Why Lying to Dentist is bad for your Oral Health

Posted on January 8, 2018 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

“Have you been flossing?” It is a question that you should hear asked every time you visit your dentist for a cleaning. When asked this question, or anything else regarding your oral hygiene habits at home, it is important to be completely honest. Embellishing, fibbing or outright lying to your dental provider makes it more difficult for you to receive the top level of oral health care. Lying about or oral health routine simply doesn’t do you any favors! Plus, spoiler alert – we know when you are not telling the truth about how often you brush or floss.

Lying about your personal oral hygiene, such as the frequency of flossing, will not work inside the dental office. An expertly trained dentist or dental hygienist can recognize the sign of oral health issues immediately, just by observing indicators such as the accumulation of tartar between the teeth and under the gums. Also, when your gums bleed easily it is usually a good indicator that you do not floss regularly or even at all. Trying to make up for missed time brushing or flossing by performing personal hygiene vigorously for a few days before a dental visit also does not work. In short, there is no substitute to disguise the results achieved from a long-term regimen of comprehensive personal oral hygiene.

Being completely honest with your dentist also allows you both to remain on the same page at all times. If your dentist has all the valid information—the good and the bad—he or she can come up with an optimal regimen of oral home health care that will be customized to your specific lifestyle and needs. Having full knowledge of your real brushing and flossing habits also allows your dentist and dental hygienist to provide the most effective treatments possible during a dental visit.
Plus, it will save you money in the long run.

Even the best dental work by an exceptional dentist will only go so far if the patient does not comply with good oral hygiene efforts. If you spend a significant amount of money on cosmetic dentistry, yet still do not brush and floss regularly, your results simply may not last as long as it could. This means you may end up paying to redo treatment much earlier than you should have, had you kept up with your oral health.

While there are certainly unforeseen circumstances or pre-existing conditions that may contribute to the condition of your oral health, it is important to also discuss your medical history with the dentist. Certain conditions such as pregnancy or diabetes can really take a toll on your oral health, and it may effect how we ultimately treat you for your oral care needs.

So, remember, when your dentist asks questions about your oral hygiene, honesty is always the best policy.

A lifetime of good oral health only can be achieved when you and your dentist work together to obtain the best possible results. If you want to learn more about Hartrick Dentistry and the services that we offer, call our office at (248) 549-0950.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI.

Posted in Oral Health

Make Your Smile Sparkle for the Holidays

Posted on December 6, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Office parties and family gatherings will soon set off the holidays. But, how confident will you feel walking into that room full of co-workers of family members? If your smile is not as bright as you want it to be, there is still time to make your smile sparkle for the holidays!

Why are my teeth dingy and yellow?

Our teeth naturally become yellow and dingy from the foods we eat, specifically by drinking coffee or wine, and by using tobacco products. But, sometimes you can do your best to avoid these things, but end up with a less than perfect smile still. What gives? Well, you can thank Father Time, since teeth naturally discolor as we age. Also, if you do not practice good oral hygiene, you are likely to experience discolored or stained teeth.

How can I brighten my teeth for the holidays?

A simple and inexpensive method of brightening your teeth is with teeth whitening. You have probably seen many teeth whitening kits available over-the-counter at your local drug store, but keep your money in your pocket! These whitening kits can only do so much as far as whitening your teeth, and may not be as effective and safe as professional whitening treatments available at your Royal Oak dentist.

Teeth Whitening with ZOOM!

To get your smile ready for the holidays, Dr. Nancy Hartrick offers ZOOM! teeth whitening in Royal Oak. ZOOM! whitening is available only by prescription at your dentist’s office and can be applied in-office or for use with customized bleaching trays that you can take home and use for treatments. This professional grade of teeth whitening is available in six different concentrations, which means your dentist can choose the best solution for you.

Why Choose ZOOM!

Since ZOOM! is prescribed by your dentist, the right concentration can be selected for you, which helps provide the best results and with reduced sensitivity, unlike with those one-size-fits-all whitening products sold in stores. Over-the-counter whitening agents are designed for everyone, which means they generally are a much weaker solution than what you will find offered at Hartrick Dentistry.

How does ZOOM! work?

When you arrive at our office in Royal Oak, you will have a whitening consultation with Dr. Hartrick as she assesses your oral health, as well as consider your desires for a brighter smile. Then, she will determine which ZOOM! concentration is best for you. The entire whitening process should take no more than 30-45 minutes so you can literally get whiter teeth on your lunch break!

If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, Dr. Hartrick will custom design whitening trays for you, and provide a whitening solution for you to take home. She will also instruct you on how to whiten your teeth, how often, and for how long.

Teeth Whitening in Royal Oak

If you desire a brighter smile for the holidays, ZOOM! whitening may be right for you! To learn more about teeth whitening, or any of the other cosmetic techniques and treatments at Hartrick Dentistry, call our office at (248) 549-0950 to schedule a consultation today.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

How what you eat Impacts your Teeth

Posted on November 11, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of oral health is the basics: flossing, brushing, and routine cleanings. But, did you know what you eat can impact oral health too? Of course, your dentist wants you to stick to the basics, as well. “Have you flossed today?” Just kidding, we’re not here to nag you, but simply inform! As a culture, dieting and clean eating are becoming more prominent ways of getting that ideal body, but did you know that you can also protect your gums from the same practices?

By incorporating immune boosting foods, you could improve your oral health. According to an article by knowyourteeth.com, “Research shows a link between oral health and systemic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. So eating a variety of foods as part of a well-balanced diet may not only improve your dental health, but increasing fiber and vitamin intake may also reduce the risk of other diseases.” Foods rich in Vitamin C such as oranges, red peppers, kale, and brussel sprouts can help strengthen blood vessels, produce collagen to help fight periodontal disease, and can reduce inflammation. A few surprising, yet delicious immune boosting foods include garlic, shellfish, and sunflower seeds.

When you think of Vitamin C, is fruit the first thing to come to mind? It’s for sure the first thing to pop in our minds, but it is important to be cautious of how you are consuming those vitamin-packed, delicious fruits. Although a seemingly healthy option, steer clear of dried fruit. The sugar count is normally high and can often hurt your oral health. Also, canned fruit is a no go. Yes, it is easier and cheaper, but the sugar from the syrup tends to be too much for those pearly whites, increasing your risk of tooth decay. Fresh fruit is always the way to go, it’s delicious, juicy, and benefits your total health.

Adding more fresh fruits and veggies into your diet can be easier than you realize. Fresh fruit smoothies are simple, refreshing, and healthy for your mouth and body. You can even add a handful of your favorite greens for an added punch of antioxidants and vitamins. You might be surprised that your kids may also enjoy this delicious treat. Plus, it is a simple, fuss-free way of getting them to eat more fresh fruit.

Creating a well-balanced diet is one step toward a healthier mouth and body but don’t forget the most important part of oral health – routine check-ups and cleanings. To begin your journey of complete oral health, reach out to Hamilton Dental Care today!

Hamilton Dental Care helps create beautiful smiles that fit the needs of every patient in Bloomsburg, PA and surrounding areas including Danville and Lewisburg. All restorative treatments provided by Dr. Joel Hamilton and Dr. David Hamilton is not only functional but focus on cosmetics as well. With Hamilton Dental Care, you are part of the family. You can schedule your next consultation by calling 570-387-0533.

Posted in Oral Health

Link Between Sleep Apnea & Type II Diabetes

Posted on October 8, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Scientific research continues to show a link between obstructive sleep apnea and Type II diabetes.

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) now recommends that any patient with one of the two conditions be screened for the other. As published in the Sleep Medicine journal, the IDF states that approximately 13 percent of men and 6 percent of women in America suffer from moderate to severe sleep apnea that has gone undiagnosed. Sleep apnea is referred to as the “silent killer,” and could be putting your life on the line!

A separate study by the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health showed that obesity increases the risk factor for both sleep apnea and diabetes.

Sleep apnea is a sleep breathing disorder. A patient with the disorder experiences a partial or complete collapse of his or her airway during sleep. This diminishes or cuts off the flow of oxygen, causing breathing to become intermittent and disrupting the sleep cycle. In a patient with severe sleep apnea, these collapses may occur hundreds of times during the night, leaving a person feeling fatigued and irritable. Sleep apnea increases the risk of other chronic health ailments such as cardiac disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, obesity, and—yes—diabetes.

The World Health Organization estimates that one out of every 10 adults has diabetes. Most diabetic patients have Type II diabetes, meaning they cannot make or process enough insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar.

This new research emphasizes the need for preventive screenings for sleep apnea in people who are overweight or physically inactive—two factors that significantly increase the likelihood of developing diabetes. A sleep study is considered the standard diagnostic tool for determining sleep apnea, but a sleep apnea dentist also can perform an airway evaluation.

Ignoring sleep apnea can bear unsurpassable health risks including an increased risk of stroke, diabetes, and heart attack. Diabetes alone is enough to battle, but throw in these other health risks to the mix and you are really setting yourself up for some major health issues! Thankfully, a sleep apnea dentist such as Hartrick Dentistry can easily treat sleep apnea. Treatment is easier, and more convenient than you may think.

A sleep apnea dentist can both diagnose and treat the sleep breathing disorder, prescribing an adjustable oral appliance that addresses the cause of sleep apnea—the airway issue. This oral appliance is worn during sleep and keeps the lower jaw in the ideal forward resting position, maintaining an open airway, and the flow of oxygen to get you the rest that you need.

Do you or a member of your family have sleep apnea? Do you exhibit any of the symptoms of the disorder such as loud snoring or excessive daytime fatigue? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, or you already have been diagnosed with diabetes, then you should be screened for sleep apnea at your earliest convenience. Call the office of Hartrick Dentistry at (248) 549-0950 to schedule an evaluation today.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in Sleep Apnea

The Truth Behind Dental Checkups and Cleanings

Posted on September 12, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Many people just assume that if their teeth seem healthy, then why bother going to the dentist? That line of thought is to the contrary, as prevention is the key to optimal oral health. There is a lot that could be going on with your teeth and gums that do not show many symptoms until your teeth are in need of repair or irreversible damage has been done.

Here are the reasons why you should go to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings instead of just waiting until you feel pain or something goes wrong.

Bite Correction

Sure, your chompers have been chewing food for years but is your bite properly aligned for optimal support and function? Alternatively, maybe your crooked teeth do not bother you, but you would be surprised to know that misaligned teeth can have negative consequences on your oral health. An optimal bite can not only make you feel confident about your smile, but also relieves tension headaches, mouth, jaw, and neck pain. If you are suffering from bruxism, a condition that leads to clenching and grinding of the teeth, a customized mouth guard is ideal for protecting your teeth from being ground down.

Dental Cleaning

We all get tartar buildup around our teeth and gums, no matter how well you take care of your teeth. Tartar is a hard substance that harbors bacteria that causes tooth decay (cavities), gum disease, infection, and tooth loss. Even with your best efforts of brushing and flossing at home, you simply cannot remove tartar buildup once it has formed. You can save yourself some trouble by having your teeth cleaned regularly at the dentist’s office twice a year. Plus, you will enjoy healthy teeth much longer than if you ignore these checkups.

Prevention and Disease Control

During your checkups at the dentist, your oral health is documented so that problems are apparent, should any changes occur. Also, small issues can be nipped in the bud, instead of waiting until a dental problem is much more serious, requiring invasive treatment. A simple filling is less invasive, and much easier on the wallet, than compared to the cost of a root canal or even replacing a missing tooth due to extensive decay and damage. Remember the old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure!

That is not all the dentist can do. Establishing good oral health is essential to your overall well-being. The dentist can work together with you to derive a treatment plan and oral health regimen that fits your needs. Plus, when you take good care of your teeth, you are lowering your risk of systemic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

To schedule an appointment, contact Hartrick Dentistry today at (248) 549-0950. We welcome patients of all ages and look forward to helping you begin or continue a journey of optimal oral health.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in General Dentistry

Treatment and Prevention of Sleep Apnea: Dentistry Plays a Key Role

Posted on August 10, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Health and wellness are important interests and concerns among the public. The dental profession plays a significant role in this area with the increasing awareness of the relationship between oral and systemic health. The primary responsibility of dental practitioners is to educate and treat patients in a manner that enables them to make the best choices to improve the quality of their lives.

There has been much discussion in the public domain about sleep apnea. This has been brought more into mainstream media the past few years following the local fatal rail accidents that occurred on both the Metro North (2013) and in the Hoboken Terminal (2016). The common detail in each of the accidents is that the engineers of the trains suffered from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), is one of the common comorbid conditions in OSA.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway closes off during sleep and breathing ceases until the brain detects a drop in blood oxygen and rise in carbon dioxide levels. This condition triggers the sympathetic nervous system to signal for an arousal, which allows breathing to begin again but disturbs the normal cycles of sleep. This protection is the body’s way to get us to our next breath, not to support an equilibrium where we can be healthy. The sympathetic nervous system stimulation is accompanied by an increase in cortisol levels via the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Cortisol causes increased stress on the heart and other systems, which also increases levels of inflammation in the body. Heightened cortisol levels increase heart attack and stroke risk, as well as potentially a host of other comorbid conditions including erectile dysfunction, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, nocturnal bruxism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and depression.

Dentists are in a unique position to help people of all ages, from screening for airway issues in adult patients, to aiding in the development of normal airways for growing children. Healthy breathing is necessary both in sleep and in our daily awake lives. Focus on airway and breathing must be centered on structure, function, and behavior. The use of functional appliances, in combination with myofunctional therapy, can be used to guide the growth of the maxilla and mandible to create healthy and properly functioning airways that may not develop into OSA. Long before the airway collapses in OSA, a patient goes through a period where it becomes too small, collapses or there is turbulent airflow, making breathing and proper exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide difficult. It should be the focus of dental professionals to know how to screen for breathing and airway issues in adults and children, as well as how to properly treat pediatric patients so they can experience normal breathing and airway development. It is our responsibility to screen, diagnose and treat airways and breathing. We have access to great technology to assist us in proper diagnosis and management.

The introduction of High Resolution Pulse Oximetry and cone beam CT scans provides us with great tools to assist our patients in screening and diagnosis of airway issues.

Although diagnosis from a physician is necessary in sleep apnea, dentists can be trained to manage structural and function issues. This includes screening and managing these areas of care. We must take the lead in actively creating a network of health care professionals to treat and manage this large and growing public health concern. Dental health professionals should be in the forefront as they are uniquely trained to assess the oral, perioral and facial structures, as well as recognize and treat airway issues before the total collapse of airway obstructive sleep apnea occurs.

There is considerable literature to support the fact that many of the cases and symptoms of ADHD are associated with breathing and airway issues in children. Treatment as well as proper development and function of the airway can often eliminate the symptoms of ADHD. Children must be able to nasal breathe, seal their lips at rest and have proper tongue position and function. Nasal breathing stimulates production of nitric oxide. This chemical is produced in the paranasal sinuses and only during nasal breathing. It is a stimulant to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is essential for proper function of both the cardiovascular and central nervous systems. In addition to being a potent vasodilator, it also has antimicrobial properties. Constant mouth breathing causes inflammation to tonsils, adenoids and oral tissues due to lack of nasal filtration of air. The nose is the filter for the air we breathe as it helps eliminate the passage of viruses, bacteria, fungi and environmental irritants into our airway.

The proper rest position of the tongue from infancy is on the palate as it is the force that leads to proper development of the maxilla.

CBCT for look at sinuses, nasal passages and airway. Keys to upper airway resistance

Constant light forces of the tongue on the palate allow for formation of a wide and properly contoured maxilla. The maxilla is the scaffold for the facial structures along with the width of the nasal passages. Proper development is integral to proper airway formation. The mandible has a higher probability of proper development if the maxillary develops normally.

In clinical screening for airway and breathing, a red flag to normal airway development is the presence of a high palatal vault from tongue positioning. This can result when the tongue rests too low in the mouth which may be due to a tongue tie (ankyloglossia) or enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Open mouth posture, dry mouth, chapped lips, nasal congestion and snoring in children are all additional red flags to proper breathing and airway development.

A network of health professionals who have full understanding of airway and breathing is necessary to help minimize potential diseases and conditions that can result from improper breathing. It is believed that over 40 million Americans suffer from breathing and airway related issues and over 35 million are undiagnosed.

The network of health professionals that can help our community of patients with breathing and airway issues include the following:

Restorative dentists
Pediatric dentists
Pediatric ENTs
Adult ENTs
Myofunctional therapists
Respiratory physiologists
Pediatricians
Sleep physicians
Primary care physicians
Orthodontists
Craniosacral therapists

The goal of these networks and dental practices is to have an algorithm for the diagnosis, control and desired resolution of breathing and airway issues for patients. This is a multidisciplinary approach that involves individualized care. In many cases, the restorative dentist and pediatric dentist are in the unique positions of being the first health care professionals to see and evaluate patients for breathing and airway related issues. The message for the dental profession in 2017 is the fact that this health problem goes way beyond treating sleep apnea. This is a health concern whose vast ramifications are just now becoming well understood.

It is a life changing issue for many patients in our communities. The dental profession has the ability to make a great impact on the health and wellness of our communities and our country.

Dr. Steven Acker has been in clinical practice in Staten Island at his practice, NY Elite Dental of Staten Island, since 1989. He has been an attending at Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center since 1982. He is also a clinical instructor at the Kois Center.

Dr. Nancy Hartrick is in clinical practice at Hartrick Family Dentistry in Royal Oak, MI. She is also a clinical instructor at the Kois Center.

Posted in News and Updates

The Connection Between Lack of Sleep and Diabetes

Posted on July 17, 2017 by HartrickDentistry

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Have trouble sleeping? The consequences can go far beyond just feeling tired during the day.

Recent research has found a potential link between insomnia and an increased risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

According to Sherl Westlund, executive director of Diabetes Research WA, a Harvard study released this year found that women who experienced a number of sleep concerns had a significantly higher risk of becoming diabetics.

More than 133,000 women were evaluated as part of the study, with the range of sleep difficulties cited including problems staying asleep, frequent snoring, sleeping less than six hours, sleep apnea or working on a rotating shift schedule. Females dealing with any combination of these issues were up to four times as likely to develop type-2 diabetes within ten years.

The research was similarly dire for teenagers. For teens that sleep less than eight hours a night, there is an increased likelihood of developing fat around the midsection and insulin resistance, both major precursors to becoming diabetic.

The research reinforces the medical consensus that quality sleep is one of the fundamental cornerstones to maintaining overall good health.

Inadequate sleep in all forms can be harmful. This is particularly the case for sleep apnea, a sleep breathing disorder that develops when the airway becomes blocked. These blockages can happen as many as 30 times a night, disrupting the ability to sleep and increasing the risk of other serious health problems—including diabetes—such as high blood pressure, cardiac disease, and depression.

CPAP no more

In the past, the CPAP (continuous positive airflow pressure) machine was known as the “gold standard” for treating obstructive sleep apnea. The CPAP works by the patient wearing a mask over their nose while they sleep. The mask is hooked up to a machine that is plugged in, and it works by forcing air into the airway while sleeping. Although effective, CPAP users are typically noncompliant and discontinue its use after only a few months.

There are many reported complaints with the CPAP. It is uncomfortable and restricts movement during sleep. Since the mask is worn over the nose, held in place by a head strap, the patient is unable to roll over and sleep on their side comfortably. Also, the machine is rather noisy, and not only can disrupt the sleep of the person using the machine but the sleep of anyone else in the room as well. Traveling with the CPAP can be cumbersome, making overnight stays inconvenient.

Oral appliance therapy for your sleep apnea

Thankfully, advancements in modern dentistry have brought us oral appliance therapy. This is a simple, yet effective method of treating sleep apnea. Oral appliances are custom made and are adjustable to fit the changing needs of your sleep apnea. When worn, the oral appliance helps by repositioning the lower jaw, which in turn facilitates an open airway. Not only are oral appliances comfortable, they are convenient to travel with, and will not disrupt anyone else’s sleep that is in the bedroom with you.

If you suffer from sleep deprivation, and sleep apnea is the cause, the problem will not go away on its own. A qualified sleep apnea dentist, such Hartrick Dentistry, should evaluate you. Contact our office at (248) 549-0950 to schedule an appointment.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in Health

Do I Have Sleep Apnea? Here’s how to Tell

Posted on June 18, 2017 by Dr. Hartrick's Team

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

If you suffer from chronic fatigue, your sleep problems could be stemming from sleep apnea, a disorder in which the airway collapses during sleep, resulting in snoring or gasping for air.

Ultimately, this sleep breathing disorder affects your health, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more, although snoring and fatigue are one of the first warning signs you may have this sleep-breathing disorder.

To protect your health, and essentially save your life, check out these common indicators of sleep apnea.

One of the most telltale signs of sleep apnea is frequent, loud snoring. You may not even be aware that you snore unless someone sleeps with you, and reports the behavior to you. The reason snoring occurs in sleep apnea sufferers is the blockage of the airway that restricts airflow. Sleep apnea causes the brain to slightly awaken out of a deep sleep as if the body were choking, hence the gasping or snoring sounds.

If your snoring only occurs during bouts of sickness, you probably have nothing to worry about. Although snoring is extremely common among sleep apnea sufferers, it is not the only symptom to look out for when determining if you have sleep apnea.

Fatigue is another symptom associated with sleep apnea. Since the body is constantly being awakened during sleep, it is not getting the rest that it needs to thrive and feel rejuvenated. Sleep apnea sufferers are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident because of their frequent fatigue.

Fatigue can be as mild as feeling drained by mid-day, to totally interrupting your life, and leading to depression. If you feel as though you get enough hours of sleep each night, yet still feel tired all of the time, you could have sleep apnea without even realizing it.

Memory problems also occur in a person with sleep apnea. If you find that you have difficulty remembering simple things like appointments, or meetings at work, your kid’s sporting events or the like, your memory issues could be related to sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea sufferers also report moodiness or being overly sensitive to borderline depressed. It is no wonder these feelings occur since the body is not resting as well as it should. If you find that your emotions seem to be off the charts and unusual for you, consider a sleep evaluation by the dentist.

For adults, men specifically, sleep apnea also can impact libido, affecting intimacy in a relationship. Research indicates that men, who do not get a restful night’s sleep, often result in lower levels of testosterone, a hormone directly related to libido.

If you believe that you suffer from sleep apnea, get a sleep evaluation right away, it could save your life! Treatment for your sleep apnea could be easier than you realize with a custom made oral appliance. To learn more, please call the office of Hartrick Dentistry at (248) 549-0950 and schedule an evaluation today.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in Sleep Apnea

A Healthier Diet Means a Healthier Smile

Posted on May 7, 2017 by Dr. Hartrick's Team

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

If you want a healthier smile, watch what you eat. For many, it is not a surprise that foods and snacks loaded with sugar cause tooth decay, but there are many snack options out there that are not as healthy as they seem. Here are some foods to avoid if you want to maintain a healthier smile.

Skip the mints and hard candies that contain sugar. Instead, chew on sugarless gum that contains Xylitol, a sugar-free substitute that tastes good, and reduces your chance of developing tooth decay. Not to mention, your waistline may thank you, too!

Ice is for your drink, not your teeth. As tempting as it may seem, avoid chomping on ice as it can chip or break your teeth or even cause damaging to existing dental work. Although it may not seem like a big deal at first, chewing on ice can cause unnoticeable fractures in your teeth that eventually become larger, and lead to oral health concerns.

Limit your citrus intake, even if it is just lemon water. Citrus, although refreshing, can cause dental enamel erosion. When this occurs, teeth become sensitive, and more susceptible to developing cavities. If you must consume foods or beverages containing citrus, do so in moderation, and be sure to rinse your mouth out with plain water afterward or brush if you can.

What is in your coffee could be harmful to your teeth. Millions of people consume coffee every day, but many enjoy their morning cup of joe by adding sugary creamers and sugar. So, although coffee itself is not all that harmful to your teeth, that added sugar is. Be sure you drink plenty of plain water while also enjoying your coffee, and be mindful of how much sugar you are adding.

Sticky foods that aren’t always healthy include dried fruit. Although raisins and the like may seem healthier, after all, it is fruit, but it still sticks to your teeth and hides in the deep grooves of teeth where cavities usually start. If you consume these snacks, be sure to brush afterward.

Think that crunchy foods are a safer alternative? Think again! Those tasty crackers or potato chips are almost just as bad as the sticky dried fruits. The reason is that these salty snacks are basically carbohydrates, which break down into sugar once consumed. They are basically cookies with salt on them.

Skip the soda and choose water instead. Sipping on sugary beverages throughout the day means that your teeth are constantly being bathed in sugar. Although an occasional sweet drink will not totally wreck your oral health, doing so consistently will cause tooth decay, or worse. So, if you must drink soda every once in a while, just be sure to brush afterward or at least rinse your mouth with water.

Limit your alcohol intake simply because alcohol limits salvia production. Our mouths naturally produce saliva as means to rinse away bacteria and food particles that accumulate in our mouths. Without it, bacteria will easily multiply and begin affecting oral health. Plus, excessive consumption of alcohol has been linked to oral cancer.

Trade in your sports drinks for water. There is a common misconception that sports drinks are “healthy.” Although they help to hydrate and replenish electrolytes that our bodies sweat out during intense exercising or sports, these drinks are also loaded with sugar and contain acids that erode dental enamel. Instead of grabbing a sports drink to rehydrate, consider water or even coconut water instead. If you need the added electrolytes, keep some fresh fruit nearby that you can snack on after your workout.

For more information about oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact the office of Hartrick Dentistry at (248) 549-0950.

Hartrick Dentistry is proud to serve the oral health needs of patients in the areas of Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in General Dentistry

The Health Benefits of Smiling

Posted on April 15, 2017 by Dr. Hartrick's Team

Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI

A smile is universal in all languages. It conveys an emotion that is understood by others, yet many people attempt to hide their smile or don’t smile at all because they are embarrassed about how they look. There are many proven health benefits to smiling, so if you shy away from this common form of body language, don’t! At Hartrick Dentistry, we can transform any smile, which makes for a happier, and healthier, body.

Here are five health advantages of smiling.

Lowers blood pressure

Studies have shown that smiling helps lower blood pressure. If you need a little extra Zen in your life, just smile! It can actually help lift your mood, not to mention the mood of those around you.

Cure the common cold

Sounds a little quirky, but research states that smiling helps the body produce more antibodies and white blood cells, which is what helps the immune system ward off infections such as the common cold, so make smiling part of your daily vitamin intake ritual.

Live longer

Research conducted by the University of Illinois shows that people who smile live longer. In fact, they live, on average, 10 years longer than those who frown more often.

A natural pick-me-up

You know that feeling you get when you drink a cup (or two or three!) of coffee? That is your body releasing endorphins and melatonin, hormones that make you feel good and relieve stress. Bet you did not know that smiling could give you that same pick-me-up feeling without the need for a double shot of espresso!

Healthy relationship

Researchers at DePauw University in Indiana found that people who smile often are more likely to have a healthier relationship or marriage. It can be hard to be mad at your significant other when you are both smiling at each other!

With the proven health benefits of smiling, what have you got to lose? If you tend to hide your smile or not smile at all because you are embarrassed about your smile, then contact Hartrick Dentistry today by calling (248) 549-0950 to schedule a consultation and learn how cosmetic dentistry can change your life.

Hartrick Dentistry serves patients in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan.

Posted in Health