Dental x-rays or radiographs are an important part of your dental care. Along with an oral examination, they provide your dentist with a more complete view of what’s happening in your mouth.

BENEFITS OF X- RAYS

X-rays give your dentist a picture of your hard tissues (teeth and bones) and the soft tissues that surround your teeth and jawbones.

According to the American Dental Association, x-rays can show tooth decay, fillings, gum disease, and types of tumors. Dental radiographs can also alert your dentist to changes in your hard and soft tissues. In children, radiographs allow the dentist to see how their teeth and jawbones are developing. Early detection of an infection or injury also can limit or prevent further damage to other areas of the mouth.

SAFETY OF DENTAL X-RAYS

Many wonder if x-rays are safe because they expose the patient to radiation. The ADA states that the amount of radiation used to obtain dental radiographs is very small. Dentists follow the ALARA principle, which stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable,” when obtaining radiographs. This radiation safety principle limits your exposure by incorporating the following techniques: use of the fastest image receptor (that is, the fastest film speed or digital speed); reduction in the size of the x-ray beam to the size of the image receptor whenever possible; use of proper exposure and processing techniques; duse of leaded aprons and, whenever possible, thyroid collars.

Your dentist will decide when radiographs are needed on the basis of your oral examination findings, any symptoms you report, a review of your health history, your risk of experiencing oral disease, your age, or any combination of the preceding.

Peanut butter is a heart-healthy food with good fats, but that classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich from your childhood might not be such a great idea for your mouth. Most kinds of peanut butter are made with a lot of sugar that feeds acid-causing bacteria.

Here at Fox Dental, we recommend looking for peanut butter with no added sugar. It’s also a good idea to drink lots of water and brush afterward to make sure all of the sticky substance is removed from your teeth.

Peanuts and peanut butter can have benefits for your mouth, in fact, some research suggests that they can decrease your chances of gum disease. Just make sure to buy brands with only natural peanut oils not added fats. Peanuts are also a great source of protein which is an important building block for a healthy mouth and body. The protein in peanuts helps form and repair cells.

Of course, there are some risk factors of eating peanuts like breaking the shell. Using your teeth to break the shell is a major no-no. You’ll risk chipping or even cracking a tooth, which can be seriously painful. Instead, use your hands or opt for the already shelled variety.

Again, there is often a lot of unnecessary sugar so always check the ingredients and pick brands free of added sugars and syrups. And remember the sticky treat can stay on your teeth, promoting plaque-causing bacteria so be sure to brush and you can keep enjoying the delicious sticky snack!

If you’re brushing your teeth like you are scrubbing your sidewalks, you’re brushing too hard. Overzealous scouring with your toothbrush will lead to gum recession and wear on tooth surfaces and roots. Brushing mistakes can actually cause problems like gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and weakened tooth enamel.  

Here are some tips to remember when brushing your teeth:

Keeping Your Toothbrush Too Long

• The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you change to a new toothbrush every 3-4 months. After about 3 months, the bristles of your teeth start to wear and do not clean as well and can irritate your gums. Also, if you’re sick, make sure to change your toothbrush.

5. Brushing Too Hard

• Proper technique is important because brushing back and forth in a scrubbing motion puts you at risk for gum recession and tooth wear. A great way to know if you’re brushing too hard is to check for bristles that look flattened or frayed. If they are, you are brushing too hard. The ADA offers brushing tips here. 

Improperly Storing Your Toothbrush

• Even the CDC knows the importance of toothbrushing, which is why they offer recommendations that include how to properly care for your toothbrush. Basically, it’s best to thoroughly rinse your toothbrush after use and store it uncovered and upright to dry.

Rinsing with Water After Brushing

• This is a common mistake that many of us make because we want to rinse the toothpaste out of our mouths. But when you rinse it out with water, you also rinse away the fluoride that is meant to strengthen our teeth. So, instead of rinsing, just try to spit out as much as possible and wipe your mouth.

Brushing Too Fast

• According to a Journal of Dental Hygiene study, most people brush 45 seconds on average, which is far below what dental professionals recommend. Oral health professionals recommend that you brush for two minutes each time you brush.  

Not Including Floss

• Your teeth have five surfaces, three surfaces that you can brush, and two in-between surfaces that your toothbrush can never reach. If you don’t include floss into your cleaning routine, you risk leaving harmful bacteria behind that can cause cavities and gum disease.

At Fox Dental we are here to be your dental health partner. If you have questions about how to brush properly, our dentists and hygienists are always happy to answer questions and offer recommendations for you to get the best out of your brushing! Call our office at 717-761-0341.