Posted on

Oral Care Myths and Misconceptions | Mooresville Dentist

Oral care and hygiene are paramount to our ability to maintain and retain our teeth as we age. With so much information about oral care practices online, we felt it was important to demystify some of the most common dental myths and misconceptions we hear and offer advice on how to move forward.

Myth 1. Hard Brushing Cleans Better

This action is counter-productive, as excess pressure on your teeth can work to damage enamel rather than support it. Hard brushing also hurts our gums and can lead to a recessed gum lining over time. We recommend taking care to brush gently with a soft-bristle brush.

Myth 2. Chewing Gum Helps Clean Teeth

Chewing gum is certainly not a replacement for brushing. Chewing gum can be a great way to combat sugar cravings or a candy habit, but while it makes your breath smell better, it cannot replace the benefits of brushing.

Myth 3. Baby Teeth Don’t Need Brushing

Good oral care practices begin when we are young and proper oral care for a child’s first set of teeth matters. Tooth decay in a baby tooth can lead to complications as an adult, so we recommend a twice-daily brushing routine as soon as the child has teeth.

Myth 4. Sugar Causes Cavities

Sugar itself is not the cause of cavities, though the bacteria that eat the sugar can be. The starches and sugar themselves attract bacteria that thrive on the surface of your teeth and release an acidic compound that promotes tooth decay. Regular brushing and rinsing after eating particular sugary foods will go a long way toward preventing decay.

Myth 5. Enamel Loss Causes Sensitivity

We may experience sensitivity for many reasons, and enamel loss doesn’t happen overnight. Tooth grinding, abrasive toothpaste, aggressive brushing and lack of regular proper oral hygiene all contribute to both sensitivity and a loss of enamel. Should you lose your enamel, however, you will likely experience tooth sensitivity as well.

For more information about dental tips for athletes, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Cavities: What Are They and How They Happen | Mooresville Dentist

Cavities tend to be the thing patients are the most concerned about. They are the thing we are taught as kids to avoid at all costs by maintaining a proper care routine. Yet, unfortunately, some individuals are more prone to developing cavities than others, no matter how squeaky clean they keep their teeth. Here is a brief breakdown of what a cavity is, how they occur, and how they are treated.

How They Occur


Acidic Foods– Citric acid contained in lemons, limes, and oranges also pops up as an ingredient in processed foods. Citric acid and others weaken teeth and put enamel in danger of erosion which in turn creates crevices for bacteria to stick and become a cavity. It would be difficult to avoid citric acid, so the best thing you can do is consume water throughout the day and keep the intake of acidic foods to a minimum.

Sugar– While sugar doesn’t cause cavities, like citric acid, it contributes to the likelihood you may develop one. Sugar is a harmful bacteria’s favorite food, so the longer sugar lingers on your teeth, the more likely that bacteria will begin to eat it. This weakens your enamel and creates opportunities for that harmful bacteria to hang around and cause a cavity.

Believe it or not, children are not more prone to develop cavities than adults, but there are factors that may put children and elderly individuals at more risk for tooth decay. Children tend to crave and eat sugary foods while doing a poor job brushing their teeth. The elderly tend to take medication that reduces the amount of saliva they produce thus reducing the neutralization properties of saliva. Drinking water throughout the day and regular dental visits can help both children and their grandparents to reduce the chances harmful bacteria may cause a cavity.

Treatment Methods

If you wake up to a toothache or notice black spots on a tooth, you may have a cavity. Cavities are a common occurrence and dentists have several means of treating them. Treatment options vary depending on how advanced tooth decay has become.

Simple Decay- Fluoride treatments and fillings are viable treatment options if the cavity is in its early stages. Your dentist will apply a solution to the decaying tooth to kill harmful bacteria and place a filling where the cavity was to seal the area to prevent further decay. This is a fairly simple and painless method for cavity removal, as well as the most common treatment option.

Serious Decay- If the cavity has progressed beyond the ability of fluoride treatment to remove the bacteria, crowns, root canals and tooth extraction are a dentist’s next line of defense. Crowns are custom coverings for decaying teeth; typically made from porcelain, they work to strengthen your affected tooth once the bacteria have been removed. If the decay reaches the inner tooth or pulp, your dentist will remove the pulp, medicate it to clear any infection, and add a filling. Tooth extraction is a last resort option when the decayed tooth is beyond restoration. Your dentist may recommend a bridge or implant for the gap.

For more information about dental tips for athletes, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Wisdom Tooth Removal: The First Three Days | Mooresville Dentist

Wisdom tooth removal can be viewed as either a rite of passage into adulthood or terrifying for someone to go through. Either way, the removal of our wisdom teeth, if they begin to impact our oral health, is an important process to embark on.

Wisdom teeth can crowd valuable gum space and can cause third molars to grow improperly and teeth to overlap one another; for individuals with small mouths and jaws, this is especially detrimental. Wisdom tooth removal is a very common procedure performed on a majority of young adults and is nothing to be afraid of. Here is what you can expect:

Consultation. If you are feeling the growing pains of new teeth coming in at the back of your jaw, it may be a sign your wisdom teeth are coming in. It is common for this set of teeth to erupt in young adults between one’s late teenage years to their early twenties.

Removal. The removal process will look a little different for everyone depending on the circumstances of tooth positioning, jaw size, and the angle at which wisdom teeth come in. For some, this set of molars does not impact their jaw or existing teeth and they can safely retain them. Most people however do require removal and have two options:

         IV Sedation. For those with dental anxiety or who are generally concerned about their procedure, IV sedation is a great option. Upon arrival, you are allowed a few minutes to breathe and relax as an IV drip slowly puts you to sleep. When the procedure is over, you will wake up and may experience a somewhat dazed feeling until the solution fades.

         Nitrous Oxide. Commonly known as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide allows one to remain awake during the procedure and is administered as a means of relaxing an individual into their procedure. It’s important to note that nitrous oxide does not work for everyone and that increased amounts do not necessarily mean a more effective result.

Recovery. Initial recovery from the effects of sedation or nitrous oxide after surgery typically only lasts a few hours. Healing time for the gums can take up to two weeks and the reintroduction of certain foods follow this period so as not to further disturb your gums. Your dentist will speak with you about proper cleaning methods for the gums to ensure a safe and effective healing process.

For more information about wisdom tooth removal, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Tips For How To Care For Baby Teeth | Mooresville Dentist

Our babies and children may never acknowledge the benefits caring for their teeth at that age have on their adult teeth later. Yet, their health will always be better off from early interventions in proper oral hygiene. “Baby teeth” are the precursor for adult teeth, they are the placeholder and it’s important they be maintained for gum health and reduction of harmful bacteria.

Oral hygiene for our children begins the day their first tooth breaks through the gum. With a damp, soft cloth, lightly wipe your baby’s gums after feeding. Once more prominent, you may begin using a soft toothbrush and non-fluoride toothpaste twice a day until preschool age. At that age, the amount of toothpaste that can be safely used increases to the size of a pea.

When your child is at that age and able to brush on his or her own, it’s important to keep an eye on them. Many children find the process of brushing their teeth to be boring or unimportant, but this is an important age to develop good habits. Singing toothbrushes and flavored toothpaste help encourage kids to find the process more enjoyable and help guide them towards brushing their teeth for two minutes. Another great way to encourage your child is to brush with them and show them how to get to their molars, the back of their teeth, and the front.

Tooth health matters from the day they appear, so parents who take their children’s oral hygiene seriously and encourage good habits aid the child’s adult teeth later- even if they don’t know it yet.

For more information about dental tips for your baby’s oral care, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Understanding Oral Infections | Mooresville Dentist

We all know that brushing our teeth for two minutes, twice a day along with regular dental visits contributes to positive oral health. Yet, sometimes, no matter how much we do to mitigate the risk of developing an oral infection, they can occur. Here are some of the most common oral infections we encounter with patients, their warning signs, and their impact on your oral health.

Gingivitis– Simply put, Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums. It is the precursor to Periodontitis, the escalation of Gingivitis should it go untreated. Gingivitis is the result of plaque buildup that spreads from the gums to the ligaments that support the teeth.

Periodontal Disease– When left untreated, Gingivitis may spread below the gum line, affecting the supportive tissues and bone of our teeth. This progression is known as Periodontal Disease which deteriorates these support leading to the potential loss of teeth and may even spread to the lungs causing pneumonia.

Canker Sores– These are cuts that develop on the gums and other mouth tissues and are common in children and teens. Vigorous brushing, cheek bites, and sports injuries – as well as hormones and immune problems, may lead to canker sores.

Oral Herpes– According to centerforbeautifulsmiles.com, “50-80 percent of American adults” carry the Herpes Simlex Virus. This can lead to “blisters and ulcers on the gums and tongue, flu-like symptoms, or no symptoms at all.” While there are things individuals can do to keep the virus dormant, an outbreak may last ten days to two weeks.

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease– Toddlers and school-aged children are the most susceptible to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. The virus Coxsackie A16 is spread by direct contact with saliva and mucus; children are particularly unconscious of their direct exposure to these fluids. Children may experience fever, sore throat, and the development of painful blisters on their body but should only last a few days.

Herpangina– Similar to Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, Herpangina typically affects children and presents itself with fever symptoms and difficulty swallowing. Yet, unlike Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, it forms blisters on the back of the mouth that once ruptured, become ulcers. Symptoms typically only last a few days.

For more information about oral infections, or if you’re worried you may have one, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Is Mouthwash Necessary for Oral Health? | Mooresville Dentist

For many, mouthwash is an unnecessary extra step and added cost to their oral care routine. Mouthwash isn’t exactly the first thing a dentist will mention when reviewing your regimen, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Mouthwash, after proper brushing and flossing, can provide peace of mind to individuals who struggle to keep cavities at bay, despite their best efforts.

Mouthwash is advertised to kill bacteria and give you fresh breath, but that isn’t the whole story. Mouthwash reduces the bacteria in your mouth and reduce the amount of plaque it forms. Regular use helps prevent periodontal disease, and those with fluoride work to reduce cavities when used as directed.

What ingredients in mouthwash make it effective?

The bacteria-fighting active ingredient(s) in mouthwash are what make it an effective addition to your routine. Ingredients such as cetylpyridinium chloride, zinc gluconate, or quaternary ammonium are commonly found in washes. Just one of these will provide the bacteria fighting benefits that enhance your routine.

Are natural mouthwashes effective?

Some people advocate for fluoride, and others want little to do with it. Many brands make natural alternatives, utilizing essential oils or harvested ingredients like garlic as an astringent. Whatever the formula, natural mouthwashes have been shown to be effective at preventing gum disease without adding to the rise of antibacterial- resistant bacteria.

Is mouthwash safe for children?

Children under the age of 6 should not be utilizing mouthwash, as they are likely to consume it. Once your child has developed the muscle reflexes necessary to swish and spit the wash, with adult supervision, they can begin to incorporate it into their care routine.

While mouthwash isn’t going to make-or-break your oral hygiene, it is a great way to round out your routine. Mouthwash may bring you peace of mind between visits or be an effective way to keep bacteria at bay for cavity-prone teeth.

For more information, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Do You Have Dry Mouth? | Mooresville Dentist

Saliva is important because it naturally prevents tooth decay by neutralizing acids, limits bacterial growth and washing away food particles throughout the day. It also makes the consumption of food easier as enzymes in the saliva aid in the breakdown of food. While dry mouth is an inconvenience, it can also have a notable impact on your general and oral health.

Dry Mouth can be caused by a natural inability for your glands to produce sufficient saliva, medication, aging issues, or as a result of radiation therapy. It is a condition in which someone’s salivary glands produce an insufficient amount of saliva to keep your mouth wet.

Dry mouth habits:

  – Consumption of caffeine and alcohol

– The use of tobacco, antihistamines, and decongestants

– Consumption of sugary, acidic, spicy or salty foods

Common symptoms include:

– Dryness or sticky mouth feel

– Bad breath

– Dry or grooved tongue

– Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing

Complications:

– Increased plaque

– Mouth sores

– Tooth decay

– Gum disease

– Sores or split skin around the mouth

Some suggestions to alleviate symptoms may include a fluoride tray or rinse to prevent cavities. There are also  prescription or over-the-counter artificial saliva or moisturizers to lubricate your mouth. These can be effective means of alleviating discomfort in addition to suggestions made by your physician.

At-home remedies:

– Sip water or chew ice chips during the day and during meals

– Chew sugar-free gum

– Over-the-counter saliva substitutes

– Breathe through your nose

– Utilize a humidifier

Due to the variety of causes for dry mouth, it’s important to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor. Your dentist however may be a good resource for suggestions about how to protect your teeth.

For more information about dental tips for athletes, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Here’s What You Should Know about IV Sedation | Mooresville Dentist

Dental anxiety is common among kids and adults alike. Memories of unfortunate experiences can be triggered by certain sights and sound present in the dental office. While different types of intervention may begin to alleviate these triggers over time, there is a simpler way to get through your next visit to the dentist.

When dentists perform restorative procedures, there are typically a variety of sedation options available to the individual. The two main ones are nitrous oxide and intravenous (IV) sedation. The inhalation of nitrous allows a patient to relax, but IV sedation can guide the patient into a deeper relaxation and in some cases, lull them to sleep.

The following are the benefits of utilizing IV sedation for sleep dentistry.

– In contrast to general anesthesia, IV sedation is safer and allows you to retain consciousness.

– Administration of the drug tailored to the patient’s needs

– The results of IV sedation are reliable and the most effective means of sedation

– Due to the amount of control your practitioner has with the dosage of IV administered,    your recovery time is shorter than with oral sedation.

– If you are particularly sensitive to your gag reflex, IV sedation will relax the reaction,    but your dentist may recommend nitrous oxide

Remaining consistent with your oral health in your daily life, as well as with regular check-ups, are the best way to avoid unfavorable experiences at the dentist. It’s also important to find. A dentist who understands your concerns and helps navigate you through any session as peaceably as possible. If you do enter into a restorative process, discuss your concerns with your dentist to see if IV sedation may be right for you.

For more information about dental tips for athletes, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Athletes Need to Take Care of Their Smiles | Mooresville Dentist

When we think about athletes, we think about strong healthy individuals that take their sport by storm with all of their physical ability. They train hard, they eat well to give their bodies the proper nutrition in order to perform at their peak. But what if I told you that athletes actually have more to worry about when it comes to their oral health?

It’s true. We may all have the same basic guidelines when it comes to oral care, but an athlete’s lifestyle isn’t the same as ours and needs to be treated as such. They train their bodies to perform at peak performance, and treating their bodies is paramount. This said, during their training, athletes often have high-carb diets and drink lots of energy drinks to keep up with things. And while this lifestyle does have definite upsides, high-carb diets and energy drinks aren’t the best for your smile. Not only are these things are driving sugars and acids into their mouths, the main causes for tooth decay and cavity-causing erosion.

What they don’t realize is that when you have issues in your mouth, it can progress to cause pain. These pains may not be directly involved in the sport, but it can cause issues with sleeping and training in general, two necessities for all athletes to perform their best. So, if you are an athlete looking to better your overall performance on the field, track, court, or ice, you should look into your oral health!

For more information about dental tips for athletes, call Dr. Schneider in Mooresville, NC at 704-660-1802 or visit www.schneidersmiles.com.

Drs. Catherine and Kenneth Schneider proudly serve patients from Mooresville and all surrounding areas.

Posted on

Have Your Ever Considered Tooth-Colored Fillings? |Mooresville Dentist

No one wants to get a cavity, but it is a common dental issue. Traditionally, these cavities were remedied with a silver filling. Amalgam fillings, or metallic fillings, have been around for years and have been used by dentists to complete many cosmetic procedures. While using this procedure is indeed very effective, there are a multitude of controversies surrounding the safety and appearance of them.

Many patients are suffering from the same dilemma and feel like there is nothing they can do, however, thanks to advanced dental technology, you can achieve your dream smile with tooth-colored fillings. Dental professionals encourage patients to receive tooth-colored fillings by listing the following advantages:

  • Eliminates unnatural, metal fillings
  • Diminishes discoloration caused by metal fillings
  • Prevents tooth decay and gum diseases
  • Strengthen your teeth
  • They are undetectable and match the exact shade of your teeth

Modern dentistry is now using more tooth-like materials (composite resins and porcelains) that are both safe and predictable. The most important feature, for many people, is that they look and react more like natural teeth. In the past, teeth were filled with a mixture—or amalgam—of different metals. Today that is changing as more natural-looking and metal-free fillings are becoming the preferred approach.

If you don’t want to go the traditional route, ask your dentist about tooth-colored fillings! Tooth colored fillings, or resin, are made out of a much safer material than amalgam fillings. Along with that, tooth-colored fillings are safer, not to mention enhance the cosmetic appearance of teeth due to their natural tooth like color!