Dental Bluetooth Technology Meets Toothbrush

In today’s world full of activity monitors and sleep sensors, why wouldn’t you use some of this wonderful new technology to track your quality of tooth brushing? Philips and OralB now offer Bluetooth enabled toothbrushes that track your brushing habits.  Accompanied by a mobile application, this toothbrush could be changing the way we brush our teeth. You might be thinking, do I really need a toothbrush with Bluetooth in it? Let’s take a look at what is has to offer and see if this new technology is something you need. 

When the ordinary technology of Bluetooth combines with a toothbrush you create an all-new dental experience. Offered anywhere between $100-$300 your toothbrush can now track your movements. All you have to do is download the accompanying application that will sync with your toothbrush. After each brush, the application and will show you graphics of what your brushing looks like as well as provide other tracking tools that promote oral health. Your Valencia dental professionals recommend you also track your flossing, mouthwash use, and tongue cleanings, which is available in the application!  



In the mobile application, you can track your brushing performance while it coaches you through your brushing weaknesses.  Here are some great examples:

• Time spent brushing your teeth. The ADA recommends you brush your teeth for 2 minutes. The toothbrush and app will let you know when your 2 minutes have been completed. 
• The pressure applied to your teeth. Brushing too hard or too light is not good for the enamel on your teeth, or for your gums. The Bluetooth technology can sense how hard you are pushing when brushing your teeth and the application will inform you which areas you need to lighten up on, or apply more pressure. 
• The amount of coverage. When brushing your teeth, you want to make sure to completely brush all sides of all your teeth. Sometimes, certain areas are forgotten and the app will be able to tell you if you’ve missed any areas. 

Here at Go Dental, we love new emerging technology! This Bluetooth enabled toothbrush technology may be just what you need to kick your oral health into shape. Let your Valencia dentist help determine if a Bluetooth enabled toothbrush is right for you, and how to best use a Bluetooth toothbrush! 
Images courtesy of Oral-B via iTunes.


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Go Dental - Top Valencia Dentist

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Finding The Right Toothbrush

Most of us don’t give much thought to the seemingly simple utensil you use (at least) two times a day—the toothbrush. Whether you’re using an electric, rechargeable toothbrush or a simple, low-tech toothbrush, there many factors that contribute to a making the right choice for your teeth. 

Electric vs. Manual

The single most significant difference between toothbrushes is the difference between electric and manual. Electric toothbrushes offer unidirectional, rotational, and ultrasonic motions. These automated motions can help remove the plaque and gingivitis. Manual toothbrushes, however, are much more affordable. Come see your Valencia Dentist before purchasing an electric toothbrush, and we’ll make sure to recommend the right one for you. 

Size

The average length of a medium-sized toothbrush head is just under an inch. Toothbrushes for infants and children will vary in size. If you need a smaller head to help reach further crevices in your gums, a small head toothbrush might be better for you. The head of the toothbrush should be able to reach all areas and surfaces of your teeth and gums (including the back of those molars!).

Shape

Head Shape

The shape of the head itself is designed to help the brush comfortably navigate your mouth. A diamond shape may help reach the posterior teeth while the conventional rounded rectangle may work just fine for you. Additionally, brands offer a “polishing cup” shape, which includes a rounded bristle clump that helps focus brushing on one specific tooth.

Bristle Shape

The bristles on a brush come in a few varieties. These include block, wavy, multilevel, and crisscross. In many ways, a bristle is a bristle, so don’t let this detail tie up your decision-making process! Look for a toothbrush with a nice variety of bristles, as each is designed to reach between teeth where plaque and tartar build-up can occur. 

Handle Shape

While the shape of the handle doesn’t change the toothbrushes impact too much, it can have an impact on your comfort. Choosing a contra-angle or flexible handle may make your brush more comfortable to use. 

Hardness

You will have the option of soft, medium, or hard nylon bristles. This is the density of bristles on the toothbrush. If you are a heavy brusher, a soft brush may help prevent harm to your gums and enamel. For most, a soft brush is the safest and most efficient. 

Color

Of course the color of your toothbrush doesn’t have an impact on your dental hygiene, but brushing your teeth should be fun! For kids especially, make sure to pick up something colorful and fun to encourage happy and consistent brushing.

Final Thoughts

A comfortable toothbrush will make you more likely to keep brushing and will help you keep up with a complete dental hygiene routine. Along with picking the right toothbrush, making the right decision on toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash will enhance your twice-a-day routine. When picking out a new toothbrush, make sure to look for a toothbrush that has earned the Seal of Approval from the American Dental Association (ADA). If you’re still not sure which toothbrush is right for you, ask your family dentist in Valencia! We’re always happy to help.

Go Dental - Top Valencia Dentist

smile@thedentist.com

Sharing Spoons with Your Toddlers? Think Again

Parents beware! 

New studies have shown that sharing spoons during mealtime actually puts your toddlers’ oral health at risk. Recent studies have shown that tooth decay in children aged five to nine have grown nearly 14% since 2011.

While many mothers are not aware of how easy it is to transfer their oral bacteria, fewer know that even kissing their child on the lips can transfer some harmful bacteria. The tip to prevent this is to practice good oral hygiene on yourself, and impart a healthy tooth cleaning routine for your child.

However, there is a bright side: only parents who have active tooth decay and are carrying the Streptococcus mutans bacteria will be putting their children’s teeth at risk. If you are suffering from tooth decay, be sure to schedule an appointment with your friendly Valencia dentist today to get that cleared up. Not only for your health, but also your child’s.

If you are unsure how to teach your kids the healthiest brushing methods, be sure you ask your friendly Valencia dentist today. Not only can we teach you how to take care of yourself, but we can also teach you ways to ensure your child has a happy, healthy smile.

Go Dental - Top Dentist in Valencia
smile@thedentist.com

Gingivitis and You

Gingivitis is often talked about, but not many people know exactly what is going on when they are diagnosed with it. Well, your friendly Valencia dentist is here to help explain it to you.

Gingivitis is inflammation of the gingiva, A.K.A. your gums. Inflammation is most commonly caused by buildups of bacteria, more commonly called plaque. This bacterial buildup causes an immune response from your body, typically resulting in swelling. Gingivitis is also a mild, non-destructive form of periodontal disease.

However, if left untreated, gingivitis can become periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss.

If your teeth bleed when you brush them, or if your gums are red and puffy, you may want to get checked for gingivitis. Sometimes, you may have it without even realizing it, due to milder symptoms. Luckily, good oral hygiene is typically enough to help rid yourself of gingivitis, including brushing and flossing, and the use of antiseptic mouthwashes.

Some other common symptoms are swollen gums, tender or painful gums, bad breath, flexible or soft gums, and bleeding gums. If you have any combination of these symptoms, it may prove beneficial to meet with your friendly Valencia dentist as soon as possible.

Keep in mind that plaque buildup is not the only cause of gingivitis. Cancer, diabetes, and HIV are linked to higher risks of developing gingivitis. Smoking commonly causes gingivitis, as well as some medications. Finally, hormones can play a part in it, especially during puberty, menopause, or even pregnancy – they lead to more sensitive gums, increasing their risk of inflammation.

There are many treatments your friendly Valencia dentist can discuss with you, most of them can be done from your own home. If you have any questions or concerns, schedule your appointment today.

Go Dental - Top Dentist in Valencia
smile@thedentist.com

Naturally Occurring Plant Chemical Could Prevent Tooth Decay

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh found a naturally occurring chemical that just may block plaque and bacteria from adhering to your teeth, preventing future tooth decay.

The chemical, trans-chalcone, is similar to chemicals found in licorice root, and has been found to prevent bacteria from creating a protective biofilm, and stopping plaque formation.

The bacteria Streptococcus mutans metabolizes sugar and carbs into harmful acid, causing tooth decay. Once this bacteria is able to create a biofilm, it adheres to the surface of the tooth in the form of plaque. Without proper oral care, plaque will break down the protective enamel on your teeth, allowing decay to set in.

The chemical would inhibit the bacteria from forming into plaque, significantly reducing the amount of potential tooth decay. Combined with regular visits to your friendly Valencia dentist and daily brushing and flossing, this could potentially positively impact oral health forever.

So far, the trials have shown that the chemical will react with a biofilm creating enzyme found in Streptococcus mutans, preventing its formation. But this is in a test tube. Trials in real settings have yet to take place.

Until this chemical comes into use, you will have to visit your friendly Valencia dentist for all of your oral health needs and make sure to brush and floss at least twice a day.

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Hidden Benefits of Brushing Your Teeth

Aside from the obvious dental health benefits of keeping your teeth clean, there are several previously unknown benefits emerging as studies continue. As a result, it is more important than ever to keep your smile in tip-top shape by visiting your friendly Valencia dentist regularly.

Brushing lowers the risk of dementia.

There is no direct cause known between your dental health and developing dementia, but recent studies have shown that older adults who don’t brush daily have a 65% greater chance of developing dementia later in life. Of course, brushing your teeth will not prevent you from getting Alzheimer’s disease and dementia – it’s not a cause and effect.

Brushing lowers the risk of heart disease.

Adults who regularly go for their thorough dental cleanings have a much lower risk of heart attacks than those who skip out.

Brushing lowers the risk of stroke.

Patients who come in for their regular checkups and professional scaling have a decreased risk of suffering from a stroke later in life.

Brushing lowers the risk of pneumonia.

Regular brushing helps kills bacteria, preventing it from moving into your lungs and developing into pneumonia or even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These conditions develop when bacteria travels from your throat into your lower respiratory tract.

Brushing lowers the risk of preterm babies.

Pregnant mothers who regularly visit their dentist reduce their risk of delivering preterm babies, and the babies suffer less from preterm low birth weights. It is important to talk to your friendly Valencia dentist throughout your pregnancy to ensure a healthy mom and a healthy baby.

Brushing lowers the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Chronic gum disease is much more common in men suffering from erectile dysfunction. Keeping your gums clean and healthy may lower the risk of developing it down the road.

If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health, and, most importantly, your future health, be sure you schedule your appointment with your friendly Valencia dentist today.


Go Dental - Your Valencia Dentist

(661) 257-0880

smile@thedentist.com