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!

Nothing says spooky more than weird dental facts from the past. Imagine what teeth were like back in the 1700-1800s. Not scared yet? Maybe some of these facts will get you in the spooky Halloween mood.

1. Brushing Your Teeth Twice a Day is a Recent Change

   In the early 1900’s only 7% of American households brushed their teeth or at least had toothpaste in their houses. During World War 1 most of the Army recruits had such poor oral hygiene that the military considered dental disease a national crisis. By the end of World War 2, most Americans were brushing their teeth daily. During the war, the military required soldiers to brush their teeth twice a day, and then they brought that habit home after the war. Today, brushing your teeth daily should be a habit in your household.

2. Barbers and Blacksmiths were Your Dentist

   In the early 1800’s, there was no such thing as a full-time dentist. Instead the job fell on blacksmiths and barbers to perform dental work. Barbers already worked with heads, even though hair and teeth are wildly different. And the blacksmiths skill with molten metal came in handy for filling cavities. Nowadays it is kind of a scary thought to think that your barber and blacksmith could do your dental work. Luckily today we have well trained professionals like your North Royalton Family Dentist.

3. Beeswax Filled Ancient Cavities

   An ancient tooth found in Slovenia had fillings made of beeswax. This may be the earliest known example of restorative dentistry, researchers say. The tooth is 65 centuries old and was found about 100 years ago. It was likely meant to reduce pain and sensitivity. Today, we have much better materials and tools to fill your cavities. And it’s a procedure that can be done quickly and with little pain.

4. A Dentist Helped Invent Cotton Candy

   Yep, you heard that right. The cotton candy making machine was co-invented by dentist William Morrison, with the help of confectioner John C. Wharton. They originally packaged it in wooden boxes and marketed it as “fairy floss.” While cotton candy used to only be available during carnivals today it is available at almost every supermarket. Sugary foods are okay to have in moderation but be sure to brush soon afterward or cavities could be in your future. This is especially important after a sweet filled night of trick-or-treating.

5. Dentures Were Made of Animal Teeth

   The tale that George Washington’s teeth were made of woods is totally false. His dentures were in fact made from human, cow and horse teeth and ivory. Today, dentures are made up of acrylic resin or porcelain. They are also made to look like your natural teeth and can really improve the quality of life for individuals missing some or most of their teeth. This is a service that we offer at your North Royalton Cosmetic Dentistry.

While some of these facts might not be as spooky as we led you to believe, they are interesting and it shows you how far we have come in the dental industry today. At North Royalton Family Dental we are always finding ways to help our patients get the solutions they need to their dental issues. Let us help you solve your spooky dental needs for optimal dental and overall health.

We face the decision of what “should we eat?” every day. We could go out to lunch and spend money on food that may not be the healthiest option. Or we can pack our own lunches. It can be a struggle to make a lunch that is healthy and fresh every day, so we might cut corners and choose to pack items that are high in carbs, sugars, fats, salt, and oil. That is why it is important to plan out your lunch menu. And, you don’t want to fall into unhealthy lunch habits.

Your North Royalton Family Dentist wants to share a few tips to help you pack healthier lunches. By following some of these tips, you might experience some benefits like weight loss, extra money in your pocket, and even better health in the body and your teeth. It’s important to keep your body and teeth feeling and looking their best.

Try the following tips, but remember to stay motivated and committed to packing a healthier lunch.

1. 1. Replace Filler Food With Healthy Food

      Some foods pack really easily and can be eaten hot or cold. However, some of the foods you choose might be loaded with sugars, fats, and unwanted ingredients. Try to change out a few of the pasta and cheesy items and add more fruits and vegetables to your lunch menu. Packing more of these items can also make you feel full for longer.

   2. Make Your Dinner Work For You

      If you are interested in eating a healthier lunch, chances are you are interested in eating a healthier dinner too. Why not kill two birds with one stone? Try cooking an extra helping of your healthy dinner and pack it for lunch the next day. Your food can still be fresh and healthy for lunch and it saves you a trip to the grocery store for different ingredients. This can definitely help keep your motivation level high.

   3. One Meal to Feed Them All

      If you don’t want to cook an extra helping of dinner every night, try cooking one large meal once a week. There are several meals that are easy to make in large amounts. And, they can stay fresh for the whole work week. Make yourself enough food for five lunches on Sunday, and see how well it can start to fit into your routine.

   4. Same same, but different

Sometimes it can feel boring to eat the same meal everyday and it can make you crave something else for lunch. But if you learn how to use your leftovers in a creative way. You can turn it into something new and different, Your steak from the night before can easily be cut into strips and become a nice steak sandwich. So you won’t be bored with the same old same old.

1. The Buddy System

   If there is one thing that can help keep somebody motivated and committed to changing their routines, it is to have a friend hold you accountable to your decision to change. Try telling a coworker, spouse, or roommate about trying to pack healthier lunches. You can even convince one of your co-workers to split meal prep with you. If both of you agree to cook meals on alternate weeks, you can stay motivated longer because you’ll be doing half the work.

For more tips on how to pack a healthier lunch and to keep your body, and teeth happy and healthy, contact your North Royalton Family Dentist. They are committed to making you and your family’s teeth look and feel their best. Call today to make an appointment and find out more information.

It’s that time of year, North Royalton! School is almost in session, and you are probably planning your last few days of summer to get ready for the coming year. Aside from buying notebooks, pens, and new clothes, you may also need to schedule sports or yearly physicals for your children. It’s also the perfect time to schedule your family’s dental exams!

Why is Now the Perfect Time?

Well, part of it has to do with timing. You’re already planning a bunch of doctors appointments for your children, to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations or to get approval for joining a sports team. It make sense that, if you’re scheduling these appointments, it’s much easier to remember to schedule a dental checkup with your North Royalton Family Dentist.

Going before the school year starts means it’s also easier to schedule an appointment without missing school or a crowded waiting room when our practice first opens.

What Can I Expect?

When you come into our family dentistry, you can expect to be treated like a member of our family! Our resident dentist, Dr. Taylor, and his experienced team will listen carefully to your concerns and questions about your dental health. He also has several years of experience working with children of all ages, so your young children and even teenagers can feel comfortable, safe, and enjoy their visit to the dentist.

First, the dental hygienist will perform x-rays to make sure that your teeth are where they need to be. Then, when you get back to your dental chair, the hygienist will examine each tooth, make sure it’s healthy, and scrape away any plaque. You’ll then be able to pick your polishing flavor–we have several!–and we will polish your teeth to an immaculate shine.

After your polishing, Dr. Taylor will examine your teeth and make recommendations for your at-home dental habits./p>

Schedule an Appointment With Us Today!

Before the school year starts, come to North Royalton Family Dental today! Our dental team is excited to meet you and your whole family. Whether you are coming in for a dental checkup or want some cosmetic dentistry done, schedule an appointment today!