Tooth Loss in Postmenopausal Women Linked to Hypertension

Researchers in the US suggest that tooth loss in the older women puts them at an increased risk for hypertension.

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2018 ADA CEBJA Video Contest Honorable Mention

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2018 ADA CEBJA Video Contest Winner

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How to Formulate Your In-House Membership Benefit Program

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Evidence-based Dentistry: Improving Business Operations

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The Many Benefits of Membership Programs

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Is Water Flossing the Perfect Tool for Better Oral Health?

Good oral health involves more than having a beautiful smile; it is key if we are to enjoy food, feel confident about interacting with others, and avoid oral pain. Statistics show, however, that many Americans could improve in this department. Over 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity, and one in four has untreated tooth decay. Meanwhile, around half of all adults above the age of 30 have gum disease – according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Oral Health report. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing twice daily, but for those with gum disease and frequent plaque build-up, one gadget that should be present on your bathroom countertop, is a water flosser.

How does a Water Flosser Work?

Water flossers clean teeth and gums through a combination of water pressure and pulsations, which remove food and plaque. They work similarly to dental floss, but the pressure means that tiny pieces of food you don’t even notice can be efficiently removed. Water flossers can reach areas that floss cannot get into; for instance, beneath the gumline at the front of teeth. Users can alter the pressure according to their needs. Therefore, those with sensitive gums may use a lower setting, while those after a power clean can set their flosser on high pressure.

Are Water Flossers Effective?

The effectiveness of water flossers was put to the test in a study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry. Participants to the study were assigned to one of two groups. Group One used a manual toothbrush plus a water flosser, while Group Two used a manual toothbrush and waxed dental floss to clean between teeth. The results showed that the water floss group had a 74.4% reduction in whole mouth plaque and a 81.6% reduction in plaque between teeth. The dental floss group meanwhile, had a 57.7% and 63.45% reduction in plaque in these respective areas. The scientists noted that the water flosser was therefore a superior way to keep plaque at bay.

When Might Your Dentist Recommend a Water Flosser?

Your dentist may recommend this method of daily cleaning if you have frequent plaque build-up or if your gums tend to become inflamed. If you have a condition like gingivitis, you may be recommended to wait until bleeding has stopped to use a water floss. For more serious periodontal disease, a water flosser will simply not be enough. You may be recommended a root scaling and planing treatment and perhaps later, a water flosser can play a role in maintenance of your gum health. Water flosses also work well for teeth that are difficult to clean. For instance, if you have wisdom teeth that have not been removed, then teeth may be very tight and it may be very difficult to get dental floss in between then.

Because a water flosser cleans plaque and removes trapped food so effectively, it is ideal for teeth in odd positions, but it can also form part of a daily oral health routine for anyone wishing to obtain an optimal clean. Studies have shown that it is more effective than standard brushing and flossing, so if you are worried about decay and gum inflammation and disease, ask your dentist if a flosser is suitable for you. Flossers have removable tips, so one machine can be used by more than one family member.

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Understanding In-House Membership Benefit Programs

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Why Are My Child’s Permanent Teeth Growing Out Yellow?

Children’s new teeth are not always as white as their baby teeth. Is there a reason to worry? Find out today.

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6 Myths About Pediatric Dentistry

If you’ve ever Googled questions about pediatric dentistry, you’ve likely found a lot of conflicting information about what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to your child’s dental health. We’re here to set the record straight on some of the most common myths about pediatric dentistry!

Myth #1: Children don’t need to see the dentist until all of their teeth come in.

An early examination gives your pediatric dentist a chance to put together a long-term dental care plan that is most beneficial for your child. For this reason, we recommend bringing your child in for an exam when their first tooth erupts.

The earlier your child is exposed to dental care and regular appointments, the more relaxed and comfortable they will be with routine visits!

Myth #2: Cavities in baby teeth do not affect a child’s adult teeth.

Untreated cavities in baby teeth can inhibit proper growth of adult teeth. Tooth decay affects the gums and roots of the teeth, which means harmful bacteria can be transferred to adult teeth that are forming. Trauma to baby teeth can also cause problems for the growth of adult teeth.

Myth #3: Dental sealants are unsafe for children.

With proper brushing, flossing, and nutritional habits, sealants reduce the risk of cavities by 80%.

Bisphenol (BPA) in sealants has been a long standing concern for many parents. According to the American Dental Association, the BPA level in sealants is not significant enough to cause health concerns, and they are completely safe for children. Sealants may not be the solution for every child, which is why our dentists will evaluate each child on a case-by-case basis.

Myth #4: Only adult teeth need to be flossed.

Just because baby teeth are permanent doesn’t mean they need less diligent care! Food particles still need to be removed from between baby teeth with floss. Brushing only removes 30% of plaque and bacteria from your teeth, so flossing is a must!

We recommend that you assist your child with flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch. Because small children lack the manual dexterity to floss properly, a parent should help with flossing until the child can brush and floss thoroughly.

Myth #5: A little blood during brushing is nothing to be alarmed about.

One of the most telltale signs of gum disease is blood when brushing or flossing, even in small traces. A similar comparison is to consider your hand washing routine. If you suddenly saw blood, chances are you would be concerned!

With a specialized oral health plan and practicing good oral health habits at home, gum disease in children can likely be reversed.

Myth #6: There’s no real difference between general dentistry and pediatric dentistry.

Though general dentists are vastly educated in many different aspects of dentistry, pediatric dentists specialize in working with children. They study developmental stages and characteristics of children and how dentistry affects their overall health, as well as the psychological component of pediatric dentistry.

Many general dentists will refer children to a pediatric dentist because of their specific expertise and abilities.

Do you have a question about pediatric dentistry that we haven’t covered? Feel free to get in touch with us to discuss!

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Meet Dr. Nate Shaw

Credentials, experience, and associations are extremely important aspects to look for in a pediatric dentist. What makes one stand out from the other? WHO they are. Our Doctor Spotlight series allows our tiny patients and parents to get a glimpse into the doctor’s lives. Come get to know us!

Dr. Nate Shaw is a board certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He is also currently a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the North Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Nate has provided dental care for those in need through mission work in Ecuador, Kenya, and has worked closely with North Carolina Missions of Mercy in their free mobile dental program. He will be primarily seeing patients at our Waverly location. Come get to know him!

Why did you decide to focus on pediatric dentistry rather than general dentistry?
I was able to intern at a pediatric dental office during college and dental school, and really enjoyed my time working with kids. They keep each day interesting and interacting with children is both fun and rewarding.

Do you have kids?
My wife, Kate, and I don’t have any kids yet, but plan on starting a family soon. We do have one rescue dog, named Kona.

What are some of your “tricks” to help ease kids’ fears about their dental visits?
I think it is important to use language that kids understand and find comforting. I like to take my time showing and explaining what we’re going to do ahead of time so there are no scary surprises. It also definitely helps having a TV above the chairs for them to watch!

What’s the best part of your day?
It’s always fun if you can get a child to laugh, kids have great senses of humor (and my wife doesn’t think any of my jokes are funny).

What’s your favorite kids’ show?
I still like the classic Disney movies the best, such as Lion King and Aladdin. But my favorite kids’ show is probably Phineas and Ferb.

What’s your favorite color?
Blue, specifically Carolina Blue (go Tar Heels)!

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, what’s your favorite sweet?
Luckily, for my profession, I don’t have much of a sweet tooth – but I do like Reese’s Pieces.

Have you always wanted to be a dentist? If not, what did you want to be as a kid?
I always wanted a job in healthcare growing up, and decided on dentistry in high school after some great dental experiences myself. Of course, if I was athletic enough to be a professional basketball or tennis player, I wouldn’t have turned down any contract offers.

Do you have a role model or a mentor? Why do you look up to them?
My family members have always been great examples for me to look up to, my mom and grandmother were both nurses and my uncle is a pediatrician. Both my parents are supportive, hard working, strong in their faith, and are great providers that I hope to emulate when I have a family of my own.

What is your favorite sports team?
I went to UNC and grew up in Charlotte, so I love the Tar Heels and Panthers.

Finish this sentence: When I was a kid…
I loved to play the original Super Mario Brothers video game and I wanted to be a ninja turtle when I grew up, preferably Leonardo.

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Dental Health Concerns and Tips for Teens

The adolescent years can be challenging for your teenager. Between making new friends, keeping up with extracurricular activities and schoolwork, and obvious outward physical changes, dental care can take a backseat on your teen’s priority list.

Without consistent dental care, a teen who has had a clean bill of dental health is susceptible to cavities. The good news is, the selfie generation has helped many kids pay closer attention to their dental health, which has dentists and parents everywhere rejoicing!

With that said, it’s still important to ensure your teen is brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day, and receiving regular exams and cleaning from their trusted Charlotte pediatric dentist. Now that back to school season is approaching, it’s the perfect time to re-evaluate your teen’s dental health habits.

We’ve compiled some of the most common teen dental health concerns, along with helpful tips to keep your teen’s smile healthy as they progress through their formative years.

Tooth Decay & Cracks

By the time a child reaches their pre-teen years, some may have experienced slight tooth decay and/or minor damage to teeth. Tiny cracks or chips can occur from sports or playing woodwind or brass instruments in band, and may not always be visible to the naked eye.

Your dentist can custom fit a mouthguard to help protect your child’s teeth during sports.

Dental Care and Orthodontics

Whether your teen has traditional braces or Invisalign, your teen’s oral health will require extra attention to ensure total success of their orthodontic treatment. Special toothbrushes, flossing brushes, and avoiding certain foods will help your teen achieve the bright, healthy smile they’ve worked so hard for during their orthodontic experience!

Wisdom Teeth

Children are often graced with the presence of wisdom teeth in their later teen years. With age comes wisdom, and an extra set of molars.

Wisdom teeth don’t always cause issues if they come through correctly. If your child doesn’t have enough space in their mouth for the teeth to form safely, problems can start to form.

Wisdom teeth that don’t come in properly can cause pain, bacteria, and infections. If you notice wisdom teeth coming through before your next scheduled exam, it is best to contact your dentist so they can determine next steps.

Choose Healthier Snacks

Teens are often on the go, so their snack choices may not always be tooth-friendly. Your teen needs fuel to stay alert and succeed in school, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs. Avoiding sugary snacks will help them avoid a mid-day crash in energy. Keep healthy snacks, like apples, carrot sticks, and cheese on hand for your teen’s busy weekdays.

Encourage Dental Care On the Go

Keeping a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste in your teen’s backpack can help them stay consistent with their dental health needs. If stopping to brush isn’t always possible, encourage them to stick with water as their beverage of choice, and have some on-hand to rinse after meals and snacks.

Keep Up With Regular Dental Exams

Make sure your teen is still receiving regular dental cleanings and exams at least twice a year. If your teen expresses any concerns in between appointments, or if you notice anything that you suspect could be a dental issue, contact us!

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Bring Your Smiles to Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry

We’re excited to announce that Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry is expanding – again!

Part of our mission is to consistently provide the highest standard of dental care possible. We strive to accomplish this with convenience, pediatric dentistry education, and open lines of communication.

Building trust and relationships is what our success hinges upon. We take your needs and requests to heart, which is why we’ve decided to open a sixth location at Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry!

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry Partnerships

In order to provide a well-rounded, one-stop-shop approach to pediatric dental care, a partnership had to be considered and enacted. Dr. David Moore has a selective process with how he chooses partnerships for his dental offices. He knew the expansion of the practice to Harrisburg had to be done with care and precision, which included the methodical selection of a partner to help fulfill the mission of the practice.

Our successful partnership with Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics in Davidson spurred the decision to continue the partnership in Harrisburg!

Parent & Patient Feedback

The feedback of parents throughout the community helped guide Dr. Moore to the decision of opening the Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry location. Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics shares our belief that parent feedback is crucial to serving each family that chooses us as their pediatric dentistry care provider.

Your voice helps guide us to build long-lasting patient relationships and provide the best pediatric dental care throughout your child’s formative years. Our goal is to make each appointment productive, relaxed, informative, and even fun! See how we’ve been accomplishing this for families all over the Charlotte area by browsing our parent testimonials.

Dentists & Team

Dr. Cami Miskovich has built a strong rapport with her patients since joining the Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry team in Cotswold & Gastonia. Her work has been well-received by Charlotte parents and their families.

Dr. Miskovich will be serving the patients of Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry, along with the assistance of highly trained and friendly hygienists, assistants, and office personnel. Her passion for her craft and her natural ability to work with children made her the perfect choice to lead the new location. We are excited for the Harrisburg community to meet her!

Make an Appointment

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry is slated to open in the Fall of 2018, but they are currently accepting new patients. We welcome you to come by during business hours for a tour and an opportunity to meet your new Harrisburg pediatric dental team!

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Tips for Teething Babies

Teething – a painful yet necessary milestone in your baby’s early life. Though every child is different, many experience similar signs of teething.

Many of us at Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry are parents, too, so we know what you and your little one are going through. We’ve come up with some tips to help making the teething months a little more bearable.

How to tell your baby is teething

The signs of teething are unmistakable, though some babies manage to go through the teething phase without any real pain or symptoms. Here are a few common signs of teething:

• Excessive drooling
• Low grade fever (less than 101 degrees)
• Gum rubbing
• Chewing and biting on any object they can – clothes, toys, fists, etc.
• Increased irritability
• Outer mouth rash (caused by excess drooling)

A common mistake many of us make is to chalk up almost all symptoms to teething. If your baby’s fever is accompanied by runny nose, cough, noticeable ear pain, or anything else out of the ordinary, note that these symptoms are not caused by teething.

When does teething start?

Babies typically start the teething process around 4 – 6 months old. Though the first few months of teething can be unbearable for babies and parents, the teething process is inherently important for language development, immunity strengthening, bone development, and the ability to consume nutritious foods.

Alleviating teething pain

As parents, we often have a hard time seeing our little one in pain, especially when they are too young to communicate the exact problem. Though we can’t completely stop the painful process of teething, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort.

• Chewing on a clean, wet, cool washcloth
• Gum massage (make sure you thoroughly wash your hands first)
• Chilled teething toys
• Dry up excess drool to avoid mouth rashes
• OTC (over-the-counter) remedies – check with your pediatrician first

Go for cold, not frozen

Frozen teething toys may be too cold for your baby’s sensitive gums. Put solid teething toys in the refrigerator instead of the freezer. Though solid toys are preferred over the liquid-filled plastic teething toys, those are acceptable when used under parental supervision.

Some foods your baby may enjoy during teething are chilled applesauce, teething biscuits, and cold pureed fruit.

Keep teething objects clean

Once your baby feels comforted and soothed by their teething toy, they will lose interest in it and move on to the next thing. Make sure you sanitize teething toys between each session. Lack of sanitation can cause an infection.

Call your pediatric dentist

Your child should see their trusted pediatric dentist after their first tooth erupts. Typically, the bottom two front teeth are the first to erupt (sometimes they come in one at a time).

Your baby’s teeth and gums will be examined at the first appointment. Keeping their teeth and gums healthy from the beginning gives them a better chance of healthier smiles in the years to come!

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What to Expect During A Dental Hygiene Appointment

Routine dental hygiene visits are important for your child’s dental health. Each child’s needs are different, and we tailor each visit to meet those needs. There are some important basics of a hygiene appointment that we want to share with you. Knowledge is key to patient comfort and care in and out of the dentist’s office!

Review of Medical & Dental History

Your dental health affects your overall health, so we take the time to discuss your child’s previous medical history in order to determine the best course of action moving forward. Now is the time to let your pediatric dentist know of any previous and/or current medical conditions or concerns.

Thorough Exam

Before the hygienist begins performs a cleaning, they will give your child a gentle, thorough examination. They will closely examine the teeth and gums to identify any potential problems, and ensure that things are progressing normally for their age. Digital and/or panoramic x-rays may be given to further examine tooth and jaw structure.

Cleaning

After the exam is given and the hygienist has a better understanding of your child’s dental needs, they will proceed with a thorough cleaning. Your hygienist will explain the tools used to ease any anxiety your little one may have. We use terminology that is fun and exciting (Frozen juice, Batman tooth, etc.)!

Discussion & Education

After the exam and cleaning are complete, your hygienist and pediatric dentist will give you detailed instructions and explanations for continued care.

Because we are a child-centered practice, we explain things to you and your child in a way that makes them feel at ease. Our goal is to provide education that is valuable, accurate, and comforting to you and your child.

Q&A Session

We always want parents and their kids to feel comfortable asking questions before, during, or after an appointment. Our entire team is there to help you, so if any part of your child’s treatment is unclear to you, please ask! When we are all on the same page, your child gets the best care.

Dental Hygiene at Home

At the conclusion of your child’s appointment, the hygienist and pediatric dentist will give you follow-up instructions to help you maintain a regular oral hygiene plan for your child. If you have a difficult time getting your little one to follow through with proper brushing and flossing, we can provide helpful tips and tricks to get them back on track (without making it seem like a trying task for your child).

We’re now serving five different locations in Charlotte! Contact us to book a hygiene appointment in Gastonia, Waverly, University, Davidson, or Cotswold today!

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5 Fun Books For Kids About Dentistry

Sometimes our kids need a little extra help with tasks that don’t interest them – or in this case, proper brushing and flossing. As parents, it can be difficult to come up with creative ways to get our little ones to cooperate.

Two of the most effective ways to familiarize your child with their trusted pediatric dentist is to:

• Bring them in for a visit at the eruption of the first tooth.
• Introduce them to dentistry (with books and fun videos) and tooth brushing at an early age at home.

Oftentimes, a child’s fear of the dentist can also be a challenge for both kids and parents. That’s why we’ve listed five of our favorite kids’ books that present dentistry in a fun and reassuring manner!

The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss

This is a fun read for the toddler that is discovering new things about themselves! The Tooth Book creatively lists teeth functions and how to take care of them so they last a lifetime – with Dr. Seuss’ fun rhyme schemes and style.

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

This Berenstain Bears story has one of the best examples of how an older sibling can play the brave hero. Sister Bear is at ease after seeing Brother Bear has a pain-free experience at the dentist. The story goes as far as to discuss the tools used during a dental appointment in a way that makes it a lot less intimidating to kids!

The Night Before the Tooth Fairy

One of the most exciting parts of childhood is having a visit from the tooth fairy! In The Night Before the Tooth Fairy, the boy tries many different and creative ways to get his loose tooth to come out. Something funny and unexpected happens to get his tooth out, and he then prepares for the tooth fairy’s first big visit! This story also presents a great exercise in patience for little ones.

Brush Your Teeth, Please: A Pop-up Book

Brush Your Teeth, Please teaches brushing and flossing techniques by presenting interactive pop-ups that the child can (gently) move! The length of the story is short, but it is fun enough that your child will want to read it time and time again. Bonus: the characters are adorable animals.

Ready, Set, Brush! A Pop-up Book

This is a great introductory brushing books for our tiny patients. Elmo and his Sesame Street friends demonstrate to kids how easy it is to care for their teeth in Ready, Set, Brush! This interactive pop-up style book shows how to apply toothpaste, brush, and rinse, and includes the characters at the dentist.

Does your little one have a favorite dental book? Have you found other easy and fun methods to encourage proper tooth brushing? Inquiring parents would love to hear your suggestions!

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5 Healthy Foods That Aren’t Good For Your Teeth

Many foods that are touted as “healthy” are not-so-healthy for your little one’s smile. Excess sugar and unhealthy fat lurks in many unsuspecting foods. Sugar sticks to your child’s teeth and causes tooth decay.

Raw veggies, for example, are generally good for you – until you dunk them in a bowl of dressing with high fat content. Fruit juice sounds healthy in theory – until sugars and syrup are added.

Practicing moderation is important to proper overall nutrition and dental health – especially when it comes to the following foods.

Trail Mix

Trail mix can be a healthy alternative to sweet and salty snacks such as chips and cookies, but be careful when selecting trail mix. Look at the sugar content on the label when determining which trail mix to give your child. A simple alternative is to make your own healthy snack mix at home. Good news – you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health! Try this tasty recipe that even the kids will love.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is often found in trail mixes and can be purchased as an on-the-go snack. Because the water content has been removed from the fruit, you actually consume more fruit than you would if the fruit was in its original form. Many dried fruits you find on the shelves contain loads of refined sugars and hydrogenated oils to increase their shelf life.

Key takeaway – if your dried fruit contains more than just fruit, it’s best to leave it on the shelf and opt for fresh or dried with less/no sugar!

Granola

Like many of the foods we’ve already mentioned, granola can be healthy, but many granolas you find at the grocery store are packed with sugar, sugar substitutes, vegetable oil, and butter. You can create a tasty, healthy granola at home by using dry oats, unsalted nuts of your choice, cinnamon, and egg whites.

Yogurt

Yogurt typically serves as a healthy dairy treat and a probiotic, which is good for digestive health. However, many of the yogurts you see in the dairy aisle are loaded with dyes and loads of sugar. Yogurt contains lactose, which is a form of natural sugar found in milk, but many yogurts contain added sugar, as well. Food Network advises you to skip it if there are too many unpronounceable ingredients.

Smoothies

Because smoothies are made entirely from fruit, they have the potential to be full of sugar. With the right combination of fruits and vegetables, smoothies can be a source of fuel and nutrients. Choose fruits that have a lower sugar content and opt for water instead of coconut water or orange juice.

Ask your pediatric dentist

If you are concerned about your child’s diet, talk to your trusted pediatric dentist. They can help you make healthier choices for your little one. Contact us today at our Cotswold, Gastonia, Waverly, Davidson, or University locations to discuss better oral health for your child!

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Is Your Child’s Dental Health Affecting Their Schoolwork?

You often hear us talk about the importance of a healthy smile, but what does dental health neglect really look like for children? The truth is, the health of your child’s teeth and gums affects many different physical and psychological aspects of their life.

Dental problems cause a lot of pain and strife not just for kids, but for parents as well. Roughly 39% of parents in United States reported missing work due to their child’s oral health issues. This does not account for scheduled pediatric dentist appointments. Scheduling far enough in advance (preferably during your child’s appointment!) gives most working parents adequate time to coordinate with their work schedules.

There is a direct correlation between poor oral health and academic performance. Children who lack proper dental care suffer more in school than their peers that receive pediatric dental care.

Here are a few startling facts about poor oral health and school performance.

• North Carolina children with poor oral health were approximately 3 times more likely to miss school due to dental pain.
• Absences caused by dental pain were associated with poorer school performance and lower grade point averages.
• More than 30% of parents reported their children between ages 6-12 missed school due to an oral health problem.

Adolescent years can be especially tough if your child hasn’t already established a healthy oral care routine. If they have managed to make it through without cavities, they won’t understand the consequence of neglecting to brush and floss. This is another reason why it is so important to encourage a dental care routine at a young age. Children thrive on routine, even as adolescents.

Diet also plays a major part in your child’s dental health and school performance. Their brains need fuel to give them momentum throughout the school day. Limit sugary snacks and starchy foods and get your kids on board with reaching for fresh fruits, veggies, nuts, yogurt, and snacks of that nature.

Eating healthy does not have to be boring — even during snack time! If you meal prep, consider preparing healthy snacks for your kids, too! There are many recipes that are tasty and simple to prepare ahead of time. Provide healthy snacks for your kids after school and/or extra-curricular activities in order to tide them over until dinner and give them fuel to complete homework.

Kids that grow up with a pediatric dentist have the best chance for a healthy future and academic success. Proactive pediatric dental care is less costly than reactive care — financially and health-wise!

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Smile for National Children’s Dental Health Month

During the month of February, the American Dental Association creates a campaign for National Children’s Dental Health Month. This year’s campaign gives us the perfect opportunity to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy smile. Education is one of our most important practice values, and we love getting parents and kids excited about dental care!

Part of a child’s development and overall health includes the health of their teeth and gums. The mouth harbors a lot of bacteria throughout the day and night, which eventually leads to tooth decay if your child’s smile isn’t regularly brushed and flossed. Without proper dental care, children will fall victim to cavities and gum disease, which can cause pain, discomfort, lack of nutrition intake, and missed school.

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day for two minutes is key to healthy teeth and gums. Find a two minute song that your kids like and have them brush for the duration of the song (maybe incorporate some dancing to make it even more fun)! Following up with floss is essential to a complete dental health routine.

Check out our infographic for more information on the National Children’s Dental Health campaign, then contact us to set up an appointment at one of our five convenient Charlotte locations!

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ENPS: What It Means for Your Practice

The post ENPS: What It Means for Your Practice appeared first on ACT Dental.

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Dentist Making A Difference- ADA 2018 Humanitarian

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Who Needs a Deep Dental Cleaning?

It’s recommended that we visit our hygienists and dentists once every six months. But what about deep cleaning? Who needs it and is it necessary?

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What to Expect at Your Dental Hygiene Appointment?

Is it your first time seeing a hygienist? Worry not. Dental hygienist Sahar walks us through what happens during your cleaning appointment.

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6 Myths About Pediatric Dentistry

If you’ve ever Googled questions about pediatric dentistry, you’ve likely found a lot of conflicting information about what you should and shouldn’t do when it comes to your child’s dental health. We’re here to set the record straight on some of the most common myths about pediatric dentistry!

Myth #1: Children don’t need to see the dentist until all of their teeth come in.

An early examination gives your pediatric dentist a chance to put together a long-term dental care plan that is most beneficial for your child. For this reason, we recommend bringing your child in for an exam when their first tooth erupts.

The earlier your child is exposed to dental care and regular appointments, the more relaxed and comfortable they will be with routine visits!

Myth #2: Cavities in baby teeth do not affect a child’s adult teeth.

Untreated cavities in baby teeth can inhibit proper growth of adult teeth. Tooth decay affects the gums and roots of the teeth, which means harmful bacteria can be transferred to adult teeth that are forming. Trauma to baby teeth can also cause problems for the growth of adult teeth.

Myth #3: Dental sealants are unsafe for children.

With proper brushing, flossing, and nutritional habits, sealants reduce the risk of cavities by 80%.

Bisphenol (BPA) in sealants has been a long standing concern for many parents. According to the American Dental Association, the BPA level in sealants is not significant enough to cause health concerns, and they are completely safe for children. Sealants may not be the solution for every child, which is why our dentists will evaluate each child on a case-by-case basis.

Myth #4: Only adult teeth need to be flossed.

Just because baby teeth are permanent doesn’t mean they need less diligent care! Food particles still need to be removed from between baby teeth with floss. Brushing only removes 30% of plaque and bacteria from your teeth, so flossing is a must!

We recommend that you assist your child with flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch. Because small children lack the manual dexterity to floss properly, a parent should help with flossing until the child can brush and floss thoroughly.

Myth #5: A little blood during brushing is nothing to be alarmed about.

One of the most telltale signs of gum disease is blood when brushing or flossing, even in small traces. A similar comparison is to consider your hand washing routine. If you suddenly saw blood, chances are you would be concerned!

With a specialized oral health plan and practicing good oral health habits at home, gum disease in children can likely be reversed.

Myth #6: There’s no real difference between general dentistry and pediatric dentistry.

Though general dentists are vastly educated in many different aspects of dentistry, pediatric dentists specialize in working with children. They study developmental stages and characteristics of children and how dentistry affects their overall health, as well as the psychological component of pediatric dentistry.

Many general dentists will refer children to a pediatric dentist because of their specific expertise and abilities.

Do you have a question about pediatric dentistry that we haven’t covered? Feel free to get in touch with us to discuss!

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Meet Dr. Nate Shaw

Credentials, experience, and associations are extremely important aspects to look for in a pediatric dentist. What makes one stand out from the other? WHO they are. Our Doctor Spotlight series allows our tiny patients and parents to get a glimpse into the doctor’s lives. Come get to know us!

Dr. Nate Shaw is a board certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He is also currently a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Southeastern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the North Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Nate has provided dental care for those in need through mission work in Ecuador, Kenya, and has worked closely with North Carolina Missions of Mercy in their free mobile dental program. He will be primarily seeing patients at our Waverly location. Come get to know him!

Why did you decide to focus on pediatric dentistry rather than general dentistry?
I was able to intern at a pediatric dental office during college and dental school, and really enjoyed my time working with kids. They keep each day interesting and interacting with children is both fun and rewarding.

Do you have kids?
My wife, Kate, and I don’t have any kids yet, but plan on starting a family soon. We do have one rescue dog, named Kona.

What are some of your “tricks” to help ease kids’ fears about their dental visits?
I think it is important to use language that kids understand and find comforting. I like to take my time showing and explaining what we’re going to do ahead of time so there are no scary surprises. It also definitely helps having a TV above the chairs for them to watch!

What’s the best part of your day?
It’s always fun if you can get a child to laugh, kids have great senses of humor (and my wife doesn’t think any of my jokes are funny).

What’s your favorite kids’ show?
I still like the classic Disney movies the best, such as Lion King and Aladdin. But my favorite kids’ show is probably Phineas and Ferb.

What’s your favorite color?
Blue, specifically Carolina Blue (go Tar Heels)!

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, what’s your favorite sweet?
Luckily, for my profession, I don’t have much of a sweet tooth – but I do like Reese’s Pieces.

Have you always wanted to be a dentist? If not, what did you want to be as a kid?
I always wanted a job in healthcare growing up, and decided on dentistry in high school after some great dental experiences myself. Of course, if I was athletic enough to be a professional basketball or tennis player, I wouldn’t have turned down any contract offers.

Do you have a role model or a mentor? Why do you look up to them?
My family members have always been great examples for me to look up to, my mom and grandmother were both nurses and my uncle is a pediatrician. Both my parents are supportive, hard working, strong in their faith, and are great providers that I hope to emulate when I have a family of my own.

What is your favorite sports team?
I went to UNC and grew up in Charlotte, so I love the Tar Heels and Panthers.

Finish this sentence: When I was a kid…
I loved to play the original Super Mario Brothers video game and I wanted to be a ninja turtle when I grew up, preferably Leonardo.

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Dental Health Concerns and Tips for Teens

The adolescent years can be challenging for your teenager. Between making new friends, keeping up with extracurricular activities and schoolwork, and obvious outward physical changes, dental care can take a backseat on your teen’s priority list.

Without consistent dental care, a teen who has had a clean bill of dental health is susceptible to cavities. The good news is, the selfie generation has helped many kids pay closer attention to their dental health, which has dentists and parents everywhere rejoicing!

With that said, it’s still important to ensure your teen is brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day, and receiving regular exams and cleaning from their trusted Charlotte pediatric dentist. Now that back to school season is approaching, it’s the perfect time to re-evaluate your teen’s dental health habits.

We’ve compiled some of the most common teen dental health concerns, along with helpful tips to keep your teen’s smile healthy as they progress through their formative years.

Tooth Decay & Cracks

By the time a child reaches their pre-teen years, some may have experienced slight tooth decay and/or minor damage to teeth. Tiny cracks or chips can occur from sports or playing woodwind or brass instruments in band, and may not always be visible to the naked eye.

Your dentist can custom fit a mouthguard to help protect your child’s teeth during sports.

Dental Care and Orthodontics

Whether your teen has traditional braces or Invisalign, your teen’s oral health will require extra attention to ensure total success of their orthodontic treatment. Special toothbrushes, flossing brushes, and avoiding certain foods will help your teen achieve the bright, healthy smile they’ve worked so hard for during their orthodontic experience!

Wisdom Teeth

Children are often graced with the presence of wisdom teeth in their later teen years. With age comes wisdom, and an extra set of molars.

Wisdom teeth don’t always cause issues if they come through correctly. If your child doesn’t have enough space in their mouth for the teeth to form safely, problems can start to form.

Wisdom teeth that don’t come in properly can cause pain, bacteria, and infections. If you notice wisdom teeth coming through before your next scheduled exam, it is best to contact your dentist so they can determine next steps.

Choose Healthier Snacks

Teens are often on the go, so their snack choices may not always be tooth-friendly. Your teen needs fuel to stay alert and succeed in school, extracurricular activities, and part-time jobs. Avoiding sugary snacks will help them avoid a mid-day crash in energy. Keep healthy snacks, like apples, carrot sticks, and cheese on hand for your teen’s busy weekdays.

Encourage Dental Care On the Go

Keeping a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste in your teen’s backpack can help them stay consistent with their dental health needs. If stopping to brush isn’t always possible, encourage them to stick with water as their beverage of choice, and have some on-hand to rinse after meals and snacks.

Keep Up With Regular Dental Exams

Make sure your teen is still receiving regular dental cleanings and exams at least twice a year. If your teen expresses any concerns in between appointments, or if you notice anything that you suspect could be a dental issue, contact us!

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Bring Your Smiles to Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry

We’re excited to announce that Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry is expanding – again!

Part of our mission is to consistently provide the highest standard of dental care possible. We strive to accomplish this with convenience, pediatric dentistry education, and open lines of communication.

Building trust and relationships is what our success hinges upon. We take your needs and requests to heart, which is why we’ve decided to open a sixth location at Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry!

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry Partnerships

In order to provide a well-rounded, one-stop-shop approach to pediatric dental care, a partnership had to be considered and enacted. Dr. David Moore has a selective process with how he chooses partnerships for his dental offices. He knew the expansion of the practice to Harrisburg had to be done with care and precision, which included the methodical selection of a partner to help fulfill the mission of the practice.

Our successful partnership with Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics in Davidson spurred the decision to continue the partnership in Harrisburg!

Parent & Patient Feedback

The feedback of parents throughout the community helped guide Dr. Moore to the decision of opening the Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry location. Zammitti & Gidaly Orthodontics shares our belief that parent feedback is crucial to serving each family that chooses us as their pediatric dentistry care provider.

Your voice helps guide us to build long-lasting patient relationships and provide the best pediatric dental care throughout your child’s formative years. Our goal is to make each appointment productive, relaxed, informative, and even fun! See how we’ve been accomplishing this for families all over the Charlotte area by browsing our parent testimonials.

Dentists & Team

Dr. Cami Miskovich has built a strong rapport with her patients since joining the Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry team in Cotswold & Gastonia. Her work has been well-received by Charlotte parents and their families.

Dr. Miskovich will be serving the patients of Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry, along with the assistance of highly trained and friendly hygienists, assistants, and office personnel. Her passion for her craft and her natural ability to work with children made her the perfect choice to lead the new location. We are excited for the Harrisburg community to meet her!

Make an Appointment

Harrisburg Pediatric Dentistry is slated to open in the Fall of 2018, but they are currently accepting new patients. We welcome you to come by during business hours for a tour and an opportunity to meet your new Harrisburg pediatric dental team!

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Tips for Teething Babies

Teething – a painful yet necessary milestone in your baby’s early life. Though every child is different, many experience similar signs of teething.

Many of us at Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry are parents, too, so we know what you and your little one are going through. We’ve come up with some tips to help making the teething months a little more bearable.

How to tell your baby is teething

The signs of teething are unmistakable, though some babies manage to go through the teething phase without any real pain or symptoms. Here are a few common signs of teething:

• Excessive drooling
• Low grade fever (less than 101 degrees)
• Gum rubbing
• Chewing and biting on any object they can – clothes, toys, fists, etc.
• Increased irritability
• Outer mouth rash (caused by excess drooling)

A common mistake many of us make is to chalk up almost all symptoms to teething. If your baby’s fever is accompanied by runny nose, cough, noticeable ear pain, or anything else out of the ordinary, note that these symptoms are not caused by teething.

When does teething start?

Babies typically start the teething process around 4 – 6 months old. Though the first few months of teething can be unbearable for babies and parents, the teething process is inherently important for language development, immunity strengthening, bone development, and the ability to consume nutritious foods.

Alleviating teething pain

As parents, we often have a hard time seeing our little one in pain, especially when they are too young to communicate the exact problem. Though we can’t completely stop the painful process of teething, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort.

• Chewing on a clean, wet, cool washcloth
• Gum massage (make sure you thoroughly wash your hands first)
• Chilled teething toys
• Dry up excess drool to avoid mouth rashes
• OTC (over-the-counter) remedies – check with your pediatrician first

Go for cold, not frozen

Frozen teething toys may be too cold for your baby’s sensitive gums. Put solid teething toys in the refrigerator instead of the freezer. Though solid toys are preferred over the liquid-filled plastic teething toys, those are acceptable when used under parental supervision.

Some foods your baby may enjoy during teething are chilled applesauce, teething biscuits, and cold pureed fruit.

Keep teething objects clean

Once your baby feels comforted and soothed by their teething toy, they will lose interest in it and move on to the next thing. Make sure you sanitize teething toys between each session. Lack of sanitation can cause an infection.

Call your pediatric dentist

Your child should see their trusted pediatric dentist after their first tooth erupts. Typically, the bottom two front teeth are the first to erupt (sometimes they come in one at a time).

Your baby’s teeth and gums will be examined at the first appointment. Keeping their teeth and gums healthy from the beginning gives them a better chance of healthier smiles in the years to come!

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What to Expect During A Dental Hygiene Appointment

Routine dental hygiene visits are important for your child’s dental health. Each child’s needs are different, and we tailor each visit to meet those needs. There are some important basics of a hygiene appointment that we want to share with you. Knowledge is key to patient comfort and care in and out of the dentist’s office!

Review of Medical & Dental History

Your dental health affects your overall health, so we take the time to discuss your child’s previous medical history in order to determine the best course of action moving forward. Now is the time to let your pediatric dentist know of any previous and/or current medical conditions or concerns.

Thorough Exam

Before the hygienist begins performs a cleaning, they will give your child a gentle, thorough examination. They will closely examine the teeth and gums to identify any potential problems, and ensure that things are progressing normally for their age. Digital and/or panoramic x-rays may be given to further examine tooth and jaw structure.

Cleaning

After the exam is given and the hygienist has a better understanding of your child’s dental needs, they will proceed with a thorough cleaning. Your hygienist will explain the tools used to ease any anxiety your little one may have. We use terminology that is fun and exciting (Frozen juice, Batman tooth, etc.)!

Discussion & Education

After the exam and cleaning are complete, your hygienist and pediatric dentist will give you detailed instructions and explanations for continued care.

Because we are a child-centered practice, we explain things to you and your child in a way that makes them feel at ease. Our goal is to provide education that is valuable, accurate, and comforting to you and your child.

Q&A Session

We always want parents and their kids to feel comfortable asking questions before, during, or after an appointment. Our entire team is there to help you, so if any part of your child’s treatment is unclear to you, please ask! When we are all on the same page, your child gets the best care.

Dental Hygiene at Home

At the conclusion of your child’s appointment, the hygienist and pediatric dentist will give you follow-up instructions to help you maintain a regular oral hygiene plan for your child. If you have a difficult time getting your little one to follow through with proper brushing and flossing, we can provide helpful tips and tricks to get them back on track (without making it seem like a trying task for your child).

We’re now serving five different locations in Charlotte! Contact us to book a hygiene appointment in Gastonia, Waverly, University, Davidson, or Cotswold today!

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5 Fun Books For Kids About Dentistry

Sometimes our kids need a little extra help with tasks that don’t interest them – or in this case, proper brushing and flossing. As parents, it can be difficult to come up with creative ways to get our little ones to cooperate.

Two of the most effective ways to familiarize your child with their trusted pediatric dentist is to:

• Bring them in for a visit at the eruption of the first tooth.
• Introduce them to dentistry (with books and fun videos) and tooth brushing at an early age at home.

Oftentimes, a child’s fear of the dentist can also be a challenge for both kids and parents. That’s why we’ve listed five of our favorite kids’ books that present dentistry in a fun and reassuring manner!

The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss

This is a fun read for the toddler that is discovering new things about themselves! The Tooth Book creatively lists teeth functions and how to take care of them so they last a lifetime – with Dr. Seuss’ fun rhyme schemes and style.

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

This Berenstain Bears story has one of the best examples of how an older sibling can play the brave hero. Sister Bear is at ease after seeing Brother Bear has a pain-free experience at the dentist. The story goes as far as to discuss the tools used during a dental appointment in a way that makes it a lot less intimidating to kids!

The Night Before the Tooth Fairy

One of the most exciting parts of childhood is having a visit from the tooth fairy! In The Night Before the Tooth Fairy, the boy tries many different and creative ways to get his loose tooth to come out. Something funny and unexpected happens to get his tooth out, and he then prepares for the tooth fairy’s first big visit! This story also presents a great exercise in patience for little ones.

Brush Your Teeth, Please: A Pop-up Book

Brush Your Teeth, Please teaches brushing and flossing techniques by presenting interactive pop-ups that the child can (gently) move! The length of the story is short, but it is fun enough that your child will want to read it time and time again. Bonus: the characters are adorable animals.

Ready, Set, Brush! A Pop-up Book

This is a great introductory brushing books for our tiny patients. Elmo and his Sesame Street friends demonstrate to kids how easy it is to care for their teeth in Ready, Set, Brush! This interactive pop-up style book shows how to apply toothpaste, brush, and rinse, and includes the characters at the dentist.

Does your little one have a favorite dental book? Have you found other easy and fun methods to encourage proper tooth brushing? Inquiring parents would love to hear your suggestions!

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5 Healthy Foods That Aren’t Good For Your Teeth

Many foods that are touted as “healthy” are not-so-healthy for your little one’s smile. Excess sugar and unhealthy fat lurks in many unsuspecting foods. Sugar sticks to your child’s teeth and causes tooth decay.

Raw veggies, for example, are generally good for you – until you dunk them in a bowl of dressing with high fat content. Fruit juice sounds healthy in theory – until sugars and syrup are added.

Practicing moderation is important to proper overall nutrition and dental health – especially when it comes to the following foods.

Trail Mix

Trail mix can be a healthy alternative to sweet and salty snacks such as chips and cookies, but be careful when selecting trail mix. Look at the sugar content on the label when determining which trail mix to give your child. A simple alternative is to make your own healthy snack mix at home. Good news – you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health! Try this tasty recipe that even the kids will love.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruit is often found in trail mixes and can be purchased as an on-the-go snack. Because the water content has been removed from the fruit, you actually consume more fruit than you would if the fruit was in its original form. Many dried fruits you find on the shelves contain loads of refined sugars and hydrogenated oils to increase their shelf life.

Key takeaway – if your dried fruit contains more than just fruit, it’s best to leave it on the shelf and opt for fresh or dried with less/no sugar!

Granola

Like many of the foods we’ve already mentioned, granola can be healthy, but many granolas you find at the grocery store are packed with sugar, sugar substitutes, vegetable oil, and butter. You can create a tasty, healthy granola at home by using dry oats, unsalted nuts of your choice, cinnamon, and egg whites.

Yogurt

Yogurt typically serves as a healthy dairy treat and a probiotic, which is good for digestive health. However, many of the yogurts you see in the dairy aisle are loaded with dyes and loads of sugar. Yogurt contains lactose, which is a form of natural sugar found in milk, but many yogurts contain added sugar, as well. Food Network advises you to skip it if there are too many unpronounceable ingredients.

Smoothies

Because smoothies are made entirely from fruit, they have the potential to be full of sugar. With the right combination of fruits and vegetables, smoothies can be a source of fuel and nutrients. Choose fruits that have a lower sugar content and opt for water instead of coconut water or orange juice.

Ask your pediatric dentist

If you are concerned about your child’s diet, talk to your trusted pediatric dentist. They can help you make healthier choices for your little one. Contact us today at our Cotswold, Gastonia, Waverly, Davidson, or University locations to discuss better oral health for your child!

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Is Your Child’s Dental Health Affecting Their Schoolwork?

You often hear us talk about the importance of a healthy smile, but what does dental health neglect really look like for children? The truth is, the health of your child’s teeth and gums affects many different physical and psychological aspects of their life.

Dental problems cause a lot of pain and strife not just for kids, but for parents as well. Roughly 39% of parents in United States reported missing work due to their child’s oral health issues. This does not account for scheduled pediatric dentist appointments. Scheduling far enough in advance (preferably during your child’s appointment!) gives most working parents adequate time to coordinate with their work schedules.

There is a direct correlation between poor oral health and academic performance. Children who lack proper dental care suffer more in school than their peers that receive pediatric dental care.

Here are a few startling facts about poor oral health and school performance.

• North Carolina children with poor oral health were approximately 3 times more likely to miss school due to dental pain.
• Absences caused by dental pain were associated with poorer school performance and lower grade point averages.
• More than 30% of parents reported their children between ages 6-12 missed school due to an oral health problem.

Adolescent years can be especially tough if your child hasn’t already established a healthy oral care routine. If they have managed to make it through without cavities, they won’t understand the consequence of neglecting to brush and floss. This is another reason why it is so important to encourage a dental care routine at a young age. Children thrive on routine, even as adolescents.

Diet also plays a major part in your child’s dental health and school performance. Their brains need fuel to give them momentum throughout the school day. Limit sugary snacks and starchy foods and get your kids on board with reaching for fresh fruits, veggies, nuts, yogurt, and snacks of that nature.

Eating healthy does not have to be boring — even during snack time! If you meal prep, consider preparing healthy snacks for your kids, too! There are many recipes that are tasty and simple to prepare ahead of time. Provide healthy snacks for your kids after school and/or extra-curricular activities in order to tide them over until dinner and give them fuel to complete homework.

Kids that grow up with a pediatric dentist have the best chance for a healthy future and academic success. Proactive pediatric dental care is less costly than reactive care — financially and health-wise!

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Smile for National Children’s Dental Health Month

During the month of February, the American Dental Association creates a campaign for National Children’s Dental Health Month. This year’s campaign gives us the perfect opportunity to highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy smile. Education is one of our most important practice values, and we love getting parents and kids excited about dental care!

Part of a child’s development and overall health includes the health of their teeth and gums. The mouth harbors a lot of bacteria throughout the day and night, which eventually leads to tooth decay if your child’s smile isn’t regularly brushed and flossed. Without proper dental care, children will fall victim to cavities and gum disease, which can cause pain, discomfort, lack of nutrition intake, and missed school.

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day for two minutes is key to healthy teeth and gums. Find a two minute song that your kids like and have them brush for the duration of the song (maybe incorporate some dancing to make it even more fun)! Following up with floss is essential to a complete dental health routine.

Check out our infographic for more information on the National Children’s Dental Health campaign, then contact us to set up an appointment at one of our five convenient Charlotte locations!

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Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Application: Evidence-Based Recommendations

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15 Thanksgiving Activities to Do with Your Family in Northern Utah

We love Turkey Day here at Burg Children’s Dentistry! Who doesn’t love gorging on delicious mashed potatoes, turkey (have you ever had it wrapped in bacon?), creamed corn, and all of the other proper fixin’s that go with the traditional Thanksgiving meal? It sure is one of our favorite holidays!

At Burg we strive to put a smile on every child’s face. Usually, we do that by giving them a really cool superhero cape and helping them to keep their teeth as healthy and pearly white as possible. To combine our passion for Thanksgiving and keeping your child smiling we’ve created a guide to help lead your family to some of Northern Utah’s best activities to do during this holiday season.

Most of these fun activities revolve around the Thanksgiving theme, but there are a few that are just really fun things to do in November.

Things to Do in the Salt Lake City Area

1. Thanksgiving Turkey Trot (West Valley)

Does your family love sports? How about hockey? Cheer on the Utah Outliers as they face off against Wyoming’s Casper Bobcats. The game also doubles as a charitable event. If you donate to their canned food drive, and you’ll receive a free ticket to another Outliers home game.

When: November 17, 2018 @ 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Where: West Valley Acord Ice Center, 5353 3100 S, West Valley City

If your kids aren’t too into hockey just yet, try showing them the classic 90’s Mighty Ducks movies to get them pumped up for the event!

2. International Games Day (West Jordan)

Does your family enjoy playing games? Don’t forget to head to the Salt Lake County Library this November to play Settlers of Catan, Dominion, and a lot of other games.

When: November 17, 2018 @ 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Where: 8030 S 1825 W, West Jordan

3. Thanksgiving Dumplings Class (Sandy)

When you think of Thanksgiving food, you might think of traditional dishes (like those mentioned in the beginning). Chances are that you don’t think of dumplings. Yet, it might be fun to try something new and add a non-traditional side dish to your family’s dinner spread.

Take a cooking class from Ocean Mart. If you have older children who are interested in cooking, take them with you! If you have younger children, it might be a good idea to go to the class and then have an activity at home where you can teach your little ones the culinary craft too.

When: November 20, 2018 @ 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM

Where: 115 W 9000 S, Sandy

Check out how much fun these children had making dumplings in their home!

4. Feast With the Beast (Salt Lake City)

Where do all of the pumpkins go after Halloween? A whole bunch of them actually end up getting donated to the Hogle Zoo. Why? Well, some animals actually like to eat them! Bring your family to the zoo this Thanksgiving to find out which ones do.</p.

When: November 22, 2018 @ 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Where: 2600 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City

5. Magic Show Series (Salt Lake City)

Do you have a young magician in the family? A child who may be secretly waiting for their letter to Hogwarts? Although that letter may never come (sorry kids!), that doesn’t mean they can’t experience magic outside of the movie theater. Magic shows can be just as exciting!

When: November 23-24, 2018

Where: 3605 S State Street, Salt Lake City

Things to Do in Utah County

6. Luminaria (Lehi)

Hopefully, you’ll forgive us for adding a little something that is Christmas oriented. Luminaria is a spectacular Thanksgiving Point event! Take your family to check out the lights, eat s’mores around fire pits, and play interactive games.

When: November 19-21, 2018 @ 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: 3003 North Thanksgiving Way, Lehi

7. Thanksgiving Story Time (Saratoga Springs)

Do you have a child who absolutely loves books? Would they turn your home into a library if they could? Take your little reader to the Saratoga Springs Library for a Thanksgiving-themed storytime!

When: November 21, 2018 @ 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Where: 1307 N Commerce Dr Suite 200, Saratoga Springs

8. Family Day at Hutchings Museum (Lehi)

The Hutchings Museum in Lehi is putting on a Family Day where there will be a gratitude-themed scavenger hunt. What a great way to have fun and learn good values at the same time!

When: November 21, 2018 @ 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Where: 55 North Center Street, Lehi

9. Pilgrim 5K (Lehi)

We all know that Thanksgiving is not the day to plan on eating healthy. All those carbs and starches! Even the thought of how much butter goes into everything is enough to give you a heart attack, right? However, that doesn’t mean that your family’s healthy lifestyle should go completely out the window on this holiday. No, get up and run! Dress up as pilgrims and participate in Thanksgiving Point’s Pilgrim 5K.

When: November 22, 2018 @ 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM

Where: 3003 North Thanksgiving Way, Lehi

Things to Do in Park City

10. Park City Mountain Opening Day Celebration

Ready to hit the slopes? Bring your family to the resort for a fun-fueled day of activities. There will be hot chocolate, donuts, live music, and a banner breaking ceremony to celebrate the first chair lift of the season going up the mountain.

When: November 21, 2018 @ 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Where: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City

11. Main Street Electric Parade

Here’s another Christmas-esque activity in November (hey, at least this one is AFTER Thanksgiving!). Come see Santa Claus make his first appearance in Park City as he is welcomed by a parade full of cars decorated with Christmas lights. Santa will be on Main Street walking around from 4-6 PM before the parade.

When: November 24, 2018; @6 PM

Where: Main Street, Park City

12. Meet the Avalanche Dogs

Different ski resorts around Park City allow the public to come and meet their avalanche search and rescue dogs. For example, you and your family could meet the dogs and their ski patrol handlers at Canyons every Friday at 4:30 PM.

When: Fridays November 24, 2018 – April 5, 2019, @ 4:30 PM

Where: 4000 Canyons Resort Dr, Park City, UT 84098

Not in Northern Utah or Don’t Want to Go Outside?

Here are some activities that your family can enjoy from the comforts of your own home!

13. Create a Thankful Tree

On Our Goodwin Journey’s blog there’s a really great artistic activity where a paper tree with hand-shaped leaves is made to show what a family is thankful for. Here is how you can make your own.

Step 1: Get a bunch of construction paper (you’ll want lots of color choices!) and tape.

Step 2: Then, take five sheets of brown paper and tape them on a wall vertically to form a tree trunk.

Step 3: Add branches by cutting out brown paper in rectangular shapes and tape those to the top.

Step 4: For leaves, let your children trace their hands on orange, green, red, and yellow paper and cut them out and then have them write what they’re thankful for on them.

14. Make Turkey Candy Apples

At Burg we know just how much kids love candy and all things sugar! Because of that, we know that your children will really get a kick out of this fun treat. Unlike the traditional candy apples where the apples is covered with hard toffee or a sugar candy coating, this one is really simple. It’s basically candy stuck on an apple with toothpicks to make it look like a turkey. Check out this one that I Love You More Than Carrots made!

Of course, PLEASE make sure your little one brushes their teeth after eating all of that sugary goodness!

15. Play Turkey Bowling

This is a game that can be played with or without snow and is a great backyard game. You set up some bowling pins (some people like to use 2-liter bottles as substitutes) and get a frozen turkey. You’ll definitely want to keep the turkey in it’s plastic wrapping and then let each participant toss the turkey (you don’t really have to roll it like you would a bowling ball) at the pins. Other than that the rules of the game are just like normal bowling.

Tip: If you’d like to go a more artistic route, let your kids decorate the pins like turkeys using construction paper. Look at the many fun options for doing that on Pinterest!

Happy Thanksgiving From Burg

Our dentists and staff hope your family has a great Thanksgiving. We love having your children in our office and seeing their big, happy smiles. Please call us if you need anything and don’t forget to schedule in your December appointments—we have something special planned for those who come see us next month so stay tuned for more details on that!

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How Does Diabetes Affect Oral Health

According to the International Diabetes Federation or IDF, close to 425 million adults were living with diabetes in 2017.

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Why Are My Child’s Teeth Not Coming In?

Kids lose their teeth and grow their permanent ones at different times in life. What happens if your child’s tooth does not erupt on time?

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Artificial Intelligence: The Future of Dentistry

The Omnipresent Technology

Even in 2018, the mainstream perception of artificial intelligence is perhaps that of a human-like android that performs extraordinary feats of strength and intelligence at levels that far surpass that of any human. As a society, our concept of artificial intelligence is skewed by the litany of science fiction books and films we have come to endear since an early age.

In reality, we seldom consider that this ubiquitous technology is no longer the stuff of fantasy—we in fact encounter many aspects of artificial intelligence in our everyday lives and utilize them to simplify otherwise tedious tasks we have to complete. As the capabilities of artificial intelligence continue to evolve, they stand to enhance every professional field—including dentistry.

What is Artificial Intelligence?

Founded in the 1950s, artificial Intelligence, or AI, is described as any task performed by a machine or program that would have otherwise required a human thought process if carried out by one of us. Such a definition, though broad, is essentially the basis for this technology. AI systems typically display at least some of the following behaviors associated with human intelligence: reasoning, planning, learning, problem solving, perception, and even creativity and social intelligence.

AI can be classified into two broad categories—narrow AI and general AI. The latter is any system that possesses general human cognitive abilities when presented with an unfamiliar task—this “strong” AI system on its own, wields enough intelligence to find solutions. Conversely, narrow AI is a system designed to perform a specific task. Virtual assistants that we use on an everyday basis such as Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa are an example of narrow AI.

How is AI applied in dentistry?

The beauty of AI is that machines can be taught to analyze large data sets and “learn” from them to render optimal diagnoses. An example of such is reading radiographs to search for caries—a process during which even the most experienced and skilled clinician can make mistakes from time to time. In fact, it’s estimated that the human misdiagnosis rate of caries from X-rays may be higher than 20 percent. Such is not the case with AI—machines aren’t hindered by the inherent human bias and error, nor do they suffer from fatigue. As long as they’re provided with the proper data set, and correctly trained on how to recognize patterns, machines can facilitate faster, more efficient outcomes.1

In the past five years, AI has made tremendous strides toward becoming a viable source of help in any dental practice. Cloud-based computing has provided easier access to the big data sets necessary to train AI to perform at its highest level. All of that data require an extensive amount of storage, which in recent years has become cheaper and faster in terms of data retrieval.

The most advanced AI technique, “deep learning”, stands to have a profound impact on the future of dentistry. Deep learning is patterned off the human brain, using the same layered networks that we were born with to create its own rules while improving and evolving its analytical capacity when presented with larger data sets. Currently, dentists have access to a deep learning machine that’s nearing the final stages of clinical evaluation. Dentistry.AI implements a deep and flexible thought process to detect caries and can be investigated and tested by any licensed dentist. Active development on Dentistry.AI began two years ago, and software engineers learned that while teaching clinical dentistry to a machine is far from easy, its benefits are significant.

A recent study tested how a team of practicing clinicians would fare against Dentistry.AI in evaluating 500 bitewings.1 Results showed that although the dentists won out in terms of precision, the machine outperformed the humans in gauging “sensitivity”, which measures the proportion of correctly predicted caries present against the actual number. While this battle of man vs machine more or less ended in a draw, as AI continues to evolve, expect the next few years to bring commercially available and reliable detection tools that will not only be able to detect caries, but also bone loss and periodontal disease.

Looking Ahead to the Future

As technology continues to invariably advance, the dental community stands on the precipice of an AI revolution that will forever change the way dentistry is performed—from both a clinical and practice management perspective. Already, several practice management products have been introduced which incorporate AI, including a digital assistant that uses natural-language processing to replace the traditional point-and-click interfaces, and a learning-based schedule optimizer.

Moreover, as was previously examined, deep learning AI techniques will begin to increasingly impact clinical dentistry. These tools are able to spot abnormalities in images that even seasoned clinicians might overlook, while executing its findings in real time to seamlessly integrate into any practice workflow. As deep learning systems continue to grow in intelligence, the tools will augment diagnostic accuracy and treatment
planning—providing early detection of caries, periodontal disease, and even oral cancer.

Fear not—AI will never fully replace the human dentist by making you obsolete. On the contrary, this rise of the machines will enable you perform at a higher level in every aspect of your profession while essentially making your job much easier. The future of dentistry is very bright with artificial intelligence, and in the next 10-15 years you can expect these tools to become commonplace in taking our field to the next level.

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