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Showing posts from March, 2016

5 Smart Questions to Ask Your Dentist

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Have a dental appointment scheduled sometime soon? Sit back, relax and get ready to open your mouth – but not just to have it examined! Taking your smile to the next level involves more than just a routine checkup and cleaning; for truly noticeable changes, you'll need to start off by having an in-depth chat with your dentist. Make the most out of your next visit by asking these important questions: 1. What more could I be doing to help preserve my oral health? You'd be surprised by the information your dentist can glean by looking inside your mouth. Damaged enamel, for instance, can point to an overly acidic diet, and/or unnecessary pressure on your teeth. Gingivitis and tartar can indicate improper brushing or flossing. Even your breath can speak volumes; a foul odor can signify decay, dry mouth or an underlying health condition. Whatever your dentist discovers, have him or her spell it out, along with helpful tips and recommendations, of course. Walking away with a pla

The Mouthwash Mistake You Could Be Making

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It can freshen up your breath faster than brushing, but does mouthwash really make a big difference when it comes to your oral health? You may be surprised to find that looks-or in this case, smells-can be deceiving! Oral rinses are not created equal, and if you're not careful, some can actually be more harmful than helpful.  Find out whether your go-to for gargling is doing you any good, or if another mouthwash makes sense for you. Therapeutic vs Cosmetic Mouthwashes Most mouthwashes claim to eliminate bad breath, but how they go about doing this can differ significantly.  In general, over-the-counter oral rinses fall into two categories: "Therapeutic" Mouthwashes Comprised of various anti-microbial agents, these mouthwashes have plaque fighting properties that can give your oral hygiene an added boost by inhibiting the growth of oral bacteria.  Oftentimes, they may be further enhanced with fluoride to help combat tooth decay.  Therapeutic mouthwashes proven to