August 13th, 2018
Category: cincinnati dentist
Nearly every culture in the world has some tradition in place for celebrating or disposing of children’s lost baby teeth. Customs and cultural beliefs related to teeth have been in place for centuries, and vary by nation across the world.
The United States
The fantasy concept of the Tooth Fairy is the most wide spread and most recent children’s tooth tradition in the United States and in most Western and Western-influenced cultures. The Tooth Fairy as a standard visitor after a tooth falls out is standard tradition for most households in America. In most accounts, the Tooth Fairy is a female character.
As the custom goes, the child places the tooth under the pillow, and once asleep, the tooth fairy stops by, retrieves the baby tooth, and leaves money in its place. In the morning, the delighted child finds the gift in place of the tooth.
The image creation of the gift-bearing tooth fairy was inspired by various European folklore tales – such as the fairies featured in many classic movies, such as the character Tinkerbell from Peter Pan. The current going rate for a lost tooth in America averages at just under $5 (1, 2, 3).
Hispanic Cultures
Residents of Spain, Mexico, Peru, Chile, Argentina and Columbia have a different folklore character who visits when children’s teeth fall out – a Tooth Mouse named “Raton Perez”. The mouse also goes by the name “El Raton de Los Dientes”. Similar to the Tooth Fair, this Tooth Mouse visits after a child loses a tooth and places it under their pillow.
Raton Perez will replace the tooth with a gift – sometimes monetary in form, but not always – for the child to discover in the morning.
In Argentina specifically, some kids place the tooth in a glass of water instead of under their pillow. Legend has it that the thirsty Perez will drink the water, grab the tooth, and leave the gift in the empty glass (2, 3).
Europe
In Europe during the Middle Ages, there was a custom of burying baby teeth in the ground upon falling out. This custom was thought to ensure the adult teeth would grow in their place and to save the child from hardship in the afterlife.
Today, many of countries in Europe which are primarily English-speaking countries follow a tooth fairy tradition similar to the American custom.
France (and some parts of Belgium) boasts its own version of the Tooth Mouse: “La Bonne Petite Souris.” Children leave their lost teeth under their pillow, and the tiny mouse will stop by the house, retrieve the tooth, and leave money, or oftentimes, sweets and candies.
Italy also has their version of the Tooth Mouse, named “Topolino” (1, 2, 4).
Asia
In some Asian countries such as India, China, Japan and Korea, kids who lose teeth from the lower jaw follow a practice of throwing those teeth onto their home’s roof. Teeth from the upper jaw go on the floor, or are placed under the floor. The idea behind this tradition is the hope that the new, adult teeth will be pulled towards the old tooth.
In areas of Central Asia, such as Mongolia, it is a custom to feed the lost baby tooth to a dog. The tradition stems from the desire to have the adult tooth that follows to grow in as strong as a dog’s tooth. If no dog is available, it is traditional to bury the tooth near a tree so that the new adult tooth will have strong roots like a tree (2).
Middle Eastern Countries
Iraq, Jordan and Egypt residents follow a similar “throwing” tradition as many of the Asian countries. Here, you’ll see a custom where kids throw their teeth into the air towards the sky, sun, or Allah. One hope is that the sunlight will help their teeth grow in faster. This upward-bound tossing of the teeth potentially dates back as far as the 13th century, when it was considered a pre-Islamic offering.
In Malaysia, kids customarily bury their lost baby teeth in the ground, simply as a way to return them to nature.
In Nepal, children bury their lost teeth in a secret, hidden location (2, 3, 4).
We Care About Your Family’s Teeth
No matter WHAT your baby teeth traditions entail, here at Hagen Dental, we want you to keep all the adult teeth AND all the baby teeth in your family healthy and strong, both for the benefit of the tooth fairy and for your dental health for years to come.
Set up your next appointment with us! Give us a call today at (513) 251-5500. We’re looking forward to meeting you and your family, or seeing you come in again!
Sources:
- http://www.childrens-dental.com/blog/the-tooth-fairy-tradition/
- http://mentalfloss.com/article/58503/7-tooth-fairy-traditions-around-world
- https://www.marcieinmommyland.com/tooth-fairy-traditions-from-around-the-world/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tooth_fairy
July 20th, 2018
Category: cincinnati dentist
Sometimes we can forget how great we have it! And, we can forget a few of the benefits of smiling. For example, smiling and other positive emotions are associated with living longer.
A few other social and health benefits of smiling include:
- It can be an instant mood-booster
- It can help you with stress relief
- It can serve as a natural painkiller (1)
Knowing smiling is good for the brain and good for the body, here are 20 reasons to smile today:
- Because of a great workout…or that awesome post-workout feeling.
- Because of a smile you are proud of!
- Because of re-runs of your favorite show being on.
- Because of a good book (or audiobook).
- Because of a healthy choice you made today.
- Because of Amazon.
- Because smiles are contagious.
In fact, a neuroscientist named Marco Iacoboni found that everyone has what’s called “mirror neurons.” These are cells in our brain that are activated when we perform a certain action. These cells also are activated when we see someone else do something.
When it comes to smiling, our brains react to seeing someone else smile! Iacoboni’s work showed when we see someone smile, we experience “neural activity” that evokes the same feeling we would have when WE smile and it leads to a simulation of the intentions and emotions associated with smiling (2).
Put simply: when we smile, we really do spur a similar display of emotion in others around us.
- Because it’s summer!
- Because of FaceTime (or Skype).
- Because of a sunset.
- Because someone admires you.
- Because of the ability to travel.
- Because you can find the good in anything.
- Because smiling helps us be more productive.
In fact in 2010, a researchers found that happiness has a significant and causal effect on productivity. Who knew that smiling can evoke positive emotions and help you get more work done? (2)
- Because of seeing someone else smile!
- Because of the ability to set goals.
- Because of a home-cooked meal.
- Because of ice cream or a cool beverage on a hot summer night.
- Because of being able to connect with old friends on Facebook.
- Because you are alive!
We Want You to Have a Smile You Are Confident About
When you smile, you activate neural messaging that benefits your health and your happiness. We want you to be able to smile with confidence each and every day. Give us a call to learn about smile makeovers, full-mouth rehabilitation, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign, and much more at Hagen Dental Practice.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hagen by calling (513) 251-5500 or clicking the online scheduling button, and find out for yourself how cosmetic solutions and whitening can give you a brilliant, beautiful new smile.
Sources:
- https://benefitsbridge.unitedconcordia.com/top-7-health-benefits-smiling/
- https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/08/smiling-benefits_n_6598840.html
July 12th, 2018
Category: cincinnati dentist
You know that at Hagen Dental Practice, we’re all about your total health.
And, part of that is about getting in whatever kind of activity or movement that YOU enjoy!
For example, Dr. Hagen just finished his 100-mile cycling race Blood Sweat and Gears in the mountains of Boone, North Carolina!
Here are 8 ideas to consider attending with family or friends in the coming months to help you stay active and healthy.
1. SoundOff Pilates Strength Mega Mix
Are you looking for something to really mix up your regular workout routine? Here’s a super unique Pilates workout located just over the river in Newport, Kentucky. This workout is focused on strengthening your core and your overall flexibility! What makes this special is that attendees can actually tune into multiple streams of live entertainment.
You put on a headset, you pick a channel, and turn up the volume to your liking—all while doing Pilates. It’s sure to be a high-energy, fun experience.
When: Jul 13, 2018 at Hofbrauhaus in Newport, Kentucky
Cost: $20
2. Yin Yoga & Guided Meditation
This yoga and guided meditation session looks like a great way to slow down and do some yoga. This is a slower style of yoga where poses are held for a longer duration. Meant for all levels, no prior yoga experience is needed to attend any of these sessions.
When: July 19, 2018 as well as others dates at The Hive: A Center for Contemplation, Art, and Action in Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost: Ranges
3. Stories & Stretches with the Family
Bring the kiddos to hear some great stories, and take breaks to stretch together! The stretches will be easy enough for any age, so all are welcome to join. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and bring a yoga mat or clean towel.
When: July 25, 2018 and other dates throughout the Summer
Cost: Free
4. Yoga and Hiking Excursion
This session (a walk, hike, exploration) is for the movers, shakers, hikers, yogis, walkers, humans, moms, dads…you get the idea! If you’re looking for some much-needed time outside, this one is for you, as it comes with Vitamin M(movement), Vitamin N(nature), Vitamin C(community), Vitamin F(fresh air)!
According to the event description, this is a fairly easy/beginner friendly trail.
When: August 11, 2018 at Ault Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost: $10-15
5. Mid-Pointe Family Fitness 5k
Is your family ready for a true fitness challenge? Then the Mid-Point Family Fitness 5k may just be for you! If you aren’t excited for the 5k, don’t worry, there is also a one-mile race.
When: August 15, 2018
Cost: Around $25
6. Hudy 14k Run
The Hudepohl 14K is named after the Cincinnati-brewed beer and shorter 7K start and end along Cincinnati’s riverfront, which means the race is packed with great views AND great history.
One of the other great things about this race is that it feels more like a party. It also kicks off around the same time that Oktoberfest Zinzinnati begins. Get a group of friends and starting training!
When: September 22nd, 2018 at Cincinnati Riverfront Park
Cost: $35 and up depending on the race
7. Wanderlust 108 Cincinnati 2018
This is one you really want to attend with friends or family if you’re looking for a brand new kind of experience. Wanderlust 108 is being deemed the “World’s Only Mindful Triathlon.” The aim of the event is to bring people together for a 5K run/walk, a yoga session that features a DJ, and guided meditation. The best part: it’s all local and you can choose your own “bonus” activities (like acroyoga) after the run/walk.
Nationally recognized teachers and speakers are also set to join the high-energy, truly one-of-a-kind event.
When: October 6, 2018 at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati, Ohio
Cost: Depends what parts of the event you sign up for and if you sign up as a group or not
8. Queen Bee Half Marathon & 4 Mile Run
The Queen Bee Half Marathon describes its mission as this: “to promote the fun of fitness while raising support and funds for local charities that focus on women.”
One thing is for sure: this is a marathon that is sure not to disappoint., and with that kind of mission, it’s great to be a part of something that has a larger impact, too.
There’s pampering, swag, and tons of fun during the entire race weekend. (Case in point: after you cross the finish line you can enjoy chocolates, massages, and even the “after party.”) Plus, you better bee-lieve that the race doesn’t disappoint, as it goes through the historic and scenic neighborhoods of our city!
When: October 13, 2018
Cost: Depends on the race you choose; starts at $20
We’re All About Helping You Improve Your Total Health
At Hagen Dental, we want you to improve your health and wellness so that you’re living your healthiest life possible. If you are interested in setting up your next appointment with us, give us a call today at (513) 251-5500. We’re looking forward to meeting you and your family, or seeing you come in again!
June 30th, 2018
Category: cincinnati dentist
Ah, the 4th of July is upon us! On July 4th, our Continental Congress—that is, the delegates from the Thirteen Colonies—came together and adopted the Declaration of Independence… Let’s take a look back.
Looking Back at Our History
According to historians, Richard Henry Lee is the one who is presented the now-famous resolution. He pronounced:
“Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.”
The Declaration that was signed by our Founding Fathers is now housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C. and—as you know—we celebrate July 4 as a national holiday. So who were the Founding Fathers, anyway?
Our Founding Fathers: Did They Value Their Health?
There were 7 key people we now call the “Founding Fathers” of our nation That included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and George Washington.
All of these men were heavily involved in our nation’s early government. (Of course Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison were Presidents.)
So we know they were visionaries and great leaders…but what was the state of their health like? And what was dental care like at that time?
Let’s take a look at two of our Founding Father’s stances on health to get a better idea of that answer!
Thomas Jefferson
It’s said that Jefferson was a strong supporter of health. Historians say he believed that good health was essential to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Of course, we know these three things as the values that were established, pronounced, and celebrated in the Declaration of Independence, too.
It’s also reported that Jefferson would consistently talk about health being a natural right for people. He would state that people need to be healthy so that they can in turn protect the other values including liberty and equality. Perhaps he was a bit ahead of his time when it came to the value he had in health.
He is quotes as saying, “You may promise yourself everything – but [without] health, […] there is no happiness. An attention to health then should take place of every other object” (1).
George Washington
It’s said that Washington had several diseases during his lifetime, which would not have been uncommon for that time. At one point, he pointed towards depression stemming from an illness he had while in the army (3).
He also once wrote to a colleague: “Disorders oftentimes [sic], are easier prevented than cured, and while you are in the way to re-establish your health, (on which I congratulate you) it is better to use preventatives, than alternatives…” (3).
That quote suggests that just like Jefferson, he really knew the value of health…and the value of preventative health measures.
Mount Vernon, the plantation house of Washington, is now a very popular historical landmark. One part of that historical landmark that continues to get a lot of attention is an exhibit that has Washington’s dentures on display!
That’s right: the handmade prosthesis that consists of an upper and lower set of teeth is displayed in a glass case for all to see! People come from across the nation, and many are quite surprised at what they see: a set of famous choppers from our first President.
Nonetheless, the false teeth are notable because it reminds us that—even if our Founding Father’s knew the value of health—the state of oral care and dentistry at that time was far different than it is today (2).
Washington’s dentures were made of metal, ivory, and real teeth (both animal and human). In other words, despite the myth that he had wooden teeth, he didn’t actually have wooden teeth…but he did in fact experience a good deal of teeth-related issues.
Interesting enough, when Washington was sworn into office as the first President of the United States, he was experiencing a bit of mouth pain, according to historians. In fact, he had swollen, burning gums!
It’s even said that when his dentures would open and shut, they would clack and creak! Ouch…
At that time, the pain was so bad it’s said that he took pain killers (of that age) for this constant pain he experienced. It’s interesting because Presidents of that time were never supposed to show any sort of weakness or signs of pain. It’s safe to say he may not have shared the pain with many people!
Oral Health Has Come A Long Way
Oral health has really come a long way. It’s not just toothbrushes or toothpaste, but it’s all the tools we have to prevent disease and other issues, and to help you stay healthy in general. Let us know if you are interested in setting up your next appointment with us. We’d be glad to meet you and your family! Give us a call today at (513) 251-5500.
Sources
- http://familiesusa.org/blog/thomas-jefferson-a-founding-father-weighs-in-on-health-care
- https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/george-washington-wooden-teeth/
- https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/washingtons-views-on-health/
June 27th, 2018
Category: cosmetic dentistry
We’re happy to offer GLO Whitening to our patients. So what is GLO Whitening, and why is it so innovative? We’re here to explain…
It’s Time for Dual Whitening!
One of the greatest things about GLO Whitening is that it is non-sensitive whitening. So if you ever experienced sensitivity or even pain with other whitening products, this could be a fit for you.
The reason we call it a “dual” whitening treatment is because after you come in to the office for the first step, there is an easy-to-use treatment at home that gives you continued maintenance on your pearly whites. You can imagine how that combination results in the whitest, long-lasting smile possible.
And How Does GLO Whitening Work?
The GLO technology is pretty amazing. First, we precisely apply a whitening gel to your teeth throughout the mouth. That whitening gel is has no alcohol or carbamide peroxide. Translation: this is what often causes sensitivity and the drying of your gums, so you’re really minimizing the sensitivity you can get during the treatment! It also stays put on your teeth during the treatment, unlike other whitening gels.
Next, we secure the GLO whitening mouthpiece within your mouth.
That mouthpiece is where the name comes from: Guided Light Optics (hence the name “GLO”). Specifically, the warm heat-plus-light activates the professional strength whitening gel we applied to your teeth. At the same time, it prevents oxygen from leaving the mouth which helps for efficient and fast results.
Again, there isn’t the sensitivity people otherwise often have, so you can see why our patients are loving it for that reason alone.
The other reason this minimizes sensitivity? The accelerated whitening keeps wear times pretty fast: about 8 minutes each round. So, you can see how the procedure is a double win: fast and effective.
Wondering how long will it take for you specifically? We’ll work with you based on the results desired, your age, and other factors to see how long your specific treatment will last.
Ready, Set, GLO…At Home
You can see why the gentle, controlled warming heat of this technology—which does not cause dehydration of your teeth, which can cause sensitivity—is gaining popularity. The other reason our patients like it is for the continued maintenance aspect.
We give you the mouthpiece for your at-home treatments which help to keep that smile as white as possible for the long-run. You don’t have to deal with trays and it’s easy for you to keep up with. Each application is around 8 minutes.
If you know your mouth and gums tend to be EXTRA sensitive, you can also apply the lip care to the gum area as well as to your lips at home. That way, you can create a barrier to protect your gums so you can minimize any kind of sensitivity you have if you know your teeth/gums tend to be very sensitive.
“This Sounds Great! Is It Safe to Use?”
The answer is yes, it’s safe to use! We’ll help you know if you are a candidate for this new technology, but in general, it’s safe to use on crowns, caps, bonding, and even veneers.
Second, GLO uses LEDs that emit blue light. Blue light is part of the “visible light spectrum” and that is not harmful to your body.
So What About the Results of GLO Whitening?
Just how white your teeth get depends on the natural shade of your teeth. It will also depend on the amount of stains your teeth has, and the type of stains your teeth has. But the average shade for GLO is about 5 tooth shades in 5 days based on clinical trials. If you want to go whiter after 5 days of use, you can keep using your at-home treatments. We find that people are very satisfied with their results, but ask us if you have more questions.
If you are worried about looking TOO white, have no fear. You can completely control how white and bright your teeth become. That’s just one more benefit of the GLO system.
Call Us Today to Learn More About GLO Whitening
Ready to say goodbye to sensitivity, “zingers” and messy trays or strips? Sounds like it is time for GLO in-office and take home whitening! Let us know if you are interested in finding out more about how you can have your brightest, whitest smile. Give us a call today at (513) 251-5500.
Tags: GLO professional whitening, GLO professional whitening at Hagen dental practice, GLO whitening, GLO whitening at Hagen, whitening without sensitivity
June 14th, 2018
Category: cincinnati dentist
Take a look at a few of featured services below.
You can view the PDF version of this infographic here.
Tags: cerec, cincinnati cosmetic dentistry, cincinnati ohio dentist reviews, Dr. Lawrence Hagen, family dentist in cincinnati, Hagen DDS, Hagen dental blog, hagen dental cincinnati, hagen dental dds, Hagen Dental Practice, periodontist
May 16th, 2018
Category: dental health
Flossing daily is an important component of regular oral hygiene and dental health upkeep. Including floss in our daily routine is now considered a mandatory habit for excellent oral health. Without flossing, we leave as much as 30-40 percent of our tooth’s surfaces uncleaned!
So, how much do you know about this handy little cleaning tool? Read on to discover how floss came about and how modern floss is produced!
The History Of Floss
Anthropologists and historians have determined that even in ancient times, interdental cleaning was sought after – by the use of pointed sticks or horse hair, for example. It’s long been a natural desire to want to remove food suck between the teeth and keep our mouth clean and tidy (1, 2).
Most sources agree that a New Orleans dentist named Dr. Levi Spear Parmly should be credited for starting the trend of advising patients to use a thin silk thread to clean between their teeth. This happened circa 1815, and the idea became a popular one. Dr. Parmly later went on to publish a book called “A Practical Guide to the Management of Teeth”, in which he advocated for maintenance habits of brushing and flossing daily (1, 2).
In 1882, a company called Codman and Shurtleft Company from Massachusetts, produced and marketed an unwaxed silk dental floss for purchase. In 1896, Johnson and Johnson jumped on board when they began offering their first dental floss. Johnson and Johnson took out a patent in 1898 for a type of floss made from the same materials doctors used at the time for silk stitches (1).
During the 1940’s, due to rising costs of silk during World War II, nylon became a replacement for silk as the main component of floss. This also improved upon silk’s tendency to shred (2).
Dental Floss In Recent Years
Since the initial introduction of dental floss products, the dental floss industry has expanded to use new materials such as Gore-Tex, and to offer various textures, flavors, and alternative options, such as floss picks (1, 2).
These improved features have made flossing easier for the consumer, depending on their needs. There are soft or spongy options for consumers with sensitive gums, and options with thicker ends for use around braces or dental equipment. And the development of single use fun flossers for kids can help children learn the importance of flossing at a young age, in a fun and easy-to-use way (3).
How Is Floss Made?
Modern day floss is typically made out of one of two synthetic compounds: nylon or Teflon. Nylon is a synthetic polymer that results in a fiber-forming substance. Teflon is the trade name of a specific chemical polymer compound. Floss may also contain wax, flavors, or other ingredients, depending on the manufacturer and finishing options (3).
Floss From Nylon
The polymer used in making nylon flossed is prepared and poured out as a ribbon, then cut into small pellets or flakes. These pieces are blended, re-melted, and pumped through spinning machines to form filaments. As the nylon cools, these filaments solidify to form a yarn and are combined to create a strand of floss. Proper twisting during the process adds strength to the floss and reduces the chances of fraying or breakage. Because nylon floss is composed of many small filaments, it can be created in different weights, or thicknesses (3).
Floss Made With Teflon
Teflon floss comes from a specific polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This polymer is melted into a paste and then stretched into a long, thin strand. Next, the polymer is expanded into different directions.
This stretching process gives this type of floss substantial strength. The substance is cut, forming various thicknesses and weights. PTFE is a monofilament, has excellent tensile strength, and does not shred or break easily. Twisting is not required for the Teflon floss process (3).
Finishing Touches: Coating Process
The finishing touches allow for diversity in customer preference. Manufacturers differentiate their products by adding unique and proprietary coatings. The coating process takes place in emulsion baths. This bathing process allows additives such as waxes, flavors, or any other coating options to be applied in a consistent manner (3).
Product Packaging
Flosses are packaged into bobbins for easy spooling and unspooling. They can be packaged in a cylindrical shape or a roll-type shape. Winding the floss for consumer use requires equipment that transfers the yarn onto a spool.
Cylindrical bobbins are used in tube or rectangular shaped floss packages. This type of bobbin can accommodate the highest amount of yardage. The roll bobbin is more traditional and is dispensed through flat containers. Wow…pretty cool, we must say!
Other Fun Facts About Floss
- Floss in ribbon form is great for kids or people with larger spacing between their teeth
- Floss in string form is helpful for people with tightly spaced or crooked teeth
- Floss comes in a variety of wax options: lightly waxed, waxed, or un-waxed
- Today, Americans use more than 2.5 million miles of dental floss each year (3)
- Your toothbrush can’t reach into the fine spaces between the teeth, which is why dental floss is so important
- Recent innovations include additives to floss that can help with whitening efforts (4)
Let Us Help You With Your Dental Health
Dental floss helps to remove plaque and bacteria from and between teeth and below the gum line. Without flossing, this plaque can turn to tartar and lead to gingivitis, infection, or cavities. Unfortunately, according to the ADA, only about 12 percent of Americans are diligent about flossing daily (2). We can help you determine your risk for complications and offer tips on flossing at your next dental appointment! Schedule today by calling (513) 251-5500 or click the Online Scheduling button on our website.
Sources:
- https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-floss-history
- http://www.speareducation.com/spear-review/2013/01/a-brief-history-of-dental-floss
- http://www.madehow.com/Volume-2/Dental-Floss.html
- http://www.intelligentdental.com/2011/07/20/what-is-dental-floss-made-of/
Tags: Cincinnati dentist, floss, floss options, flossing, Hagen DDS, hagen dds cincinnati, Hagen Dental, how is floss made?, importance of flossing
May 3rd, 2018
Category: dental health
Cavities in toddlers, and even preschoolers, has been on the rise.
It’s not just slightly up in recent years: in fact, many of the preschoolers in the study had six to ten cavities, or more! That’s a huge jump up from historic numbers, and signals a real shift in oral health habits (1, 2).
The statistics appear to also be carrying over to kids who are just a bit older, too. Here are two other stats that we’re watching:
- Roughly 28 percent of kids 2 to 5 have untreated decay in their teeth (5)
- Roughly 20 percent of kids 5 to 11 have at least one untreated decayed tooth
- Roughly 13 percent of kids 12 to 19 have at least one untreated decayed tooth (3)
- Children 2 to 11 have an average of 1.6 decayed teeth and 3.6 decayed surfaces (5)
The problem is that tooth decay is one of the most chronic conditions for our children in the US right now. When we don’t help our little ones take care of their teeth like they should, it can negatively shape other behaviors in their life. It can negatively impact how they learn, play, eat and even how they speak (1, 2).
Let’s take a closer look at what you should know about taking care of your toddlers and preschoolers oral health.
Tags: tooth decay in kids
April 24th, 2018
Category: dental health
Here are 20 things you may not know about bad breath.
1. Many times, bad breath is treatable. That’s because in many cases, foul-smelling breath is caused by the breakdown of food (and the presence of bacteria) in the mouth! If you think about it, that’s actually good news…
2. That said, periodontal disease (aka gum disease), also causes bad breath. That’s less of an issue of just brushing your teeth or flossing to get rid of food debris and bacteria; That’s reflective of poor oral health habits resulting in disease in the mouth. All in all, that’s a condition that occurs over time, as you can imagine.
3. Ever heard of “garlic breath”? It’s a term coined from how you can have less-than-desirable breath after eating garlic. Research has actually shown that part of the reason garlic breath can happen is actually due to digestion.
4. Similar to garlic, bad breath can also be caused by onion, which is another member of the allium family. Even if you rush for your toothbrush after eating onion (especially raw), when digested, it will cause distinctive gasses to be released. In turn, your breath can become smelly, even despite any efforts to brush and floss post-meal! (1)
5. People following a low-carb nutrition plan can be surprised by…well, different smelling breath. That’s because, in extreme cases, certain chemicals can be released as the body burns fat in a state that’s also called ketosis. In turn, we can smell that on people’s breath.
6. Ever wonder why someone with bad breath doesn’t do something about it? Part of the reason may be because people can become nose blind to their own bad breath!
7. Caffeine and coffee can give you breath that you can almost…well, taste! Since coffee and caffeine can end up drying out the mouth, you really can have latte breath. Combat this by drinking plenty of water and brushing and flossing your teeth. And, of course, keep up your regular professional cleanings and check-ups.
8. It may surprise you to learn that issues with you ear, nose and throat, and even your kidneys can end up giving you bad breath.
9. Drinking water won’t get rid of your bad breath, but it can help you fight dry mouth, which can give you bad breath. (And, keep in mind dry mouth can lead to an increase in gum disease and tooth decay, too.) The takeaway: drinking a lot of water can help you combat dehydration and dry mouth, helping you moisturize the mouth and neutralize acids.
10. Dentures can be the source of your bad breath. If you have removable dentures, be sure to keep up your regular oral health habits and clean them every night.
11. One way to guarantee better smelling breath? Giving up smoking. Not to mention it will benefit your entire health, not just your oral health.
12. One thing is clear: people want to avoid bad breath! It’s been reported that nearly three billion dollars a year is spent on gum, mints, and mouth rinses.
13. About 50 percent of the population suffers from bad breath that is caused by something other than food, drinks, or smoking cigarettes (2).
14. The name given to people who think they have bad breath, but others don’t notice it is “pseudohalitosis.” This is when someone thinks they have bad breath…but they really don’t! (2, 3)
15. Have you heard that you can check the smell of your own breath by breathing on your hand…and then smelling it? Well, believe it or not, that “test” may work in some cases, but it won’t always tell you whether or not you truly have bad breath.
16. About 60 percent of women and 50 percent of men say that they use breath freshening products.
17. Bad breath is, and can be found, in people at ANY age.
18. Infections such as strep throat, tonsillitis, and sinusitis can actually give you bad breath. Said another way, even if you’re brushing your teeth and keeping up with your oral habits, these infections can wreak havoc on your breath.
19. When you’ve done all you can and you still feel like you have bad breath, be sure to tell us! Don’t be embarrassed, as it’s just a sign of something going on with your health. We can help discover the cause, whether it is a gum-issue, infection, cavities, gum disease, due to medication, dry mouth, nutrition, illness, or another issue entirely.
20. Using a tongue scraper is a great way to eliminate odor-causing bacteria that seems to stick to your tongue. Ask us for more information.
Schedule Your Next Appointment with Hagen Dental Practice
Your dream smile is within reach! Please call (513) 251-5500 or click the Online Scheduling button on our website to schedule your next visit. Be sure to see our new patient specials here. We’re looking forward to earning your trust with personalized care!
Sources/References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/get-rid-of-garlic-onion-breath
- https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gastrointestinal-disorders/bad-breath-from-stomach-problems-0714
- https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/bad-breath/halitosis
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