98031 Dentist | Did You Forget to Pack Something?

Dentist Near Me

The year is closing and holidays are on the horizon. Are you planning year-end travel or a last-minute getaway? Before heading out on your next adventure, make sure you are prepared with these 3 quick tips for maintaining optimal dental health during travel.

  1. Properly transport your toothbrush. Instead of throwing your toothbrush into a bag with the rest of your toiletries, use a resealable plastic bag. This can reduce the amount of bacteria that gets passed on to your toothbrush.
  2. Pack sugarless gum. Gum can help relieve ear pressure during a flight and prevent dry mouth that can occur during travel. Research shows that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal can also help prevent tooth decay.
  3. Brush with bottled water. If you are in another country or on a camping trip in the wilds, use bottled water to brush your teeth. This can reduce your risk of getting sick due to unfamiliar bacteria or other contaminants in the local water.

If you are taking a vacation before the year ends, don’t forget to take steps to maintain optimal oral health while you are away. Don’t forget to pack our office number in case you have questions about your oral health during your trip, then schedule an exam and cleaning for after your return.

10920 SE 208th St.
Kent, WA 98031

Conveniently located just off the benson and 212th St., just across the street from Safeway in the Panther Lake professional building.

Email: Contactus@Pantherlakedental.com
Phone: (253) 854-1222

Dentist in Kent WA | 3 Simple Ways to Reduce Tooth Decay

Dentist Near Me

dentist kent waA happy smile is a healthy smile! There are a number of steps you can take to keep your smile healthy by reducing your risk of developing tooth decay. Here are a few suggestions from our team.

 

Eat a Tooth Friendly Diet

Reduce the amount of sugars and carbohydrates in your diet. Decay-causing bacteria in the mouth feed on these substances.

 

We suggest you reduce grains, beans, seeds, and nuts in your diet when possible. These foods can lead to demineralization of your teeth and bones due to their acidic content. Consider adding foods high in minerals and vitamins to your diet such as apples, leafy greens, celery, or carrots.

 

Brush, Floss, Rinse, Repeat

Routine brushing at least twice a day followed by flossing and a mouth rinse is the optimal at home dental care routine. Brush for at least two minutes in the morning and at night. Use a soft bristle toothbrush that is small enough to reach every tooth.

 

Dental Sealants

Children often get dental sealants to protect the hard-to-reach teeth in the back of their mouths. However, dental sealants can benefit adults and those who have a higher risk of decay. Dental sealants are a layer of plastic-like material that coats the top surface of the tooth. Sealants protect the crevices in the tooth where bacteria reside and minimizes exposure of the tooth to harmful acids and sugars that wear down enamel.

 

When left untreated, tooth decay can cause discomfort and spread to other healthy teeth. You can combat tooth decay by reducing sugars and acids in your diet and brushing and flossing regularly. For some patients, dental sealants might be a solution.

 

Don’t forget to schedule your next visit to our office. Our team can provide a professional cleaning and check for signs of tooth decay.

idm98031 Panther Lake Dental
10930 SE 208th St., Kent, WA 98031
(253) 854-1222