At DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care, we understand that maintaining healthy gums is vital for overall oral health. Issues like tooth loss, bad breath, and bleeding gums can signal periodontal disease, which often starts without noticeable symptoms. If left untreated, this condition can lead to irreversible damage. Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to prevent periodontal disease, and one of the most effective methods only requires a few minutes each day.

The Importance of Flossing

Dental floss is an incredibly powerful tool in the fight against periodontal disease. It helps remove plaque and bacteria that accumulate between your teeth, areas that a toothbrush simply can’t reach. While brushing your teeth twice daily is essential, incorporating flossing into your routine is just as important. By cleaning between your teeth, you can eliminate food particles and sugars that contribute to gum disease.

If you find flossing challenging, our team at DiChristofano & DiChristofano can provide tips and techniques to make it easier for you.

Flossing Statistics

Despite its importance, a survey by the American Dental Association revealed that only about 40% of Americans floss daily. The same study indicated a strong link between regular flossing and better dental health. Interestingly, a study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that 27% of adults were not truthful about their flossing habits during dental visits. To maintain healthy gums, aim to floss at least once a day, even if you don’t do it every time you brush.

How to Floss Properly

Proper flossing technique is crucial for effectiveness and gum health. Here’s how to do it correctly:

1. Take About 18 Inches of Floss: Wrap the ends around your thumbs, leaving about an inch of floss to work with.
2. Gently Slide Between Your Teeth: Position the floss between two teeth and slide it up and down, rubbing against both sides.
3. Avoid Injuring Your Gums: Be careful not to force the floss into your gums, as this can cause bruising or cuts.
4. Use Fresh Floss: As you move to each new pair of teeth, use a clean section of floss.

Spending just a few minutes flossing daily can significantly improve your oral health, helping to keep your gums healthy and prevent tooth decay.

Schedule Your Appointment

Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. We recommend seeing your dentist in Norridge twice a year for cleanings and check-ups. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office today. Your path to healthier gums starts here!

At DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care, we understand that maintaining healthy gums is crucial for seniors. As we age, the risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease increases, but the good news is that this condition is often preventable and even reversible. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious complications, including bleeding, swollen gums, and tooth loss. More concerning are studies linking periodontal disease to severe health issues.

Understanding the Health Risks

Research has shown a strong connection between periodontal disease and various health problems. For example, a study from the University of Southampton and King’s College London found that seniors with periodontal disease experienced cognitive decline six times faster than those without. Additionally, periodontal disease has been linked to a heightened risk of heart disease and stroke, making it crucial to monitor oral health as you age. Regular dental cleanings and screenings can help ensure that your gums stay healthy and minimize the risk of related health complications.

Important Statistics

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 14% of seniors aged 65 to 74 have moderate or severe periodontal disease. This percentage jumps to over 20% for those aged 75 and older. Moreover, men are generally more affected than women, and smoking significantly increases the risk; studies show that 32% of current smokers suffer from periodontal disease compared to just 14% of non-smokers.

Steps to Maintain Healthy Gums

To protect your gum health as you age, consider these practical tips:

1. Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine: Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Don’t forget to floss daily to clean areas between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. If you find traditional floss challenging, consider using floss holders, which are widely available.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water regularly can help maintain saliva production, which is essential for protecting your teeth and gums.
3. Avoid Tobacco Products: Quitting smoking can significantly lower your risk of developing gum disease and other serious health issues.
4. Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule appointments with a dentist in Norridge at least twice a year for professional cleanings and comprehensive oral health screenings. Early detection is key to preventing serious complications.
5. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support gum health. Foods high in vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, are particularly beneficial.

If you have questions about your oral health or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care. We’re here to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile as you age!

At DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care, we know that staying active is vital for your overall health, but have you ever wondered if your exercise routine could negatively impact your dental health? While exercise is essential, certain fitness habits may be linked to increased risks of tooth decay and erosion. Here’s how your workout might be affecting your teeth, especially for those in Norridge.

Dry Mouth

Intense exercise often leads to heavy mouth breathing, which can reduce saliva production and result in a dry mouth. Saliva plays a crucial role in dental health, as it contains minerals and enzymes that help protect against decay-causing bacteria. To combat dryness, try to breathe through your nose during workouts and ensure you stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after exercising. Brushing your teeth before your workout can also help minimize bacteria and plaque buildup.

Clenching Your Teeth

For those engaged in strenuous activities like weightlifting, clenching your jaw can become a concern. Research shows that jaw clenching may lead to wear on your teeth and even fractures over time. To protect your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard during high-impact exercises. You can purchase a mouthguard at most drugstores or sporting goods stores, or even have a customized option created at our Norridge dental office.

The Impact of Sports Drinks

Many athletes turn to sports drinks for hydration, but these beverages can be detrimental to your dental health. Loaded with sugars and citric acid, sports drinks can be up to 30 times more erosive to your teeth than water. The acidity can soften enamel, making it vulnerable to damage, even after brushing. Instead of sports drinks, opt for water to keep your hydration levels up without risking your dental health. If you do choose to indulge in a sugary drink, try to consume it in a short time frame and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

Managing Sugar Intake

Whenever we consume sugar or carbohydrates, acids form in our mouths that attack tooth enamel for up to 30 minutes. Our teeth can withstand only three acid attacks per day, including those from meals. To help manage this, it’s better to consume sugary foods and drinks all at once rather than throughout the day. Drinking plenty of water afterward can also help neutralize the acidity in your mouth.

Schedule Your Dental Checkup

Maintaining good oral health is essential, especially for those who lead active lifestyles. At DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care, we recommend visiting your dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. If you have questions or concerns about your dental health, contact our office in Norridge to schedule an appointment today!

While dental sealants are commonly associated with children’s dental care, adults can also greatly benefit from this preventative treatment. At DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care in Norridge, we understand that maintaining optimal dental health is important at every age. Sealants help protect your teeth by covering the deep grooves and crevices on the chewing surfaces, which are prone to cavity development.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Although they are not a substitute for daily brushing and flossing, sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavities.

Even with diligent home care, there are areas in the mouth that are difficult to clean thoroughly, such as the pits and fissures on your molars. These grooves can trap food and bacteria, making them more susceptible to decay. Sealants work by filling these deep grooves, making the tooth surfaces smoother and easier to clean.

The Application Process

The application of dental sealants is a quick and straightforward procedure at our Norridge office:

1. Cleaning: Your teeth are first thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or debris.
2. Preparation: Next, the teeth are dried and treated with a special solution that prepares the surface for the sealant.
3. Application: A liquid sealant material is then applied to the grooves in your teeth. This material flows into the deep crevices to provide comprehensive coverage.
4. Curing: A curing light is used to harden the sealant, creating a protective barrier over the grooves and smoothing the chewing surface.

Maintaining Sealants

Maintaining sealants is simple and involves regular brushing and flossing. However, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with remineralizing agents like hydroxyapatite.
• Be cautious with foods and beverages that can stain sealants, such as berries, coffee, tea, or red wine. Rinsing your mouth after consuming these can help reduce staining.
• Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that might wear down the sealants.

During your routine visits, our team will check the condition of your sealants and ensure they are functioning properly. With proper care, sealants can last up to ten years, providing long-term protection against cavities.

If you have any questions about dental sealants or if you’d like to see if they are right for you, please contact DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care in Norridge to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile!

You’ve likely heard it countless times from your trusted dental professionals: “Make flossing a daily habit.” While it may seem like a repetitive refrain, the importance of flossing cannot be overstated when it comes to maintaining optimal oral and overall health. Let’s delve into the invaluable benefits of incorporating flossing into your daily routine to keep your smile dazzling.

Protecting Gum and Bone Health

Flossing isn’t just about removing food particles stuck between your teeth; it’s about safeguarding the health of your gum tissue and the supportive bone structure around your teeth. By diligently flossing, you effectively remove plaque, the sticky film of bacteria nestled in those hard-to-reach interdental spaces. Left unchecked, this plaque can harden into tartar, fostering an environment ripe for periodontal disease and eventual tooth loss.

The Systemic Impact of Periodontal Disease

The consequences of periodontal disease extend beyond your oral cavity, impacting your systemic health as well. Prolonged inflammation resulting from untreated gum disease can precipitate a host of health issues. The same bacteria responsible for periodontal disease have been found to travel through the bloodstream, correlating with conditions such as heart disease, stroke, elevated blood sugar levels (linked to diabetes), and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Cost-Effective Prevention

Embracing a consistent flossing routine, complemented by regular brushing and professional cleanings, can prove to be a wise investment in your long-term oral health and financial well-being. Preventative care is key to mitigating more severe dental problems down the road. By diligently flossing, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing decay between your teeth, ultimately minimizing the need for extensive dental procedures. It’s a proactive approach to nip potential issues in the bud before they escalate.

Listen to the Experts

While the advice to floss regularly may sound like a broken record, it’s advice worth heeding. Remember the age-old adage: “Only floss the teeth you want to keep.” If you’re unsure about your flossing technique or need guidance on improving your oral hygiene habits, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team at DiChristofano & DiChristofano Dental Care in Norridge.

Schedule a comprehensive dental examination and professional cleaning with us, where we’ll assess your oral health status and provide personalized recommendations to elevate your oral hygiene regimen. Your smile’s radiance and your overall well-being are our top priorities.