Brushing & Flossing Tips For Your Children's Teeth

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

In children, teeth should be cleaned as soon as they emerge. By starting early, your baby gets used to the daily routine. A soft washcloth wrapped around your finger can substitute for a brush when teeth first appear. Ask our office when you should switch to a toothbrush.

Here are some tips for taking care of your child’s teeth:

1. Choose a small, child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. Soaking the brush in warm water for a few minutes before brushing can soften the bristles even more.

2. We generally recommend using only plain water for brushing up to the age of two. This is because young children swallow toothpaste and swallowing too much fluoride can lead to tooth discoloration in permanent teeth. Ask us if toothpaste should be used. Also, check the manufacturer's label; some toothpastes are not recommended in children under age six. If a toothpaste is to be used, squeeze out about a green pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste onto the toothbrush.

3. Brush your child's teeth twice a day – in the morning and just before bed. Spend two minutes brushing, concentrating a good portion of this time on the back molars. This is an area where cavities often first develop.

4. Replace the toothbrush every two or four months, or sooner if it shows signs of wear. Never share a toothbrush with others.

5. Start flossing your child's teeth once a day as soon as two teeth emerge that touch.


When Should Children Brush and Floss on Their Own?

Most children lack the coordination to brush or floss their teeth on their own until about the age of six or seven. Up until this time, remember that the best way to teach a child how to brush their teeth is to lead by example. Allowing your child to watch you brush your teeth teaches the importance of good oral hygiene.

How Safe Is Fluoride for My Child?

Fluoride is safe for children. Fluoride is a natural mineral that protects and strengthens the teeth against the formation of cavities. Using it early in your child's life will provide extra protection for developing teeth. Find out if your tap water contains fluoride by calling your local water authority. If your tap water does not contain fluoride, ask us if you should give your child a fluoride supplement.

Do Home Faucet Filters Remove Fluoride?

There is a wide variation in water filters. Some do filter out fluoride; others do not. Check with the manufacturer of the filter you have purchased or have the water tested by a laboratory that does this type of testing.

Does It Matter What Toothpaste My Child Uses?

Many children's toothpastes are flavored with child-pleasing tastes to further encourage brushing. Select your child's favorite. Also, look for toothpastes that carry the American Dental Association's (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. This indicates that the toothpaste has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness. Finally, read the manufacturer's label. Some toothpastes are not recommended for children under a certain age.

Can My Child Use a Mouthwash?

Generally, mouthwashes are not recommended in children who are incapable of spitting and rinsing – skills that occur around the age of six. It's important to note that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing, although rinsing after a meal with water will help remove some larger particles of food left on or between the teeth.

When Should My Child Start Seeing a Dentist?

It is generally recommended that an infant be seen by a dentist by the age of one or within six months after his or her first tooth comes in. This allows our office to inspect the teeth for any irregularities and counsel the parents on correct brushing methods and appropriate diet.

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Dental Tips For A Fantastic Mouth In 2012

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

The start of the new year is a great point to drop the bad habits and improve your lifestyle, so our dentists got together to give you tips on how to keep your mouth healthy in 2012!


Minimize soda pop drinking
No surprise there, right? High consumption of soda or other acidic beverages can lead to enamel loss, which you can’t replace.


Use an electric toothbrush
Remember when electric toothbrushes were expensive? Not anymore. There are several options of electric toothbrushes that are affordable and work great. Using an electric toothbrush causes less damage to your gums, requires you to use less force when brushing, and some even come with a timer so you meet the recommended brushing time.

Avoid chewing ice
Some people make a habit of chewing on ice, but biting on hard substances, such as ice cubes, may cause fractures to the teeth or damage fillings.

Mouth guards for active people
If you’re into active sports such as hockey, then cover those pearly whites. Mouth guards not only protect your teeth, but also other important parts of the mouth: cheeks, gums, and lips.

Protect yourself at night with a Bruxism guard
These are recommended for patients who grind or clench their teeth at night due to stress.

Refrain from using your teeth as tools
Who’s guilty of using their teeth to open a water bottle? No worries, in some way we’re all guilty of thinking our teeth are invincible; however, don’t forget your teeth are important and get a lot action as it is, so avoid using them as a tool. Grab someone with a stronger hand or an actual tool.


We hope these tips were helpful and will be useful in making sure your mouth is healthy in 2012! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 760-323-2771.

Keeping Your Teeth Jolly In The Holiday Season

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Cakes, pies, stuffing, the holidays are a time full of carbohydrate-rich, sugary foods. This can really do a number on your oral health, but there are some simple ways you can help combat cavities while still enjoying Grandma’s pumpkin pie.

If you can, eat those carb-heavy foods such as stuffing and rolls with a balanced meal consisting of some protein. This helps to counteract some of the acids produced when sugars and bacteria in the mouth come together.

Limit your consumption of sticky foods. These foods take longer to chew, meaning they stay in the mouth longer and increase cavity risk.

Carry a travel toothbrush with you to your holiday meal destination, even if you’re just going for the day. Can’t brush your teeth immediately after eating for some reason? Rinse your mouth out with water to remove as much debris and acid as possible.

And try not to graze so much. It’s easy to spend the entire day walking around a party eating snacks, but every time you pop something into your mouth, it creates acids. Spend some time NOT eating on Christmas day to cut down on the buildup of cavity-causing agents.

By following these simple holiday dental care tips, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy while still enjoying your Holiday goodies. Happy holidays!

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Soda: Worst, Best & Alternatives For Your Oral Health

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

Someone recently asked us which soda is worst for your teeth, and we realized that’s probably a common question. Everyone knows soda is “bad for your teeth,” but surely some are better than others. Here we’ll explore what it actually does to your teeth and if there are any alternatives.


Some people think that if they drink a diet soda, the lack of sugar eliminates the risk of cavities. Actually, sugar-free soda is not much better, because it still contains acid – in fact, diet soda often contains more acid than regular soft drinks. Phosphoric acid is primarily used in cola, while citric acid is typically found in citrus-flavored drinks. Phosphoric acid is stronger in most cases. the long-run.


Acid levels are ranked on the pH scale where the lower the number, the more acidic the substance is.Battery acid ranks 1.0 on the scale. Studies show that RC Cola ranked 2.39, and most sodas rank near or below a 3. Milk sits around 6.5 on the scale. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, adult fish die in levels 3-5. Acid rain is anywhere from 1-5. Pure water is pH 7, which is neutral.


It’s generally considered that darker-colored soda is slightly worse than light-colored or clear soda. However, both contain astronomically high levels of acid. All soda is destructive to your teeth.


Sugar feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which produces an acidic substance. Acid wears away your enamel, which exposes the softer layers of your teeth to dental decay. Whether you drink regular or diet drinks, they both contain high levels of acid, which essentially just skips a step and puts acid in direct contact with your teeth.

Do: Drink soda through a straw if you want to lower your risk of dental cavities.

Don’t: Brush your teeth right after drinking an acidic beverage, because you’re basically scrubbing the acid into your enamel. Wait a little while, or rise your mouth with water first.


While still containing high acid levels, root beer has been found to be less acidic than other soda, because it typically doesn’t contain phosphoric or citric acid. Some other drinks still contain acid, but they are typically a little better for your teeth because they are all-natural and/or made primarily with real fruit juice. This means that they probably have lower acid levels but also, they don’t contain high-fructose corn syrup or other tooth-destroyers. This includes drinks like:

IZZE Sparkling Juice
Hansen’s Natural Soda
Boylan’s “The Natural Kind”


Studies found that even fruit juice, which can be quite acidic, is still much less damaging than soda. No matter what you drink, the key is to consume it in moderation balanced by plenty of water. If you continue to brush your teeth, floss and swish with mouthwash every day, you will have a much better chance of fighting cavities and keeping your mouth sparkling clean.


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How Holiday Sweets Affect Your Teeth

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

The holiday season is in full swing, and you know what that means…cookies at the office, cakes at parties, and gift baskets full of sweet treats. But did you know these holiday delights can do more damage than just expanding your waistline? Sugary foods can have a not-so-sweet impact on your teeth too.

When sugars and starches from food (and drinks) get left behind on your teeth, acids formed from bacteria in your mouth digest these foods and build up to form plaque. This plaque then eats away at your tooth’s enamel, leaving holes—or “cavities”—in your teeth. Snacking on sweets during a holiday party can be especially harmful to your teeth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Here are a few tips you can use to keep your teeth in good condition throughout the holiday season:


Try to brush and floss after every meal, especially those rich in sugar. If that’s not an option for you, swish water around in your mouth to help rinse out some of the sugar and starch. This applies to treats besides just candy and sweets, it includes things like fruit and wine, as well.

Try to avoid long periods of snacking. This can be really difficult, especially at a party, but the longer those sugars and starches stay on your teeth, the higher your chances for tooth decay.

Come prepared. Bring a toothbrush—travel size will do—so you can freshen up after a party, work event, or snack session. Bonus! This strategy may even help you prevent further snacking. Avoid sticky and chewy foods. They may taste great, but these foods tend to be some of the worst for your teeth—even if they’re healthy!

For more information about how you can take care of your teeth and prevent cavities, or to schedule your next teeth cleaning, contact our office at 760-323-2771.

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Canker Sores, Cold Sores & Common Mouth Sores

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

They are annoying and painful and there are plenty of things that can cause them – infections from bacteria, viruses or fungus; a loose orthodontic wire; a denture that doesn’t fit; or a sharp edge from a broken tooth or filling. Mouth sores may be symptoms of a disease or disorder. A dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. Among the most common mouth sores are:


Canker sores. Small ulcers with a white or gray base and a red border. Canker sores appear inside the mouth. They are not contagious. There may be only one canker sore or several and they can return frequently. Their exact cause is uncertain but some experts believe that immune system problems, bacteria or viruses may be involved.


Fatigue, stress or allergies can increase the likelihood of a canker sore. Some women may be more prone to them in their premenstrual cycle. A cut caused by biting the cheek or tongue, or reactions from hot foods or beverages may contribute to canker sore development. Intestinal problems, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, also seem to make some people more susceptible.


Treating Canker Sores: They usually heal on their own after a week or two. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics and antimicrobial mouthrinses may provide temporary relief. Stay away from hot, spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the sore. See your dentist if the sores do not heal or are painful. Antibiotics from your dentist and some oral bandages can reduce secondary infection.


Cold sores. Annoying and painful, cold sores, also called fever blisters, are groups of fluid-filled blisters. They often erupt around the lips and sometimes under the nose or around the chin. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 and are very contagious. The initial infection (primary herpes), which often occurs before adulthood, may be confused with a cold or flu and can cause painful lesions to erupt throughout the mouth.


Once a person is infected with primary herpes, the virus stays in the body and causes occasional attacks. Recurring cold sores look like multiple tiny fluid-filled blisters that most commonly appear around the edge of the lips. For some people, the virus remains inactive or dormant. For others, cold sores can follow a fever, sunburn, stress, emotional upsets or a break in the skin.


Treating cold sores: Cold sore blisters usually heal in a week by themselves. Over-the-counter topical anesthetics can provide some relief. Your dentist may prescribe antiviral drugs to reduce these kinds of viral infections.


Leukoplakia.Thick, whitish-color patches that form on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue is known as leukoplakia. These patches are caused by excess cell growth and are common among tobacco users. They can result from irritations such as an ill-fitting denture or the habit of chewing on the inside of the cheek. Sometimes leukoplakia is associated with oral cancer. Your dentist may recommend a biopsy if the patch appears threatening.


Treating leukoplakia: The dentist examines the lesion and checks the biopsy results to help determine how to manage the disease. Treatment begins with removing the factors that contribute to the lesion: quitting tobacco or replacing ill-fitting dentures or bridges.


Candidiasis. This fungal infection (also called moniliasis or oral thrush) occurs when the yeast Candida albicans reproduce in large numbers. It is common among denture wearers and most often occurs in people who are very young, elderly, debilitated by diseases like diabetes or leukemia, or who have a problem with their immune system. People who have dry mouth syndrome are very susceptible to candidiasis. Candida may flourish after antibiotic treatment, which can decrease normal bacteria in the mouth.


Treating candidiasis: Control focuses on preventing or controlling the conditions that caused the outbreak. Good oral hygiene is essential. Clean dentures to remove Candida and remove the dentures at bedtime. Saliva substitutes and prescription medications may be helpful when the underlying cause of dry mouth is incurable or unavoidable.


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An Apple A Day Might Keep The Doctor Away, But Not The Dentist

Dr. Jay Jorgensen D.D.S.

An apple a day might well keep the doctor away, but the dentist is another matter. Eating apples and other acidic fruit, as well as drinking fruit juices, is roughly four times more potentially harmful to teeth than drinking pop, according to a study published by the U.K.’s Journal of Dentistry.

Surveying more than 1,000 men and women aged 18 to 30, the study found that apple eaters were 3.7 times more likely to suffer damage to their dentine (the layer of the tooth inside the enamel). At the same time, it was shown that fruit juice was four times as damaging as pop, and lager beer three times as harmful.

The research also showed that the speed of consumption was a factor. “Doctors quite rightly say that eating apples is good, but if you eat them slowly the high acidity levels can damage your teeth,” said study leader David Bartlett, a professor at the King’s Dental Institute. “The drinks most often associated with associated with dietary erosion, particularly cola, showed no increased risk in this study.”

“The results emphasize that dietary advice should be targeted at strong acids rather than some of the commonly consumed soft drinks.” The researchers did not advise giving up otherwise healthful fruits and juices, but recommended making short work of their consumption.

“Snacking on acidic foods throughout the day is the most damaging, whilst eating them at meal times is much safer,” Bartlett said. “It’s not what you eat, it’s how you eat it. An apple a day is good, but taking all day to eat the apple can damage teeth.”

Dr. Harry F. Hoediono, president of the Ontario Dental Association, responded to the study by stressing the healthful benefits of apples, but advised rinsing the mouth with water after eating fruit to neutralize the acid. “Also, don’t clean your teeth right after eating,” he said. “If you brush while the acid is still in your mouth you are removing some of your teeth’s surface. If you wait about an hour, the saliva helps remineralize the enamel and makes the enamel more resistant to acid attack.”

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