Archive for February, 2012
March Madness
Tuesday, February 28th, 2012
We have spring fever! Before you know it, this short winter will be history. We are excited for our second annual Dentistry Because We Care Event. We had such an emotionally rewarding day helping people last year, that we have turned it into an annual event. If you have someone that truly needs our help, but cannot afford dental care please have them call our office to sign up for the event. We wanted to also do something for you, our valued patients, so this year we have our own March Madness! March Madness is usually associated with basketball, but in our office, it means money towards dentistry! Instead of betting on college hoops, invest your money in your dental health, and we will reward you. Here’s how it works:
If you call us to schedule a hygiene appointment in the month of March to be seen in our office BEFORE April 15th we will give you a $25 gift certificate to be used at any future date in our office on any product or service! You can buy an electric toothbrush, have a cavity filled, or save it for your next hygiene appointment. The choice is yours! The one condition is, we are unable to make any exceptions. We can not extend this offer to appointments that have already been made. We love being able to help you, and reward you, but since we have different promotions each month, we can’t extend deadlines or transfer the certificate to a family member. Keep reading your emails each month to see what great offer you can take advantage of.
Our goal is to help maintain your oral health. That means, you look good, you feel good, you have strong teeth and healthy gums. We want you to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful Smile 4 A Lifetime, and we are here to help you.
Denistry Because We Care Event
Monday, February 20th, 2012
We are proud to announce our 2nd Annual Dentistry Because We Care Event.
Dr. Neil Berman and the team at Smiles 4 A Lifetime
are proud to announce our second annual
DENTISTRY BECAUSE WE CARE EVENT
Our dental practice has served the Five Towns Community for over 40 years. As our way of saying thanks, we would like to give back!
We understand that many people cannot afford dental care.
On March 4th, starting at 9:00a.m., our team is donating our time to provide free dental care. We realize that in these hard economic times people may not have the resources to go to the dentist. If you know of anyone who is in need of care, please have them give us a call to schedule an appointment.
We feel that everyone should have the opportunity for treatment to maintain a Smile 4 A Lifetime.
We will be seeing patients by appointment only.
A Different Tongue for Everyone!
Wednesday, February 15th, 2012
Like fingerprints and snowflakes, everyone has a uniquely patterned tongue created by different configurations of taste buds. Look in the mirror with your child and point out small bumps responsible for tasting food. Mention that brushing your tongue gets rid of bacteria and germs that make breath smelly.
What does a Tooth Look Like?
Wednesday, February 15th, 2012
Did you know there are two parts to a tooth? The CROWN and the ROOT.
- The Crown is the part of the tooth we can see inside of our mouths.
- The Root of the tooth keeps the tooth steady while it does its job. The root is “planted” into our jawbone and is unable to be seen.
The crown and the root meet at the neck of the tooth, which is normally just below the gum margin.
Teeth also have 3 Layers.
- Enamel is a hard protective outer layer covering the crown of the tooth.
- Dentin is a second protective layer covering the nerve of the tooth
- Pulp, (also called the Nerve) is the soft middle of the tooth that had a blood supply and nerve endings.
Teeth are different shapes because they do different jobs.
- Incisors are for cutting
- Canines are for tearing
- Molars and Pre-Molars grind up food until it is small enough to swallow
YOUR ATTITUDE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Sunday, February 5th, 2012
Parent’s have the most important role in a child’s dental experience. Any anxiety a parent displays can quickly be picked up by the child.
The following tips will help the dental visit go more smoothly.
- Tell your child about the visit but let the details be provided by the dentist. He has been trained to describe details in a non-threating way, using words that are easy to understand.
- Never tell a child that something will hurt or be painful.
- Don’t tell your child about a unpleasant experience you have had at the dentist.
- Make sure the child knows the importance of healthy teeth and gums. Explain that it is Dr. Berman’s job to help him/her maintain a healthy Smile 4 A Lifetime.
- Never promise a reward for going to the appointment. They will be going to the dentist throughout their lifetime. If they don’t cooperate during the visit, they will still want to be rewarded.
It is perfectly normal for a child to be fearful. Allowing the child to enter the room on their own will allow them to be in control. If they are willing, let them go. Sometimes a child can react differently in front of their parent. Dr. Berman will usually start a conversation to draw attention away from the procedure. Before they know it, they will be out of the chair! We want to provide your child with a positive experience. They will leave asking when they can come back?
BEYOND BRUSHING
Friday, February 3rd, 2012
Proper nutrition is an essential part in preventing cavities. A diet that is high in sugary foods and beverages can increase the rate of tooth decay, forming plaque build up on the child’s teeth. Always offer your child fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables, proteins, dairy and grains. Limit treats and junk food. Stay away from sticky foods, like fruit roll ups and limit soda intake. Remember to set a good example. Offer healthy snacks and always have them drink enough water throughout the day.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Thursday, February 2nd, 2012
Many parents overlook the importance of their child’s teeth, especially their baby teeth (also called primary teeth). Some parents do not realize teeth serve functions other than biting and chewing.
Your baby’s teeth perform the following functions:
- Help provide nutrition
- Help make speech possible
- Aid in the normal development of the jaw bones and facial muscles
- Add to attractive appearance
- Reserve space for the permanent teeth and help guide them into position
In the chart below, you can see the approximate ages when primary teeth should erupt and also when they should loosen. Healthy habits start early. The responsibility to provide care to these primary teeth will, in many ways, help the child develop good oral hygiene practices in the future.
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