April 4, 2012
by lafayettedentist
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Healthy Easter Baskets in Lafayette

easter6 199x300 Healthy Easter Baskets in LafayetteMany children hope to find jelly beans, marshmallow Peeps, and chocolate eggs hidden at the bottom of their Easter baskets. These sweet treats are often sugary and sticky, contributing to tooth decay. Instead of promoting cavities this Easter, Dr. Young offers a few ideas to create healthy Easter baskets.

Tooth-Friendly Easter Treats

Easter baskets and eggs don’t have to be filled with candy. These fun goodies will keep kids smiling:

  • Small toys: Try stuffing your baskets with stickers, erasers, bouncy balls, play-dough, silly string, crayons, stuffed animals, coins, and other small prizes. Be cautious of tiny objects that could cause a choking hazard to young children.
  • Outdoor fun: Encourage your children to enjoy the spring weather with new outdoor activities. Consider filling baskets with sidewalk chalk, jump ropes, skates, sports equipment, flower seeds, and other recreational hobbies. Don’t forget to include a mouthguard to prevent facial injuries!
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March 28, 2012
by lafayettedentist
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Proper Toothbrush Care

toothbrushes2 200x300 Proper Toothbrush CareYou probably already know that brushing your teeth twice a day is very important to keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, brushing won’t be very effective if your toothbrush is not in good shape. Dr. Young can make sure your toothbrush care and brushing habits are protecting your smile. Let’s see how much you know about taking care of your toothbrush.

1. How often should you replace your toothbrush?

a. Every two weeks
b. Once a year
c. Every three months

2. How should you store your toothbrush?

a. Upright and uncovered
b. With a cap or cover
c. Laying down by the sink

Continue Reading →

March 21, 2012
by lafayettedentist
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Cosmetic Dental Truths

smile14 300x200 Cosmetic Dental TruthsBefore you whiten your smile, you need to understand some of the common misconceptions about cosmetic dental care. Dr. Young can help explain those confusing dental myths to keep your smile bright. Here are a few tips you should consider before enhancing your teeth.

  1. Not all tooth stains react the same way. Yellow discoloration is often easier to lighten than black or brown stains. Furthermore, if a stain is too deep to remove, Dr. Young may have to use veneers or bonding to hide the discoloration.
  2. Whitening toothpastes don’t alter your enamel. Many over-the-counter whitening products will only remove surface stains. They won’t sink deep into your enamel to actually change the color of your teeth. It’s also important to note that some over-the-counter treatments can erode your enamel and increase your sensitivity.
  3. Don’t over-bleach your teeth. Some people abuse whitening systems and use the solution too long or too often. Excessive whitening can cause erosion, sensitivity, irritation, and discoloration.
  4. Continue Reading →