Smoking - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile

Smoking turns your teeth yellow, but it can be much more damaging than that.

"Using any form of tobacco can harm your teeth and gums in a number of ways," says Halpern.

"It can cause throat, lung, and mouth cancer, and even death. Additionally, the tar from tobacco forms a sticky film on teeth, which harbors bacteria that promote acid production and create irritating toxins, both of which cause gum inflammation, tooth decay, and loss."

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
Website: http://bradleedentalcare.com/

Sports Drinks - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile

In the last decade, sports beverages have become increasingly popular, but they aren't great for your teeth.

"Scientific research has found that the pH levels in many sports drinks could lead to tooth erosion due to their high concentration of acidic components, which could wear away at the tooth's enamel," says David F. Halpern, DMD, FAGD, president of the Academy of General Dentistry.

Additionally, these drinks are often high in sugars that act as "food" for acid-producing bacteria, which then sneak into the cracks and crevices in your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
Website: http://bradleedentalcare.com/

Bottled Water - Things That Can Ruin Your Smile

Tap water often contains fluoride—about 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their water supply.

However, most bottled waters contain less fluoride than recommended for good oral health (it will be listed as an ingredient on the label if it is an additive).

"Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before damage is even visible," explains Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson, Charles H. Perle, DMD, FAGD. "Studies have confirmed [that] the most effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation."

Above article by: Kristin Koch, Health.com

Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
Website: http://bradleedentalcare.com/

Tooth Decay – Also called Cavities, Dental Caries

You call it a cavity. Your dentist calls it tooth decay or dental caries. They're all names for a hole in your tooth. The cause of tooth decay is plaque, a sticky substance in your mouth made up mostly of germs. Tooth decay starts in the outer layer, called the enamel. Without a filling, the decay can get deep into the tooth and its nerves and cause a toothache or abscess.

To help prevent cavities

• Brush your teeth every day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between your teeth every day with floss or another type of between-the-teeth cleaner
• Snack smart - limit sugary snacks
• See your dentist or oral health professional regularly

Above article from: www.nim.nih.gov

Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
Website: http://bradleedentalcare.com/

Cosmetic Dentistry

Who doesn't want a perfect smile? While few people have one naturally, almost anyone can get one with the help of their dentist. In addition to orthodontic treatment, which can straighten your teeth, recent advances in dental materials and techniques offer near-perfect teeth that are almost as strong as the originals.

Things your dentist can do to improve your smile include

• Bleaching to make teeth whiter
• Repairing chips or rough spots with fillings that match your teeth
• Filling cavities with tooth-colored materials
• Reshaping teeth that don't match the others
• Closing gaps between teeth
• Covering broken teeth with porcelain crowns

Above article from: www.nim.nih.gov

Bradlee Dental Care
3690 King Street, Suite KL
Alexandria, VA 22302
(703) 820-0809
Website: http://bradleedentalcare.com/