Oral Health: Don't Forget the Tongue!

Teeth tend to get the spotlight when it comes to oral health and hygiene, but just focusing on teeth leaves out an important part of a good routine - the tongue! Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist office in southern Missouri, so we know what it takes to keep your mouth in a healthy and happy condition. Today we're diving deeper into oral health and talking about the tongue. Read on to learn more about how to keep your tongue clean and improve your oral hygiene routine.

Bacterial Growth

We all have a certain amount of bacteria in our mouths, some of it good and some of it bad. Good bacteria are there to help protect you from pathogens and illnesses. Bad bacteria are what can cause plaque buildup and tooth decay.

Both kinds of bacteria can grow and build up on your tongue, producing bad smells that are inconvenient and embarrassing. They produce substances that cause malodorous breath, including sulfur. This bad smell can be even worse if there are food particles for the bacteria to feed on. Keep your tongue clean to help limit stinky breath and bad bacterial growth in your mouth.

Healthy Color

When you're brushing your teeth twice a day, it's a good idea to pay attention to the color of your tongue to look for signs of an unhealthy mouth. Your tongue should be a natural, consistent pink color. If there are patches of red, yellow, or white discoloration, then you could have a serious issue that requires medical attention.

If your tongue is a uniform color but has a white film over the top of it, then you may simply need to improve your daily oral hygiene routine. This film is typically a combination of dead cells, food debris, bacteria, and mucus. Cleaning your tongue regularly should help reduce the appearance of this white film and keep your mouth healthier.

Cleaning Your Tongue

Keeping your tongue clean has a lot of important health benefits that include stronger teeth, better breath, less plaque buildup, and more! Make cleaning your tongue a part of your daily routine. Every time you use your toothbrush (which should be at least twice a day), gently brush your tongue with a small amount of toothpaste. This will help break up stuck on bacteria, food debris, etc.

It is also a good idea to take the extra step of using a tongue scraper at the end of your routine. A scraper can help thoroughly remove harmful materials, rather than just loosening them in your mouth. Tongue scrapers are relatively easy to find in most oral hygiene aisles at the drug store. Some are even built-in on the back of toothbrushes.

Visit a Local Missouri Dentist

If you are noticing that your tongue has some discoloration or if your bad breath can't be tamed by any amount of at-home dental care, then it might be time to consult the experts. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist's office in the Springfield area, and we have the knowledge and experience to help keep your mouth healthy. From your teeth and gums to your tongue, we have you covered! Call to set up an appointment: 1-877-DENTIST

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

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Tricks to Fight Sugar Cravings

Sugar is an unhealthy substance that has been shown to be bad for your health across the board. For teeth specifically, sugar can adhere to teeth and cause bacterial growth, plaque buildup, and decay. As the best dentist office in the Springfield area, Access Dental and Dentures is here to help. Today we are discussing how to beat sugar cravings for a healthier, happier lifestyle. Read on to learn more! 

Drink Water

Sometimes the body can get confused and cross its signals. If you are craving something sweet, your body could actually just be dehydrated and in need of water. Drink a large glass of water when you experience unhealthy cravings or hunger outside of mealtime. This could help satiate your body enough to curb cravings so you can say “no” to the office candy dish.

Eat Fruit

Fruit contains natural sugars that are significantly better for you than table sugar. Eating a handful of berries or an apple could help satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing good vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your diet.

Avoid Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are typically not actually better for you than traditional sugar. While both are bad for your health, artificial sweeteners can cause the signals that control appetite in your brain to get mixed up or ignored. Some sweeteners that are considered “healthy”, like Stevia, actually taste ten times sweeter than the average sweetener. If your taste buds develop an appetite for this sweeter flavor, it is likely that you will crave more of it in higher quantities.

Eat More Protein

Protein is a necessary nutrient to our diets, and it also helps you feel full for longer. If you feel full throughout the day, you are less likely to feel like snacking on unhealthy treats and sweets. Protein can help diminish your cravings as well, because your body doesn’t feel like it is in need of more nutrients.

Avoid Stress & Triggers

While avoiding stress is sometimes easier said than done, there are other ways to help your body cope other than eating sweets. A few things you can try to help cope with stress are… meditation, yoga, exercise, etc.

Avoid triggers or tempting situations like grocery shopping while hungry, or attending a party on an empty stomach. If you know you will be attending a party where you will be surrounded by a lot of sweets, eat a meal that is high in protein before leaving and make sure you are well hydrated. Chew on a piece of gum during the party to help prevent absent-minded snacking as well.

Your Missouri Dentist

Avoiding sugar can be difficult in this day and age. Sugar is a common additive in spices, condiments, sauces, and so many other food items. While eliminating all added sugar could be hard to do right away, starting to reduce your consumption is a great step in the right direction. Limiting sugar is great for your overall health, and your dental health in particular. If you think sugar has affected your teeth, call the best dentist in southern Missouri - Access Dental and Dentures! We will help check your teeth and make sure your oral health is in good condition.

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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What to Expect (with Dental Health) While Expecting!

Pregnancy is a beautiful, exciting, and sometimes stressful time in a mom’s life. It can be easy to forget about dental care with so many things to think about while you’re pregnant, but it’s important that you don’t neglect your oral health routine. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist office in the Springfield area, and we have the tips and information you need to feel confident about your dental health during your pregnancy. Read on to learn more about what to expect for your teeth when you’re expecting!

Gums

During pregnancy, it is common for mothers to suffer from gum inflammation. This is most common during the second trimester. Your gums could experience tenderness, swelling, and even bleeding. It is important to take special care when choosing a tooth brush that is soft bristled to prevent further aggravation of your sensitive gums. If it lasts for an extended period of time or hinders your daily life, it might be time to make an appointment with your local dentist to see if something more serious is happening.

Infection and Decay

When you are pregnant, your body can have a harder time fighting off infection. This is true across the board. While you may be focused on not contracting a cold or stomach bug, it is important to also remember your mouth and teeth. Your body could be struggling with fighting off bacteria and plaque buildup while pregnant. This additional buildup is bad news for your teeth and can cause cavities to occur more quickly. Pay close attention to your oral health during pregnancy to help ensure no serious infections or decay occurs.

Pregnancy Tumors

There is a strange phenomenon that can occur with pregnancy called pregnancy tumors. These growths occur under the skin of your mouth and are cause by excess plaque. Help prevent these inconvenient tumors by keeping your mouth clean with diligent dental habits.

When Baby Arrives

Infant oral care is very important. Even though your little one won’t have teeth when they first arrive, it is important to keep their mouth clean and help them start getting used to a good oral health routine early. At first, simply use a clean washcloth or baby toothbrush to wipe their gums. This will help remove milk residue that could be lingering in their mouths. 

As soon as teeth appear, start using a toothbrush during their daily routine. Start by simply brushing away food particles with the toothbrush and water. When your child is a little more advanced, you can add toothpaste to the routine. (Start with a child-friendly toothpaste until they get used to not swallowing it.) 

The age of two is about the time your child should start visiting the dentist to make sure all their teeth are coming in well and there are no concerning issues.

Dental Resource in Missouri

Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri. We pride ourselves on prioritizing our patients’ health and wellness. If you are expecting a new little one, or already have a small child at home, give us a call and set up an appointment. We would love to answer your questions and help keep you and the kiddos healthy and happy!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month with 5 Great Tips!

February is National Children's Dental Health Month! Sometimes children's dental habits get overlooked because it can be difficult to establish a routine for little ones. As the best dentist in Springfield, MO, Access Dental knows how important it is to establish proper dental care with your kids. If your child develops healthy oral hygiene habits early in life, they are more likely to stick with it in the future. Read on to learn some great tips on pediatric dental health!

1) Regular Brushing 

It is important to establish the habit of brushing your teeth twice a day. Create this habit by having your children brush their teeth right after breakfast and right before they go to bed. When they get used to this routine, it will become an expected part of their day... Even if they fight it at first.

2) Establish Flossing Early

Flossing helps clean those hard to reach places between your teeth to help prevent the buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. Food particles get trapped between teeth and can cause inflammation and infection if they aren't removed. Flossing can be difficult for little ones, especially if they are trying to use the traditional string dispenser. Try using a flossing pick instead to get them used to the feeling and habit of flossing.

3) Drink Lots of Water

Water is important for dental health as well as your overall health. Water rinses out your mouth and can help remove food particles that buildup during the day. Most tap water also contains a certain amount of fluoride, helping strengthen your child's tooth enamel.

4) Limit Sugar

Most kids love sugar. Candy, ice cream, gummies, cookies... They're a child's biggest weakness in most cases. However, sugar can build up on your kids' teeth and wear down the tooth enamel. Sugar is also the nutrient of choice for bacteria. Thriving bacteria can then cause inflammation and infection in your little one's gums.

5) Set a Good Example

Make your kids' dental routine a family affair. Brush your teeth with your kiddos so they can see how to do it and for how long. To help keep time, let your kid pick one of their favorite songs to dance to while brushing their teeth. When the song is over, tooth brushing is done! (The recommended amount of time is 2 minutes.)

Your Missouri Dentist

Helping your child improve their dental health habits is an important activity. You will help set them up for healthy success and a confident smile in their future. It's also important to bring your child to the dentist's office regularly to ensure they haven't developed any cavities or other harmful conditions. A dentist near Springfield, MO can help evaluate your child's teeth to ensure they are on the right track. Contact Access Dental & Dentures at 877-DENTIST today to schedule your child's dental checkup!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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All About Tooth Sensitivity

If you are experiencing sensitive teeth, you know how incredibly painful it can be. it can make it difficult to enjoy hot and cold foods or even smiling in cold weather. You may have a sensitive tooth every now and then, but if your teeth are consistently sensitive over a long period of time, then it could be time to see a dentist. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist's office in the Springfield area, and we would love to help you solve your dental sensitivity. Read on to learn what can cause sensitivity and how to fix it. 

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Bad Toothbrush

The wrong toothbrush can cause issues for your teeth. it is very common for someone to absentmindedly pick their favorite color without paying attention to the rating on the bristles' hardness. Use a soft-bristled brush rather than a firm one to protect your teeth and gums.

Teeth Whitening Products 

Because of what it does, whitening products have to penetrate your teeth to whiten away yellow stains. but this also means that it can damage your enamel if overused. Instead of trying your own whitening products, schedule an appointment with a professional dentist in the area, like Access Dental and Dentures!

Infrequent Flossing

If you don't regularly floss, then once you do remember to do it, your teeth can feel extra sensitive afterward. Floss regularly to keep plaque from building up and to make sure you are not making your gums overly sensitive.

Acidic Foods & Drinks

Acid is harmful to enamel and can wear it down until it is very thin, or even gone. Enamel is the protective layer on your teeth. So without it, there can be a lot of tooth pain.

Grinding Teeth

If you grind your teeth, the outer layer of your tooth gets worn down from the pressure. This exposes the dentin inside your teeth, which makes it more susceptible to sensitivity and decay

Cavities

Your sensitivity could be caused by a more serious issue than the others, though. It could be that your enamel has worn away and caused a cavity in your tooth. It is important to see a dentist to rule out this possibility. 

Try These Tips for Some Relief!

There are several things you can try at home to help with general sensitivity. If the pain continues, however, or is stronger in one tooth, consider visiting your local dentist to make sure it isn't being caused by something serious. If you are cavity and infection-free, try some of these tips to get lessen the sensitivity.

• Try a toothpaste formulated for sensitivity.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Floss daily to ensure particles aren't stuck and causing inflammation.
• Avoid acidic drinks like soda and coffee.
• Rinse your mouth out after meals to remove bacteria-causing food particles.

Prioritize Dental Care

Dental care is more important than a lot of people think. it isn't just about how white and straight your teeth are. If your mouth gets an infection that is not taken care of, it could spread throughout your body and eventually cause sepsis, which is often lethal. Take care of yourself by taking care of your teeth. Visit the best Springfield area dentist at Access Dental and Dentures to make your oral health a priority!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Important Facts About Wisdom Teeth!

Wisdom teeth are the typically the latest teeth to come in, which is why they have their name. Most commonly, they arrive when you are in your early twenties, but sometimes they don't come in until you are much older, if at all. Because they are unnecessary and often don't fit well in your mouth, they typically have to be removed at some point. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in southern Missouri, and we have put together a few facts about wisdom teeth that will help you better understand what they are and why you should have them removed. read on to learn more! 

What are Wisdom Teeth?

These teeth are the very back molars that come in when you are significantly older than when your first teeth came in. They do not replace any baby teeth and because they come in when you are older and wiser, they're given the name "wisdom teeth". Whether or not you have wisdom teeth grow in is determined by genetics. So if both your parents had to have theirs removed, it is likely that you will need to have them taken out as well.

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar, which is used to grind down tough foods so that they are easier to consume. Our diets are significantly softer and easier to eat now than they used to be, so wisdom teeth are no longer necessary. There is also not as much room to allow wisdom teeth to grow in. That means that they can start pushing your teeth together, causing cosmetic and in some cases physical issues for your teeth.

Signs It's Time to Remove Them

As wisdom teeth come in, you will likely feel quite a bit of pain, particularly as they break through your gums. They may also start pushing your teeth together, causing your "bite" to shift. If you are noticing jaw pain and that your teeth don't fit together as well when you bite down, it could be time to remove your wisdom teeth.

Getting an x-ray at our dental offices in Southern Missouri is the easiest way to determine how your wisdom teeth are coming in. Sometimes they can grow at a weird angle and become "impacted". Signs that you may have an impacted tooth include throbbing pain, swollen glands, tender gums, jaw swelling, and a painful headache. Any time that wisdom teeth cause pain, discomfort, or damage to your other teeth, it is time to have them removed. 

Care After Removal

Taking care of yourself after getting your wisdom teeth removed is very important. Your dentist will give you a syringe to help clean the areas where the teeth were removed. Used warm salty water to flush out the area after every time you eat. Your dentist may also recommend sticking to a liquid diet for a few days while your stitches heal. Make sure you don't use a straw and don't engage in any physically demanding activities for awhile. The suction and pressure from your elevated heart rate could cause the stitches to burst.

See Your Local Dentist 

The best way to stay on top of issues with your wisdom teeth is to regularly go to checkups with one of our trusted dentists in Southern Missouri. We will be able to advise you on the best practice for your specific situation. Our goal at Access Dental and Dentures is to ensure that you are healthy and that you feel confident in your one-of-a-kind smile!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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Access Dental Loves Supporting the Community!

Access Dental and Dentures is not just the best dentist in the Springfield area, but we also care deeply about our community and helping others. One of our favorite charities that we love to support is the Give a Child a Voice Foundation. This is an incredible organization that we are excited to share with you today. Read on to learn more about their mission and work, and how you could help support them this Valentine's Day!

Give a Child a Voice Mission

This foundation is a nonprofit organization with a positive message of empowerment and kindness to help children shine. They prioritize the values of Honor, Protect, and Educate. Give a Child a Voice Mission Foundation is a completely volunteer organization that strives to make the world a happier place. They organize fundraisers and community-building events and teach children they have worth. Giving children the tools they need to feel empowered and stay safe is an incredibly important part of their mission.

Fundraising for the Foundation

Give a Child a Voice raises money to support children in several ways. One of the unique platforms the organization uses to raise money is by offering books on Amazon - both traditional books and eBooks! One hundred percent of the proceeds from the books go to children's books for schools, kids' foundations, and fundraising events.

Valentine After Party

This year is the first ever Annual Valentine After Party, hosted by the Give a Child a Voice Mission. It will be held on February 15th, 2020 at the Relics Event Center in Springfield, Missouri. Find the event center at this address: 2015 Battlefield Springfield, Missouri. Happy hour starts at 6:30pm and then dinner will begin at 7:30pm. It is going to be a fun, entertaining event with great food and dancing! Tickets are $25 per person, and can be purchased on the Give a Child a Voice website, here.

Get Involved!

Because the Give a Child a Voice Foundation is run solely by volunteers, they can always use more help! Connect with their team to volunteer with the foundation and promote their mission to help children. If you are short on time, you can help by purchasing their books from Amazon. All proceeds are donated to children and the mission of the foundation!

Supporting the Community

At Access Dental and Dentures, we appreciate and support our community however we can. One of those ways is by donating to and supporting the Give a Child a Voice Foundation. They believe that Together We All Shine Brighter, and we agree! We hope you feel inclined to attend the fundraising event or donate to this wonderful cause in 2020 because every child was made to shine!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

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