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The Hidden Dangers of Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks | Dentist Near Me

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When engaging in physical activities, many people turn to sports drinks for their electrolytes, believing they help maintain energy levels. Energy drinks, such as Monster and Rockstar, are also popular for a quick boost. However, these beverages are not as healthy as they seem, especially for your teeth. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Osmond, we want to highlight the negative effects these drinks can have on your oral health.

The Popularity of Sports and Energy Drinks

A significant number of children and teenagers consume sports and energy drinks regularly. Studies show that up to 62 percent of children drink at least one sports drink per day, and between 30 and 50 percent of teenagers in the United States consume these beverages regularly. With such high consumption rates, it’s crucial to understand the potential harm these drinks can cause.

The Impact on Your Teeth

The primary dangers of sports and energy drinks come from their high sugar content and acidity. These drinks contain enough acid to start damaging your teeth within just five days of regular consumption. The combination of sugar and acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to increased risks of cavities and tooth decay.

Athletes often consume these drinks to stay hydrated, frequently sipping them throughout their activities. This prolonged exposure to acidity and sugar significantly increases the risk of dental problems. The acid in these drinks can thin out the enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.

Mitigating the Damage

While sports and energy drinks might seem like a convenient hydration option, there are better ways to protect your oral health. Here are some tips to minimize the damage:

  • Hydrate with Water: The best way to stay hydrated and maintain good oral health is by drinking water. It doesn’t contain harmful acids or sugars that can damage your teeth.
  • Rinse Your Mouth: If you do consume sports drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward. This helps wash away some of the acid and sugar.
  • Avoid Brushing Immediately: Do not brush your teeth immediately after drinking sports drinks, as the enamel can be softened by the acid, and brushing can cause more damage.
  • Read Ingredient Labels: Be mindful of the ingredients in your drinks. Avoid those with high acid and sugar content, especially if you already have dental issues.

Conclusion

While sports and energy drinks are popular, they are not necessary for maintaining good health and can be harmful to your teeth. There are many healthier alternatives available. Maintaining your oral health is essential for a lasting smile. For more information on how to protect your teeth and to discuss preventive care, contact Family 1st Dental. Let our experienced team, your reliable dentist in Osmond, help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.

For any concerns or to schedule an appointment, reach out to Family 1st Dental today. We are here to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

I Chipped a Tooth! What Can I Do? | Osmond Dentist

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It often happens unexpectedly. You’re enjoying your favorite hard candy, and suddenly you notice a hard piece in your mouth that won’t dissolve. Panic sets in as you realize it’s a chipped piece of your tooth.

Even though enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body, it has its limits. Whether you are chewing on ice or grinding your teeth at night, there’s always a chance of damaging your teeth. If you have chipped a tooth, don’t worry. At Family 1st Dental, your reliable dentist in Osmond, we have several options to restore your beautiful smile:

Tooth Bonding

Tooth bonding is an excellent solution for repairing chipped teeth. This simple procedure doesn’t require any numbing. The bonding materials and porcelain used are natural in color and can be tailored to match your teeth perfectly. Your smile will look as good as new, and it will be difficult for anyone to notice you ever chipped a tooth.

Dental Crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that not only protects your teeth but also enhances their appearance. At Family 1st Dental, we use tooth-colored crowns made of porcelain or zirconia to match your natural teeth. Crowns provide the strength and durability your teeth need for daily use. If the chip doesn’t affect the entire tooth, you might only need a partial crown.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are a fantastic way to repair chipped teeth. Made of several thin layers of ceramic, veneers are bonded to the teeth using a special adhesive, effectively replacing the original enamel. Veneers can make your tooth look whole and healthy again, restoring your confident smile.

Conclusion

If you have a chipped tooth, there’s no need to panic. Family 1st Dental offers a variety of solutions to repair and restore your teeth. For more information on these methods or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today. Let our experienced team help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

Don’t let a chipped tooth affect your confidence. Visit Family 1st Dental, your dedicated dentist in Osmond, and let us take care of your dental needs. Contact us now to book your appointment and learn more about our services.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Unlocking the Secret: The Oral Health Benefits of Chewing Gum with Family 1st Dental in Osmond

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Chewing gum has been a beloved pastime for centuries, offering flavorsome indulgence and a quick breath freshener. But the burning question remains: Is gum truly beneficial for your oral health? The surprising answer lies in the type of gum you choose.

Yes, gum can indeed be good for your oral health, provided it’s sugar-free. Here’s why: Sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which plays a crucial role in neutralizing mouth acids and rinsing away food particles and bacteria. This natural defense mechanism helps prevent cavities and tooth decay, making sugar-free gum a valuable addition to your oral care routine.

However, not all gums are created equal. Those containing sugar can actually harm your teeth by fueling bacteria growth, leading to acid production that erodes enamel and invites cavities.

When selecting gum, opt for sugar-free varieties enriched with xylitol, a natural sweetener renowned for its cavity-fighting properties. Xylitol inhibits cavity-causing bacteria growth and aids in acid neutralization, bolstering your oral defense system.

Beyond cavity prevention, chewing gum can also freshen your breath. By stimulating saliva flow, gum helps wash away odor-causing bacteria, while mint or cinnamon flavorings provide an instant burst of freshness.

While chewing gum can complement your oral care routine, it’s not a substitute for proper hygiene practices. Remember to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and schedule routine visits to your dentist in Osmond for comprehensive oral exams and cleanings.

In essence, sugar-free gum can be a boon for your oral health, promoting saliva production to combat acidity and bacteria buildup. Just ensure your gum of choice is sugar-free and contains xylitol for optimal benefits. And always prioritize consistent oral hygiene habits to safeguard your smile’s longevity. So, go ahead, indulge in that guilt-free chew – your oral health will thank you!

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Promoting Healthy Smiles: Preventive Dentistry Tips from Family 1st Dental, Your Trusted Dentist in Osmond

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Tooth decay remains a prevalent concern, especially among children and adolescents. However, it’s essential to understand that tooth decay is largely preventable. With effective dental care starting from childhood, long-term oral health can be significantly improved. At Family 1st Dental in Osmond, we’re committed to promoting preventive dentistry to safeguard your family’s smiles for years to come.

Here are some key practices to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues at every stage of life:

Hygiene:

  • Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
  • Gently clean your tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris.
  • Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months to ensure effective cleaning.
  • Clean between your teeth daily using dental floss or another interdental cleaner recommended by your hygienist.

Diet:

  • Consume a balanced diet rich in healthy foods while limiting sugary and acidic foods that can contribute to tooth decay.
  • Drink plenty of water, which helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acids in the mouth.

Sealants:

  • Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay, particularly in permanent molars. They can reduce decay by up to 80% in children and teens, with similar benefits for adults. Talk to our dentist about whether sealants are right for you or your family members.

Fluoride:

  • Fluoridation of public water has been hailed as one of the greatest achievements in public health. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and reduce tooth decay, especially in areas with fluoridated water sources. If you have concerns about enamel weakness or lack access to fluoridated water, ask our dentist about supplemental fluoride options.

Dental Care:

  • Schedule regular visits to our office for professional cleanings and thorough exams at least twice a year, or as recommended by our team. Prompt treatment of any identified issues can prevent further complications and maintain oral health.

By prioritizing preventive care, you can save time and money while ensuring a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles for you and your family. For more information about tooth decay prevention or to schedule an appointment, contact Family 1st Dental in Osmond today. Your oral health is our top priority!

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Daily Flossing | Dentist in 68765

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We’ve all been told at least once in our life that flossing daily is crucial. Here are four reasons why flossing may be beneficial for your oral health routine: 

  1. Preventative care. Food and bacteria buildup between your teeth is unavoidable. Over time, these bacterial colonies lead to tooth decay and the destruction of your dental health. Flossing helps remove food and bacteria from areas that your toothbrush can’t reach. 
  2. Helps prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Your teeth aren’t the only part of your mouth that needs attention. Many people take care of their teeth but ignore their gums. Researchers at the New York University College of Dentistry explain that the people who floss regularly experience much lower instances of periodontal pathogens, gum bleeding, and decay-causing bacteria in contrast with people who do not floss. 
  3. Protects your smile. Flossing does more than just prevent cavities—it also preserves the bones that support your teeth. By preserving the height of that bony structure as well as a healthy smile, you’re maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance that will benefit you for years to come. 
  4. Gives you better overall health. Gum disease doesn’t just affect your mouth and jaw. It has also been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even respiratory diseases. Flossing daily is more than just an optimal habit—it can help keep you healthy as you age. 

We are pleased to offer a variety of oral health solutions to keep your smile healthy. We are also able to customize a health plan tailored to your specific needs. Book your appointment with our dental team today.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Fruit Juice & Your Teeth: A Message From Your Dentist | Dentist Near Me

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Don’t be fooled by the label “100 percent fruit juice.” Drinks advertised in this way might seem like a healthy choice, but these drinks may be doing more harm than good. In fact, fruit juices contain sugar that can lead to tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently reevaluated their recommendations for allowing small children to consume fruit juice. Here’s what you need to know about the new guidelines. 

No Fruit Juice in First 12 Months 

The AAP used to suggest that infants younger than 6 months old should not be given fruit juice to drink. This year, however, the AAP updated these recommendations to suggest refraining from fruit juice for any infant 12 months and younger. 

A Good Source of Vitamins – And Sugar 

Fruit juice can be an excellent source for vitamins and minerals. Many fruit juices contain vitamin C and potassium. However, fruit juices are often high in sugar content. According to a study summarized by Medical News Today, fruit juice may contain as much as 2 teaspoons of sugar for every 100-mililiters.  

Fruit Juice May Be Harming Your Teeth 

Sugar is a leading cause of tooth decay, especially in children. The AAP also advises that toddlers and young children should not be served fruit juice in a “sippy cup.” These cups provide greater exposure of decay-causing sugar to teeth, leading to an ideal environment for tooth decay.  

According to the updated guidelines set by the AAP, moderation is key. While children under 12 months of age should not be provided fruit juice, small amounts may be permitted for older children. The AAP suggests a maximum of 4 ounces of fruit juice per day for children aged 1 to 3, 4 to 6 ounces per day for children aged 4 to 6, and 8 ounces per day for those between the ages of 7 and 18. You may also consider adding water to dilute the juice before giving it to your child, so they receive less sugar. 

Children and adolescents aren’t the only group that can benefit from consuming fewer sugary drinks. Sugar still leads to decay in adults as well. Our team suggests trying to limit your own consumption of sugary drinks. 

Maintaining regular visits to our office will allow our dental team to ensure your child’s teeth are healthy. We will provide a comprehensive screening to locate and treat decay. If your child drinks more than the suggested amount of sugary fruit drinks, consider scheduling an extra cleaning with our team. Together, we can work to promote a lifetime of optimal oral health. 

To schedule a visit to our dental office, please contact our team.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

6 Harmful Habits That Affect Your Teeth | 68765 Dentist

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Nearly everyone has at least one habit that they wish they could break. Did you know that some of them can affect your oral health? Here are a few common habits and tips for how to break them.

1.   Nail Biting

Why it’s harmful: Your dental health may suffer from nail biting by possibly chipping your teeth or impacting your tooth. You place pressure on your jaw when you leave it in a protruding position for long periods of time. You could also tear or damage your gums.

The solution: Some patients find it helpful to wear a mouth guard to deter form nail biting. Other ways to reduce nail biting include using therapy techniques, reducing stress, or applying bitter tasting nail polish.

2.   Brushing Too Hard

Why it’s harmful: It’s best to brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day. Make sure to not brush too hard since this can lead to damage to the teeth and gum irritation. When you brush too hard, you risk gum recession and not cleaning your teeth efficiently.

The solution: Instead of brushing hard, use a soft toothbrush and apply a proper pressure. Let your toothbrush bristles touch your gums at a 45 degree angle and reduce the force of your brush on your gums.

3.   Grinding and Clenching

Why it’s harmful: This can chip or crack your teeth as well as cause muscle tenderness and joint pain. You may also experience a painful sensation when chewing or inability to open your

mouth wide.

The solution: Stay aware of your teeth grinding and clenching and use relaxation exercises to keep from doing both. A mouthguard can also help protect you from grinding your teeth while

you sleep. This will reduce any tooth pain, or muscle soreness and give you a better sleep. Our dentist can provide recommendations for how to combat teeth grinding.

4.   Chewing Ice Cubes

Why it’s harmful: Tooth enamel and ice are both crystals. When you push two crystals against each other, it can cause one to break. This may be the ice and sometimes it may be the tooth.

The solution: Try drinking beverages without ice or use a straw instead.

5.   Constant Snacking

Why it’s harmful: If your diet consists heavily of sugary foods and drinks, you are at a higher risk of forming cavities. The cavity-causing bacteria feast on leftover food and produces acid that attacks the outer shell of your teeth.

The solution: To reduce snacking, eat balanced meals so that you can feel fuller, longer. You should avoid sugary foods when snacking. If you are tempted to eat the occasional sugary snack, just make sure to drink a glass of water after to wash away the leftover food.

6.   Using Your Teeth as a Tool

Why it’s harmful: Using your teeth as a tool to hold items, open bottles, cut through thread, or other functions can put you at risk for chipped or broken teeth or jaw injuries.

The solution: Your teeth should never be used to hold or open items or to cut things when you don’t have scissors at your disposal. Look for your scissors or find someone that can give you a hand. Your mouth will thank you for it and you’ll be saving yourself from potentially costly and painful dental complications.

Contact our office to schedule your next dental appointment.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Maintaining Your Oral Health During Illness |

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Sniffling, sneezing, and coughing. Being sick can make it more difficult to keep up with your daily routine. Don’t let your cold or flu become an excuse for overlooking your oral hygiene. In fact, when you’re sick it is essential that you continue to stick to your regular brushing and flossing routine. Here are a few tips to keep you on track and on your way to getting better. 

Brush After Each Meal 

When you’re sick, try maintaining a schedule of brushing your teeth shortly after each meal. Your mouth can be a prime location where bacteria breed. Being extra vigilant in your brushing routine is an excellent way to minimize the multiplication of germs and bacteria. 

Be Selective with Cough Drops and Lozenges 

Numerous brands of cough drops and throat lozenges contain sugar. In fact, many cough drops or lozenges are similar to candy. Candy, particularly sucking candy that lasts in your mouth for an extended period of time, can lead to tooth decay. Bacteria in your mouth feeds off sugar to create acids that damage your teeth. Consider looking for drops and lozenges that are sugar free, or those that do not include corn syrup and fructose. 

Rinse Carefully 

If you are vomiting, keeping your mouth clean is important. Stomach acids can damage your teeth. However, brushing right away will just cause you to rub the acids all over your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth out with water or mouthwash and wait at least 20 minutes before reaching for the toothbrush. 

Drink Plenty of Water 

Staying hydrated is one of the keys to recovery. Drinking water is also an effective way to prevent dry mouth. Dry mouth can lead to decay and bad breath. Some medications you might be taking to relieve your cold or flu symptoms might dry out your mouth, so be sure to continue to drink water throughout the day. 

Replace Your Brush 

Once you have recovered from your illness, consider replacing your toothbrush. While it isn’t likely that you would cause yourself to get sick again, you may wish to err on the side of caution. The American Dental Association recommends that you regularly replace your toothbrush every three to four months. 

When you are sick, make it a point to keep up with your oral health. Your medications or over-the-counter remedies can have an impact on your oral health. Watch out for sugar content in cough drops and throat lozenges, and stay hydrated with water to avoid dry mouth. Keeping your mouth healthy is the first step to keeping your entire body healthy. 

For more oral health tips or to schedule a visit to our office, please contact us.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

The Connection Between Diet and Tooth Decay: Strengthening Your Teeth Through Good Nutrition | Dentist 68765

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It’s no surprise that what we eat and drink has a direct effect on our health and well-being. What many people don’t realize is that the food and beverages that we consume can also have a major impact on the health of our teeth. In fact, the connection between diet and tooth decay is so strong that it’s estimated that about 50% of all cavities are caused by diet. 

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel of the teeth. This breakdown can be caused by a number of factors, but one of the most common is the consumption of sugary and acidic foods and beverages. Sugars like sucrose, fructose, and glucose feed the bacteria in our mouths, which in turn produce acids that erode the enamel of the teeth. Acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, and sodas, can also contribute to tooth decay. The acids in these foods and drinks can weaken the enamel of the teeth and make them more vulnerable to decay. 

Not all foods and drinks are bad for your teeth, however. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables can help to strengthen the teeth and keep them healthy. Fruits and vegetables are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals that help to support the teeth and gums. Additionally, calcium-rich foods like dairy products, nuts, and leafy greens can help to strengthen the enamel of the teeth, reducing the risk of decay. 

In addition to eating a nutritious diet, it’s also important to practice good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing at least twice a day can help to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth, reducing the risk of decay. Visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups is also important, as they can identify any potential problems before they become more serious. 

In conclusion, there is a clear connection between diet and tooth decay. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, and limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages can help to keep the teeth healthy and strong. Practicing good oral hygiene habits is also essential for reducing the risk of decay. By following these guidelines, you can help to keep your teeth in great shape and prevent tooth decay. Contact our dental office today to schedule your next appointment.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

Tooth Sensitivity and What it Means | Dentist Osmond

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Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It is often described as a sharp or shooting pain that occurs when the tooth is exposed to certain stimuli like hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or even just air. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 8 people suffer from tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives. In this blog, we will discuss what tooth sensitivity could mean and how to address it.

One of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity is enamel erosion. Enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth that protects the softer dentin and pulp layers underneath. When enamel wears away, the dentin becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity. Enamel erosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including acidic foods and beverages, tooth decay, and aggressive brushing. To prevent enamel erosion, it is important to limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks, practice good oral hygiene habits, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the enamel.

Another common cause of tooth sensitivity is gum recession. Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around the tooth pulls back, exposing the tooth’s roots. This can be caused by periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, and even genetics. Gum recession can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene habits, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoiding tobacco products.

Tooth sensitivity can also be a sign of a more serious dental problem, such as a cracked or damaged tooth, a cavity, or an abscess. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity along with other symptoms like toothache, swelling, or fever, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to more serious dental problems down the line.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are several things you can do to alleviate the discomfort. One of the easiest ways to reduce tooth sensitivity is to use a desensitizing toothpaste. These toothpastes contain special ingredients that help block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth to the nerve. In addition to using a desensitizing toothpaste, you can also try using a fluoride rinse, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and practicing good oral hygiene habits.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend a more invasive treatment option to address tooth sensitivity. This could include applying a fluoride varnish or gel to the affected teeth, bonding the teeth with a resin material, or even performing a root canal if the tooth’s nerve is damaged.

In conclusion, tooth sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including enamel erosion, gum recession, and more serious dental problems. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is important to see a dentist to determine the underlying cause and find an appropriate treatment plan. In the meantime, there are several things you can do to reduce tooth sensitivity and alleviate discomfort.

Family First Dental – Osmond
Phone: (402) 748-3713
408 North State Street
Osmond, NE 68765

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Osmond, NE 68765

(402) 748-3713

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Cracked Teeth and How to Prevent Them | Dentist Near Me

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5 Common Brushing Mistakes You Could Be Making: Tips from Family 1st Dental of Osmond | Dentist in Osmond

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