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Using Invisalign In 2022

Crooked teeth, crowded teeth and gaps between teeth all affect the appearance of your smile. If you don’t want to try metal braces, Invisalign is an effective alternative. Dr. Nathaniel M. Taylor and the team at North Royalton Family Dental are ready to help you look your best.

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a type of clear aligner used to correct misaligned teeth and bite problems. Although Invisalign has some of the same effects as metal braces, the aligner is made from a clear, flexible material. With Invisalign, you don’t have to get metal brackets on your teeth or wear rubber bands, making your orthodontic treatment less visible.

How Does Invisalign Work?

With Invisalign, the clear aligner exerts slight pressure on your teeth, moving them into the correct position. Each aligner is made from a custom mold of your teeth to ensure it fits properly. During Invisalign treatment, you’ll receive a new aligner approximately every 2 weeks to ensure that each one continues to fit correctly as your teeth shift.

What to Expect with Invisalign

Before you start wearing an aligner, we use Align Technology to take a 3-D image of your teeth and jaw. Dr. Taylor uses that image to create a custom Invisalign treatment plan based on your needs. Invisalign corrects several orthodontic issues, including crooked teeth, gaps between the teeth, crowded teeth and bite problems.

Once you start Invisalign, you should wear your aligner for as long as directed, usually 20 to 22 hours per day. You can take the aligner out to brush and floss your teeth, eat and drink. You’ll also need to clean the aligner regularly to remove the bacteria responsible for bad breath and dental disease.

Benefits of Using Invisalign

Using Invisalign has many benefits. First and foremost, you can get the smile of your dreams without having to wear metal brackets and wires. Although Invisalign isn’t completely invisible, the clear aligner is much less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Your Invisalign treatment is also completely customized to ensure you achieve the desired result without discomfort. Align Technology allows us to send Invisalign a model of your mouth and have them create aligners just for you.

Another benefit of Invisalign is that it doesn’t irritate the mouth and gums like braces do. Even if you feel some slight irritation when using a new aligner, it goes away quickly. Many people experience no irritation at all. Finally, Invisalign works faster than traditional braces, giving you the smile you want in much less time.

Does Invisalign Work Well?

For certain alignment issues, Invisalign works just as well as traditional braces. In some cases, it works even better. Although Invisalign is effective, it’s important to understand that not everyone is a candidate for this type of orthodontic treatment. Invisalign works best when you have mild to moderate misalignment or bite problems. If you have large gaps between your teeth, misshapen teeth or serious bite problems, it may not be the right treatment option.

Set Up an Invisalign Consultation

The team at North Royalton Family Dental is dedicated to helping you improve your dental health and feel confident in the appearance of your smile. To discuss Invisalign with Dr. Nathaniel M. Taylor, call us or request an appointment online.

10 Ways to Whiten Your Teeth

If you’re like most people, you already know that a bright, winning smile increases self-confidence and opens both personal and professional doors. If your teeth aren’t quite as white as you’d like them to be, keep reading for more information on achieving and maintaining the smile of your dreams.

Don’t Use Tobacco Products

Tobacco products never fail to leave a telltale yellowish-brown stain on the surface of the teeth. Once these stains develop, they are very difficult to remove because they get into the grooves between the teeth and settle deeply into the enamel.

Use a Straw

Using a straw when you drink certain types of beverages minimizes the contact these beverages have with the surface of the teeth. Dark-colored fruit juice, soda, wine, coffee, and tea are all among the usual suspects when it comes to beverages that stain teeth. You’ll also decrease your chances of developing tooth decay and other dental health issues by using a straw.

Limit Foods That Create Stains

Blueberries, blackberries, and other dark fruits can stain your teeth. Because these foods are also known for their health benefits, it’s not recommended to cut them out altogether. Brushing your teeth shortly after eating them helps reduce the possibility of staining, and you can also put them in a blender and whip up a nutritious and delicious smoothie that can be consumed through a straw.

Consume Plenty of Calcium

Stains often begin to occur as the tooth enamel is eroded. Calcium promotes good dental health by strengthening the enamel of your teeth. Milk, cheese, broccoli, and yogurt are all good sources of dietary calcium.

Cut Back on Sugar

Sugar is another major culprit when it comes to staining teeth because it provides a prime habitat for bacteria that causes stains, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Whenever possible, brush and floss after enjoying a sweet treat.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Although sugarless gum will never take the place of brushing and flossing, it can help protect your teeth against stain-causing bacteria when you’re not able to brush and floss. Gum containing Xylitol is especially effective at combating bacterial growth.

Eat Plenty of Raw Fruits and Vegetables

Raw fruits and vegetables with plenty of crunch, such as apples and celery, help rub away plaque as you chew them. Some types of fruits, such as strawberries and pineapples, are said to have natural teeth-whitening properties, but studies have yet to back these claims up.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Regular brushing and flossing should be your first line of defense against plaque buildup and other issues that result in stained teeth. Brushing gently removes any stains that have built up during the day, while flossing decreases the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

Have Your Teeth Cleaned Regularly

No matter how well you brush and floss, a certain plaque buildup will still occur on the surface of your teeth. Scheduling professional cleanings every six months helps keep this under control.

Consult With Your Dentist

Because there’s no one-size-fits all answer to professional teeth-whitening strategies, your first step to a brighter smile should start with a consultation at our office. Dr. Nathaniel M. Taylor and the rest of the team at North Royalton Family Dental will listen carefully to your concerns and goals to help map out a customized plan to a gorgeous smile.

A Complete Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry

Do you lack confidence in your smile? If so, you’re not alone. From chips and cracks to food and beverage stains, there are plenty of problems that negatively affect the appearance of our teeth. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can help.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Put simply, cosmetic dentistry is any type of dental work that enhances the appearance of the teeth, gums or bite. It often involves whitening and straightening procedures that adjust the brightness and position of teeth. In many cases, cosmetic dentistry also improves oral health by making it easier to brush and floss.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry

At North Royalton Family Dental, we offer an assortment of cosmetic dentistry procedures, each with their own unique pros and cons. To help you determine which option is best for you, here’s a brief breakdown of the procedures.

Invisalign

Invisalign features transparent, plastic aligners that gradually reposition teeth over time. Over the span of six months to two years, it can help fix gaps, crookedness and overbites. This solution is best for patients who need teeth straightening and are interested in a more discrete, comfortable alternative to metallic braces.

Teeth Whitening

Many of the foods and drinks we consume daily can leave unsightly stains on our teeth. Not only does teeth whitening eliminate these marks, but it also helps reduce bacteria that causes gum disease. While there are over-the-counter whitening kits available, working with professionals is safer, faster and more effective. This solution is best for patients looking for long-term whitening.

Dental Implants

For patients with missing teeth, dental implants are a popular, permanent solution. The implant, which consists of a tiny, titanium fixture, is installed directly into the jawbone. Before the surgery, Dr. Taylor will check your jawbone to ensure it’s strong enough to support the fixture. After the implant fuses with the bone, it’s covered with a dental crown that fits in seamlessly with your other teeth. This solution is best for eligible candidates who need to replace one or two missing teeth.

Restorative Tooth Reshaping

Restorative tooth reshaping, also known as gum lifting or crown lengthening, alters the gum-line to improve the patient’s overall smile. To accomplish this, Dr. Taylor will use laser technology to gently adjust the appearance of the gums and expose more teeth. This solution is best for anyone looking for a speedy, non-invasive way to reveal more of their teeth.

Porcelain Veneers

If you’re trying to brighten dull, uneven or stained teeth, porcelain veneers may be right for you. These thin shells are customized to match the exact shape and color of your teeth. Once they’re ready, our team will bond the veneers to the front of your teeth, creating a shining, uniform smile that looks natural and is easy to maintain. This solution is great for patients who want to go a step beyond teeth whitening.

Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is a quicker alternative to veneers. It consists of a custom, composite resin that’s applied to your teeth to even out gaps, cracks and any other irregularities. Not only does cosmetic bonding improve appearance, but it also helps protect against bacteria. And, the entire procedure can be completed in just one visit. This solution is helpful for anyone who desires brighter teeth, but doesn’t want veneers.

Dentures

While dental implants are a helpful way to replace one or two missing teeth, they’re not very practical for patients missing several teeth. That’s where dentures come in. At North Royalton Family Dental, we can create custom full or partial dentures that look and function like real teeth. Dentures allow patients to eat, speak and smile with comfort and confidence. This solution is ideal for patients who are missing multiple teeth or who don’t qualify for dental implants.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a faster alternative to dental implants. Instead of replacing a tooth root (like dental implants do), they rely on healthy teeth to conceal gaps. The two teeth next to the gap are shaved down and fitted with caps. In between these caps is an artificial dental crown that discretely fills in the gap. This solution is perfect for patients who prefer quicker procedure times or who don’t meet the eligibility requirements for dental implants.

Schedule an Appointment Today!

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, there’s no shortage of options available. Whether you’re looking to brighten your teeth or fix chips and cracks, the North Royalton Family Dental team is here to help. During an initial consultation, we’ll examine your teeth and ask questions to learn more about your preferences. Then, we’ll help you pick the best possible procedure for your needs. Take the first step to achieving the perfect smile by requesting an appointment today!

Tips for Finding the Best Dentist

Looking for a new dentist requires some careful thought and research. You must search for a qualified professional who has the experience and knowledge required to provide the expert care you can trust. They should offer the range of services you need and have a compassionate and caring demeanor to ease any anxieties you have.

Dental care is crucial for maintaining good overall health. The right dentist should make you feel able to share your concerns and ask questions. Follow these suggestions to find a dental practice where you feel comfortable and confident in the level of care you receive.

Narrow Your Search Criteria

The first thing you should do is find dentists in your area who have office hours that fit your schedule. If you plan on taking the entire family to the same place, make sure your selected choice offers family care for all ages. Another good thing to discover is the policy on emergencies and how quickly you can expect to be seen under these circumstances. Once you have identified a reasonable geographical area, you can start to get the names of practices within your location.

Don’t choose the very first dentist that you discover. You want and deserve high-quality care. Take the time to look into the dental practices available and compare the benefits and advantages so you can select the best one for your needs.

Identify the Services and Technology You Require

What dental services are you looking for? What types of treatment options and technology do you prefer? These are good questions to ask to narrow your search. Some dental practices offer everything you need in one convenient place. Others may require that you go offsite to receive certain treatments. You may want to find out the entire range of service options that the practice is capable of performing. It can be easier and less stressful to receive all of your oral care at one place that you are familiar with.

Your past and present oral health is another factor. For example, if you have previously gotten dental implants, then you must choose a new dentist who has the qualifications necessary to provide your ongoing care. Browse the dentist’s website or call the office to ask questions. You should find out if the team has any specialties and if they continue to learn and employ the latest technologies available.

Get Recommendations

Using a search engine is an acceptable way to find a dentist, but you may have other options to discover some of the best dental practices in the North Royalton area. Ask your family and friends for recommendations. They may love their dentist and be eager to pass along the name to you. If you are new to the area, talk to colleagues, neighbors, or your local health department. You can also use the American Dental Association’s convenient dentist finder tool.

Do Some Research

After you have a few candidates in mind, do some deeper research. A wonderful way to gather some information about the services offered, professionalism, and demeanor of the dental team is by reading online reviews. Browse through testimonials of past and current patients to find out what their experiences were like.

Plan a Visit

Before you finalize your selection, visit your potential new dentist. Many offer an initial consultation to get to know new patients. This step is a great opportunity to get more information about the services that are offered and interact with the team. Ask any questions that you have. Use the time to discover more in-depth information and clarify any details you are uncertain about.

A personal visit or even a call gives you the chance to see if you feel comfortable and can communicate openly. To receive the best care, you must be open and honest with your dentist. Spend some time talking to discover if you can build a rapport. Look for cues on how the team responds to your questions and concerns. Are they compassionate and eager to discuss their practice?

Many people experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. Getting a feel for the manner of the dental team, and if they offer sedation dentistry, will help put your mind at ease so you can relax during your appointments.

Get a Feel for the Office Environment

Your initial impression of the office setting is a good indication of whether the dental practice is right for you. Were you greeted when you walked in the door? Do you feel relaxed? When you attend your initial appointment, spend some time in the waiting room. Are there appropriate accommodations to help you stay relaxed? This could include soft music, television, comfortable seating, or anything that you prefer. Do the same in the exam room. Take a few moments to really think about how the office makes you feel and if the team is caring and receptive to your needs.

Look at Their Credentials

The dentist you choose should be a member of the American Dental Association. He or she should also have certifications demonstrating their successful completion of the appropriate schooling. Verifying this information will help you feel confident in the skills of your chosen dentist and feel more at ease during procedures.

Make sure your chosen dentist has a successful history of any specific treatments or procedures you are interested in. This can include anything from replacement dentures to cosmetic dentistry services to improve the appearance of your smile.

Make an Appointment With North Royalton Family Dental

If you are looking for a dentist in the North Royalton, Ohio area, Dr. Nathaniel M. Taylor and the team at North Royalton Family Dental are one of the best practices in the area. New patients can access high-quality and gentle oral health care by scheduling your appointment today. Or, give us a call and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Our experienced team of dental health professionals provides exceptional care for everything from routine exams to restorative procedures and cosmetic dentistry. We welcome new patients of all ages and look forward to getting to know you.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

All people know that proper dental hygiene is imperative as is making regular trips to the dentist. When good hygiene habits aren’t relied upon, teeth can become damaged. Decay, accident, illness, and staining might further impact our smiles. When cosmetic restorations are necessary, Dr. Taylor offers cosmetic dentistry services that can improve the look of your smile, and also maintain the function of your teeth, stopping decay before damage becomes more serious that the benefits that cosmetic dentistry can supply.

Below, we take a look at some of the different benefits associated with cosmetic dentistry.

  • Save costs in the long run – When you treat cosmetic issues with your smile, you are also ensuring your teeth are kept in good condition, and therefore, you will reduce the likelihood of needing any sort of involved restorative dental treatment in the future.
  • Eat any type of food you want – Once you have had the cosmetic dental procedure in question, and you have given your teeth time to heal correctly, you should have no trouble enjoying all of your favorite foods again. Of course, this does all depend on the treatment you have had and Dr. Taylor will be able to provide instructions.
  • Improve your bite – Did you know that every one in five people do not have an ideal bite? You can improve your bite tremendously after having a helpful dental procedure. You will not damage your teeth further whenever you bite down on something because of your unbalanced bite. This means you will be able to enjoy eating and you won’t need to worry about any further tooth damage. Procedures to correct your bite are available to increase both form and function.
  • Feel confident about your smile – You will no longer feel like you have to hide your smile while your picture is being taken, while eating a meal, or having a face-to-face conversation. With the many different cosmetic dentistry procedures that are available today, you will feel confident about showing off your smile.
  • Feel better about yourself – Last but not least, another reason why you should consider have a cosmetic dental procedure is because you will feel better about yourself. This is not only because you will have a beautiful smile but also because you will not have to deal with possible symptoms relating to your dental condition For example, headaches and TMJ pain.

As you can see, there are many different benefits that are associated with cosmetic surgery. If this is something you are interested in, it is worth coming in for an exam and consultation with Dr. Taylor. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!

Benefits Of Dental Implants

When you have missing teeth, this can not only affect your self-esteem, but it can also feel uncomfortable inside your mouth and make it harder to chew your food properly. Luckily, modern dentistry offers us some great options these days to help with cases of missing teeth.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a replacement tooth which uses a titanium post to mimic the tooth root. The titanium root is surgically placed into the jawbone and is then used by your dentist to support a denture, bridge or a crown. Dental implants arrive with many benefits, so if you’re considering this kind of dental work, you’ll want to take a look at a few!

Low maintenance

Dental implants are low maintenance options for those who want to correct their missing teeth without the fuss. Dentures, for instance, need to be taken out to clean and sanitize each day, whereas dental implants can simply be brushed and flossed. You will have no risk of cavities with dental implants because they are made of artificial material. Though synthetic, implants are produced with bio-compatible materials that are accepted by the body.

Natural looking

You will want your replacement teeth to look as natural as possible and with dental implants you’ll certainly be able to achieve this look. Dental implants are specially designed to resemble natural teeth. They are anchored into your jaw and gum line so that they will look and remain stable without you having to worry.

Ease of eating

Dental implants are incredibly strong so patients will find eating much easier than with missing teeth or with dentures. Chewy, crispy or tough foods are no longer a problem so the patient will not need to put any restrictions on what they can and can’t eat.

Protecting your jaw

Dental implants can work to protect your jaw and its natural bone tissue. When you have missing teeth your jaw bone lacks the stimulation that it needs to remain strong. These conditions can lead to bone loss overtime. With the use of implants you can re-stimulate your jaw and protect the bone tissue in your face.

Long lasting

Dental implants are designed to be long lasting, when properly cared for they have been known to last for periods of between 20 and 30 years. When you have dental implants you will need to practice oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly as you would do with natural teeth.

Prevent gum disease

When you have teeth missing, the gaps can be prone to a build-up of bacteria. The building up of bacteria can lead to gum disease over time. Gum disease begins with symptoms of swollen or bleeding gums known as gingivitis. If the condition worsens, it can cause the gums to recede and lead to a more serious case of periodontal disease.

More confidence

Lastly, having dental implants can far improve the appearance of your smile which will boost your confidence levels! Feeling great about how you look can enhance your overall well-being. It’s likely that you will feel more relaxed when you no longer have to worry about your teeth!

Summertime Dental Health Tips

With the summer in full swing, the way that we take care of our oral health is changing again. Summer brings with it all kinds of new challenges – things that we need to do to keep our teeth pearly white and healthy.

Tip 1: Don’t Go Crazy On The Soda

Just because it’s summertime, doesn’t give you license to throw caution to the wind and start downing bottle after bottle of soda. Soda is not only bad for your microbiome and overall health, but your teeth as well. Sugar dissolved in the liquid feeds the harmful bacteria in your mouth, causing them to churn out all kinds of unpleasant byproducts that can damage your teeth and gums.

So next time you’re at a BBQ or summer party, switch out the soda for sugar-free alternatives or stick to a good old-fashioned cup of tea.

Tip 2: Get A Checkup

The summer is the perfect time to schedule a checkup. You’ve usually got more time on your hands and don’t have to worry about the hectic pace that dominates during school time. If you’d like an appointment, get in touch with North Royalton Family Dental. With us, you can get peace of mind, check your mouth for any potential health issues, and investigate treatment options, both medical and cosmetic.

Tip 3: Don’t Forget Your Travel Toothpaste

Vacations can disrupt your routine. One moment your life is predictable and orderly, the next you’re dashing to far-flung reaches of the globe in search of some well-deserved rest and relaxation.

Disruption can be a good thing, except when it comes to your teeth. Many people wind up with dental problems while on vacation because they start eating rich food and get out of the habit of brushing their teeth when they wake up and go to bed. Brushing while on vacation is even more vital than at other times during the year: you’re probably eating a more sugary diet, and you’re many miles from home and, possibly, dental services. It pays to be careful.

Tip 4: Find Indulgent Summery Snacks

The summer is a time when people like to celebrate the warm weather and a pleasant breeze by opening bags of candy and chips. But while these foods might taste great, they can be a nightmare for oral health. Tiny particles from the sugar and flour in these products stick to the teeth, providing an opportunity for bacteria to grow and multiply. Over time, they begin to damage the lining between the teeth and gums, causing the gums to bleed.

You have a choice. You can either clean your teeth after every snack, or you can create delicious finger food that won’t damage your teeth.

Healthy summer snacks include hummus and veggie dips, freshly chopped fruits, and even raisins (because the sugar is bound up in the flesh of the dried fruit).

If you’d like to find out more about how to look after your teeth during the summer or want to schedule an appointment for a checkup, contact North Royalton Family Dental for treatment today!

Treatment For A Cracked Tooth

 

As a dentist in North Royalton, you see oral health problems every single day. We’re presented with loads of different issues, and there’s always one that seems to cause a lot of concerns; cracked teeth.

If you have a cracked tooth, it’s easy to freak out and get really worried. Things are made worse if the tooth is painful! The good news is that you can have cracked teeth and not worry about getting treatment. Some cracks are so shallow that you don’t even notice them until your dentist mentions it at your checkup. No treatment needs to be carried out on these, though you will receive advice on things you should stop doing to prevent the cracks worsening.

But, for deeper cracks that are causing symptoms – such as pain or discomfort when biting down – then treatment is recommended. Your dentist will carry out a full examination to figure out how best to treat your cracked tooth and free you from any pain.

What treatments are available for a cracked tooth?

The treatment you receive will depend on the state of your cracked tooth. In some cases, a dental crown is seen as the best option. With a crown, we can place a restoration over the tooth, holding it together. This stops both sides from moving apart while restoring the normal function and look of your tooth.

If your crack is so deep that its damaged the pulp below the tooth, then a root canal may be required. Here, your dentist removes any damaged pulp while restoring some structural integrity to the tooth. In very extreme cases where the tooth is severely cracked and has caused lots of damage to the roots, then extractions are seen as an option.

However, as mentioned, tiny cracks usually don’t warrant any treatment at all. If you have no symptoms, then there’s no need to do anything.
What causes cracked teeth? So many things can lead to cracks in your teeth. The most common causes we deal with are:

  • Grinding your teeth
  • Chewing on extremely hard foods (like hard candy)
  • Trauma to the tooth – caused by some sort of accident

When do you need to see a dentist if you have a cracked tooth?

If you experience symptoms alongside your cracked tooth, then you should definitely see your dentist. Typical symptoms include pain, sensitivity, inability to chew properly, and general discomfort. This indicates that the crack is clearly more than just an aesthetic problem. You’ll need a full exam, followed by the appropriate treatment.

If you have no symptoms, it’s probably not worth seeing your dentist right away. Mention it at your next checkup, or you can still book an appointment just to be on the safe side – it’s up to you!

Schedule An Appointment Today

Don’t let a cracked tooth keep you in any pain. At North Royalton Family Dental, we offer treatment for people with cracked teeth. Contact us today, and we will schedule an appointment as soon as possible. You’ll undergo a detailed examination where your dentist will diagnose the extent of the problem. Then, we’ll provide treatment to sort out your cracked tooth!

Save Time and Money with Preventive Dentistry

You have to look after your teeth, that much is clear. This is one of the most important aspects of your health and well-being and something that so many people seemingly overlook. It is really important to look after many areas of your health, but it’s clear that having strong and healthy teeth is one of the most important, after all, it can save you a lot of stress, money, and time as a result.

So, if you are serious about looking after your oral hygiene, one of the most important things you can do is to look at preventive dentistry. This is such a key component of boosting your oral hygiene and helping you make the most of your dental appointments. You need to look after your teeth properly, and preventative dentistry focuses on this, with the aim being on prevention rather than cure, by making sure you look after your teeth and keep them clean. Here are some great ways in which you can save time and money with preventative dentistry today.

Regular Trips to the Dentist

If you are serious about oral health maintenance, it is essential to schedule regular appointments with your dentist. This is going to have a hugely positive effect and will help to keep your teeth clean and healthy. It is also a great way of picking up on any potential problems and dealing with them before they get any worse. Make sure you visit the dentist once every few months to keep up with your dental hygiene as much as possible.

Flossing

Make sure you are flossing thoroughly as well as brushing your teeth. So many people overlook the importance of flossing, and how essential it is to do this effectively, and regularly. You should be flossing every single day before brushing your teeth to dislodge any trapped food. This is more essential than you might think because it will help to prevent problems with tooth decay and gum disease. Never underestimate the positive nature of flossing, and do as much as possible to make the most of it.

Get an Electric Toothbrush

When you brush your teeth, you need to make sure you are doing it properly, and this means you need to get hold of an electric toothbrush. There are certainly some things you need to keep in mind to help you achieve this, and buying the right electric toothbrush is something that matters a lot. This can really help you clean properly and ensure that your teeth are cleaned as well as possible.

You have a lot to think about when you are looking to achieve proper oral health. And focusing on preventative dentistry is vital moving forward as a result. Come up with as many ideas as you can to ensure that you have a plan for maintaining your dental hygiene. If you can get this right, you will be able to achieve strong and healthy teeth. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!

How Runners are at Risk for Tooth Decay

Yes, it’s true that runners can be more at risk for dental problems than the rest of the population. A study of almost 300 athletes at the 2012 Olympics in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reported that a majority displayed “poor oral health”. As one of the best dentists in North Royalton we have some thoughts on this.

A Runner’s Diet

A runner’s diet is the cause of a lot of these problems. Their diet is vitally important as it helps them to perform and recover, but there can be major issues with it. Many of the energy drinks and gels runners use have incredibly high levels of sugar and acid, which causes tooth decay and erosion. This is also the case when using gels and chews for fueling your run. This can be fixed by rinsing your mouth out with water often, especially after consuming food or drink with high sugar or high acidic content. Brushing your teeth regularly and eating a healthy diet will also contribute to keeping your teeth healthy and cavity free.

Runners Are Mouth Breathers

Runners are heavy breathers and often most of their breathing is done through their mouth. This is totally normal but can can have a negative effect on their oral health as they’re gasping for oxygen. Breathing rapidly through the mouth reduces the saliva flow leading to dry mouth, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. This can be fixed by drinking lots of water. If you are at a place in your workout or you run where you can’t drink lots of water rinsing will also help with having a dry mouth.

Keeping Your Teeth Strong

While you’re running it’s easy to want to open up that fuel packet with your teeth, but don’t do it! You’re just asking for trouble and a chipped tooth. Sticky chews and hard protein bars can also cause damage because of what they do to your teeth while you’re eating them. They can easily damage crowns and fillings that you’ve already had done. When possible stay away from these kinds of foods and snacks and opt for better options.

Keeping these issues in mind will help you to be able to maintain your running lifestyle as well as keeping your mouth healthy and strong. Consuming a healthy diet and brushing regularly is a good start. Visiting your dentist regularly will ensure that you don’t have any unwanted dental issues. But, because life happens and no one is perfect at dental hygiene sometimes you get cavities and have other concerns. You’ll want to visit your dental home when this occurs so you can stay on top of it and prevent any further damage. Contact North Royalton Family Dental today!