison ivy, dab some mouthwash on the affected area. You’ll get instant relief and experience its cooling and soothing effects immediately.

As a deodorant.

You don’t have to fret and run to the nearest supermarket or drugstore if you run out of deodorant. If you have a ready stock of Listerine, simply soak a cotton ball in the product and dab the cotton ball under your arms. You can also pour the mouthwash into an empty spray bottle and spray your armpits with the solution. Listerine helps prevent body odors since it kills the bacteria that produce these bad smells.

As an anti-fungal product.

Lastly, some people suffer from toenail fungus. If you have this problem, soak your feet in Listerine for at least 30 minutes every day. The ingredients in the mouthwash will help you get rid of toenail fungus. Your feet will smell better, too.

Listerine is known as an oral care product. But it can easily be a versatile healthcare product as long as you know how to use it properly. To learn more, contact your sterling heights dentist today!

What’s Causing Your Tooth Sensitivity?

December 15, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can prevent you from enjoying a vast variety of foods. You’ll find that sour foods like mangoes or lemons make you scrunch up your face not only due to their tart taste, but also because of the pain that their acidity inflicts on your teeth.

It’s the same thing with really cold and hot food; if you have tooth sensitivity, instead of enjoying these foods, you’ll find yourself wincing in pain every time you take a bite. And worse, you’ll feel the same pain when you brush and floss your teeth.

But what causes tooth sensitivity?

Vigorously Brushing Your Teeth

A Sterling Heights dentist shares that tooth sensitivity is caused by different factors. One likely cause is you probably brush your teeth vigorously. Hard brushing can wear down your tooth’s enamel and expose the microscopic canals that lead to your dental nerves. When you consume hot, cold or acidic food, those nerves feel the impact right away, and so you feel pain.

Bruxism

A second factor is the tendency to grind teeth. Bruxism wears down enamel just like vigorous brushing. Therefore, if you grind your teeth in your sleep (or even when awake), you really are likely to suffer from tooth sensitivity.

Teeth Whitening

A third factor is frequent teeth whitening. Tooth sensitivity is an established side effect of the treatment, be it through a home whitening kit or performed by a dentist. The tooth whitening agent hydrogen peroxide penetrates the enamel and this results in sensitivity. The sensation is temporary, but if you frequently use teeth whitening kits, you may become prone to longer-lasting sensitivity.

Excessive Plaque

A fourth possible reason behind tooth sensitivity is if you have excessive plaque. You may not be aware that underneath that plaque, your teeth are already damaged, and the damage exposes nerve endings.

Cracked Tooth

A crack in the tooth is also a cause of teeth sensitivity. A chipped or cracked tooth can expose nerves that react to hot, cold and acidic foods.

And the last possible cause of your teeth sensitivity is a recent dental procedure. The dentist in Sterling Heights says that it’s rather common to experience sensitivity after a root canal, an extraction, or the placement of a crown. The uncomfortable sensation is temporary, though, so if it lingers for days and days, it’s best to have yourself checked by the dentist because you may already have an infection.

The good news here is that for whatever reason (or reasons) you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are effective solutions available. Meet with your Sterling Heights dentist to see which of these solutions is the most appropriate for your condition.

How Good Oral Hygiene Influences Your Overall Health

December 13, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

How Good Oral Hygiene Influences Your Overall Health

Brush your teeth after each meal. Floss regularly. Don’t eat too many sweets. Visit your dentist at least twice a year.

Since you were little, your parents and teachers have emphasized the value of practicing good oral hygiene. Sometimes, parents use scare tactics to force children to take better care of their teeth and gums. Perhaps you yourself have experienced the agony of having a severe toothache at one point in your life.

However, most people think that practicing good oral hygiene habits is limited only to oral health.

But according to a Sterling Heights dentist, that is just partially true. In fact, your oral health influences your overall health.

Indeed, if you fail to understand the importance of good oral hygiene, you can succumb to a diverse array of oral health problems ranging from toothaches to tooth loss.

However, the stakes are actually higher than most people know and believe. In fact, several studies have linked poor oral hygiene to diseases and conditions like oral cancer, heart disease, strokes, bacterial pneumonia and problems during pregnancy.

Simply put, you cannot be healthy without having good oral health.

Fortunately, there are several lifestyle changes that you can implement to improve both your oral and overall health. What are these changes?

Watch Your Sugar Consumption

A diet that is rich in sugar is one of the leading causes of both tooth decay and gum disease. The reason behind that is that the bacteria in the mouth thrive on sugar. These bacteria then produce acids and enzymes which destroy the tissues of the teeth and gums.

Quit Smoking

Smoking has long been associated with a long list of diseases. In the context of oral health, the use of cigarettes and other tobacco products has been linked to gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer. Cigars, on the other hand, have long been known to cause gum disease and some types of cancer. Smoking also causes bad breath and tooth discoloration.

Limit Your Alcohol Consumption

You do not have to be a teetotaler, but you should be aware that drinking alcohol adversely affects your oral health. Alcohol consumption can dehydrate your mouth which, in turn, paves the way for bacteria to wreak havoc on the teeth and gums.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or underweight seems like an unlikely cause of oral health problems. However, if you do not maintain a healthy weight, this can affect the gum pads. This is particularly crucial if you are already wearing dentures.

Consult Your Dentist and Doctor About Your Medications

Some types of medicine undermine oral health by staining the teeth and making the mouth dehydrated. Some medications have also been known to cause bad breath.

Contact your local dentist in Sterling Heights, at Dental1Care to talk about the best oral hygiene habits.

5 Vital Reasons to Brush and Floss

June 17, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

5 Vital Reasons to Brush and Floss

Adhering to a good oral health routine is a must in maintaining a nice smile and preventing bad breath. Likewise, it’s the most reliable method of preventing tooth decay, which is the leading cause of those terrible toothaches. However, there are other vital reasons to brush and floss; this one-two punch for oral health is instrumental in supporting overall health in ways that you may not be aware of, and it actually can save you a significant amount of money.

The Benefits of Regularly Brushing and Flossing

Let’s start off with the practical benefit of regularly brushing and flossing properly: You get to avoid expensive dental treatments. Tooth discoloration, cavities and other types of tooth damage that are rather costly to treat can be avoided. Just think about how much money you’ll save by never needing special treatments for these dental woes and frequent visits to the dental clinic.

A second reason to brush and floss, according to new studies, is that bacteria in the mouth that cause tooth decay and gum disease can increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease and suffering a stroke. Oral bacteria can attach to fatty build-up in the arteries and this can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Help Reduce the Possibility of Alzheimer’s Disease

A third reason is that there have been some pieces of evidence relating tooth loss (due to improper oral hygiene) before the age of 35 to Alzheimer’s disease. You can reduce the likelihood of experiencing this disease by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth to avoid tooth loss.

The fourth reason is that oral bacteria can weaken your immune system. A weak immune system automatically makes you prone to all kinds of diseases — both minor and more serious ones. One of the most common diseases that you can develop due to a weakened immune system is a cold, which can actually evolve into pneumonia. So control the proliferation of bacteria in your mouth by brushing after every meal and flossing at least once a day.

How Dental Care Can Affect Your Overall Health

And lastly, medical experts claim that sores in the mouth and cuts due to improper oral care will allow bacteria to enter your blood stream and cause infection in your heart, lungs and other vital organs. Also, if you often have inflammation in your mouth, this can create inflammation elsewhere, too. You may develop rheumatoid arthritis at a much younger age.

All these reasons reinforce the need for proper oral care. Therefore, if you want to be as healthy as you can possibly be, do not ever overlook the power of regular and correct brushing and flossing. Another critical aspect to remember is the importance of regular dental visits. Your Sterling Heights dentist can help ensure proper oral care. Schedule your routine dental visit today!