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Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase your risk for developing oral health problems like gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (gum disease). As a result of varying hormone levels, between 50%-70% of women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy - a condition called pregnancy gingivitis.
The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy - especially the increased level of progesterone - may make it easier for certain gingivitis-causing bacteria to grow as well as make gum tissue more sensitive to plaque and exaggerate the body's response to the toxins (poisons) that result from plaque. In fact, if you already have significant gum disease, being pregnant may make it worse.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
HEALTHY SMILE 360
15 Mareblu, Suite 360
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Monday, March 28, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Take care of teeth — and toothbrushes
Some advice: Don't cover up brushes between uses. Allow them to air-dry instead. Bacteria and other organisms will grow faster on bristles kept in a closed, damp environment.
Rinse them thoroughly. After each use, hold brushes under running tap water until you've cleaned off all remaining toothpaste and visible debris.
Store them correctly. Place brushes in an upright position to best air them out. Also keep them at least 6 feet away from a toilet to avoid contamination with (yuck) airborne particles after a flush.
Don't share brushes. You'll be swapping germs with the other user, which can make you sick. If you store more than one brush in the same container, keep their heads completely separated.
Replace them often. Get a new brush at least once every three or four months, and after each time you've been sick, according to the American Dental Association, or ADA. If bristles look worn or frayed, the brush needs to go. Children may need replacements more often than adults.
Consider disinfecting them. Some dentists recommend soaking brushes in an antibacterial mouthwash such as Listerine for five minutes a day. You also can buy an ADA-approved sanitizer machine, which uses ultraviolet lamps or steam and dry heat to fry nearly all bacteria and viruses. Just note: Studies to date haven't confirmed a health benefit, and not all dentists believe frequent disinfecting is necessary
From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20110303/LIFESTYLE03/103030318/Take-care-of-teeth-—-and-toothbrushes#ixzz1FtbUeQKH
Monday, February 28, 2011
Monday, February 7, 2011
Brand New Year! Brand New Smile!
Picture yourself with a new smile that radiates beauty, trust and confidence - a new smile that fully expresses who you are! Using a dynamic proven technique of porcelain veneering called Smile Design, you can have that life-changing smile in as little as two visits. You know you deserve it. Now you can have it. Call today to schedule your complimentary smile Makeover consultation. We're the smile experts!
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
Monday, October 18, 2010
Halloween Suggestions to Prevent Tooth Decay
Have Your Teeth and Eat Your Candy Too
Not all candy is dangerous to teeth.
1. Throw away all hard candies. Hard candies are most likely to promote tooth decay because they remain in the mouth for an extended time. Hard candies can also cause a chipped tooth and cause young children to choke.
2. Encourage children not to eat their candy until after Halloween. This will give parents a chance to inspect and sort the treats.
3. Sticky candies can damage dental work, such as fillings and dental bridges, and orthodontic appliances, like dental braces and retainers. However, they are not as cariogenic as previously thought. If you must chew gum, use only sugar-free brands.
4. Eat candy only when you can brush your teeth immediately afterward. Candy for desert after a balanced meal is acceptable. Do not include candy in school lunches or allow your children to eat continuously throughout the day.
5. Always practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing two to three times each day for at least two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It is best to brush immediately after a meal. If you are not able to brush your teeth, rinse your mouth with water. Brushing before bedtime is particularly beneficial. It is also important to use dental floss to remove food from between teeth.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
Not all candy is dangerous to teeth.
1. Throw away all hard candies. Hard candies are most likely to promote tooth decay because they remain in the mouth for an extended time. Hard candies can also cause a chipped tooth and cause young children to choke.
2. Encourage children not to eat their candy until after Halloween. This will give parents a chance to inspect and sort the treats.
3. Sticky candies can damage dental work, such as fillings and dental bridges, and orthodontic appliances, like dental braces and retainers. However, they are not as cariogenic as previously thought. If you must chew gum, use only sugar-free brands.
4. Eat candy only when you can brush your teeth immediately afterward. Candy for desert after a balanced meal is acceptable. Do not include candy in school lunches or allow your children to eat continuously throughout the day.
5. Always practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing two to three times each day for at least two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It is best to brush immediately after a meal. If you are not able to brush your teeth, rinse your mouth with water. Brushing before bedtime is particularly beneficial. It is also important to use dental floss to remove food from between teeth.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
5 Reasons to use Your Dental Insurance Before the End of the Year
Did you know that you could actually save hundreds of dollars by using your dental benefits before the end of the year? While some dental insurance plans run on a fiscal year, most run on a calendar year. If your dental insurance plan is on a calendar year, these 5 reasons will show you why you should make a dental appointment now.
1. Yearly Maximum
The yearly maximum is the most money that the dental insurance plan will pay for your dental work within one full year. This amount varies by insurance company, but the average is around $1,000 per year, per person. The yearly maximum usually renews every year (on January 1 if your plan is on a calendar year). If you have unused benefits, these will not rollover.
2. Deductible
The deductible is the amount of money that you must pay to your dentist out of pocket before your insurance company will pay for any services. This fee varies from one plan to another and could be higher if you choose an out-of-network dentist. However, the average deductible for a dental insurance plan is usually around $50 per year. Your deductible also starts again when your plan rolls over.
3. Premiums
If you are paying your dental insurance premiums every month, you should be using your benefits. Even if you don’t need any dental treatment, you should always have your regular dental cleanings to help prevent and detect any early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental problems.
4. Fee Increases
Another reason to use your benefits before the end of the year are possible fee increases. Some dentists raise their rates at the beginning of the year due to the increased cost of living, materials and equipment. A fee increase can also make your copay higher.
5. Dental Problems Can Worsen
By delaying dental treatment, you are risking more extensive and expensive treatment down the road. What may be a simple cavity now, could turn into a root canal later.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
1. Yearly Maximum
The yearly maximum is the most money that the dental insurance plan will pay for your dental work within one full year. This amount varies by insurance company, but the average is around $1,000 per year, per person. The yearly maximum usually renews every year (on January 1 if your plan is on a calendar year). If you have unused benefits, these will not rollover.
2. Deductible
The deductible is the amount of money that you must pay to your dentist out of pocket before your insurance company will pay for any services. This fee varies from one plan to another and could be higher if you choose an out-of-network dentist. However, the average deductible for a dental insurance plan is usually around $50 per year. Your deductible also starts again when your plan rolls over.
3. Premiums
If you are paying your dental insurance premiums every month, you should be using your benefits. Even if you don’t need any dental treatment, you should always have your regular dental cleanings to help prevent and detect any early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental problems.
4. Fee Increases
Another reason to use your benefits before the end of the year are possible fee increases. Some dentists raise their rates at the beginning of the year due to the increased cost of living, materials and equipment. A fee increase can also make your copay higher.
5. Dental Problems Can Worsen
By delaying dental treatment, you are risking more extensive and expensive treatment down the road. What may be a simple cavity now, could turn into a root canal later.
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Whiten Your Teeth Now for a Dazzling Summer Smile
Summer is fast approaching, and people everywhere are getting ready to look their best in the sun. For some, that means working on a tan. Others are focused on toning and improving their bodies. However, your smile is just as important to your appearance as your skin and body. Whitening your teeth for a dazzling smile can make a big difference in both how you look and how confident you feel.
Zoom Whitening For Only $199
Dr.Michael Mostofi
Aliso Viejo Dentist
www.HealthySmile360.com
949-831-5511
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