Dental Express celebrates Mother’s Day 2021 by honoring the tireless efforts of working moms everywhere

Moms do it all.

 

They’re providers, caregivers, role models, and even personal heroes, and their hard work never stops.

 

Between juggling their work life, family life, and responsibilities at home, they often put the needs of their loved ones ahead of their own without hesitation. And Mother’s Day gives us the perfect opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate their selfless generosity.

 

For Mother’s Day 2021, we’re honoring the dedication of working moms across the country by sharing fun facts, personal stories from our team members, and more.

 

And if you’ve ever wondered what the average mom would get paid for all the daily duties she performs at home, make sure to stick around for the end of the article. The answer might surprise you!

 

The History of Moms in the Workplace

As you probably know, the role of women in the workforce has grown dramatically over time here in the United States. 

 

Back in 1945, women made up 28.6% of the workforce. By 2016, that number almost doubled, rising all the way up to 46.8%.

 

Naturally, the number of moms in the labor force rose with these numbers as well.

 

Just under half a century ago, in 1975, 54.9% of moms with children under eighteen years old were a part of the labor force.

 

By 2017, that percentage jumped up to 76%.

 

As moms’ involvement in the workforce changed, so did maternity leave. In the 60s, just 17% of new moms went back to work before their baby’s first birthday. After the turn of the millennium, that figure had skyrocketed up to 64%.

 

Over time, they started to catch up to men as the primary breadwinners of the family. According to Refinery29 and Chase, in 2018, women and working moms were the top income earners in 40% of American households.

 

This amount of progress is staggering, considering that back in the 60s, only 11% of working moms made the most money in the house.

 

These statistics are a testament to the hard work that millions of moms have put in for decades, striving to provide for their families and give their children the best lives they can.

 

The Working Moms of Dental Express

Across our six locations in San Diego, the Dental Express family is home to a number of hard-working moms that make up a crucial part of our team. 

 

From dental hygienists to assistants to members of the management team, these moms help cultivate the family-friendly, patient-focused culture that our patients have come to love.

 

In this article, we’ll be featuring two of our doctors, but we love and appreciate all our devoted moms at Dental Express!

 

These two doctors serve as shining examples of compassion and commitment.

 

Both Dr. Pooja Patel and Dr. Danielle McCourt use their knowledge and expertise to improve their patients’ oral health and provide an experience that leaves them feeling comfortable and cared for.

 

In honor of all their ongoing contribution to our fun, family-friendly atmosphere here at Dental Express, we’ll be sharing a little of each of their stories below.

 

Dr. Pooja Patel

Growing up, becoming a dentist was Dr. Patel’s childhood dream.

 

Her uncle owned a dental practice, and she was always amazed watching him work on his patients’ teeth. She wanted to be just like him when she grew up. 

 

Then, in high school, Dr. Patel started shadowing at a family dental office. 

 

She quickly came to realize that dentistry was an art form, which allowed her to express herself and help people at the same time. She also really appreciated the work-life balance of being a dentist. 

 

So, she worked as hard as she could to make her dream come true. She completed her undergraduate degree at St. Louis University in Missouri where she grew up, and then went on to finish dental school at the University of Kansas City School of Dentistry. 

 

Now, Dr. Patel builds close relationships with her patients and helps create healthy smiles at the Santee Dental Express office. After work, she spends time doing what she loves most: taking care of her baby twin daughters Gia and Mya with her college sweetheart-turned husband. 

 

And of course, adventuring with her pet golden-doodle any chance she gets! 

 

Dr. Pooja Patel with her twin girls, Gia and Mya.

 

Dr. Danielle McCourt

From a young age, Dr. Danielle always knew she wanted to do something in the medical field. 

 

So, when her sister – who’s six years older than her – went to dental school, she was inspired. 

 

At that time, she was in high school, so she was able to watch her journey and see how much she loved it. Her sister’s passion really got her thinking about dentistry as a career, and as they say, the rest is history.

 

Having grown up in Arizona, she took the opportunity to pursue her undergraduate degree in San Diego. Then, she attended the University of Texas in Houston for dental school.

 

At Dental Express Point Loma, Dr. Danielle is incredibly gifted at connecting with her patients and easing any anxiety they may have about dental visits.

 

And believe it or not, she also met her husband in college, and now they have a five-month-old son, Milo!

 

They love to spend time together as a family, go hiking, go to the beach, and cherish each other’s company as often as possible.

 

Dental Express is lucky to have such genuinely caring and passionate people on our team. If you want to read their full stories or meet our other doctors, check out our Meet Your Dental Express Team page.

 

Dr. Danielle McCourt with her son, Milo.

 

A Mother’s Salary

Of course, the joys of motherhood don’t come without their stresses and challenges. 

 

Many moms pitch in around the house, fixing things, cleaning, handling the yard work, cooking, being the family accountant – all on top of their full-time jobs and duties as caregivers. 

 

Naturally, finding a balance can be difficult.

 

Wouldn’t it be something if they got paid to do all that work at home and with the kids?

 

If they did, there’s no question that they would earn every penny. But how much would that motherly salary amount to?

 

The folks at Insure – considering all the jobs the average mom performs every day and accounting for changes in inflation – take a crack at estimating that income every year in something called the Mother’s Day Index.

 

What is the Mother’s Day Index?

“Each year, the Mother’s Day Index assigns a value to all the home management jobs that primary caregivers do. From making dinner to helping with homework, solving sibling squabbles to planning summer activities (remember those?), the Insure.com team relates popular tasks to real-world job titles and calculates a salary based on the most recent wage information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).”

 

To get an idea of the motherly duties they account for and the real-world jobs they equate to, here’s a limited list from Insure’s website:

• Taking care of the kids → Childcare Worker
• Helping with homework → Other Teachers and Instructors
• Nursing wounds → Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
• Driving → Chauffeurs and Shuttle Drivers
• Family finances → Accountants and Auditors
• Talking to kids about relationship problems → Mental Health Counselor
• Yard work → Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers
• Assisting with education at home during the pandemic → Elementary/Middle School Teacher
• And more…

 

As mentioned above, Insure then estimates the number of hours the average mom performs each of her duties per week and applies the appropriate wages based on data from the BLS.

 

So, what does the everyday mom’s salary look like?

 

The Mother’s Day 2021 Index

With the way the world has changed over the past year due to the pandemic, the working moms’ duties have grown to include home education for children unable to attend school. 

 

All said and done, Insure estimated that the value of all the jobs the average mom performed in 2020 was around $116,022 a year.

 

Up from $93,920 last year, this is the first time the Mother’s Day Index has hit the six-figure mark.

 

While this hefty chunk of change would be a nice annual bonus, we think it’s far too low considering everything moms do for their families and friends. 

 

If you ask us, there’s no price you could put on a mother’s love and care.

 

Happy Mother’s Day From Dental Express!

The data from the Mother’s Day Index isn’t just impressive. It’s a testament to how much moms do for their families on a daily basis. 

 

In addition to their jobs, they perform over six figures worth of demanding, emotionally taxing work at home – all out of the kindness of their hearts.

 

To all the moms out there, we here at Dental Express salute you and wish you a Happy Mother’s Day. Set aside some time to relax, unwind, and give yourself some credit. 

 

You deserve it!

 

If you have any questions about Dental Express or want to make an appointment, you can schedule online or give us a call at any of our locations in the San Diego area. We hope to see your smile soon.

 

Keep Reading

Women in Dentistry: A Story of Courage and Commitment

A Parent’s Guide to Children’s Dentistry

Dental Care During Pregnancy: A Guide for Expectant Moms

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Discover what dentistry was like in medieval times and how it influenced modern dentistry today

If your curiosity about medieval dental practices brought you here, then get ready to develop a strong appreciation for how dentistry is today.

 

All the way back in 376AD, the fall of the Roman Empire marked the beginning of medieval dentistry, changing the field forever.

 

However, during the Middle Ages, dentistry wasn’t its own profession. 

 

Dental treatments were performed by barbers or general physicians, not dentists.

 

So, if you happened to need a haircut and multiple tooth extractions at the same time, you could get them both taken care of under one roof!

 

Thankfully, things are much different now…but we wouldn’t be where we are today without the trial and error our ancestors endured, and all the crazy ideas they often cooked up.

 

The progression of dental practices in medieval times gave birth to many odd tools and techniques, but they all greatly contributed to the development of modern treatments. 

 

Let’s take a look at a few of the big players in the early world of dentistry. 

 

Simple = Better

Rhazes (868-932 A.D.) was a Persian doctor who was the first to mention nerve repair in 900 AD.

 

Despite his ideology that cautioned against the use of pharmaceutical drugs as treatment, he was the first surgeon to use opium as an anesthetic. 

 

The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine quotes Rhazes, claiming:  

 

“If the physician is able to treat with nutrients, not medication, then he has succeeded. If, however, he must use medication, then it should be simple remedies and not compound ones.” 

 

And most dentists today, as well as the general public, would agree with this idea. It’s safe to say that Rhazes was a little ahead of his time.

 

One of his crucial contributions to dentistry was his use of cement for filling cavities, which he made from a mixture of alum and mastic.

 

Today, fillings are made of composite resin, and can even be made into tooth colored fillings front teeth! 

 

It’s incredible how far technology has come since then, and there’s no doubt that we have people like Rhazes to thank for their inspiration and creativity. 

 

An Ancient Theory About Cavities

After Rhazes, another Persian physician and writer, Avicenna (980 A.D. 1037 A.D.), entered the world of medieval dentistry. 

 

Like Rhazes, Avicenna also had a famous book published that showcased his research. 

 

He wrote The Canon of Medicine, a medical encyclopedia that became a standard medical text at many universities until 1650. 

 

Among his other achievements was the discovery that one of the reasons our upper molars have multiple roots is because they’re suspended against gravity. 

 

On the less accurate side of things, he believed in many odd remedies for removing tartar from teeth — such as salt, burnt snail shells, burnt gypsum, and honey. 

 

Not the best formula for a mouthwash. 

 

But the fun doesn’t stop there…

 

Avicenna, along with many others during the medieval ages, believed that cavities were caused by worms that lived inside the gums.

 

Luckily, since then, this theory has been debunked.

 

Of course, now we know there are many causes for cavities (that have nothing to do with worms), and plenty of ways to prevent them.

 

The Middle Ages’ Top Surgeon

Albucasis (936-1013 A.D.) was not only a physician like Rhazes and Avicenna, but he was also a surgeon and a chemist. 

 

He was considered to be the greatest surgeon of the medieval period. 

 

He’s remembered for his book Al­-Tasrif, an encyclopedia on medicine and surgery, and is often referred to as the “father of modern surgery.”

 

He pioneered several instruments that would serve as a foundation for the creation of the modern tools we use today, including:

 

• The turnkey for tooth extraction
• A small tool for correcting irregular teeth
• Forceps for root removal
• And more 

 

Because of these innovative dental devices, dentists are now able to provide a more comfortable way to treat dental issues. 

 

Albucasis also realized that irregular or protruding teeth was a big problem for women in his society. He stressed the importance of recognizing these issues early to apply the proper treatment and prevent them from getting worse.

 

And he was definitely on to something. Dental organizations everywhere, including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Kids First Pediatric Dentistry, recommend getting dental cleanings twice a year and oral checkups at least once a year.  

 

Regular appointments mean better chances of early recognition. 

 

So, in the name of Albucasis, schedule an appointment with your San Diego dentist to keep up with your oral health!

 

Leonardo De Vinci’s Contribution to Dentistry

You may not have thought that a timelessly famous artist like Leonardo De Vinci (1452-1519) would’ve had anything to do with dentistry, but his talents go beyond the Mona Lisa. 

 

In addition to his artistic exploits, Leonardo De Vinci was also a scientist. 

 

One of his famous drawings that had a big impact on the field of dentistry is entitled “A Skull Sectioned.” This rendition remains one of the earliest and most accurate descriptions of the skull, teeth, and jaw structure.

 

According to The Royal Collection at Windsor Castle, in this drawing:

 

“Leonardo studies the position of the facial cavities in relation to the surface features, and in the left margin, in his typical mirror‐writing, the author discusses the form and number of teeth in the human jaw.”

 

Although modern dental research proves his drawing to be less accurate than once believed, it most certainly contributed to the progression of dentistry as a whole. 

 

The Father of Orthodontics

This one is a little outside of the medieval period, but because of his incredible breakthroughs in the dental field, we couldn’t leave him out!

 

Pierre Fauchard (1679-1761) was a French physician known as “the father of modern dentistry” due to his expansion upon medieval dental practices.

 

In the dental field, he’s famous for authoring The Surgeon Dentist, the first comprehensive dentistry book.

 

Published in 1728, the book described the function of oral anatomy, oral pathology, methods for removing decay, ways to restore teeth, the definition of periodontal disease, orthodontics, replacement of missing teeth, tooth transplants…the whole nine yards.

 

He referred to himself as a “surgical dentist” because, in medieval times, teeth were extracted rather than treated. 

 

Pierre’s major contribution to dentistry was his invention of braces. The earliest versions of his smile-straightening creations were made of gold and fastened to the teeth using silk or waxed linen.

 

This invention was a crucial milestone that paved the way for the braces we know today and further developments like SmileCorrect Aligners, a more convenient (and see-through) alternative.

 

Thankfully, Medieval Dentistry is History

At Dental Express, your comfort is important to us, and we do everything in our power to ensure you feel safe and relaxed during your appointment.

 

Thanks to modern technological advances, we can provide top-notch dental care using state-of-the-art equipment to minimize discomfort and improve your dental health. 

 

If you’re looking for comfortable, budget-friendly dental care provided by a team dedicated to helping you feel confident about your smile, visit one of the six Dental Express locations in San Diego today.

 

Let’s build your ideal smile together!

 

Keep Reading

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Finding quality dental care in a new area is no easy task. Here’s what to look for in your new San Diego dentist

Newcomer’s Guide to Finding a Dental Provider

First off, let us welcome you to San Diego!

 

Between the beautiful beaches, delicious food, and lovely community, we know you’re going to like it here.

 

But we also know how stressful moving can be…

 

After unpacking, settling in, and getting acquainted with the new area, finding a local dentist you can trust is probably the last thing you want to deal with.

 

So, to take some of the stress off, we created this guide to help you find the San Diego dentist that’s right for you. 

 

Bouncing around from dentist to dentist is never fun. The following tips will give you a checklist of things to look for so you can increase your chances of finding the right one right off the bat!

 

Save Yourself Stress, Go With a Family Dentist

If you moved to San Diego with your family, you can save yourself a lot of trouble by finding a family dentist.

 

These dental practices specialize in providing care to people of all ages and make it easy to schedule appointments for the whole family.

 

By minimizing specialist referrals and offering children’s dental services, they eliminate the need for multiple dentists – saving you the time, money, and hassle it would take to schedule and attend different appointments for you and the kids.

 

Family dentists also understand how hectic parenting can be, so they offer flexible scheduling, with hours that accommodate the typical nine to five work week.

 

Only have time to bring the kids in for a checkup on the weekends? 

 

Not a problem. You can schedule checkups for the whole family on Saturday. 

 

Family trips to the dentist have the added benefit of letting your little ones see how comfortable mom and dad are getting their teeth cleaned.

 

This positive experience can help show them that the dentist is nothing to worry about. Not to mention, interacting with a dental professional who knows how to work with children can teach them the importance of taking good care of their teeth at home.

 

So, if you’re looking for affordable family-friendly dental care, keep an eye out for a family dentist in San Diego.

 

“I Just Changed Jobs…What About Dental Insurance?”

If you moved to San Diego because of a job change, pricing and insurance are probably one of your top concerns.

 

If you have dental insurance, finding a dentist that takes your provider is the way to go. But more than that, you want a dentist that will work with your insurance provider on your behalf to ensure you get the best coverage.

 

Dental practices typically have a list of insurance companies that they work with on their websites. If not, don’t be afraid to give them a call and ask any questions you have.

 

If you don’t have dental insurance, it’s important to go with a dentist that offers payment plans for uninsured patients.

 

Financing options are great because they lessen the budgetary burden and help you avoid putting off dental treatments you would otherwise have to save for.

 

When it comes to the financial side of things, you want to find a dentist that values integrity and transparency and treats you like a patient rather than a source of income.

 

The More Dental Services, the Better

When you’re on the lookout for a San Diego dentist, you want to find one that has a wide range of services.

 

That means if you need crowns, bridges, or other restorative work done, you’ll want a dentist that provides both basic and more advanced dental services.

 

Keep in mind that your dental care needs will change as you age. So, if you want to stick with the same dentist for as long as possible, pick one that offers the broadest range of services while still fitting into your budget.

 

The more services they provide, the less you’ll have to go to a specialist, which is usually more expensive.

 

Emergency Dental Care

You’ll also want to make sure your San Diego dentist offers emergency dental services. 

 

If you or a loved one loses a filling, cracks a tooth, or has another kind of dental crisis, seeking care immediately is crucial. 

 

Dental emergencies usually happen at the most inconvenient times. Some practices offer emergency services, but their schedules are so limited that they’re not available when you need them.

 

Having a dentist you can trust in these situations can have a big impact on your dental health.

 

Walk-Ins and Same-Day Appointments are a Plus

If you’re a parent with a full-time job, you know how quickly plans can change. 

 

With work, school, baseball practice, and other after-school activities to manage, things are bound to get messy now and then.

 

Nailing down a specific time to bring your little one in for their checkup can be a challenge, let alone for yourself and the rest of the family. 

 

During your search, look for dental practices that accept walk-ins and same-day appointments. Having a dentist that’s willing to work with you and accommodate your busy lifestyle can make a world of difference.

 

Ask About Sedation Options

Almost 50% of the population struggles with a fear of going to the dentist. 

 

If this is you or a loved one, check to see which dental practices offer oral-conscious sedation options.

 

Some offices only provide them for major treatments, but if you or a member of your family has intense dental fear, you’ll need to find a dentist that offers them for general services as well.

 

Affordable, Family-Friendly Dental Care is Right Around the Corner

If you’re looking for quality dental care for the whole family, Dental Express would love to welcome you to San Diego.

 

We’re a family dental practice that does everything we can to fulfill your oral care needs without breaking the bank. We have six convenient locations in the greater San Diego area, and we offer flexible scheduling and accept walk-ins and same-day appointments six days a week.

 

Have a dental emergency? Each of our locations provides emergency dental services six days a week.

 

We take most PPO insurance, accept Medi-Cal, and offer financing options to anyone without dental insurance. 

 

Before and after every treatment, we’ll sit down with you to discuss your coverage or payment plan so you know exactly what to expect. Whatever your budget may look like, we’ll work with you (and your provider) to find the best solution.

 

Above all, our top priority is your dental health.

 

With general, periodontal, cosmetic, endodontic, restorative, and children’s dental services, we’re able to provide top-notch care for people of all ages while keeping specialist referrals to a minimum.

 

From our front office to our clinical teams, Dental Express runs like a family, and we treat our patients like family. 

 

If you’re new to San Diego, there’s no better place to start your search. Just don’t be surprised if it ends with us too! 

 

If you have any questions about insurance or anything you read today, please feel free to reach out to us. 

 

And again, welcome to San Diego! We hope you enjoy your new home!

 

Keep Reading

Top 5 Reasons to Choose a Family Dentist

Downfalls of Dental Insurance: Use it or Lose it

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Are root canals really painful? Who needs them? And why? Find out the answers to all these questions and more below

If just reading the phrase root canals makes you cringe, or if you’re not sure what it means, then today’s blog is for you.

 

We get a lot of questions at the office about what exactly a root canal treatment is. If our patients have heard of them, it’s usually nothing good.

 

At Dental Express San Deigo, we love turning common dental stigmas upside down.

 

So, we created this list of must-know facts to clear up any confusion and set the record straight. That way, if you ever need a root canal, you’ll know what to expect when you visit your San Diego dentist.

 

And be sure to stick around until the end of the blog because we’ll be covering ways to avoid this infamous treatment.

 

1. What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment involving the soft tissue on the inside of your teeth, also known as the pulp. This tissue contains all the blood vessels and nerves that keep your teeth healthy and functioning properly.

 

When the pulp inside your tooth becomes inflamed or infected, it’s crucial to remove it before it spreads through the rest of your tooth or even to surrounding teeth.

 

And root canals do just that. During a root canal treatment, your dentist will get rid of any infected tissue, fill the tooth, and seal it to prevent further disease. Typically, with a follow-up appointment to ensure the infection is fully cleared, this process takes place over anywhere from two to three visits.

 

Cavities are the most common cause of root canals, but cracked or teeth chipped can lead to inflammation or infection in the pulp as well. 

 

2. Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

If the damaged pulp isn’t removed, the infection can make its way through the rest of your tooth, eventually eating away at the bone that holds it in place.

 

Left untreated, the tooth may need to come out. As we’ve covered on our blog before, missing teeth are a whole mixed bag of potential problems.

 

They can lead to problems chewing and speaking, and the longer you’re down a tooth, the more your remaining teeth can shift and cause issues with your bite.

 

Not to mention, missing teeth can make it harder to brush and floss, increasing your risk of battling gum disease and tooth decay (again).

 

Root canals are a powerful treatment that can extend the life of your teeth and save you the money and hassle of having a tooth extracted.

 

3. Do Root Canals Hurt?

This is the million-dollar question, and it’s the most common one patients ask at the office.

 

Now, everyone handles pain differently. But, ideally, your San Diego dentist should take all the proper steps and precautions to make sure your treatment is as pain-free as possible.

 

At Dental Express, your comfort is our first priority when you come in for a root canal treatment. Whether by oral-conscious sedation or nitrous oxide dental sedation, your dentist will numb the area before getting started.

 

The most you should feel throughout the treatment is pressure.

 

Once they remove the infected pulp, your dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside of your tooth before filling and sealing it with either tooth colored fillings resin or metal amalgam.

 

If you’d like a full breakdown of what to expect from a root canal treatment at Dental Express, check out our root canal service page.

 

4. Why Do I Need a Crown After a Root Canal?

If the pulp infection causes enough damage to your tooth, a filling may not be enough to protect it from further decay.

 

If this is the case, you’ll need a crown to fully reinforce your tooth, which may extend the treatment to three visits. 

 

Loose Dental Crowns act as a protective shield for your teeth, keeping out any harmful decay-causing bacteria.

 

5. What Does the Recovery Process Look Like?

Typically, standard root canal treatments that involve permanent fillings take two visits: The initial visit is where the dentist clears out the infection and fills your tooth. Then, the follow-up appointment to make sure the infection was fully cleared out.

 

If you need a crown put in, your San Diego dentist will likely ask you to come in for three visits. During the first appointment, your dentist will clean your root canal, put special medicine to clear out any remaining infection, and give you a temporary filling. 

 

At the second, they’ll check your root canal for any signs of infection, permanently fill your tooth, and set you up with a temporary filling.

 

For the third and final appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary filling and place the permanent one. This process is quick and painless and doesn’t require any anesthesia, unless of course it would help you feel more comfortable.

 

After your root canal treatment, the area around the affected tooth may be sensitive or swollen for a few days. Your dentist may send you home with antibiotics, and you can feel free to take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.

 

Of course, be sure to use these medications as directed.

 

6. How Long Will the Filling or Crown Last?

Fillings and crowns are strong protective restorations that are designed for the long haul. If you take good care of them, they can hold up for many years.

 

Daily dental care and regular trips to your San Diego dentist are crucial if you want to get the most out of your restorations.

 

7. Is There a Way to Avoid Root Canals?

We’re so glad you asked!

 

Unfortunately, once the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected, a root canal is the most effective and affordable way to relieve any pain and restore your dental health.

 

But there’s plenty you can do to help prevent this issue.

 

Restorative treatments like the root canal are tried-and-true methods of improving oral health. But the best treatment for your smile is daily brushing, flossing, and regular exams and cleanings at your San Diego dentist.

 

To keep your teeth safe from decay and gum disease, make sure to brush twice and floss once daily.

 

If you want, you can add water flossers or interdental cleaners to your dental care routine for extra protection.

 

Limiting your consumption of sugary foods and drinks like candy, sodas, and juices can help too. These heavily processed foods are notorious for causing tooth decay and cavities.

 

When it comes to your smile, preventive care is the best care.

 

Have Any More Questions? Need a Root Canal Treatment?

Dental Express is your premier dental practice in San Diego. Whether you’re our patient or not, we provide “For you, about you” dentistry.

 

If you ever have any questions about treatments like root canals, feel free to reach out. And if you’re ready to schedule an appointment, you can schedule online or contact us at one of our six convenient locations.

 

We believe dentistry is a genuine medical service that requires integrity, empathy, and compassion. So when you bring you and your family to Dental Express, your smiles come first.

 

Keep Reading

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Five Common Signs to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Checked Out

Learn What Foods and Drinks Can Damage Your Teeth

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With oral cancer, early detection is key. Learn everything you need to know about this condition and how to keep your smile safe

As humans, we’re naturally stubborn.

 

It’s in our nature to think, “That’ll never happen to me.”

 

But when it comes to oral and oropharyngeal cancer–cancer of the mouth and upper throat–it’s better to be safe than sorry.

 

Many people believe that if they avoid tobacco and drink in moderation, they’re safe from these conditions, but sadly, this isn’t the case.

 

Even if you’re diligent about your dental health, you could still be at risk.

 

This April marks the 22nd annual Oral Cancer Awareness Month. So, we wanted to cover the early signs and symptoms to give you the knowledge you need to build a solid preventive foundation.

 

And be sure to stay tuned. Later on in this blog, we’ll share a resource showing you how to perform an oral cancer self-exam at home.

 

Oral Cancer Isn’t a Bite-Sized Issue

According to the Oral Cancer Foundation (OCF), someone dies of oral or oropharyngeal cancer every hour. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

 

“This year, an estimated 54,0001 new cases of oral cancer will be diagnosed. Of those individuals, 43 percent will not survive longer than five years, and many who do survive to suffer long-term problems, such as severe facial disfigurement or difficulties with eating and speaking. The death rate associated with oral and oropharyngeal cancers remains particularly high because the cancers routinely are discovered late in their development.”

 

And it doesn’t help that these cancers fall under the category of squamous cell carcinoma, which are known for how aggressive they can be.

 

Oral Cancer Risk Factors

If you know the risk factors, you can minimize your chances of developing oral cancer and ensure your smile stays healthy.

 

Here’s a list of traits and lifestyle factors that can increase your risk:

• Tobacco Use – If you’re looking for the fastest way to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancer, then look no further. Smoking, chewing, dipping, and snuffing tobacco all significantly increase your risk and leave your mouth vulnerable not just to cancer, but tooth decay and gum disease as well.
• Heavy Alcohol Use – If you regularly consume large amounts of alcohol, you’re putting yourself at higher risk of oral cancer. Over time, frequent contact with alcohol damages the tissues in your mouth and throat. And as you can imagine, heavy alcohol use combined with tobacco is a recipe for high oral cancer risk.
• Men – Sorry guys, but men are typically more likely to develop oral and oropharyngeal cancer than women. If this applies to you, it couldn’t hurt to be a little more attentive about your dental health.
• People Over 45 Years Old – Oral and oropharyngeal cancer can occur at any age, but those over 45 years of age are more likely to develop these conditions.
• Poor Dental Care Habits – Neglecting your dental health can lead to serious complications in the long run. Those who don’t brush and floss consistently are at greater risk. So stay on top of your dental care routine at home and set regular checkups with your San Diego dentist.
• Poor Nutrition – What you put in your mouth can be just as important as how you take care of it. People with diets low in fruits and vegetables and specifically a lack of vitamin A can be at a greater risk of oral cancer. 
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) – This sexually transmitted disease has been linked to an increased risk of oropharyngeal cancer.

 

If you use tobacco, the sooner you quit, the better. That’s much easier said than done, but remember, it’s not just your dental health that’s at stake. It’s your life.

 

Quitting strategies like weaning off of tobacco, nicotine patches, and nicotine gum can be a great help if cold turkey is too difficult.

 

When it comes to alcohol, the Centers for Disease Control state that for men, heavy drinking is consuming 15 or more drinks per week. For women, eight or more drinks per week is considered excessive.

 

If you hit these numbers, try to be more mindful of your alcohol consumption and drink in moderation. 

 

As we’ve learned, the older we get, the higher our risk becomes. So the quicker we make these changes, the safe we’ll be.

 

Oral Cancer Signs & Symptoms

Since these cancers spread quickly, early detection is crucial. Screenings at your local San Diego are the best way to detect oral cancer early and take the necessary steps to protect your health.

 

But there are signs and symptoms to look out for in between dentist visits that can alert you when there’s a problem.

 

This list from the OCF outlines the red flags to watch out for:

• Any sore or ulceration that doesn’t heal within fourteen days.
• A red, white, or black discoloration of the soft tissues in your mouth.
• Any abnormality that bleeds easily when touched.
• A lump or hard spot in your oral tissue, usually on the border of the tongue.
• A growth or raised portion of tissue.
• A sore underneath a denture which, even after adjustment, doesn’t heal.
• A lump or thickening that develops in your mouth.
• A painless, firm, fixated lump felt on the outside of your neck, which doesn’t go away for at least two weeks.
• Specifically for HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, symptoms can include swelling or a painless lump in the neck, sore throat, difficulty or pain when swallowing, and swelling of the tonsils at the back of the mouth.

 

All these symptoms have something in common: they all have a knack for overstaying their welcome and not going away.

 

As soon as you notice any of these signs or symptoms, schedule a checkup with your San Diego dentist immediately. If you can walk in or make a same-day appointment, make it happen.

 

We can’t stress the importance of early detection enough. Being seen as soon as possible can mean the difference between life and becoming one of the stats we saw above.

 

How to Perform an Oral Cancer Self-Exam

To check for oral cancer at home, you’ll need three things:

 

1. A mirror (preferably handheld).
2. A source of light.
3. And a small piece of gauze to hold your tongue.

 

If you don’t have a handheld mirror, you can try using your bathroom mirror or another mirror in your house. Whichever one you choose, you’ll need to get close enough to it to have a good look at the inside of your mouth.

 

If you want to get fancy, the OCF offers a “Check Your Mouth Kit” that includes a small handheld mirror and a two-in-one throat scope light and tongue depressor for just $20.

 

You can find an instructional video and in-depth description of how to perform your own oral cancer self-screening on the OCF website.

 

If you think you’re at high risk or just want to be on the safe side, you can do a self-exam between your annual dental checkups. 

 

There’s certainly no harm in doing an extra self-screening or two.

 

There’s No Better Time for a Screening

Oral Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to schedule an oral cancer exam.

 

At Dental Express, we offer screenings at all six of our San Diego locations. And if you notice any symptoms at home, we always accept walk-ins and same-day appointments. 

 

Using a special light that illuminates cancerous tissue, we’ll look inside your mouth and make sure you’re clear of any lumps, spots, or swelling.

 

If we find evidence of oral or oropharyngeal cancer, we’ll create a plan to tackle the problem as soon as possible and do everything in our power to protect your health. 

 

If you have any questions about oral cancer or you’d like to schedule an appointment, give us a call. We’re here to help you put your best smile forward.

 

Keep Reading

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The all-inclusive guide to making your child’s tooth fairy experience as magical (and educational) as possible

As a parent, Get your kid excited about the dental care you want to give your little one a magical childhood.

 

You want to nurture their imagination and teach them healthy habits they can take with them into adulthood.

 

Characters like Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny are a great way to make the holidays more memorable, but the Tooth Fairy offers a unique opportunity.

 

If you know the tricks of the trade–which we’ll share with you shortly–you can create a meaningful tradition with your kid that will get them excited about dental health.

 

And the best part? You can involve them in the process as much as you like, turning it into a fun, creative, and imaginative experience.

 

Why Even Use the Tooth Fairy?

Many parents are concerned about misleading their children when it comes to the Tooth Fairy, and that’s just fine!

 

There’s no reason to go the traditional route. You can just as easily turn it into a game of pretend and still make a fun ritual out of putting your little one’s lost tooth underneath their pillow for the night.

 

But it’s important to understand why the legend of the Tooth Fairy exists. 

 

It’s more than just a way to make a part of your child’s life special.

 

It’s a way to help your little one through a confusing and potentially frightening time of their lives. They’re literally losing parts of their body, and that can be a scary and even traumatic experience, especially if it’s their first time losing a tooth.

 

Think back to when your teeth started to loosen and fall out. You were probably afraid it would hurt or bleed when your parents pulled them out. And rightfully so!

 

In such an important transitional period of their lives, having an encouraging tradition that celebrates their growth and development can provide your little one with some much-needed comfort.

 

Of course, it’s also a great way to instill in them the importance of dental health and good hygiene habits.

 

Creative Tooth Fairy Ideas Your Kid Will Love

Now, let’s dive into some fun ways to up your tooth fairy game and leave your child excited about their next loose tooth.

 

Create Your Own Tooth Fairy

The legend of the Tooth Fairy, or related magical tooth collecting creatures, dates back to the 17th century.

 

In Europe, the “Tooth Fairy” can be a rabbit, a mouse, or a rat depending on the country you’re in. And cultures around the globe have used dogs, squirrels, and even beavers as their magical dental mascots.

 

What’s great about this is that it allows you to give your child creative license when imagining the Tooth Fairy.

 

To get their imagination flowing, you can ask them what they think the Tooth Fairy looks like. You can even ask them to draw pictures of what they imagine he or she would look like.

 

Involving them in the process and letting them get creative can help them get excited about their upcoming visits from the Tooth Fairy.

 

Pick Out or Design a Tooth Container

This idea is more of a practical one, but you can enlist your little one’s help to make it fun for them!

 

It may seem like a given, but if you’re putting their lost teeth under their pillow, having a container will make the process much easier. Digging around for a small, stray baby tooth in the middle of the night could prove to be challenging. 

 

Not to mention, the more time you spend searching for their tooth, the more you risk waking them up!

 

Whenever your child’s first tooth gets loose, you can shop online together and let them pick out a tooth container that they like. Or, you can visit your nearby arts and crafts store and put one together yourselves.

 

Designing a tooth container is another chance to have a fun, creative experience with your little one. By the time their first tooth falls out, they’ll have a special box to put it in, which they can use for the rest of their baby teeth too.

 

Being the Tooth Fairy can be hard work. This idea can help make things easier for you and more exciting for your kid.

 

Leave Them a Tooth Receipt from the Tooth Fairy Herself

To add a personal touch, you can design and print out tooth “receipts” to put under your child’s pillow along with the reward.

 

They can include their name, the date, which tooth fell out, the reward you gave them, and a special note from the Tooth Fairy encouraging them to keep up the great work.

 

If you’d rather use a template, the American Dental Association (ADA) has some sample tooth receipts you can check out here.

 

These commemorative slips are a great way to celebrate lost teeth and give your child a bit of praise from the Tooth Fairy herself.

 

Experiment With Different Rewards

Just because cash is the typical reward for baby teeth doesn’t mean you can’t get creative and mix things up.

 

Does your child like legos? You can find mini lego sets at your local superstore that would make the perfect gift for them, although you may want to put them on the nightstand instead of underneath the pillow!

 

You could also experiment with plushies, stickers, games, and other toys. You know your little one better than anyone, so have some fun with it and pick something you think they’ll love.

 

Start a Tooth Journal

Turn losing their baby teeth into an interactive, imagination-fueled activity by having your child keep a tooth journal.

 

If they like the idea, you can pick out a notebook and decorate it together. Then, whenever they lose a tooth, they can write an entry in the journal, including how it came out, the date, and maybe even how they took care of it before it fell out.

 

When they put the tooth under their pillow at night, you can write a note as the Tooth Fairy, congratulating them for brushing and flossing regularly and giving them some words of encouragement to keep up the good work.

 

You can even use a glitter pen to write the note if you want to go the extra mile!

 

Leave a Trail of “Breadcrumbs”

One member of the Dental Express team remembers how his family used to make “snow” prints leading from the fireplace to the Christmas tree using flour and his dad’s old military boots. 

 

To add a sense of wonder and excitement to the experience, you could do something similar whenever your child gets a visit from the Tooth Fairy. 

 

You can buy special “fairy dust” online or use glitter to leave a trail from the window to the nightstand or the bed.

 

Seeing proof that the Tooth Fairy paid them a visit can make the experience all the more magical for your little one and motivate them to stay on top of their dental care.

 

Celebrating Your Child’s Dental Health 

Losing their baby teeth is a big part of your little one’s life. Making it fun and exciting for them can bring joy to a time that could otherwise be confusing and a bit scary.

 

Some parents like to pull out all the stops when it comes to the Tooth Fairy, while others take a more relaxed approach.

 

Whatever you choose, at Dental Express, we’re here to celebrate your child’s progress and support them on their journey to a happy, healthy set of adult teeth.

 

We hope this guide gave you some creative ideas to build a unique Tooth Fairy experience your little one won’t soon forget.

 

And if you need family-friendly get your kid excited about dental care, we hope to see you at one of our locations in the San Diego area soon! 

 

Keep Reading

Healthy Oral Habits for Children’s Dental Health Month

A Parent’s Guide to Children’s Dentistry

How to Get Over Your Fear of the Dentist

Top 5 Reasons to Choose a Family Dentist

Sift through the never-ending dental care aisle and find the toothbrush that’s right for your smile

Guide to Buying a Toothbrush.

How many times have you gone to the supermarket to pick up a toothbrush only to be completely overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options?

 

Manual, electric, soft-bristled, hard-bristled, round-tipped, square-tipped, long-head, short-head…

 

Just looking at all of them is enough to give someone paralysis by analysis. 

 

Narrowing things down and finding the right toothbrush for your smile can seem impossible, but don’t worry!

 

With some expert advice from our team of dentists and guidance from the American Dental Association (ADA), we put together this guide to make your next toothbrush-buying trip dead simple.

 

ADA Recommendations

For starters, let’s go over what the ADA recommends when buying your toothbrush.

 

They offer a few general guidelines that can make the process much simpler right off the bat:

• Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day
• Opt for soft-bristled toothbrushes unless otherwise directed by your dentist. If you’re not careful, medium-bristled brushes may cause damage to your gums, so the ADA recommends avoiding them altogether just to be on the safe side.
• Replace your toothbrush (or the head of your toothbrush if you use an electric one) every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed or matted. Basically, the worse the bristles look, the less effective your toothbrush is.
• Both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective at removing plaque and cleaning your teeth. You’re not missing out on anything by doing it the old-fashioned way.
• When shopping for toothbrushes, look for the ADA seal of approval. “A product earns the ADA Seal of Acceptance by providing scientific evidence that demonstrates safety and efficacy, which the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs carefully evaluates according to objective requirements.”

 

You brush your teeth twice every day. So, ideally, you want a toothbrush that follows these guidelines and makes it easy to stick to your daily routine. It needs to be comfortable, easy to use, and effective.

 

As long as it checks all those boxes, any toothbrush––whether manual or electric––will work just fine!

 

Manual Toothbrushes

Now that we have a better idea of what we’re looking for, let’s jump into finding the right manual toothbrush for you.

Get a Grip

To start, you need a handle that’s comfortable and fits in your hand. 

 

The harder it is to do your daily brushing, the less likely you are to keep up with it.

 

If your toothbrush handle is too long, short, or unwieldy, it may affect your ability to brush correctly and leave your teeth exposed to harmful bacteria. 

 

You may need to shop around, but once you get a feel for the style of grip you need, it’ll be much easier to choose next time you’re in the dental care aisle.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Everyone’s different, and so are our smiles. When you’re looking for the right toothbrush, you need to find one that’s the right size for your mouth. 

 

You want the head to be big enough so that you don’t have to work too hard while brushing. But not too big to where you can’t get to those hard-to-reach areas like the back molars.

 

The sworn-by standard is one inch long by half an inch wide, but you’ll have to do some testing to see if that size works for you.

Flat, Angled, or Multi-Level Bristles?

Aside from the standard flat-bristled brushes, you’ll find some with angled or multi-leveled bristles.

 

While it’s largely a matter of comfort, there is some evidence that angled and multi-level bristles remove more plaque than the flat variety, with angled bristles performing the best.

 

If you want to know exactly what you’re looking for when you go to the store, you can find a list of ADA-approved manual toothbrushes here. 

 

That way, if you know what style of toothbrush works for you, you can take the guesswork out of the equation.

 

Electric Toothbrushes

If you can afford it, spending the extra cash on an electric toothbrush can make your dental care routine much more convenient.

 

Of course, the same grip, size, and bristle rules still apply to electric toothbrushes. But there are a lot more features to look at. 

 

If you’re wondering whether you should make the switch, here’s a list of pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• Depending on the type you get, electric toothbrushes can oscillate, rotate, vibrate, and more to save you the trouble of manually brushing.
• Some come with pressure or sensitivity settings to adjust the strength of the brush to your comfort.
• Some battery-powered brushes have timers to let you know when you’ve been brushing for two minutes, keeping you on track with the ADA’s official recommendations.
• Certain models come with charging docks, so you don’t have to worry about replacing any batteries.
• Others have different cleaning modes to choose from based on your dental care needs (daily clean, gum care, natural teeth whitening, tongue clean, etc.)
• Great for people who have trouble brushing manually – children who are new to brushing, the elderly, people with braces, and people with disabilities.

Cons

• Electric toothbrushes typically cost quite a bit more than manual toothbrushes.
• They need to be recharged, and many of them require batteries.
• Many electric brushes don’t travel well, especially the ones with bulky charging docks.

If you have the money to spare, an electric toothbrush can certainly be worth it! As long as it follows the guidelines in this article, your smile will be in good hands.

 

For a list of ADA-approved electric toothbrushes, click here.

 

Kids Toothbrushes

The best toothbrush for your little one is the one they want to use. If a manual toothbrush with a picture of Spiderman catches their eye, go for it! 

 

Just make sure it has soft bristles and the ADA seal of approval.

 

If manual brushing is too tricky, some electric toothbrushes come equipped with a speaker so your child can listen to a fun song while they clean their teeth. 

 

Before they know it, two minutes will have gone by, and you can praise them for a job well done!

 

Find a Brush That Works for You

Above all, the best brush for you is the one that helps you stick to your dental care routine consistently.

 

With this Guide to Buying a Toothbrush, at the very least, you’ll know what you want to experiment with the next time you go to buy a toothbrush. 

 

And at best, you’ll know exactly what you’re looking for, and you’ll be able to stroll down the dental aisle with confidence.

 

Always Here for Your Smile

Of course, if you ever have any questions or need some toothbrush recommendations, feel free to give us a call at Dental Express.

 

We serve up smiles in the San Diego area, but we’re always happy to help anyone curious about how to improve their dental health.

 

If you’re a local and you need family-friendly, patient-focused dental care, stop by and see us at your convenience, set up an appointment online, or give us a ring. 

 

Let’s build your ideal smile together and Guide to Buying a Toothbrush.

 

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Learn how your dental health is a reflection of your general health, and how to protect your body by protecting your smile

There’s an epidemic in America.

 

And we’re not talking about Covid. 

 

This one’s been around for decades, and it’s not a physical sickness. The epidemic we’re referring to is a disease of misinformation.

 

It’s hard to trace the source of the illness, but somehow it’s managed to affect a massive percentage of the population. 

 

See, for whatever reason, we as a society seem to view and treat dental health as if it’s separate from overall health. And nothing could be further from the truth.

 

In fact, treating these two as separate entities can be dangerous, and there’s plenty of scientific research to prove it.

 

The goal of today’s blog is to provide a “cure” for this issue and set the record straight once and for all.

 

Below, we’ll be discussing how your dental health can affect your overall health and vice versa, and how to protect your natural smile for the long-haul.

 

Oral Health & Overall Health Are NOT Separate

It’s funny because you never hear someone say, “Of course dental health and general health are separate. They obviously have nothing to do with each other,” out loud.

 

It’s a concept that we all just tend to accept one way or the other. Maybe it’s because we see one doctor when we’re sick and a different one when we need a dental cleaning. Or maybe it’s because the insurance system is divided into health coverage and dental coverage.

 

Whatever the reason, it’s crucial to understand that Medical Dentist San Diego and general health are two sides of the same coin.

 

In July of 2000, the Surgeon General put out a statement saying, “…oral health is integral to general health. You cannot be healthy without oral health. Oral health and general health should not be interpreted as separate entities…”

 

The American Dental Association (ADA) takes this a step further by saying, “The mouth is a window into the health of the body…”

 

Suggesting that your dental health can have a significant impact on the rest of your body. And as we’re about to find out, they’re right. 

 

The health of your mouth and teeth can affect your overall health a lot more than you might expect.

 

How Dental Health Affects General Health

If you take good care of your teeth at home and schedule regular exams and cleanings with your San Diego dentist, odds are you won’t have to worry about your oral health having an adverse effect on your body.

 

But poor dental hygiene can allow harmful bacteria and plaque to develop, leading to gum disease and gingivitis. 

 

When enough bacteria builds up on your teeth, it can trigger an inflammatory response in your body, causing your gums to become red, swollen, tender, and even bleed when brushing or flossing. 

 

Luckily, at this point, proper dental care and attention can fix the issue. But if you don’t change your habits at home or visit your dentist for a cleaning, then you’re at risk of developing periodontitis. And that’s where the bigger problems start.

 

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease. It’s what happens when gingivitis is left unchecked.

 

As shocking as it may sound, this dangerous condition can have an impact on your circulation, lungs, and even your heart.

 

Periodontal disease natural treatment has been shown to play a role in the development of the following conditions:

• Endocarditis – Harmful bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream and cause infections in the inner lining of your heart.
• Cardiovascular disease – Bad bacteria in your bloodstream can cause plaque to grow on your arterial walls, reducing your blood flow.
• Heart disease and stroke – When blood flow is reduced in your body, you’re at increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
• Birth complications – Pregnant women with periodontal disease may be at increased risk of preterm birth and/or low birth weight. However, periodontal treatment during pregnancy can help. Studies show a significant decrease in the rate of preterm births and an increase in birth weight with scaling and root planing treatments.
• Pneumonia – When you have a bacterial infection in your mouth, you’re constantly inhaling harmful bacteria into your lungs, which can lead to respiratory infections and even pneumonia.

 

Of course, these issues don’t just happen as soon as you get periodontitis. But they can develop over time if you avoid seeking dental care. 

 

We’ll cover some signs and symptoms to look out for that warrant a trip to your San Diego dentist below. 

 

But first, let’s learn how your overall health can affect your mouth, teeth, and gums.

 

How General Health Can Affect Your Dental Health

Remember, these aspects of your health are two sides of the same coin. Your overall health can have just as much of an impact on your dental health as the other way around.

 

The conditions below have all been shown to have a significant effect on oral health:

• Diabetes – Research shows that people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease and can develop more severe cases than those without it. Also, those with periodontitis may have a harder time controlling their blood sugar.
• Osteoporosis – This bone-weakening disease can lead to periodontal bone and tooth loss. Also, some medications used to treat this condition can put you at a slight risk of harming your jawbones.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – Studies show that periodontitis may play a role in the development and inflammatory expression of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Sjogren’s syndrome – Sjogren’s is an immune system disorder that causes dry mouth. As we’ve discussed on our blog before, reduced salivary flow can lead to enamel breakdown and other oral health complications.
• Eating disorders – When your teeth are frequently exposed to stomach acids, it eats away at your enamel, causing erosion and eventually bone or even tooth loss. 
• HIV/AIDS – These conditions can make your body more vulnerable to infection, making periodontal disease more severe. Often, people with HIV or AIDS will experience painful oral lesions as well.
• Esophageal and gastric cancer – Research suggests that people with periodontal disease may be at higher risk of developing these types of cancer.

 

As you may have noticed, about half of the conditions listed above are associated with aging. Meaning that maintaining your dental health only gets more important as you get older, whether you have periodontal disease or not.

 

To protect your natural smile, stay consistent with daily brushing and flossing and schedule regular checkups at your local dentist in San Diego.

 

When to Visit Your San Diego Dentist

Now that we know how closely related dental health and overall health are, let’s cover the early warning signs and common symptoms of gum disease and periodontitis.

 

If you notice yourself showing any of the following symptoms, make an appointment with your San Diego dentist as soon as possible:

• Bleeding gums while brushing and flossing
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of your partial dentures

 

This list comes straight from the ADA. And they also suggest keeping your dentist up to date with any new illnesses or conditions that might affect your oral health. 

 

Open communication like this can help them adjust your care to better improve the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums.

 

Dental Care Isn’t Just Dental Care

When you care for your teeth, you care for your entire body.

 

At Dental Express, we work hard to improve your dental health, but we do it with your overall health in mind.

 

Gum disease and periodontitis can be a serious threat to your wellbeing, and when you trust us with your smile, we treat them as such.

 

If you’re showing any of the above symptoms, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We have six locations in the San Diego area specializing in top-quality dental care at an affordable price.

 

Feel free to schedule an appointment online or walk-in and see us at your convenience. We’d love to welcome you to the Dental Express family!

 

Keep Reading

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A helpful list of hygiene-boosting interdental cleaners you can easily add to your dental care routine

If you’ve followed our blog for any length of time, you’ve heard us stress the importance of daily brushing and flossing like it’s our superhero catchphrase.

 

 

After all, what kind of dental practice would we be if we didn’t encourage our readers to maintain their oral health?

 

 

But unfortunately, it’s not always easy to keep up with our daily dental care routine.

 

 

If you have braces, dentures and implants, a permanent bridge, or if you have trouble flossing by hand, cleaning in between your teeth can be difficult.

 

 

Luckily, there are several ways to hit those hard-to-reach areas and protect your mouth from harmful bacteria.

 

 

As your local San Diego dentist, we put together this list of four of the best interdental cleaners you can use to fight plaque, control gingivitis, and keep your smile healthy.

 

 

So without further ado, let’s get deep cleaning scaling and root planing!

 

1. Water Flossers

First invented in 1962, water flossers have become the most studied interdental cleaner on the market.

 

 

As the name suggests, a water flosser cleans between your teeth by spraying a steady stream of water through a specially shaped nozzle. They can plug into the wall or operate on battery power, and you can adjust the pressure of the stream to your liking.

 

 

Since their inception, water flossers have garnered a reputation as a safe and effective way to reach where floss can’t, remove plaque, and reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and gingivitis.

 

 

In 1971, a study by the Journal of Periodontology showed a significant reduction in plaque formation in people that incorporated water flossing into their dental care routine.

 

 

Another study from the same journal showed a 50% reduction in plaque in water flosser users. And additional research showed similar plaque-fighting results in patients with gingivitis, periodontitis, orthodontic appliances, and diabetes.

 

 

A more recent study by the Journal of Clinical Dentistry backs up these findings. They reported that water flossing just once, when combined with manual brushing, removes 75% of whole-mouth plaque, with consistent use over four weeks reducing whole-mouth plaque by 51%.

 

 

And sitting atop this veritable mountain of research is a 2011 study that showed water flossing is twice as effective as traditional string floss.

 

 

With such a strong track record for effectiveness, you can add water flossing to your dental health routine with confidence, knowing you’re doing the best for your smile.

 

 

And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to use!

 

 

Working around braces and bridges is a cinch; you can operate your water flosser with one hand, and it only takes about a minute to use.

 

 

If you’d like to add one of these powerful devices to your dental arsenal, here’s a list of American Dental Association-approved water flossers. And if you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask your San Diego dentist for advice.

 

 

When it comes to improving your oral health at home, it doesn’t get much better than water flossing!

 

2. Interdental Brushes

Interdental brushes are another useful tool for anyone who has trouble with regular string floss.

 

 

They have many tiny bristles attached to a thin wire that reaches into the tight spaces between your teeth. If you’ve ever seen one before, you probably noticed it looked a lot like a pipe cleaner with a handle attached to it.

 

 

You can select different sized interdental brushes based on how much space you have in between each tooth, and the wire can be coated (so as not to scratch implants or cause shocks) or uncoated.

 

 

To use an interdental brush, you gently insert it between each of your teeth to eliminate plaque and clear out any bacteria.

 

 

Unlike traditional floss, you can use interdental brushes with one hand, and they make it easy to work around braces or other orthodontics.

 

 

A study by the Dentistry Journal published in 2019 reported that these handy dental tools are just as, if not more efficient at reducing plaque and controlling gingivitis than traditional flossing.

 

 

So, while they aren’t proven to be as effective as water flossers, interdental brushes are still an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their at-home dental health habits. And there’s nothing to plug in, charge, or fill up with water––scoring extra points in the ease-of-use department.

 

3. Pre-Threaded Flossers (Floss Picks)

For a hassle-free flossing experience, you can’t go wrong with disposable pre-threaded flossers.

 

 

Typically, these dental devices have a toothpick on one end of a handle with a taut strand of floss on the other. Some types of pre-threaded floss are coated with mint to leave your mouth feeling fresh after a cleaning session.

 

 

Their design makes it easy to floss with one hand, and research by the Journal of Clinical Dentistry shows that they’re just as effective as regular string floss.

 

 

Although they don’t offer a solution for people with braces, they’re great for anyone looking for a convenient and healthy alternative to traditional floss. As always, if you need recommendations on what products to use or brands to trust, talk to your local dentist in San Diego.

 

4. Wood Plaque Cleaners

The last item on our interdental cleaners list doesn’t qualify as an alternative to flossing, but it does help remove plaque and prevent gingivitis between teeth.

 

 

Wood plaque cleaners are shaped much like toothpicks. Only the ends are carved into a flattened triangle, allowing for deeper interdental cleaning.

 

 

For the best results, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends wetting the end with your mouth as much as possible. Then, clean in between your teeth with a gentle in and out motion.

 

 

As of now, Stim-U-Dent is the only brand of wood plaque cleaners approved by the ADA to improve your dental health. So if you’d like a little help in the fight against plaque and gingivitis, give them a try.

 

 

But keep in mind, wood plaque cleaners aren’t a replacement for flossing. Even if you use them, stay diligent with your daily dental care routine to protect your oral health.

 

Consistency is the Best Dental Tool

Cleaning between your teeth every day is essential to prevent tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, infection and maintain the health of your smile.

 

 

Whichever interdental cleaner you choose, stay consistent, and remember: none of these tools replace daily brushing.

 

 

If traditional flossing becomes difficult (or just plain drives you crazy), we hope this list can help you find a healthy alternative and give your dental health a boost.

 

Crafting Healthy Smiles, Inside & Outside the Office

Typically, patients only visit the dentist’s office twice a year, making dental habits at home the main line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease.

 

 

That’s why, at Dental Express, we always provide our patients with the latest science-backed advice for maintaining a healthy smile outside the office.

 

 

Whether you’re a regular patient of ours or not, if you ever have any questions about dental care at home, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

 

 

And if you’re in the neighborhood, we have six convenient locations in the San Diego area. Drop by for a walk-in appointment or give us a call to schedule in advance. Let’s craft your ideal smile together!

 

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A look at the impact women have had on the field of dentistry over the years

In 1978, Dr. Harriet Seldin’s patients would often tell her that she was the first female dentist they’d ever seen.

 

And it’s no wonder, because that same year, only 15.9% of first-year dental students were women. Ten years before that, women made up just 1.1% of the student body.

 

Women in dentistry have progressed by leaps and bounds over the past hundred years.

 

And in honor of Women’s History Month, we’re going to reflect on the perseverance, strength, and commitment it took to come this far, and how women have shaped the field of dentistry into what it is today.

 

The First Woman to Practice Dentistry

If patients responded to Dr. Seldin the way they did in 1978, imagine how people reacted to Emeline Roberts Jones in 1855!

 

At the age of eighteen, Emeline married a dentist named Daniel Jones, who didn’t think women were cut out for the profession.

 

According to the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame, her husband was of the mind that “dentistry was no occupation for the ‘frail and clumsy fingers’ of a woman.” And unfortunately, much of the scientific community felt the same way back then.

 

But Emeline was drawn to dentistry and became determined to learn. So, she began studying (and practicing) her newfound interest in secret.

 

That meant she had to find candidates who were willing to let her practice filling and extracting teeth. Woman dentist or not, that’s a lot to ask!

 

But fortunately, she was able to perform several hundred fillings and extractions over the next year, and her husband could no longer ignore her knowledge and expertise.

 

In 1855, at the age of nineteen, Emeline’s husband finally allowed her to use her self-taught skills on some of his patients––albeit reluctantly.

 

But within just four years, she and her husband became partners, and she garnered an excellent reputation for herself in Danielsonville, Connecticut.

 

The amount of sheer determination, focus, and hard work it must’ve taken to teach herself how to become a dentist is nothing short of amazing.

 

By the time she retired in 1915 (six decades later), she had opened her own practice, served on the Women’s Advisory Council of the World’s Columbian Dental Conference, was elected to the Connecticut State Dental Society, and became an honorary member of the National Dental Association.

 

Considering her unwavering dedication and incredible achievements, it’s not a stretch to say that Emeline Roberts Jones paved the way for all the women in dentistry who came after her.

 

The American Association of Women Dentists

In 1921, not long after Emeline Roberts Jones retired, the American Dental Association (ADA) held their annual meeting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

 

At the event, twelve female dentists in attendance decided to found the Federation of America’s Women Dentists (now known as the American Association of Women Dentists, or AAWD).

 

The AAWD states that the purpose of their organization wasn’t to separate themselves from the male dentists, but to:

 

“have an organization that fostered networking, sharing common goals and dreams, and fostering friendships.”

 

And the group still exists to this day.

 

The First President of the AAWD

As their first president, they appointed Minnie Evangeline Jordon, former second vice president of the Southern California Dental Association and visionary pioneer of children’s dentistry.

 

Jordon was one of the first dentists to apply her skills to help children conquer their fear of the dentist and develop preventive care techniques, and she even published the first textbook on Kids Smiles Pediatric Dentistry.

 

She also realized the dangers of baby bottle tooth decay and understood the importance of providing psychological training to dentists tasked with treating children.

 

Without her groundbreaking discoveries and expertise, who knows how far behind we would be in children’s dentistry?

 

A Century of Advocacy and Empowerment

If you have a sharp eye, you may have noticed that the AAWD was founded exactly one hundred years ago this year!

 

This organization provides its members with access to a vast network of fellow women dentists, acknowledgment awards, discounts, and members-only rates.

 

Celebrating a century of recognition and advancement for women in dentistry, the AAWD continues to be a pillar of support in the field.

 

The First Woman Dentist in the US Navy

Believe it or not, the first female dentist to join the US Navy wasn’t born in America.

 

Sara Gdulin Krout––who had a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from both her home country of Latvia and the University of Illinois College of Dentistry––had to do some fancy footwork to get into the military.

 

She already had a well-established dental practice in Chicago, but when the US joined the war in 1941, she decided she wanted to help out.

 

When Krout was denied entry because women dentists weren’t allowed in the Navy at the time, she didn’t let that stop her. To get around the restriction, she joined the US Navy Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) program.

 

She served as a dentist on active duty in the Great Lakes Naval Training Station from 1944-1946. Thanks to the WAVES program’s benefits, she enjoyed the same rank and pay as her male counterparts.

 

The First Female Dean of a Dental Program

Just over ten years later, in 1958, Jeanne C Sinkford earned her DDS from Howard University in Washington, DC.

 

According to the AAWD, after teaching there for some time, she was promoted to professor and associate professor.

 

Then, in 1975, Sinkford was appointed the dean of the Howard University School of Dentistry, making her the first female in history to be the dean of any dental school. Simultaneously, she became the first African American female dean of any dental school.

 

Sinkford held the position until 1991 when she moved on to join the Center for Equity and Diversity at the American Dental Education Association. There, she applied her experience as a dean to support women on their journey to becoming dentists.

 

The ADA’s First Female President

The same year Jeanne Sinkford stepped down from her dean position, another prominent woman dentist made history.

 

Known as a role model for many young women, Geraldine Morrow became the ADA’s first female president from 1991 to 1992.

 

Morrow spent most of her career serving her community in Alaska and was a true inspiration to all her fellow dentists––both men and women. One of her colleagues in the Alaska Dental Society had this to say about her:

 

“Gerry Morrow broke America’s glass ceiling…Her success came at a time when dentistry was beginning to evolve as a profession that welcomed women as equals. She was a pioneer and championed the cause of equality.”

 

Since Morrow’s tenure, three other women dentists have served as president of the ADA, which continues to be a shining example of equality in dentistry.

 

The Past 40 Years of Progress

The ADA reports that forty years ago, 7% of dental school graduates were women.

 

By 2017, that number had shot up to 49%. And 60% of all practicing dentists under forty-four years old were women.

 

In 2019, 18% of all dental school deans were women, and female dentists made up 28% of all state dental society presidents.

 

Less than a year ago, data showed that of the 201,117 dentists in the United States, 34.5% of them were women. All said and done, that works out to about 70,000 female dentists.

 

Looking at these numbers, we could very well see dentistry become a female-dominated field before too long. And if the past hundred years are proof of anything, the dental world would surely benefit from it!

 

Women in Dentistry: Against All Odds

Keep in mind, these inspirational women weren’t dealing with everyday issues at the office.

 

They were overcoming the seemingly insurmountable hurdles of discrimination based on their gender and race.

 

Emeline Jones had to teach herself to become a dentist in secret. Can you imagine?

 

Learning a musical instrument is hard enough! But teaching yourself to extract someone else’s tooth? Absolutely mindblowing!

 

Sara Krout had to trick the system into letting her help her fellow Americans during a global crisis. A true maverick that led the way for women dentists in the military for years to come.

 

The women we discussed above helped usher in a new age where female dentists could enjoy the freedoms and positions of influence that men had for so long. And we honor all their hard work and sacrifice this Women’s History Month.

 

Celebrating Women in Dentistry

At Dental Express, equality in dentistry is a matter of principle, and we foster an inclusive atmosphere in each of our practices in the San Diego area.

 

If you want quality dental care in a family atmosphere, call us for more information or to set up an appointment. We’d love to welcome you to our family!

 

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