5 Work Habits that Ruin Your Teeth

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Often lost in thought, a result of stress, or simply trying to pass the time, bad habits in the office can do damage on your teeth. Here are 5 workplace habits that won’t leave you smiling.

  1. Chewing On Pens & Pencils. A nasty habit for both germs and teeth, chewing on pens or pencils is often done without us knowing. Making this a habit will wear down the edges of your teeth, cause sensitive, and could even lead to tooth fractures. Try snacking on something else!
  2. Using Teeth as Tools. When the tool we need is not readily available we often try our teeth, a habit which is not advised. Doing so can lead to chipping your teeth, compromising enamel, or breaking a tooth. Take the extra second and find the tool you’re looking for.
  3. Consistent Coffee. Coffee is hard on your teeth, yet so many of us drink it. Instead of getting rid of coffee, we suggest that you do nurse your cup of joe throughout the day. There are also other substitutes for caffeine like green tea. Try to eliminate the additives like sugar and always swish with a glass of water after.
  4. No Toothbrush at Work. Plaque doesn’t wait for you to get home to start forming. The longer it remains on your teeth the harder it is to remove. We recommend having a toothbrush in the office for when you get done with lunch or that morning cup of joe.
  5. Smoke Breaks. No surprise here, smoking is one of the unhealthiest habits one can have. Besides causing respiratory problems and lung cancer, smoking can lead to oral cancer, gum disease, tooth loss, and cavities. Ask your doctor for help on quitting.

If you suffer from these habits or have damage that needs to be repaired due to these habits, call us at (949) 612-2356 or fill out our contact form![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

6 Dentist Recommended Foods for Oral & Overall Health

Everyone appreciates a beautiful smile, it transcends cultures, economic levels, and exudes an infectious happiness to all those it surrounds. Those pearly whites are not just for show, and many of us underestimate the impact of overall health that runs through our mouth. It’s a testament of the old saying “you are what you eat.” Choose to treat your body well and it will return the favor. From how you handle oral hygiene to what foods you eat, it’s a simple fact- you’ll get out what you put in.

With that said, everyone on this planet gravitates to tasty food. And for that reason as well as good health reasons, we’ve compiled a list of 6 dental friendly, gut friendly, and overall health friendly foods proven serve your body well.

Yogurt

A quick slimming favorite, yogurt comes packed with probiotics, or bacteria that help your stomach digest, and helps the amount of fat your body absorbs. When picking a yogurt, always go for a greek yogurt of the traditional kind and be sure to find a brand that is low in sugar. Greek yogurt comes in both nonfat or low-fat versions and contain only half as much sodium as regular yogurt with no artificial sweeteners or preservatives.

  • Promotes healthy bacteria for the stomach and gums
  • Reduces amount of fat your body absorbs
  • High in protein
  • Calcium strengthens teeth
  • Fights cavities by reducing mouth acidity

Eggs Whites

As previously mentioned, dairy products are quite beneficial for teeth and in moderation do wonders for the waistline. Eggs are a great source of inexpensive, high quality protein. More than half the protein of an egg is found in the egg white along with vitamin B2 and lower amounts of fat and cholesterol than the yolk. The whites are rich sources of selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12 and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper.

  • Contain calcium and fluoride that promote healthy tooth enamel
  • RIch in selenium, Vitamin D, B2, B6, B12, Zinc and Copper
  • Low in fat & cholesterol

Quinoa

Fantastic because it nearly goes with everything, quinoa offers a rice-like substitute to most dishes. Quinoa is naturally gluten-free and contains a lot of fantastic nutrients like iron, B-vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, vitamin E and fiber. Furthermore, it is one of only a few plant foods that are considered a complete protein and comprised of all pernine essential amino acids.

  • Low in fat & cholesterol
  • Gluten Free
  • Promotes healthy tooth enamel
  • High in protein, amino acids, vitamins, and fiber

Chia Seeds

A miracle worker in the form of a tiny seed, chia seeds are packed with calcium, phosphorus, Vitamin A and zinc. Zinc prevents tartar by keeping plaque from mineralizing onto your teeth and has an antibacterial effect that keeps bad breath germs away. Vitamin A and phosphorus are also important for strong teeth and a healthy mouth. Chia seeds do wonders for digestive health, energy levels, muscular health, bone strength, heart health, skin, and even have been linked to fighting cancer as well as curing diabetes!

  • Defends against plaque build up
  • Vitamin A and Phosphorus for a healthy mouth & enamel
  • Countless benefits for the body inside & out (stomach, bone, skin, hair, and heart)

Salmon

Among the healthiest foods on the planet, fish are loaded with important nutrients, such as protein and vitamin D. Furthermore, fish is also the world’s best source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are incredibly important for your body, brain, and even combat oral pathogens!

  • Helps prevents against cell damage
  • Fights against arthritis and improves bone density
  • Aids with depression
  • Increases cardiovascular health
  • Excellent source of vitamin D
  • omega-3 fish oils DHA and EPA can reduce the risk of periodontitis

Vegetables

Extremely low in fat and calories, vegetables don’t often make the cut in the modern diet. Vegetables are crunchy- and firm foods generally contain lots of water and require a generous amount of chewing. Foods that fall into this category are good for oral health because they stimulate the production and flow of saliva and actually scrub tooth surfaces, brightening your pearly whites! Veggies are great for the mouth, gut, and overall health because they are packed with nutrients our bodies thrive off of.

  • Act as nature’s floss
  • Low in calories and contain no cholesterol
  • May reduce risk for heart disease, including heart attack and stroke
  • Rich in fiber and may reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes

At the end of the day the best care is preventative care. What you put into your body is what you’re going to get out of it! These 6 foods are the some of the leaders in helping you heal your gut, shed pounds, and take care of your mouth all at the same time. Invest in your mouth, gut, and health!

Toothpaste Guide to the Galaxy

As we all know biannual checkups to the dentist are a must, but what about the in between time? You should be doing your part brushing, flossing, and mouthwash rinses are common recommendations to keep oral care. However, if you’re picky or have sensitive teeth, it can become quite cumbersome when choosing a toothpaste for you. When the time comes, take these recommendations down the aisle with you:

For Whitening

Nearly all brands highlight the fact they offer a whitening benefit of using their toothpaste, but some products embody harsh contents to achieve this whitening feature. Be aware of whats in your toothpaste so prevent it from causing further issues like sensitivity. Most whitening pastes are not recommended for anyone under the age of 18. It’s key to consult your dentist before making a choice.

For Tarter Control

Tarter is an unsightly phenomenon that affect some people more than others. Regardless of your situation, fighting tarter and tarter build up is key for proper oral health. These toothpastes are proficient at deterring tarter before its become more difficult to remove plaque.

For Kids

Kids should have their own toothpaste. A toothpaste that is made for their young teeth. As they grow so should the choice in toothpaste that they use. Safe toothpastes for kids offer features that are specifically designed for children like swallow safe, additional flavors, and contain less fluoride.

For Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth are an annoyance for any who suffer from them. Fortunately there’s a toothpaste for that. To ease discomfort from cold or hot foods, these toothpastes use potassium nitrate or strontium chlorides to reduce the nerve sensitivity with your teeth and ease the pain.

Always be positive that your toothpaste now and future ones you buy are approved by the American Dental Association and set a good example for kids by brushing your teeth twice daily. Feel free to contact our Newport Beach office for help with choosing your toothpaste.

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes

Today’s toothbrush has not strayed from the original 1930s design as the core concept has yet to change. Until the 1990s, the toothbrush finally had a competitor of an automatic kind. This, of course, being the electric toothbrush which offers a different method for oral hygiene. Since the manual and electric toothbrushes have been sharing the playing field it has often been debated which works better. Here are some pros and cons of each brush:

Manual Toothbrush

Pros:

  • Your teeth will be clean with the correct technique. Brushing only takes 2 minutes and you can most definitely keep your teeth at a grade A+ level with a manual toothbrush.
  • Multiple brush styles, bristles, heads and colors to choose from. There are countless colors, style, and more to choose from. Whether you have soft gums or a smaller mouth, there’s a toothbrush out the for you to pick from.
  • Easy travel. All you need is your toothbrush and toothpaste for your trip. Batteries or charging outlets aren’t a thing with a manual toothbrush.
  • No batteries or charging to worry about.
  • Inexpensive. Manual toothbrushes are often free when you visit your dentist or cheap when buying over the counter.

Cons:

  • Increased work. They’re called manual for a reason.
  • No Timer Mechanism. Unlike Electric brushes, manual toothbrushes require you to time your brushing duration.

Electric Toothbrush

Pros:

  • Simple to use. A powered toothbrush is very easy to use. Place the toothbrush at a 45° angle and cover each area evenly.
  • Lighter work for better results. Electric toothbrushes have shown in studies to do a better job than manual brushes.
  • Kids have more fun. Like any chore, children do necessarily like doing them, but with an electric toothbrush it brings some excitement to the task and keeps its regulated for brushing time.
  • Desired brushing time. With a built in timer, electric toothbrushes will manage the doctor recommend two minutes every time!

Cons:

  • Charging. Your toothbrush will require to be plugged in to charge or have its batteries replaced every so often.
  • Increased Cost. Contrary to Manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes cost much more than a manual toothbrush.
  • Travel dilemmas. Traveling with an electric toothbrush can be a hassle as they are generally bulkier and require additional room for chargers.
  • Easier to break. Just like an electronics, a drop can result in it not working anymore. Your electric toothbrush is no different so be careful of how its handled.

Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes are much more effective than manual ones as they remove more plaque and fight gum disease more effectively. Studies aside, your oral health can remain healthy as long you take the time to brush your teeth properly. If you need some guidance in finding the right toothbrush for you, feel free to contact our Newport Beach Dental Office today.

Signs, Symptoms, & Prevention of TMJ

To prevent TMJ first we must know what exactly is it. TMJ, or the Temporomandibular Joint, is the joint which connects the jawbone to the skull. Upon injury or inflammation, the temporomandibular joint can causes an assortment of side effects which should not go unnoticed. For instance, pain can arise to the mouth or mandible area during chewing along with a popping or clicking of the jaw. If untreated, the TMJ symptoms can progressively worsen to swelling of the face, headaches, nerve inflammation, tooth grinding, or even causing the joint to dislocate.

Signs & Symptoms

As stated above, the TMJ syndrome most common symptom is pain the jaw joint, but others may include:

  • A pop or click in the jaw
  • Cracking sounds, ringing, or pain in the ear
  • Persistent headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Neck or jaw stiffness
  • Facial pain, numbing or tingling in chin or cheeks
  • Tongue discomfort or pain
  • Temple area pain, swelling, or lumps
  • Pain in Shoulder
  • Lockjaw or Jaw dislocation
  • Dizziness up standing or vertigo

Prevention Methods

Symptoms can come and go depending how you live your life, how you manage symptoms, and how you manage stress.

  • Consume soft foods
  • Don’t chew gum
  • Focus on good poster
  • Manage stress
  • Correct Jaw Issues like misalignment
  • Wear protective equipment when playing sports or exercising

TMJ is an unfortunately muscle disorder that can causes daily disruptions. Be sure to treat your symptoms early before they grow worse. If you need some tips or advice about TMJ, contact our newport beach office.

Choosing a Family and Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing a dentist for you and your family can be a daunting task.. What do I need? What do the kids need? Is there a dentist that can cover us for years to come? We’ve found a few helpful tips for your selection process.

Family Dentistry

Upon selecting a dentist for your family, it is key to find one with proper training and experience to meet the needs of your family’s dental needs. Here are a few necessary items when looking for a family dentist:

  • Training
  • Experience
  • Services
  • Atmosphere

Read Full Description

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is often misunderstood simply for the fact that some people don’t know their even doing it! From whitening, to shaping, and veneers, cosmetic dentistry is very rewarding for patients. It gives them a second chance at the smile they deserve. Dr. Spath is proud to offer the following cosmetic dentistry solutions:

  • Teeth whitening
  • Bonding
  • Implants

Read Full Description

To learn whether you and your family could use our dental services, contact Dr. Spath who will guide you down the right dental path at (949) 612-2356 or reach us via our email.

DIY Dental Care

At home, between check-ups!

There is no substitute for seeing your dentist for regular checkups at least twice a year. The dental care they provide, in state-of-the-art facilities, with high tech equipment, is not something you can replicate at home.

There are, however, many things you can do at home (DIY) between visits.

dental DIY recipes for good teeth health

DIY Quick Tips at a Glance

#1 Green Drinks!

They’re everywhere these days. Most juice bars (think Jamba Juice) have them. Your local grocery store should have a version or two (we know Trader Joe’s does!) and you can make them at home. Green drinks and juices can be easily found AND they don’t have to taste bad. With added fruits such as pineapple and apple, green drinks offer a little sweetness with a powerful pack of nutrients.

green smoothy

Reason:

According to one of our favorite sources, Dr. Ax, a doctor of natural medicine and clinical nutritionist, the enzymes in green drinks provides protection from tooth decay and plaque formation.

DIY Tip:

Pick one up at your favorite juice bar location or make one at home & drink away!

A Quick Recipe

In a juicer blend the following: 

  • 2 Apples
  • 3 Kale spears

Transfer to a blender & blend in:

  • 1 Banana
  • ½ Mango
  • 1 Ripe Peach

Add coconut milk or fresh juice for volume and YUM!

Don’t have a juicer?

That’s okay, you can pick up this same combo at your local juice shop. Just ask!

healthy food for healthy teeth

#2 Healthy Food!

From Superfoods to raw, wholesome fruits & vegetables; healthy food is our biggest DIY oral health asset. They are readily available and, when consumed daily, work in our best defense for a healthy mouth. So which foods rank as the top choices for a healthy diet?

  1. Wild-caught fish such as salmon and mackerel
  2. Raw foods such as carrots and apples
  3. Foods with a high level of fat soluble vitamins like coconut and bone broth.

Reason:

These healthy foods help fight gum disease in various ways.

Wild-caught fish contains beneficial Omega-3’s that reduce inflammation, while fresh, raw vegetables help clean teeth while we eat them. Additionally, the really great benefits of fat-soluble vitamins from foods like coconut and bone broth help to fight gingivitis. How cool is that?

Foods can aid with good oral hygiene and help us out! Do It Yourself!

DIY Tip:

Go to the farmer’s market, fill your bags with fresh produce & eat more healthy food!

DIY Healthy Foods [Sample] Grocery List:

  • Wild Salmon
  • Celery
  • Apples
  • Coconut
  • Grass-Fed Beef
  • Carrots
  • Raw Milk
  • Almonds
  • Strawberries
  • Sardines
  • Bone Broth
  • Broccoli

Add in healthy foods like almonds, raw milk and Kale for a well-rounded variety!
Note: This grocery list is intended as a sample to get you started as a helpful part of your DIY Dental Care.

teeth whitening in newport beach

#3 Dentist Offered At-Home Whitening Kits

While there definitely are ways to whiten your teeth with peroxide based products, many processes are unclear, potentially unsafe and often don’t provide long-lasting results. It may seem convenient, quick and easy to take it upon yourself to follow an at home recipe; in fact, it could work! However, the safest way to ensure the best results at home are with kits that your dentist dispenses.

Reason:

As we mentioned above, results with products and recipes that you find through alternative resources may or may not provide good results. On the other hand, with at-home whitening kits directly from your dentist, you can be confident that you are getting a product that your dentist believes in, one that will give you the results you are looking for.

DIY Tip:

Check in with your dentist and purchase a kit directly from a professional.

Teeth Whitening Trays in Newport Beach California

DIY Teeth Whitening Considerations:

While at home kits can give you immediate results in the comfort of your own home, there are other factors to consider with keeping your teeth white.

  • Stay Hydrated!

If you are drinking more water it is less likely that you will choose other types of drinks that can stain your teeth. Also, water helps keep bacteria from building up on your teeth.

  • Ensure Best Results.

Your dentist will be able to provide you with detailed instructions and a customized whitening tray. Be sure to follow directions completely.

  • Know the Alternatives!

DIY kits from your dentist are a great way to take care of your teeth-whitening needs at home, it’s true. However, if you are not comfortable doing it yourself, please trust your dentist to take care of your whitening needs in-office. Consider these reasons for allowing us to help with your whitening needs – Click Here

With all of these DIY tips, we encourage you to do what it takes to take care of your teeth in between checkups, with confidence, at home.

You can Do-It-Yourself! As usual, we are always here for you, CALL US for any help you may need.

Other posts you may like:

10 Dental Facts You Might Not Know

Do you know what percentage of your daily teeth cleaning is MISSED if you don’t floss in conjunction with brushing? Would you believe it’s nearly 1/2 !?! That’s right, if you only brush you are missing 40% of your tooth’s surface. Read more Dental Facts from this infographic to make sure you are doing the best job you can in your oral health care.

Poor Dental Hygiene & Your Body

The effects of poor dental hygiene on your body go way beyond your mouth. Take a closer look at this infographic to find out what parts of your body are at risk if you don’t take care of your teeth.

Teeth Whitening Tips & Solutions

Dr Spath put together this great (short) video to help you understand the differences between today’s leading teeth whitening options to determine which solution may be right for you.

Different whitening options and their advantages:

Crest White Strips and other over the counter whitening systems.

Advantages:

  • Ease of access
  • Cost

Disadvantages:

  • Results
  • Comfort
  • Patient compliance

Whitening trays:

Advantages:

  • Under doctor supervision
  • Can be used repeatedly over time for a better result
  • Cost effective

Disadvantages:

  • Can require multiple uses
  • Patient compliance

In office whitening:

Advantages:

  • Under doctor’s supervision
  • Best results with single use

Disadvantages:

  • It is only a single use so the results are the results and can require multiple visits.

Contact our Newport Beach dental office to learn more on the options available and which one is right for you: (949) 612-2356