The ADA’s Seal of Acceptance was just given to Wrigley sugar-free chewing gums Orbit, Extra and Eclipse, all now proven to help prevent cavities, reduce plaque acid and strengthen teeth  … The American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs has also granted this seal to rinses and toothpastes that help prevent plaque and gingivitis, along with fluoride rinses that help fight tooth decay.  But note: These products are approved as helpful but not replacements for oral hygiene already recommended by the ADA. as follows: Everyone should brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between their teeth with floss or an interdental cleaner once daily; eat a balanced diet and limit snacks, and visit us here at Fairfield County Family Dental regularly for professional cleanings and oral examinations. 

Just about everyone can have whiter teeth, but the same solution doesn’t work for everyone.  Here are some considerations we will help you weigh in deciding which kind of tooth-whitener offers the brightest outlook for you:

• Teeth that have naturally turned a yellowish color usually respond best to tooth bleaching...
• Teeth that have discolored to a brownish or gray shade may not respond well to bleaching...
• If you have bonding or tooth-colored fillings, keep in mind that they likely won’t bleach well and may stand out after your natural teeth are whitened...
• Porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be the best options for people with dental work that won’t bleach well.

These are a valuable diagnostic tool to help us provide your child with the best possible care.  We use four types of X-rays for children in our office, depending on which is most appropriate for the situation:

To find cavities, in kids age 6 and up … Bitewing X-ray (or Cavity Detecting X-rays).  These view the areas between teeth that can’t be visualized directly, showing where cavities are starting.  Usually these aren’t needed until a child is 6 or older, after the first permanent molar is in.

To see permanent teeth (beneath the baby teeth) and look for abscesses or gum disease … Periapical X-rays.  These are used to see the entire crowns and roots of one, two or three adjacent teeth as well as the supporting bone structure of teeth that have erupted.

For children with injured faces, orthodontic problems, or who are mentally or physically disabled … Panoramic X-rays.  These enable us to see all of the teeth on one film, as well as the upper and lower jaws and the temporomandibular joints (TMJs) as well as the sinuses above the upper teeth.

For orthodontic patients … Cephalometric or lateral skull X-rays.  This X-ray shows the head from the side, and is used to evaluate growth of the jaw and other bones in the skull.