Little Rock Family Dental Care Blog

Bleachorexia – Excessive Teeth Whitening

December 17, 2014

The growing trend of brilliant white smiles has finally spawned a new type of dental disorder that is sweeping the country. The condition is known as bleachorexia and is characterized by excessive bleaching of the teeth in the hopes of gaining the perfect white smile.

Patients who are in pursuit of gaining magnificent pearly whites are known for bleaching their teeth at home and doing it much more than the recommended amount as prescribed by their dentist or on the product’s box.

This phenomena is very troubling as the whitening methods used by over the counter whitening products use carbamide peroxide as the main whitening ingredient. This chemical is known for stripping teeth of their natural enamel leading to some dangerous side effects. Most notably is the teeth will become brittle and lead to breaking easily. Additionally, some teeth will develop a chalky exterior and will become horribly sensitive due to the removal of the enamel on the teeth. (more…)

Thinking About Teeth at Thanksgiving

November 24, 2014

Ready or not, turkey time is just around the corner. Days and nights will be filled with families gathered ‘round enjoying cranberries, mashed potatoes, green beans, casseroles, dressing, buttered rolls, pumpkin pie and most importantly, turkey. So as you’re giving thanks for all that you’ve been given this year, here are a few things to remember before you dig in!

#1 Turkey is Good for Your Teeth

The dental benefits of turkey can be found in the fact that it is a great source of protein. Protein contains a small amount of phosphorus, which is great for your teeth when it’s combined with calcium and vitamin D. This mixture is perfect for keeping your teeth nice and strong! So the next time you bite into a drumstick or turkey sandwich, remember that you’re doing it for your teeth. (Wink, wink.) (more…)

Why Regular Dental Visits Are Important

November 13, 2014

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends adults make at least one visit every four months for a regular dental cleaning and examination. Doing so will help you maintain healthy gums and teeth, and prevent more serious and costly complications down the road.

Some people have the attitude that they don’t need to visit the dentist. After all, they have a toothbrush and toothpaste in their bathroom cabinet, so what’s the purpose of seeing a dentist? Well, we only get one set of teeth as adults, and as much as we try to protect them by doing everyday oral hygiene techniques (brushing, flossing, and mouthwash), plaque will inevitably begin to accumulate on places you can’t reach. Thankfully, dentists and hygienists are well-trained in the removal of plaque by using a number of special tools and instruments. (more…)

Would The Real King Tut Please Stand Up

November 4, 2014

The reputation of Ancient Egyptian King Tutankhamun far exceeded his mortality. Legends of his affinity for chariot racing and the great power he wielded were symbolized by the mountains of walking sticks and chariots that populated his tomb.

King Tut’s grandeur was based on a notion of boyhood strength and power that has since been contradicted by recent reports. Computer-generated imagery based off thousands of CT scans of the pharaoh have pieced together what researchers believe to be an accurate picture of how the pharaoh looked when he walked the earth more than 3,000 years ago.

The polished gold face of which graces King Tut’s celestial sarcophagus is that of fiction. The recent CT scans concluded that King Tut by no means possessed the standard of Ancient Egyptian beauty. His facial features would not have been admired, nor remembered by the history books. A graphic rendering of the Pharaoh paints him with buck teeth that are not fit for a human being of his stature, let alone a king. Additionally, he had a clubfoot and wide hips. These physical features were a result of inbreeding which produced the boy king. (more…)

Top 10 Super Food & Drinks For Oral Health

October 28, 2014

Some of the foods are delicious and some of them are not so tasty, but here’s a list of food and drinks that keep your oral health in check.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is excellent for your oral health because of its sticky nature. By taking a tablespoon of coconut oil and swishing it around for mouth for 15-20 minutes you are collecting all of the bacteria in your mouth that otherwise would stay there after a brisk brushing. The oil helps fight against biofilm which can collect on your teeth and cause tooth decay or gum disease.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is great for fighting internal membrane inflammation. If you are suffering from irritated gums or swollen lining on the inside of your mouth, rubbing eucalyptus on them will help ease the swelling and return your soft tissue back to normal. Additionally, eucalyptus strengthens teeth in their sockets and helps fight against plaque and tartar build up. (more…)