How Often Do I Need To Change My Toothbrush

How Often Do I Need To Change My Toothbrush

How Often Do I Need To Change My Toothbrush

Reasons To Change Your Toothbrush

Your dentists in Easton PA recommend that you change your toothbrush every three to four months, or as soon as the bristles start to show wear. If you have certain medical conditions, such as gum disease, you may need to change your toothbrush more often. bacteria and other germs can quickly build up on a toothbrush, so it’s important to replace it regularly to avoid infection. In addition, worn-out bristles won’t clean your teeth as effectively and can even damage your gums. So, next time you reach for your toothbrush, make sure it’s not overdue for a replacement.

How Often Do I Need To Change My Toothbrush

When You Need To Change Your Manual Toothbrush

Most people don’t give much thought to their toothbrush. However, your toothbrush plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. According to the best dentist in Easton PA, you should replace your manual toothbrush every three to four months. If you use your brush for much longer than that, the bristles will start to become frayed and worn, and they won’t be as effective at clearing away plaque. When too much plaque and food debris linger in your mouth, your risk of tooth decay and gum disease increases. To help ensure that your toothbrush is doing its job, be sure to select a brush with soft, rounded bristles. Don’t forget to give it a thorough rinse after each use! Following these simple tips, you can help keep your mouth healthy and free of disease.

Replacing Your Head Of Your Electric Toothbrush

Perhaps you’ve noticed that the bristles on your toothbrush don’t seem to be cleaning as well as they used to. Or maybe you’re simply due for a replacement—after all, it is recommended that you change out the head of your electric toothbrush every 12 weeks. Our friends at Park Hill Family Dentistry, the best dentist in Lexington KY, want you to know that this should be done more often than for a manual toothbrush because electric brushes often have shorter bristles. As a result, they tend to become worn down more quickly and must be replaced sooner. You might even want to switch out your brush head earlier than 12 weeks if you notice that the bristles don’t seem to be as effective at cleaning your teeth. Sticking to a regular replacement schedule will help ensure that your toothbrush is always working at its best.

Contact College Hill Dental Group Today!

If you want to keep your mouth as healthy as possible, it’s crucial to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. That includes using all of the right dental tools, and an old, frayed toothbrush is not one of them. Make sure that you replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and visiting College Hill Dental Group for checkups and cleanings every six months. It will help keep your smile healthy and bright! In between dental visits, be sure to brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and eat a balanced diet. If you do have any concerns about your oral health, don’t hesitate to give your dentist a call. They’ll be happy to help you get on the path to a healthy mouth!

How to Stop Receding Gums

receding gums - Easton PA

How to Get Rid of Receding Gums

Receding gums can ruin your perfect smile. How do you know your gums are receding? Well, if you have lengthy teeth, but they weren’t always that way, you may have receding gums. Gum recession is a slow and steady process. Fortunately, receding gums can be avoided with good oral health problems. But what do you do when you already have receding gums? Below, your dentist in Easton, PA, explains how to stop receding gums from progressing. 

Not All Gum Recessions Can Be Avoided

Gum recession is caused by a variety of circumstances. Unfortunately, some of them contain genetics. Some people are more susceptible than others. The good news is that preventative dentistry can assist in avoiding gum recession. Additionally, Dr. Dave Moghadam recommends searching for the “best dentist near me” and visiting them a minimum of twice a year for dental cleaning and exam. So, they will be able to assist in preventing this dental problem from happening.

Bruxism 

Chronic teeth-grinding, or bruxism, can greatly impact your oral health, putting you at risk for gum recession. How? Well, this habit can put too much pressure on your gums, causing them to recede. Bruxism is a difficult habit to stop, especially if you do it while sleeping, but you can reduce the damage to your jaw, gums, and teeth by wearing a mouthguard. Ask Dr. Dave about our oral appliances. 

How to Get Rid of Receding Gums

You may be confused by how you developed gum recession when you take such good care of your teeth. Well, you can actually brush your teeth too hard. With a hard-bristled brush and too much force, you could damage your gums. Additionally, our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that soft bristles are perfect for removing plaque and massaging the gums without harming them. The same holds true with flossing; you should floss once a day, but be gentle with your gums.

Tartar Accumulation and Gum Disease

When plaque is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. This means that the longer you go between routine dental cleanings, the more tartar accumulates around your gum lines, putting you at risk for gum disease. The early stages of gum disease, commonly known as gingivitis, are likely if your gums are sensitive, swollen, and bleed easily. You can fight it with good brushing and flossing routines, but it’s also a good idea to bring it to our attention. 

Contact College Hill Dental Group 

So, if you are concerned about the structure and health of your gums, please contact our dental office right away. Our team at College Hill Dental Group can assist you in restoring your oral health. Contact us today!

Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day

tooth fairy day 2021 - Easton PA

Happy Tooth Fairy Day!

It’s that time of year again! On August 22, 2021, we celebrate Tooth Fairy Day! Now is the time to bring more awareness to your child’s oral health, especially if they’ve been slacking. Plus, losing a tooth is such a special moment for our little ones. There’s nothing like seeing their excitement after a Tooth Fairy visit. But when your child loses about 20 baby teeth, it can be hard to get creative for when the Tooth Fairy comes to visit. Below, Dr. Dave Moghdam, a local dentist in Easton, PA, shares a little about Tooth Fairy Day. 

Tooth Fairy

Some parents are amazing at arts and crafts, while others are still attempting to come up with creative ways to get an extra hour or two of sleep each night. Do you want to put a creative spin on the visit from the Tooth Fairy while also advocating for good oral health habits? Our family dentist in Easton, PA, has a few recommendations:

The Importance of Oral Health Routine

Let’s face it. Oral health isn’t a top priority for many kids. In fact, most kids will forget to brush their teeth a few times a week. As a result, they have to visit their dentist for fillings or additional restorative treatment. Over time, kids will despise going to the dentist. If you provide them with the knowledge and the right tools, you can help them prevent dental problems at home. If your child is struggling to maintain good oral health, we recommend the tooth gift them an educational book. Here’s one of our favorite Tooth Fairy Books.

The Importance of Good Diet

It’s easy to develop cavities if you follow a poor diet and have bad hygiene habits. One way you could get creative with the Tooth Fairy is by making healthy treats. You could leave them for the Tooth Fairy like you do Santa, or the treats could be made from Tooth Fairy. Either way, your child will be excited to celebrate their missing tooth. Our friend Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, points out that this is the perfect time to talk to your child about the importance of a good, well-balanced diet.

Visiting a Dentist Near Me

There are a few things you can do, in addition to a cool tooth fairy, to make your kiddo feel more at ease with going to the dentist. The first and most important step is to establish a good dental routine at home. Keep in mind that baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth. Begin practicing good dental hygiene and taking your children to the dentist when they are small. Assist them in feeling prepared for their first dentist visit. At College Hill Dental Group, we do our best to provide the best dental services in all of Easton, PA. 

Contact College Hill Dental Group

Don’t be concerned about having the best tooth fairy in your child’s primary school. Simply focus on your family’s oral health. Make your child’s oral health and eating habits a priority this month! You might be surprised by how much of an impact this can have on their oral health. Need help? Contact College Hill Dental Group today!

Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

connection between oral health and overall health - Easton PA

Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Did you know there’s a correlation between your oral health and your overall wellness? Poor dental health has been related to heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy problems, and other health issues, according to research. The good news is that you can prevent these oral health problems. Below, Dr. Dave Moghadam discusses the connection between oral health and overall health. 

Making the Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Your mouth is a window into your body’s health. Insight into your general health can sometimes be observed in your mouth. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is common in patients who have chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. 

What You Should Understand About Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by an infection and inflammation of the tissues and bone that support your teeth. Bacteria in plaque, a sticky coating that is always on your teeth, create the infection. As a result of the infection, your gums become inflamed – red, puffy, and swollen.

Gum disease, if left untreated, can seriously damage your gum tissues and bone. Eventually, gum disease will lead to tooth loss. 

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a condition that occurs when your body reacts to an infection by inflaming your gums. In fact, it is the first stage of gum disease. Those who have gingivitis can take the right steps to reverse it. Without treatment, gingivitis can develop into the more serious type of gum disease – advanced periodontitis. If gum disease is detected early enough, you may only require professional cleaning or periodontal therapy. Your dentist in Easton, PA, will provide you with tips on how to improve your regular oral hygiene.

Periodontitis

Gingivitis can progress into periodontitis if not treated. Additionally, periodontitis is normally painless, although it can cause bone loss. Some symptoms of periodontitis are:

  • Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing gums, that are red, swollen, puffy, or sensitive gums that no longer securely grip your teeth foul breath that doesn’t go away
  • Pus, loosing feeling in your teeth
  • You may detect one or more of these warning signs, or you may not notice any gum disease symptoms at all. This is why it is critical to visit your dentist on a regular basis.
  • Our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, points out that gum disease treatment is most effective when it is detected early.

The Relationship Between the Mouth and the Body

Certain chronic conditions have been linked to an increased risk of gum disease. Furthermore, gum disease has been found to increase the risk and severity of chronic diseases. While it is unclear if one causes the other, the following chronic conditions are frequently associated with gum disease:

  • Arthritis
  • Diabetes
  • Emphysema
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Blood pressure is too high
  • Hepatitis C 
  • Obesity
  • Stroke

Tobacco Use Increases Chances of Gum Disease 

These days, tobacco products are more popular. Additionally, tobacco use in whatever form (cigarettes, dip/chew, e-cigs, hookah, etc.) is a known risk factor for a variety of chronic disorders, including gum disease. Tobacco use raises the likelihood of developing gum disease. The condition can also worsen if you smoke cigarettes for a longer period of time.

Many drugs used to treat various disorders can have an adverse effect on your mouth by producing dry mouth. Among these are drugs used to treat high blood pressure, allergies, and pain. A dry mouth might raise your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

So, now that you have a better understanding of the connection between oral health and overall health, we can all make strides to better oral health. For dental care in Easton, PA, contact College Hill Dental Group.

What Are the Onlays and Inlays?

Onlays and inlays Easton PA

Inlays and onlays are fillings made out of porcelain. This technique replaces old metal amalgam fillings or most common white composite fillings. In the article below, Dr. Moghadam, the best dentist in Easton, PA, explains the must-knows about onlays and inlays.

When you visit our dental office in Easton, PA, we will make your inlays/onlays right here in our office. Other dental offices usually have to complete this type of dental service in two visits because they have to outsource to a dental laboratory. Our team will be able to fill the cavity all in one visit.

How Are Inlays and Onlays Different From Each Other?

Inlays and onlays vary in scale. The inlay is thinner, covering the space that is limited to the region within the cushion of the tooth (the small bumps on top of each tooth). The onlay is wider, running over one or more cusps to the outer surface of the tooth. They’re very similar in many ways,” says Dr. Moghadam. 

Benefits of Inlays and Onlays 

Many dentists agree that inlays and onlays provide excellent coverage for at-risk teeth. Below are some of the benefits inlays and onlays offer:

  • Instead of metal, they’re made of porcelain which better compliments your overall smile. Therefore, no one will know if you have a filling or not. 
  • They’re attached to a tooth. In other words, the inlay/onlay is bonded to the tooth by light-cured dental cement. Again, this makes them part of a tooth, not a separate object stuffed into a tooth, like old metal fillings.
  • The bonding strengthens the tooth. They apply inward force, pulling on the periphery of the tooth, holding the tooth together. Metal fillings, on the other hand, apply external force, pressing against the tooth’s periphery and thereby weakening the tooth.
  • They’re tough and durable. They will extend the life of the tooth forever with good daily treatment.

Any Disadvantages of Inlays/Onlays?

There aren’t any disadvantages unless you choose a dentist that requires two visits for placement, says our friend Dr. Wade, a dentist in Pinellas Park, FL. It’s much easier when you can see a modern dentist who offers same-day visits.  

How’s the Onlay Different From a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are much larger than porcelain inlays/onlays. Here’s a brief overview of how they’re different:

  • Inlays are for small caves.
  • Onlays are used when the tooth is moderately decayed but still has sufficiently viable tissue to retain the filler.
  • Crowns are used when the tooth no longer has viable tissue, and a whole new outer surface is needed. Just the stub remains of the original tooth, and the crown is permanently fixed to the top of the stub.
  • When decay affects not only the tooth but also its root, the crown must be paired with endodontic therapy – a root canal to reinforce the root.

If both a tooth and its root are so damaged that they need to be replaced, a dental implant may be used to have a new root. A fresh tooth of porcelain is fixed to the top of the implant.

Inlays and onlays are just one way our dentists can restore your smile. Depending on your unique smile, we can provide same-day crowns, dental implants, porcelain veneers, dentures, and more! Contact College Hill Dental Group to learn about the dental services we offer.

Oral Health Tips for Halloween

oral health tips for Halloween - College Hill Dental Group

Oral Health Tips for Halloween

Halloween is a night of spooky good fun. Scares are around each corner, with little goblins and ghosts running from door to door collecting their candy. If you ask Dr. Moghadam at College Hill Dental Group, he’ll tell you the scariest part of Halloween might just be those delicious sweet treats. Not only will kids come home with their Halloween buckets overflowing with assorted sugary treats, but the copious amounts of candy in stores makes it tempting for adults too. As your family dentist in Easton, PA, we are dedicated to working with you to help to achieve a healthy smile. This includes helping you to protect your oral wellness from some of the frights of Halloween. In this article, we share some simple oral health tips for Halloween.

Moderation in Treats

We all know that moderation is a key part of almost everything that we do in life, including the sweet treats we love. We aren’t saying you should completely cut out candy and other sweets from your diet.

Taking an approach that focuses on moderation is much better for all involved. Limit your treats to around mealtimes and avoid mindlessly reaching for the delicious mini candies in the bowl.

There is an increase in saliva production during mealtimes. Saliva plays an important role in helping to rinse your mouth of any remaining debris. This includes the sugar that may otherwise cling to your teeth and contribute to cavities.

Drink Plenty of Water

It’s easy for all of us to get caught up in Halloween festivities, to the degree that we neglect to keep hydrated. Keep yourself and your little ones drinking plenty of water, particularly if you will be consuming those sugary treats.

Water can help to keep your body hydrated. It can also help to rinse your teeth and your mouth’s interior when you’re out enjoying your Halloween celebrations.

Be sure to limit or skip those sugar-filled sodas and fruit punches that may flow freely with spooky regularity on Halloween.

Try to Limit Sticky and Hard Treats

If you or your child have fixed traditional braces, you know the importance of skipping those sticky and hard treats. Although these treats are tasty, they can significantly damage the brackets and wires of the braces.

There are also concerns with dental crowns. Hard candies can quickly lead to cracks or other damage to those crowns. If a crown has been damaged or dislodged, you should call before you need to see an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Unchecked, the damage may allow decay to set in.

These same treats can also be a bad idea for those without braces or crowns. The sugar from that sticky candy may cling to your teeth. It can be hard for the sugar to be washed away without brushing your teeth. So, the sugar could sit on your teeth for hours on end.

Brush, Floss, and Maintain Good Habits

There is no better time to remind everyone in the family of just how important it is to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Children should be using a toothpaste with fluoride in it, and get frequent reminders that brushing after meals will prevent cavities.

This is also a great opportunity to get new toothbrushes. Children are often more likely to use spinning toothbrushes. Choosing a toothbrush with their favorite character on it can help them get excited about brushing again.

Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, says that it’s a good idea to wait half an hour before brushing after eating acidic foods. Acidic foods can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Brushing too hard can result in damage to the enamel.

If you or your little ones need guidance about the right brushing and flossing habits, remember that your dental hygienist can offer some great tips at your next cleaning.

Skipping Those Prosthetic Toy Teeth

Generally speaking, it’s not a good idea to wear fake toy teeth. Even the cutest little vampire could accidentally damage their teeth and gums. What may start as a fun night of Halloween festivities could result in a trip to an emergency dentist in Easton, PA. Some of these toy teeth are also potential choking hazards, which is an extra safety consideration.

Visit Your Easton, PA Dentist

Now that you’ve learned some oral health tips for Halloween, you can enjoy your spooky holiday. Don’t forget to keep up with your routine checkups and cleanings. Preventative dentistry is key to a happy and healthy smile! If you’re interested in dental care in Easton, PA, please contact College Hill Dental Group. Our team is here to serve you and your family.

So, what are your plans for this Halloween? No matter where your Halloween adventures may take you, we hope you stay safe! 

Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist

conquering your fear of the dentist - College Hill Dental Group

Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist

How long do you wait until you call the dentist when you’re feeling discomfort? Quite often, we find that some of our patients only call their dentist in Easton, PA, when their pain is unbearable. So, why do people put off going to the dentist? Great question. As a dentist who’s been serving the Easton, PA community since 1944, we’ve heard and seen it all. Most patients who avoid the dentist are doing so out of fear. Their fear of the dentist can stem from a few different things, whether it be from past dental experiences, myths, etc.

We understand that going to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite thing to do. However, the longer people put off going to the dentist, the more time and money they will spend. Not to mention the amount of pain or discomfort, their dental problems can cause. 

No need to worry, Dr. David Moghadam, your favorite emergency dentist in Easton, PA, shares some tips for conquering your fear of the dentist. 

Identify the Cause of Your Fear

We understand that not all fear is based on the same experiences and worries. To find the best solution for you to overcome your fear of the dentist, you will need to understand what is triggering this anxiety and fear.

  • Are you worried about pain?
  • Are you concerned about needles?
  • Have you had a bad experience at the dentist?
  • Is it the fear of the unknown?
  • Does the sound of the drill overwhelm you?

We offer a number of solutions to help get you through each concern that you may have. This includes encouraging you to listen to favorite music or a podcast while you’re in the chair, to help you to relax.

Communication Is So Important

Rest assured, we take all of our patients’ concerns very seriously. A good dentist and compassionate team of professionals will encourage you to share your fears and concerns. The more that we know about you and your concerns, the better we can help you. 

We see patients who have a fear of the dentist regularly. Communicate your fears and your needs. This allows us to best support you. We want you to have a positive experience when you are in our hands.

Schedule a Visit to Our Dental Office in Easton, PA

Anxiety can stem from not knowing what will happen. With this in mind, we suggest that you schedule a visit to our office before you come in for treatment. If you do have the ability to come and pay a visit to the office. Our team can help to schedule a good time for you to stop by and meet everyone. Becoming familiar with friendly faces can make the idea of placing your trust in their hands much more manageable.

This visit will also serve as a great opportunity for you to share your fears with the team members. The more that we know, the more support we can offer you.

Schedule Your Appointments Early In The Day

There’s something about getting something over and done with first thing in the morning. Dr. O’Grady, an emergency dentist in Denver, CO, says that if you schedule your appointment first thing, you’ll be able to get your appointment done without needing to spend the day dreading it.

You’ll feel less frazzled and stressed, which will allow you to better focus on working through your fears when you’re in the chair.

Make Your Needs Clear

While our dental professionals are skilled at understanding the assortment of noises our patients make when working on their teeth, sometimes clear communication is the better way. Before treatment, make your needs clear. Establish a clear signal for stop, so your dentist can stop if you need to take a break.

Ask for music, blankets, and other comforts if you need them. At College Hill Dental Group, we want you to have the best experience possible.

Know Your Sedation Dentistry Options

Sedation dentistry is incredibly helpful for all dental patients. Certainly, it’s a must when considering procedures like dental implants in Easton, PA. But did you know that there are several methods of sedation dentistry to consider? 

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is one of the most commonly used options. This gas can help you to better relax while you’re getting work done. Other options could include anti-anxiety medications to be taken prior to your appointment.

Overcome Your Fear of the Dentist with College Hill Dental Group

The best way to learn what will work for you is to call and discuss your options. Whether it has been a few months or a few years since you last saw a dentist, please don’t let it keep you from getting the oral healthcare that you need. We offer a judgment-free office and the compassion needed to help you conquer your fears. Our patients are always our number one priority. 

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

dental hygiene month - College Hill Dental Group

Celebrating Dental Hygiene Month

The whole month of October, we’re celebrating Dental Hygiene Month! Below are some of the ways you can celebrate your smile at home. 

Tips for a Happy & Healthy Smile

Brush Twice a Day for Two Minutes

Brushing your teeth is an essential part of any oral hygiene regimen. You’d be surprised how much plaque can build up on your teeth just after one day. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes helps reduce the likelihood of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. If you can, try to brush after each meal. Many Easton, PA dentists recommend using ADA approved toothpaste as well as a soft bristle toothbrush. 

Dr. Moghadam recommends switching out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or as soon as the bristles start to get break down.

Floss

Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. It ensures that the small crevices in your mouth are thoroughly cleaned. Those who do not floss daily are more likely to get cavities and develop gum disease. 

Here’s how you should floss:

  1. Use about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap it around two fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss.
  2. Holding the floss with your thumb and index finger, you will insert the floss between two teeth.
  3. Gently move the floss up and down, rubbing it against both sides of each tooth (avoid hitting your gums).
  4. Once you’ve reached your gum line, curve the floss, and move it back and forth between one of the teeth.
  5. Move the floss to the next set of teeth, repeat the steps above.

Rinse

Incorporating mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine can make a world of difference. Luckily, there’s a mouthwash for everyone! Whether you’re fighting bad breath, plaque cavities, or wanting whiter teeth. Dr. Moghadam recommends finding an ADA approved mouthwash for the best results. 

Chew

Studies have shown that chewing sugar-free gum helps put a stop to tooth decay. Gum naturally helps produce more saliva, which fights off cavities. Harmful bacteria and food particles will be washed away. Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, points out that those suffering from dry mouth would benefit greatly from chewing sugar-free gum.

Why National Dental Hygiene Month is Important

  • Encourages Good Oral Health – Good oral health takes a little bit of time each day, but it’s all worth it in the end. Without a proper oral hygiene regimen, you are at risk of developing serious dental problems. Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but you have to give them love and care. There’s an old saying, “You don’t have to brush your teeth, just the ones you want to keep.” 
  • Celebrates Hard Working Hygienists – College Hill Dental Group has been serving the Easton, PA community since 1944. We’ve had the honor of seeing generations of patients, and National Dental Hygiene Month is the perfect holiday to celebrate our hard-working hygienists. 
  • Keeps Us Accountable For Our Health – Studies have linked gum disease to other serious diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, and more. Taking the time to take care of our smiles will have a positive effect on our overall health.

Our College Hill Dental Group team encourages you and your loved ones to take steps in the right direction. If you need a family dentist in Easton, PA, turn to College Hill Dental Group. We offer a wide range of dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and emergency dental care.