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Eating disorders strongly affect your teeth, gums, and entire mouth. While many think that eating disorders just affect overall physical well-being, they are also very serious mental illnesses. They involve constant thoughts about food and weight, often creating a sense of obsession. This obsession can lead to restricted diets, causing serious dental problems, mood swings, and even sleeping patterns. In this blog, we will look at the different eating disorders and how they can negatively affect your oral health.

What is An Eating Disorder?

Eating disorders are conditions distinguished by an unhealthy relationship with food. This can include:

An obsession with dieting
Only eating certain foods and nothing else
Avoiding food altogether
Binge-eating without control

Early signs of eating disorders include frequent comments about weight and food made by someone who is overall healthy from the outside and overeating without the ability to stop.

Signs and Symptoms of an Eating Disorder Out of Control

Some may be able to see the physical effects of someone suffering from an eating disorder due to someone that looks like they have either been eating too much or too little. However, in some cases, the effects aren’t always immediately visible. A dental specialist may be able to notice extreme changes to the mouth from an eating disorder that includes

Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth decay
Receding gums
Increased plaque buildup
Broken teeth
Loose fillings

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, over 30 million Americans are struggling with eating disorders. The spectrum of this illness ranges from extreme dieting and anorexia nervosa, which is defined as drastically restricting the amount of food being consumed, to bulimia nervosa, which involves long periods of overeating followed by

The Ways Eating Disorders Can Affect Your Mouth

Many of those who are suffering from eating disorders go long periods without flossing or brushing their teeth. Unfortunately, just like anyone who decides to ignore their dental routine, it will cause plaque to build up. Additionally, conditions like severe malnutrition can eventually lead to tooth loss.
In other cases, some people with serious eating disorders decide to constantly chew on ice blocks to replace the eating sensation. This damaging practice wears down tooth enamel which opens up the teeth and gums to infection, decay, and eventually tooth loss. A dentist may be capable of detecting an eating disorder by looking at a patient’s oral health. Poor dental hygiene is also an indication a patient has an eating disorder.

Short- and Long-Term Effects of Bulimia

Bulimia, as we mentioned above, is a condition where patients consume large amounts of calorie-dense foods and then get rid of them by vomiting. This particular conduct seriously affects the teeth by:

Staining – Discoloration is a typical concern for patients who are bulimic.
Weak teeth – Due to not consuming the proper nutrients, the teeth become weak, and eventually, biting into hard food can lead to cracks and complete breaks.
Irritating soft gum tissue – The gums of those with bulimia tend to bleed more easily while they pull packs from the teeth. This then leads to the roots of teeth being exposed, creating unbearable sensitivity.
Enamel erosion – When constantly throwing up food, the teeth are exposed to acidic stomach contents, which quickly erode the teeth’s enamel. After regular exposure to these acids, not only do the stomach acids break down the enamel but common mouth bacteria more easily damage them.

Anorexia and its Affect on Teeth

Anorexia is one of the most common eating disorders negatively impacting Americans. In addition to your body’s well-being, your teeth are seriously at risk. Patients who suffer from Anorexia limit their food intake considerably. This is extremely dangerous because it limits the number of nutrients being consumed. This weakens the jaw bone while weakening the teeth and leading to tooth loss.

Dental Issues Associated with Binge-Eating

Binge Eating Disorder, or BED, affects millions of Americans. The main sign of binge eating usually includes the constant urge to continue eating even when you’re full. Those affected by this disorder often consume foods and drinks high in starch, carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and calories. As many patients know, consuming these types of foods has serious negative implications on the teeth, including:

Cavities
Tooth decay
Plaque buildup
Infections
Among others

Dental Advise for Those with Eating Disorders

Getting help from trained professionals is always the first step to beating your eating disorder. However, the road to recovery is difficult and long. During these difficult times, you need to take steps to protect your teeth. Here are a few things patients with eating disorders can do:

Avoid brushing after vomiting – While many brush their teeth to hide the fact that they vomited, it can further damage the teeth. This is due to the fact that the tooth’s enamel is softer after exposure to stomach acid, and brushing will only worsen the loss of enamel. Wait several minutes before brushing.
Rinse out the mouth with water – H2O will dilate the acidity left behind after throwing up.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations – If your dentist notices that you have an eating disorder, they may prescribe you a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen the enamel against decay.

Dental Recovery Following an Eating Disorder

Depending on the severity of your eating disorder and its impacts on your teeth, you may need a full “smile repair.” While some dental issues, unfortunately, cannot be reversed, it doesn’t mean you have to live with staining, weakness, increased sensitivity, and tooth loss. Various treatment plans may include:

Crowns
Dental implants
Veneers
Dentures
Bridges

If you have been the victim of an eating disorder or are currently struggling with one that affects your smile, get in touch with the specialists. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center will be able to help prevent serious harm to your smile while providing you with treatment plans to restore any damages.

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Tooth extractions are sometimes a necessary dental procedure to preserve a patient’s smile. However, they are often one of the biggest of patient anxiety, no matter how young or old they are. Little do patients know that it is one of the most common reasons to visit a dentist’s office. There are many reasons to get a tooth extraction in Gurnee, IL.
If you are experiencing pain in your mouth and think that you may need a tooth extraction, you shouldn’t wait to SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT with your Gurnee, IL family dental clinic. Keep reading to take a look at some of the top reasons for a tooth extraction!

1. Avoid Severe Bone Loss

One of the many reasons for bone loss is periodontal disease. It causes the teeth to become misaligned, and not only is it uncomfortable, but it makes it extremely difficult to chew and swallow. Without immediate intention, your teeth will continue to shift and cause harm to your jawbone. The best course of action to stop your teeth from moving and causing more damage may be a tooth extraction.

2. Tooth Decay

The moment a tooth starts to decay, your mouth will become vulnerable to infections and bacteria. You will run the risk of a pocket of pus forming when any blood vessel or nerve becomes infected. This will cause a variety of symptoms, including:

Facial swelling
Pain that radiates throughout your jawbone, ear, or neck
Difficulties breathing and swallowing
Sensitivity and pain when in contact with hot or cold temperatures

The pain of an infected tooth ranges between mild and persistent pain. However, if the condition is not treated right away, it will only continue to get worse before the tooth is removed. Additionally, severe infections have the potential to spread to other parts of your body.

3. Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth come in later in a patient’s life, and they can lead to some of the worst pain they feel regarding their teeth. If wisdom teeth start to show and become trapped within your gums or jaw, the result is extreme discomfort. The longer you wait to extract an impacted wisdom tooth from your mouth, the more likely you are to have:

Tooth misalignment
Damage to the jawbone
Chronic pain
Infections

While you may need to take a few days off to recover from a wisdom tooth extraction, the investment in your oral and body health is much more important. Are your wisdom teeth starting to show? Are you experiencing intense pain when food touches the affected area? Then contact a family dental clinic in Gurnee, IL, for a tooth extraction like Beautiful Smiles Dental Center!

4. Damaged or Cracked Teeth

Many patients, especially those who play contact sports, know all too well the dangers of a busted tooth. But, athletes are not the only ones that can be affected. Things as simple as biting down too hard on certain foods, serious falls, and car accidents can also damage the teeth. Similar to tooth decay, a broken or cracked tooth can lead to infection and even puncture the lips, gums, and inside of your mouth. When restoration efforts prove to not work, extracting the damaged tooth is the best option.
Now that we know some of the top reasons to get a tooth extraction, what are some ways you can completely avoid them?

Keep Up with Your Regular Teeth Cleaning Routine

You have probably heard it time and time again, regular brushing and flossing are crucial. There is a reason you hear it so often! Ensuring that you keep up with your routine will lead to a cleaner and whiter smile with fewer trips to the dental office. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing in the evening will help you sidestep some of the leading causes of tooth decay that result in extraction.

Change Bad Habits

Some of the leading causes of tooth decay and infections include smoking in excess, consuming beverages and foods full of sugar, and drinking in excess, among other things. Ensuring that you eat and drink healthy while cutting out damaging products to your teeth will help you live a life free from dental pain.

Wear Protective Gear

Athletes that play contact sports need to pay close attention to wearing protective gear during training, practices, and matches. One bad hit or fall can lead to unbearable pain and potentially the loss of a tooth.
Mouthguards properly fitted to the unique structure of your teeth by a dentist are the best course of action to take. Additionally, not just athletes can benefit from different forms of mouth protection. Teeth grinders, in particular, will benefit from a properly fitted mouthguard while sleeping.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Even if you do everything right to protect your teeth, problems do unfortunately arise. However, regular dental check-ups do wonders in detecting future problems. Your dentist will complete a thorough examination of your teeth and determine the things you need to do to help your smile stay clean and healthy while avoiding serious discomfort!

Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for Tooth Extraction in Gurnee, IL

The moment you start to suspect that you may need a tooth extraction, contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center immediately. The longer you wait, the more severe your pain will be. Not to mention the possible harm you could cause to the rest of your body. This trusted dental clinic treats patients of all ages with personal and unbeatable care, ensuring any problems that arise are dealt with quickly and pain-free.
Tooth extractions are nothing to be scared of. They are safe, and you will be able to enjoy your days and nights to the fullest without any discomfort. So, SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and get the care that you need right away!

Have you been enjoying one of your favorite foods in Park City, IL, and suddenly feel a sudden jolt of pain in one or multiple teeth? Tooth sensitivity is common, affecting one out of every eight Americans. The enamel may be eroded, or the gums have receded, and the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed. When this happens, almost everything that touches the affected tooth causes unbearable pain.

Dental Treatments For Teeth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a signal that something is wrong. It may be due to various reasons, such as bacteria build up in a cracked tooth or periodontal disease. Issues such as enamel erosion are caused by different factors, including

Acidic foods and drinks
Teeth grinding
Cracked teeth

When you are experiencing sensitivity in your teeth, you need to contact a professional right away. Dental specialists at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center will diagnose the issue and provide a solution right away, relieving you of the pain that is keeping you from enjoying your day. While getting help from a dentist is the best option, there are a few things you can do on your own before visiting the clinic!

1. Stop Over Brushing and/or Get a New Brush

Did you know that one of the things that are causing your sensitive teeth might actually be the one thing you rely on to keep your tooth clean and your smile bright? It’s true that you should be brushing at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, but you may be brushing too hard, or your toothbrush might have harsh bristles.

The primary thing to do is ask Beautiful Smiles Dental Center where to find a dentist-recommended toothbrush. They are designed to keep the user’s teeth clean with soft bristles that don’t harm the teeth. Once you have your new brush, carefully brush your teeth without applying too much pressure. Over-brushing can lead to tooth decay and cutting the gums, exposing the root of the teeth.

2. Apply Fluoride Toothpaste to the Affected Area

Before heading to the supermarket to get the toothpaste that tastes the best, you need to consider whether or not it’s right for your sensitive teeth. While many different kinds of toothpaste may offer the most desirable flavors, they often include different ingredients that irritate the exposed tooth. Sensitive toothpaste certified by dentists will help fortify the enamel and protect your dentin. With fewer ingredients that harm the exposed nerves on the teeth, a sensitive toothpaste rich in fluoride will continue to protect the tooth and alleviate discomfort.

3. Make a Salt Water Mouthwash

Are you experiencing unbearable pain in your teeth and need a quick solution before heading to the dentist for treatment? Then try this easy at-home hack that reduces tooth sensitivity quickly. Simple salt and water mouthwash may be the answer that you need. The saltwater balances the pH levels inside the mouth, creating an environment that reduces bacterial growth. As an added bonus, plaque build-up is stopped in its tracks. Make sure to use this solution once in the morning and once in the evening until the sensitivity improves. Here is what to do:

Warm a glass of water
Add a teaspoon of salt into the water and mix
Carefully gargle the solution for 30 seconds, ensuring not to swallow any of the water.

4. Garlic is Not Only Great in Food

While you may have some garlic lying around for your next dish, we strongly recommend using it when you have a sensitive tooth. Garlic contains beneficial compounds that maintain good oral health. One of these compounds that are so valuable is allicin. This is a pain-relieving and antibacterial compound that reduces bacteria.

Slice the garlic into small pieces and apply it directly to the affected tooth. To make it a little bit more bearable, create a paste by combining water with a few drops of water and a half teaspoon of salt. Once the paste is ready, apply it directly to the area. It should be left on for about ten minutes and repeated twice a day. It may leave you with a stinky breath, but your tooth will feel so much better.

If any of the treatments mentioned above don’t work, here’s how your dental specialist at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center will help:

Professional Teeth Cleanings in Gurnee (Park City, IL)

The answer to your pain may be a thorough and professional tooth cleaning. While we recommend our patients to come in at least twice a year for a cleaning, you can trust in this service to stop your discomfort. Proper dental hygiene is essential no matter how old you are, and due to a variety of different reasons, bacteria will cause your teeth to erode and your gums to recess.

A tooth cleaning at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center will remove any harmful bacteria and clean spaces that you can’t reach with your toothbrush or floss. As a family-focused dental clinic, we will ensure to book you and your family while working around everyone’s schedule. Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for your biannual tooth cleaning today.

Fluoride Varnish Application

This is an extremely concentrated fluoride that your dentist will apply to the surface of the affected teeth, so it acts as a type of topical fluoride therapy. At Beautiful Smiles Dental Center, our specialists use high-quality fluoride varnish that strengthens the enamel and helps conceal the exposed dentin. Once our specialists examine your teeth, fluoride varnish will be applied to the affected tooth.

Tooth Filling

One of the main causes of tooth sensitivity is tooth decay. This erosion will cause the bacteria to enter the tooth and induce horrible pain and sensitivity to anything that touches it. Dental Fillings in Park City, IL, will conceal the exposed roof and help prevent the decay from spreading. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center provides the best dental filling treatments in Park City, IL. We use a high-grade cosmetic or tooth-colored filling that matches the rest of your teeth.

Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center To Relieve Tooth Sensitivity in Gurnee / Park City, IL

Tooth sensitivity will ruin your day and keep you up at night, causing both mental and physical harm to the entire body. Don’t let tooth pain control your life, and find the solution you need at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center. Contact us today or visit our clinic; get directions here.

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Dental Hygiene Awareness Month Deserves a Place on Your Calendar!

It’s time to replace that old toothbrush and restock your mouthwash because October is Dental Hygiene Awareness Month! This October is the perfect time to re-evaluate your dental hygiene regimen and give your teeth and gums a little extra attention. Dental Hygiene Month is for everyone – young and old – to celebrate the importance of a healthy smile and the role that dental hygienists play in keeping your teeth clean. How can you get involved in Dental Hygiene Awareness Month and why is it so important to spread awareness about great oral hygiene? Let’s find out…

What Do I Need to Know About Dental Hygiene Awareness Month?

National Dental Hygiene Month has been around since 2009, but don’t worry if you’re only just hearing about it, there’s never a bad time to improve your dental hygiene regimen!

The awareness month is the result of a partnership between the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company and the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). The idea behind the month is to celebrate dental hygienists and raise awareness about oral hygiene, and in particular, the four daily habits to keep your teeth and gums healthy: brushing, flossing, rinsing, and chewing.

The campaign is both a reminder to look after your smile and a chance to learn more about the correct techniques for keeping your teeth clean, your gums healthy, and your breath fresh. Adults and children alike can get involved in Dental Hygiene Month and learn more about the importance of oral health.

The Best Oral Hygiene Habits for a Lifetime of Optimal Oral Health

The four components of excellent oral health form a foundation from which an entire lifetime of healthy teeth can develop. Preventive treatment can greatly reduce your risk of developing all-too-common dental problems, like cavities and gum disease, and help to keep your smile looking picture-perfect.

It couldn’t be any easier to introduce great oral hygiene practices into your daily routine. Here are the four daily habits that Oral Hygiene Awareness Month is all about:

Brushing

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things for great oral health: it gets rid of plaque and reduces the risk of developing cavities and gum disease. You should be brushing your teeth twice a day, once after you’ve finished your breakfast and once before you go to bed. Each brushing session should last for two minutes and it’s important to use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Learning the correct brushing technique is something you only need to do once to ensure that your teeth receive the most benefit from brushing.

Here are the five steps for effective brushing:

Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums

Move the toothbrush in short strokes gently back and forth

Brush the outer and chewing surfaces of your teeth

Adjust your toothbrush to a vertical position and brush the inner surfaces with small strokes up and down

Finish by brushing your tongue to get rid of bacteria

Teeth Flossing

You should floss your teeth once a day, ideally before you go to bed. Flossing is crucial for cleaning parts of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach. When you floss, you remove plaque and small particles of food that get stuck between your teeth, which helps to lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you don’t remove plaque, over time it’ll harden and become tartar.

Mouth Rinsing

For good dental hygiene, mouthwash shouldn’t be used as an alternative to brushing or as an optional extra: you should use good mouthwash to rinse your mouth regularly after you brush and floss your teeth. Brushing and flossing target your teeth, while mouthwash gets rid of bacteria from other areas of your mouth. The mouthwash will help to prevent gum disease and keep your breath fresh.

Dental Hygiene Awareness Month is a celebration of the incredible work of dental hygienists and an essential reminder to keep up with the big four daily habits for good oral health. The month of October raises awareness about dental hygiene and regular checkups, not only as a reminder for you, but to promote dental hygiene for children – the earlier children learn how to care for their teeth, the better! Marking the month down on your calendar will help to bring oral hygiene to the forefront of your mind once a year and remind you of the importance of looking after your teeth and gums. It’s easy to forget about the importance of keeping your teeth and gums clean amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, the last thing you want is for your dental hygiene regimen to start slipping and open the door for cavities to start creeping in.

For more information regarding Dental Hygiene & Oral Health Care – Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee (Park City, IL)

Visiting your dentist regularly is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your local dentist in Gurnee (Park City, IL) will check your mouth for signs of problems and give you advice about great dental hygiene techniques to implement at home. You’ll also be able to book professional dental cleaning, which will eliminate the plaque and tartar on your teeth and help to keep your beautiful smile in optimal condition. As well as, paying close attention to your cleaning regimen, this October is also a fantastic time to book an appointment for a dental checkup at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center; after-all, the month of October is all about celebrating dental hygiene and the work of dental hygienists! Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee, IL for more information regarding dental hygiene & oral health care.

Throughout our lifetime, we all experience dental plaque to some degree. Depending on how it is managed that makes the real difference in how it affects your oral health. As your most trusted dentist serving Gurnee and Park City, IL, we know all about dental plaque. Read on, as we share some information on what dental plaque is and how it affects your teeth, and how to get rid of it.

What Is Dental Plaque & How Do I Get Rid Of It?

Have you ever noticed a slimy, light yellowish film that is coating your teeth? Well, it’s plaque. The scientific term for plaque is biofilm, and it is a group of living microbes that are held together by a sticky layer of a chemical compound. This adhesive layer helps the microbes attach to your teeth which allows them to flourish into microcolonies, causing horrible havoc in your mouth.

What Is Dental Plaque & Tartar? – (Dental Plaque Causes, Prevention, & Removal Treatments)

When you think about your mouth, think of it as though it is an ecosystem. When we consume foods and beverages or even breathe, a variety of bacteria and organisms are able to enter our mouths. Though it is normal for these bacteria to enter, the balance can be thrown off when high levels of bacteria make their way inside. When this happens, the unfortunate result is intense dental plaque. Foods that are extremely high in starches and sugars contribute to the overdevelopment of bacteria that enters the mouth, encouraging plaque to develop. Plaque is commonly located between the teeth and under the gum line, which is the easiest place within the mouth for these colonies of bacteria to collect.

How Does Dental Plaque Put Your Oral Health at Jeopardy?

Dental Plaque is one of the leading causes of oral health problems. The bacteria that dental plaque is made up of produce acids when we eat. Dental plaque develops when we consume foods containing carbohydrates (sugars & starches). Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. Plaque can also develop on the tooth roots under the gum and cause breakdown of the bone supporting the tooth. Plaque buildup can also lead to gum disease, first gingivitis, the tender and swollen gums that sometimes bleed. Gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, allowing the bacteria to destroy the underlying bone supporting the teeth. As a result severe periodontal gum disease can develop. These acids attack the teeth by breaking down the enamel, which will lead to negative dental dental conditions, such as:

Dental Cavities
Gum Disease
Gingivitis

Not only does dental plaque affect the inside of your mouth, it can also change the way others see you. An ugly yellow film will cover your teeth accompanied by bad breath. The worst effect plaque has on your teeth is when it turns into tartar. Once tartar forms, this hard substance will firmly adhere to your teeth. This yellowish-brown cannot be removed on your own and needs the professional care of a dentist to get it off. If you leave tartar on your teeth, over a period of time it will result in serious gum disease.

5 Facts You Need To Know About Dental Plaque & Tartar

#1: Plaque is filled with bacteria.

#2: Everyone has plaque, even if you can’t see it.

#3: Plaque feeds off of your sugar intake.

#4: If not removed, plaque becomes tartar.

#5: You can easily prevent plaque from building up by brushing, flossing, and rinsing.

Succeed in Preventing Dental Plaque & Gum Disease, Before the Worst Happens

Dental Plaque & Tartar Buildup may be unavoidable, the most essential oral health decision you can make is to keep a good dental health routine every day & to make regular visits to your local Gurnee Periodontal Dental experts. Overcome & Treat Periodontal Disease with the most extensive Periodontal Dental Care Plans in Gurnee (Park City, IL). Achieve the Smile you’ve always wanted with Dr. Galvez, by visiting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center to achieve optimal oral health & visual appeal today.

Never Forget to Brush Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important habits that you can possess. It will protect your gums and teeth from the damaging bacteria that is in dental plaque. This is extremely important after consuming foods that have a lot of sugar. Unfortunately, a quick brush every evening isn’t enough. You need to practice proper brushing techniques and brush for at least 2 minutes in the morning and another 2 minutes in the evening. Electric toothbrushes are recommended to help get the technique right and battle against battling plaque. Ask your dentist at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for the best toothbrush in Chicago and the surrounding area.

Add Dental Flossing to Your Oral Health Plan

It is not uncommon for people to forget to floss or think that it is not an important part of their oral hygiene plan. This is a horrible misconception. Brushing cleans the surface of your teeth, but it can’t quite get to those hard-to-reach places. Flossing is able to get the job done by removing plaque that is stuck under the gum line and in between the teeth.

Use A Dentist Approved Mouth Rinse to Reduce Dental Plaque & Gingivitis

As an added bonus to your oral health regime, it is beneficial to use a mouth rinse. This is proven to help you tackle plaque and the issues that come with it. Research has shown that mouth rinse reduces plaque and gingivitis. Chlorhexidine, used in many types of mouthwash, is the best antiplaque and anti-gingivitis agent. Before you purchase your mouthwash, make sure to check with your dentist about the best mouth rinse to buy. They will be able to tell you which mouthwash is most beneficial for your teeth.

Lower & Neutralize Dental Plaque Causing Acid Intake by Eating a Daily Balanced Diet

A diet that promotes good oral health is not just about the foods you eat or avoid — when and how you eat them is equally important. Foods that take a long time to chew or that you hold in your mouth may damage teeth as they retain sugar in the mouth longer than do other foods. Eat a balanced diet and limit the number of between-meal snacks. Instead of snacking on sugary, carbohydrate-rich or acidic foods throughout the day, eat these foods just during meal times in order to minimize the amount of time teeth are exposed to acid. In addition, the body produces more saliva to help digest larger meals, which washes away more food and helps neutralize harmful acids before they can attack teeth. If you need a snack, choose nutritious foods such as plain yogurt, cheese, fruit, or raw vegetables. Vegetables, such as celery, help remove food and help saliva neutralize plaque-causing acids.

Additional Plaque Formation Prevention Tips:

See your local Gurnee IL Dentist & Oral Hygienist, on a regular basis for a dental checkup, exam, and teeth cleaning.
Ask your dentist if a dental sealant is appropriate for you. Dental sealants are a thin, plastic coating that are painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth to protect them from cavities and decay.

Top Rated Dental Clinic in Gurnee to Conquer Dental Plaque

Usually, the ongoing battle against plaque is simply done through your daily dental hygiene routine. But, in cases of intense and irreversible plaque build-up that turns into tartar, you will need to visit your dentist at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center to have it removed. It is critical to visit your dentist on a regular basis for check-ups and cleanings. Even if you stick to a good dental health routine at home, there are still areas within your mouth that cannot be reached. That is why a dentist is needed to ensure that each part of your gums and teeth are healthy and happy.

Stay in Control of Dental Plaque & Tartar Build Up with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center

Do you want your teeth and gums to last a lifetime without any complications? Then it is important to fight plaque build-up. Whether it is at home or in the dental office, getting rid of plaque will result in a cleaner mouth that is less prone to gum disease and tooth decay. Think back to when the last time you had your teeth and gums checked. Beautiful Smiles Dental Center provides the most trusted & experienced dental plaque removal services in Gurnee (Park City, IL). We will help you achieve your best smile & optimal oral health, book an appointment today.

When it comes to your dental, there are a number of different things you want to be remembered for. Such as a stunning smile and contagious laugh. But, no one wants to be known as the person that always has bad breath. If you suffer from constant bad breath, don’t let it go and continue to hold a nickname regarding your breath. Don’t worry! Once we can establish the cause of the bad breath, we at Beautiful Smiles can fix it.

If you feel like you are all alone, you aren’t! An interesting fact about bad breath is that over 80 million people suffer from chronic bad breath, also known as Halitosis. You can do everything right, like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash but still struggle with bad breath. It can be a constant struggle to live with bad breath and figure out what exactly is causing it. That’s where Beautiful Smiles comes in to help. Once we have found the problem, a cure will follow.

Why Poor Dental Hygiene Causes Bad Breath

Your dental hygiene should be one of the most important parts of your daily routine. If you decide to neglect your dental hygiene, bad breath is surely going to happen. Though gum and mints provide short-term answers to bad breath, they will not give the permanent results that you are looking for. You can not get rid of stinky breath until you understand the cause of chronic bad breath.

85% of bad breath causes come from inside the mouth, and poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath. Skipping brushing your teeth, and flossing each day leaves behind small pieces of bacteria whose number one purpose is to feed off of any food particles that are left behind—these tiny bacteria create a filthy-smelling waster following meals. If you leave these bacteria on your teeth and skip your dental routine, the results are not going to be attractive.

If you wear dentures and think you are safe from bad-smelling breath, you are wrong. Similar to natural teeth, bacteria and food particles cling to the dentures. Not removing your dentures and constantly cleaning them allows for the bacteria to grow and emit a foul-smelling odor.

Other Common Causes of Halitosis (Chronic Bad Breath)

Alongside poor dental hygiene, there are a variety of different causes of bad breath. Here are 5 more common causes of bad breath:

Cavity and Infection

In many cases, bad breath can be caused by a cavity or other infection in the mouth. When left untreated, the bacteria present in tooth decay, infection, and cavities emit a foul smell. Infections that haven’t healed yet also cause bad breath. So, constant dental checkups are essential when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy and your breath clean.

Low-Carb Intake

Have you changed your diet recently? Tried the new keto diet trend? Well, it could be a reason for your bad breath. When drastically reducing the number of carbs that you eat, your body starts to break down fats instead of carbohydrates to give it energy. Fatty acids that are present when your body breaks down fat can turn into action and cause bad breath.

High-Protein Diets

Just like too little carbs, too much protein can cause chronic bad breath. If you consume too much protein, your body won’t be able to break it down efficiently. When this happens, amino acids are produced, and when combined with the bacteria that is lying within your mouth, bad breath is caused.

*Remember to keep your diet balanced with a healthy level of carbs, protein, greens, and dairy!

Dehydration and Dry Mouth

Not drinking an efficient amount of liquids and dry mouth are also two leading causes of bad breath. When dehydrated, the production of saliva slows down. When this happens, you are losing your main line of defense against chronic bad breath.

Saliva not only assists in washing away any food particles left behind after eating, but it contains essential proteins and minerals that limit the growth of bacteria. Like always, the fewer bacteria left behind, the less of a chance that you will suffer from bad breath.

Less Common Causes of Bad Breath

The majority of causes of bad breath were mentioned above. Unfortunately, they are not the only reasons. Some cases of chronic bad breath are more hidden. Here is a small list of other culprits of bad breath:

Acid reflux
Sinus infection
Mouth cancer
Throat cancer
Diabetes
Bowel disorders
Problems with the digestive system
Liver disease
Infection of the lungs

IF you have tried everything to get rid of your bad breath but it is persistent, it is essential that you come into Beautiful Smile Dental Center today. We will do an extensive examination of your teeth and mouth and discover the reason you are experiencing chronic bad breath.

Common Cures for Halitosis

It’s essential to remember that you are not alone in the battle against bad breath. It is embarrassing and can diminish your reputation among your friends and co-workers. Don’t let chronic bad breath affect your personal and professional life. Find the answer with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center.

Dental hygiene cures

Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day, once before starting your day and once before going to sleep.
Floss each day before going to sleep to get all of the food particles stuck between the teeth.
Rinse with a dentist-approved mouthwash
Remove dentures and other dental devices each night and clean them thoroughly.
Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Lifestyle cures for bad breath

Keep hydrated
Eat balanced meals rich in fruits and vegetables
If you have a dry mouth, chew sugar-free gum
Avoid smoking and drinking in excess

These are the easiest ways to cure bad breath, however if you have been trying and trying to get rid of chronic bad breath, there is only one option! Contacting Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and having your teeth and mouth checked. Your dentist and our dental team will be able to handle any and all questions or concerns regarding your oral health. Fight back against chronic bad breath with Beautiful Smiles Dental Center and get the answers you need today!

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Comfort & trust are important factors, when it comes to high-quality dentistry, a familiar face who knows each member of your family and establishes a connection with both the kids and the adults. Familiarity with a dentist helps infants, children, and teens become more relaxed when it’s time for checkups, cleanings, or procedures. The greatest advantage of family dental care in Gurnee, IL is the natural solution it provides while saving time and money.

When Should my Child Start Visiting the Dentist?

Being a parent is one of the toughest but rewarding jobs that one person can have, and all of the planning and care can be overwhelming. Parents have to take many factors into account to ensure the health and well-being of their children, and that includes their teeth. One of the common questions asked by parents is when they should first start taking their children to the dentist, well we have the answer.

A very common misconception across the United States is that you should wait at least two years because it is dangerous if you go too soon. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) suggests that a child’s first trip to the dentist should be no more than one year, and as soon as six months. The primary teeth usually begin to grow around six months, and as soon as they do, you should bring them in to get ahead of their health.

Why Is It Important For Children To Visit The Dentist Early?

Unfortunately, too many people don’t bring their children into their dentist soon enough, and it can lead to further problems. As mentioned above, a child’s primary teeth can come in as early as six months, taking care of these teeth are extremely important, reasons being:

It develops their chewing patterns, which helps with good nutrition
It saves up space for permanent teeth
It helps with speech development

If you are expecting or have just had a child, do not hesitate to book an appointment with Beautiful Smiles to ensure your children’s teeth’ proper development and health as they grow older. For any questions, contact us today.

Gurnee Dental Care for Infants

At Beautiful Smiles, we take the best care when treating all of our patients, and our dentists are highly trained in treating all ages, including infants. They are extra sensitive, and we handle your infant with nothing but care and safety, walking you through each thing that we do.

After checkups, our dentists will go through any kind of dental care that you need to perform at home; this could include teeth brushing and tips and tricks so that you can perform dental care and keep your infant comfortable at all times. Inside and outside of the office, should you have any questions regarding your infant’s dental care, contact us.

The Ease Of A Family Dentist In Gurnee

A trouble that many families undergo as their children grow older is switching and finding different dentists. This can lead to longer commutes, busier days going from dentist to dentist, and difficulty planning appointments. A family dentist, especially at Beautiful Smiles, helps make all of those problems go away while being your all in one dentist for each of your children (and the parents).

A family dentist allows you to create a connection with the dentist, plan all appointments in one day, and make your life simpler and easier. At the same time, your children can become familiar with who is doing the work on their teeth and not dread a trip to the clinic as they would with new dentists. Our family dentist will be there with you as your children grow!

Best Dental Practices for Toddlers and Children at Home

Let’s face it; the dentist isn’t exactly everyone’s favorite place, so anything that you can do to keep your toddlers and children from constant visits is always one of the best options. Dental care for toddlers and children can be tricky, as they won’t be too fond of it, but here are a few things that you should do:

Ensure that they brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night (If they are very young, assist them).
Limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks such as candy, juices, etc.
Get them in the routine of taking care of their teeth at a young age; it will help them as teens and during adulthood.
As parents, practice your dental care with them so that they feel inspired to do so.

Dentistry for Teens & Young Adults

Most parents know the teen years present unique and unpredictable challenges. When it comes to your teen’s dental health, rapid changes seem to happen almost daily. It is important to install the idea that dental care and trips to the dentists are not bad but a good thing so that when they are teens, young adults, or adults with a family, they continue to carry that importance, especially when they are on their own!

Advantages of Invisalign for Teens

Invisalign is a substitute for braces; it is a clear, light, and natural-looking plastic that fits around your teeth and does the same job as braces would. Depending on your teen’s specific case, Invisalign holds numerous advantages.

A Natural Look

Instead of having those bulky metal brackets that a lot of older generations understand the pain of having, Invisalign is almost unnoticeable and leaves those wearing it with a natural look. Confidence is key, especially when you are a teenager.

Easily Removable

When wearing braces, you can’t just pop them out and put them back in, but with Invisalign, you can! Though it is not recommended to remove it for extended periods of time, this easy option is so that you don’t have to limit the things you do or eat, like you would with braces.

No Discomfort

Braces can be somewhat uncomfortable when you eat, sleep, do exercise, etc. Invisalign Clear Braces provides a nature look & feel. If you have any further questions regarding Family Dental Services, feel free to contact us or set up an appointment. We at Beautiful Smiles are always here to support our community and provide an experience like no other dental office in the Chicagoland Area offers. Start your journey to a cleaner, brighter, and healthier smile today!

Dental Checkup – General Dentistry Tips

Keep Your Teeth Healthy

There are many new products nowadays to help you maintain good oral hygiene, which is the key to preventing tooth decay. When a tooth decays, it starts to break down, causing a cavity and can eventually die. But it is never too late to start looking after your teeth. It is particularly important when you’ve had treatment such as a root canal filling, crown, or extraction to start immediately on a good routine of keeping this area as clean as the rest of your teeth.

Practice good oral hygiene

Good hygiene will help prevent infection in the treated areas. Ask your dentist for clarification if you’re unsure how soon you should resume your normal routine. Most dentists advise using an electric toothbrush with a fluoride toothpaste. The fluoride is present in very small quantities in toothpaste, and it helps to strengthen tooth enamel. If you are unsure about this or prefer to use an ordinary toothbrush, ask your dentist for their advice on the best way to go about it. For instance, he or she will probably suggest techniques for brushing and replacing the manual brush regularly. Modern oral hygiene should also include cleaning between the teeth as well as brushing. There are a number of ways this can be done. One way is to use tiny inter-dental disposable brushes. It is likely your dentist will have some of these in the surgery and will be happy to show you how to use them – just ask.

Go for regular dental checkups

Unfortunately, most of us don’t go to the dentist when everything is fine with our teeth. Usually, it is because something is wrong and probably painful. If your dentist recommends a particular treatment, you can ask them to explain exactly why you need it and what it entails. Trust between the patient and dentist is important to make the experience as stress-free as possible, so you should feel free to have things explained to you clearly.

To keep your teeth in tip-top condition, the American Dental Association recommends that you have a checkup twice a year. This is also an opportunity to have your teeth cleaned by a professional hygienist who has a number of tools at her/his disposal to thoroughly clean and polish your teeth. This is usually a refreshing rather than a painful process. But ask your dentist if they recommend this, as in some cases less or more often it may be advisable. For many people going to the dentist is something they dread or put off for too long. If you go regularly, not only will you give your dentist the chance to catch problems early on, but you can also get to know him or her, which makes it easier to relax. Regular visits to the dentist can also have a beneficial effect on your general wellbeing. Studies have shown that poor dental health is connected to a number of other conditions, including some kinds of heart disease.

A dentist can also recommend what medication you should take for any pain. It is important that your dentist asks you some questions of their own before treating you. These should include questions about your general health, any medication you’re taking, and also ladies if you’re pregnant. This is particularly important if any X-rays are going to be taken, as X rays can be harmful to an unborn child, and a special apron should be used to protect your abdomen during the X-ray.

Avoid smoking

We know smoking is bad for our general health, but it’s important to realize how much smoking can also damage your teeth and gums. Smoking dries out your mouth, inhibiting the production of saliva, which makes it more likely to produce potentially harmful bacteria. According to the American Dental Association, smoking is one of the main causes of periodontal diseases, which causes gums to become inflamed, which can lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss.

Stay generally healthy

Your overall health will likely impact the health of your teeth, mouth, and gums, so it is important to discuss any concerns you may have in this regard. For example, anyone who is diabetic may have dental problems. If your immune system is compromised, you are more likely to succumb to bacterial infections. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. A serious case can lead to gum receding, and it is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. If you are worried about this, you should ask your dentist to advise you.

How You Can Prepare For A Visit To The Dentist

Sometimes a trip to the dentist is when we start to overthink how much we have actually been following our regular oral care routine. We wonder, have we done enough? Is there time to make up for everything I missed? Well we are here to tell you to take a breath, here are a few things that you can do to prepare for your checkup.

Don’t over brush

Yes, that date is coming up soon, and though there is no problem at all with brushing regularly, excessively brushing your teeth before your appointment can actually make it ten times harder for the dentist to identify any issues. This, in turn, prevents your dentist from giving you the proper care and advice.

Tell the truth

You may feel a bit ashamed for not keeping up with your dental hygiene as much as you should have been doing, but lying about it will only make things worse. Your dentist needs to know everything so that they can properly diagnose any problems and future treatments that you may need. This will promote the life of your smile while also preventing you from any future pain that dental problems could bring you in the future.

Think twice about whitening your teeth

Feeling self-conscious before your dental appointment is something that is totally normal among patients; unfortunately, more and more dentists are seeing their patients whiten their teeth to give the illusion that there is nothing wrong. Dentists aren’t there to judge; they are there to help. Whitening your teeth before can make for much more painful cleanings at the dentist. Instead, ask your dentist to whiten your teeth AFTER your treatment!

Stay home if you are sick

Canceling a dental appointment can be an inconvenience for you, and it can put your schedule in the upcoming weeks out of place, but trust us, you don’t want to go to the dentist when you are sick. This is to protect yourself, other patients, and the dentists. Besides passing on the flu, your gums are more susceptible to damage, especially thorough cleanings. So if you have a dentist’s appointment and you feel a bit under the weather, we’d recommend you stay home! Overall, there are lots of things you can do to improve your dental health, and it’s important to treat your dentist as a service provider who is there to help and advise you. Medical science is always evolving, and there are always new products and methods of performing dental hygiene to explore. Keep your teeth and your children’s teeth at their best, go for regular checkups, and if you want to know – just ask!

Dental Checkup Questions to Ask

Attending a dental checkup is not top of many people’s list of favorite activities, and for some it can feel quite intimidating. It can help you feel more relaxed if you remember that your dentist is a skilled professional who has trained and studied for many years in order to not only treat you when things have gone wrong, but to help you maintain your teeth in the best possible health. Before your appointment, prepare in your mind some questions to put to your dentist before or after the examination. Talking during the examination is usually rather difficult.

What Should You Ask Your Dentist?

I have heard that sugary drinks like Coke are awful for children’s teeth. Would you also advise that adults avoid them? If so, what is the best alternative?
Why do some of my teeth give me pain when I eat ice cream or drink a hot beverage? Is there anything I can do to reduce the discomfort as I really don’t want to give up ice cream?
I have noticed my teeth look rather stained and brown. What causes this, and how can I prevent it from happening?
What do you recommend as the best way to make my teeth look whiter? There are a lot of treatments I’ve seen advertised which make the teeth look dazzling white, but are these safe?
What are the best foods to include in my diet, which will help keep my teeth healthy?
I am worried about bad breath. Is using a mouthwash a good idea?
I see that fluoride is an ingredient in toothpaste. What is it for, and is it safe to swallow it?

Dental Care Tips for Children’s Teeth

If you have children, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking them to the dentist while they are young – around the age of 1 when they get their first milk teeth. Studies show children can develop their first cavities by the age of two. This helps your dentist catch potential problems that can affect the child’s overall health and wellbeing as more teeth erupt over time. This also has the benefit of allowing young children to get used to going to the dentist without associating it with being a distressing experience.

As we grow up, dental needs become reliable on how the teeth have been treated from the moment we are kids all the way until we are adults, so keeping up with your children’s dental care is extremely important. Every age is unique and requires different help when it comes to their teeth, every dental service and treatment you receive is important at any age, and keeping up with it helps fight against and prevents future issues. Not only do early trips to the dentist help the growth and protection of your children’s teeth, but it also establishes a safe and welcoming sense when you tell your kids it’s time to go to the dentist. Often children fear the trip, but early visits give them more confidence and will power to go with you in the future.

Children are constantly growing, and regular checkups are essential when it comes to the growth and health of their teeth. With an early preventative hygiene plan, we can prevent childhood tooth decay and a lifetime of problems. You can also ask your dentist for advice on the best way to care for your child’s teeth and encourage them to brush for themselves. Stickers and other rewards are all part of the service.

What to do when a Dental Emergency Occurs

Imagine this, you have an important event, meeting, or you have just had a severe dental accident, and you need dental treatment ASAP, but you don’t know what to do or who to call, we have a feeling we know just exactly what you need and where you need to go!

You can never predict a dental accident, it can happen anywhere at any time, and usually, it’s the time that is the most inconvenient, when you are working, eating, in the middle of the night when you are just trying to get a good night rest, or exactly when it seems like you already have everything else to do in the world!

First Things First, What is a Dental Emergency?

Now you may be wondering what exactly “qualifies for a dental emergency¨, does it have to be something that is a medical crisis and could have possible long-lasting effects? Though a dental emergency doesn’t have a specific description, generally, emergencies arise when you have had an accident of some kind or if previous dental treatments are causing new and recurring problems.

The most common dental emergencies that people are faced with are:

Breaking or chipping a tooth
Loss of teeth
Tooth knockout
Injury to the soft tissue around your mouth or tongue
Losing a crown or a filling

What To Do During a Dental Emergency

First Step: Relax

We totally understand that any dental accident can be scary and painful, but the best thing you can do is relax so that you can move on to the next step.

Call the experts

In some dental emergencies, the time you take to get the help you need can be crucial. Who are you going to call? Well, Beautiful Smiles Dental Care, of course!

Explain what’s going on

As soon as you call us, we will quickly discuss exactly what’s going on and what the problem is. We will then arrange for you to see one of the best emergency dentists in Gurnee, IL, as soon as possible!

Step 4: See the professionals and get the care you need

Probably the most vital step; now is the time to let our experts work their magic and get you back to your usual self showing off that beautiful smile we know you have!

Tricks to Pain Relief

Like we said earlier, dental emergencies don’t wait for you to be nice, comfortable, and ready for them. There are a few things you can do to get rid of some of the pain you are, unfortunately, feeling!

Use An Ice pack

The cold from the ice pack can reduce any kind of swelling where the accident has occurred! If you don’t have an ice pack, any cold compress will help!

Pain Medication

Any over the counter pain medication that you may have in your home may help will do the perfect trick relieve any discomfort! But be cautious and follow the instructions, taking more does not make more it hurt any less.

Salt Water Solution

Best for serious toothaches, swish warm and salty water around in your mouth. The best mix is 1/2 teaspoon table salt to 8 ounces of water. But make sure that you spit it out and never swallow the solution.

Tooth / Teeth Loss

Losing a tooth is something special in and of itself because of the process and steps you need to take so that you can fully preserve the tooth, but you need to act fast.

Search for every piece of the tooth; you need to find any fragments that have come off from the tooth.
Pick up the tooth by the crown; when grabbing the tooth, never pick it up by the root, always by the chewing surface.
Clean it; if it is dirty, you need to wash it, but gently. Slowly rinse the tooth with warm water, a saline solution, or milk. Remember, with care.
Put the tooth back in the socket, and as soon as possible; by holding the crown, gently push it in with your fingers. Hold it in place with your fingers.
Keep it moist, whether it is by the saliva in your mouth or, now, this may sound weird… in milk. Never in water, the cells from the root will swell up and burst.
See a dentist in no longer than 30 minutes; though it is possible to save a tooth if it has been outside of the mouth for an hour or so, it has a much higher chance at being salvaged if you see a dentist within the first 30 minutes!

The best thing to do if you, one of your friends, or loved ones experience a dental crisis is to keep calm and follow these steps. Beautiful Smiles professional emergency Dentists are on call for when any problem arises. No time is too early, too late, or too inconvenient, trust in Beautiful Smiles Dental Clinic to help your dental needs when you need it the most!

Same-Day Crowns in Gurnee, IL

Are you tired of waiting weeks upon weeks for your new crowns? Tired of booking multiple appointments where you have to take time away from your day to make sure that your new crowns are fitted correctly? Well, with the modern and innovative same-day crowns at Beautiful Smiles, your new crowns can be shaped, prepped, crafted, and fitted, all in one appointment!

Results that are designed to last
Effective
Guaranteed comfort
A natural look

Contact the experts at Beautiful Smiles and see for yourself just how incredible this innovative dental service is!

Emergency Tooth Extractions in Gurnee IL

Though the decision to extract a tooth isn’t always the first option, sometimes it is necessary! Due to several different reasons, tooth extraction is performed to prevent infection, chronic tooth pain, and discomfort, or to help the development of your teeth, among others.

The specialists at Beautiful Smiles will analyze your particular situation very carefully to see if an emergency tooth extraction is necessary. Sometimes tooth extractions treatment is recommended for:

Where a tooth has been severely broken
If a tooth has suffered from severe decay
If a tooth is at great risk of infection
When baby teeth do not fall out as they are supposed to
Where gum disease has severely affected a tooth

These are just a few reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary, if you think that you may need a tooth extraction in Gurnee, Waukegan, or Park City IL contact the emergency dental specialists at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center!

Beautiful Smiles Emergency Dental Services in Gurnee, IL

Time is of the essence when it comes to any and every kind of dental emergency, and you need a dental clinic that can help you when you need it! Each emergency is unique in its own way, and the professional staff and emergency dentists in Gurnee, IL at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center are highly trained experts who will stop at nothing to get down to the ROOT cause of your problem and figure out the best treatment.

If you or any of your loved ones have a dental emergency in the areas of Gurnee, Waukegan, or Park City IL, don’t hesitate for one second to call Beautiful Smiles and get the care you deserve when you need it! We at Beautiful Smiles strive to give you care of the highest quality! Keep your smile beautiful and contact us at 847.243.6724 if you are in need of dental emergency care!

Top 10 Dental Care Tips

A date can be the perfect opportunity to create amazing memories with your significant other. To impress your date at the start of the night with a radiant smile and leave a lasting impression with a perfect goodnight kiss, we have the dental care tips you need.

Check out our top ten ways to show your teeth and gums some extra love and attention, for the perfect date this year:

1. Brush Your Teeth Thoroughly Every Morning and Evening.

Bad breath is the third wheel that you definitely don’t want tagging along on your date! For a bright smile and fresh breath, be sure to brush your teeth (including the gum line) twice a day to get rid of plaque. To avoid bad breath when you don’t have access to a toothbrush, steer clear of smelly foods, like garlic and onions.

2. Floss Every Day

Flossing is another essential for fresh breath and healthy teeth and gums, as it cleans areas of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t get to. When you regularly floss your teeth, you remove plaque, prevent tooth decay and ensure that your kisses are clean and fresh!

3. Freshen Your Breath with Gum or Mouthwash

Another top tip for date-ready breath is to rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash or chew a piece of sugar-free gum. Both practices are brilliant for eliminating strong or unpleasant smells from food and stimulating saliva. Chewing sugar-free gum regularly can even reduce your chances of tooth decay.

4. Book a Professional Teeth Cleaning

Brushing, flossing, using mouthwash and chewing gum are all important parts of your daily dental hygiene routine, but for the best results ahead of the big day, it’s worth booking a professional cleaning. A professional cleaning is a real treat for your teeth; a hygienist will examine your mouth, remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line, and perform a deep clean with amazing results.

5. Brighten Your Smile with Teeth Whitening Treatment

To really feel confident in your smile during your special date, consider professional teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a highly effective way to make dull and discolored teeth radiant once more. You can turn back the clock on caffeine stains, discoloration from smoking and damage from poor oral hygiene to dazzle your date with a beautiful smile – all in a single session that lasts less than an hour!

6. Be Checked/Treated for Gum Disease

Did you know that around 64.7 million Americans have gum disease? Gum disease may not destroy your date, but it could put a dampener on your evening by affecting the look of your smile and the freshness of your breath. There are many great treatments for gum disease, like scaling and root planning, along with options for restorative treatments that’ll help you to improve your smile for the perfect date. Contact Beautiful Smiles Dental Center for advice about identifying and managing gum disease.

7. Get Your Cavities Treated

If you’re dreaming of sharing a romantic kiss with your significant other, you should get any cavities treated as soon as possible! Cavity-causing bacteria can quickly spread when you kiss and share utensils, so make sure to visit a dentist for treatment and maintain a good dental hygiene routine if you suspect that you have a cavity.

8. Visit Beautiful Smiles Dental Center Every Six Months

One of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy is to visit your local dentist on a regular basis. Booking an appointment at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center in Gurnee, IL around every six months, or more frequently if you’re predisposed to gum disease or have fillings, dentures, crowns or bridges, is essential to keep a close eye on your dental health.

9. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for good health, including when it comes to the health of your teeth and gums. Water keeps your gums hydrated, protects and strengthens your teeth, stops your mouth getting dry and reduces your risk of developing bad breath. To avoid a potentially dry and smelly kiss at the end of your date, make sure you stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

10. Stop Using Tobacco Products

Smoking is one of the most damaging habits for your teeth and gums. Not only does smoking stain your teeth and affect the freshness of your breath, but it increases your risk of developing dental diseases. For an experience to remember and better long-term dental health, giving up smoking is a great tip to take on board.

Smile, laugh, and live every day – to the fullest with confidence in your dental health, by booking a routine checkup at Beautiful Smiles Dental Center today!

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