Encouraging good dental hygiene habits in children is essential for their long-term oral health. At Cater Dental of Lombard, we understand the importance of making dental care enjoyable for young patients. Here are some creative tips to keep your child engaged and excited about dental hygiene:

1. Let Them Choose Their Toothbrush:
Allow your child to pick out a special toothbrush featuring their favorite color or cartoon character. Child-sized, soft-bristled brushes come in a variety of fun designs to make brushing more enjoyable. Consider electric or battery-operated toothbrushes for added excitement and better plaque removal.

2. Opt for Children’s Toothpaste:
Children often find mint-flavored toothpaste too strong. Instead, opt for toothpaste designed specifically for kids, available in soft mint, fruity, or bubble gum flavors. Letting your child choose their toothpaste flavor can make brushing more pleasant and encourage them to brush for the recommended two minutes.

3. Use a Timer:
Help your child brush for the recommended two minutes by using a timer. Whether it’s a sand timer, manual stopwatch, or a fun brushing app on your phone or tablet, visual aids can make brushing more engaging. Let your child control the timer to boost their confidence and involvement in the brushing routine.

4. Brush (and Floss) Together:
Set a positive example for your child by brushing and flossing together. Being their role model reinforces the importance of oral hygiene and encourages them to develop healthy habits. Make brushing and flossing a fun family activity to instill a lifelong commitment to dental care.

By implementing these tips, you can make dental hygiene a fun and enjoyable experience for your child. For more advice on pediatric dentistry and making dental visits exciting, contact our Dentist in Lombard IL today. At Cater Dental of Lombard, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in a friendly and welcoming environment.

At Cater Dental of Lombard, we understand the critical role early detection plays in successfully treating oral cancer. Just like any form of cancer, early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Our experienced dentist in Lombard is thoroughly trained in oral cancer screening, providing you with the first line of defense against this potentially life-threatening condition.

During your oral cancer screening at our Lombard office, our skilled dental professionals meticulously examine your lips, tongue, gums, mouth, and throat for any signs of abnormalities that could indicate oral cancer. We take into account any symptoms you may be experiencing, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health. If you’ve been experiencing any oral cancer symptoms for more than two weeks without improvement, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Lombard and inform us immediately.

Be vigilant for symptoms such as:

• Ear pain
• Mouth sores that don’t heal
• White or red patches in your mouth
• Dramatic weight loss
• Lumps or swelling in or around your mouth
• Sore throat without other sinus symptoms
• Sensation of something caught in the back of your throat
• Pain or difficulty in swallowing, speaking, or moving your jaw or tongue

It’s alarming to note that one adult American dies of oral cancer every hour. While anyone can develop oral cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. These include genetic predisposition, prolonged sun exposure, an unhealthy diet, smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, oral cancer tends to affect men more than women.

Regardless of the cause, the success of oral cancer treatment hinges on factors such as the size, type, and stage of the cancer. Early detection is key, with oral cancers detected in their early stages boasting an impressive 80–90% survival rate. When identified early or in precancerous stages, oral cancers can often be removed with less invasive procedures. Conversely, advanced stages of cancer are typically larger and more complex, often requiring more extensive treatment.

At Cater Dental of Lombard, we’re committed to your oral health and well-being. If you’re seeking more information about oral cancer or wish to schedule an oral cancer screening, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office for a consultation or to book a comprehensive dental exam. Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities. Contact us today to take proactive steps towards safeguarding your oral health.

You’ve likely heard it countless times from your dental hygienist or dentist: “Flossing is crucial. Make sure to floss daily.” While it may seem like a repetitive reminder, flossing holds significant importance for both your oral and overall health. Understanding the benefits of daily flossing is key to maintaining a radiant smile.

Flossing plays a vital role in safeguarding not only your gum tissue but also the supporting bone structure. By flossing, you effectively remove plaque – dental bacteria – from the areas between your teeth where brushing alone cannot reach. Without proper cleaning, bacteria can accumulate and harden into tartar, lurking under the gumline and paving the way for periodontal disease and potential tooth loss.

Beyond oral health, periodontal disease can have far-reaching effects on your systemic health. Chronic inflammation resulting from untreated gum disease can contribute to various health issues. The bacteria responsible for periodontal disease have been found to travel through the bloodstream, correlating with conditions such as heart disease, stroke, elevated blood sugar levels (diabetes), and Alzheimer’s disease.

Establishing a consistent flossing routine, coupled with regular brushing and professional cleanings, can prove to be a wise investment in your long-term oral health. Preventative care helps mitigate the risk of more serious dental problems, ultimately saving you both time and money. By minimizing decay between teeth, flossing serves as a proactive measure to address potential issues before they escalate.

While the advice to floss may sound like a broken record, it holds true. Remember the age-old adage: “Only floss the teeth you want to keep.” For a comprehensive dental examination, professional cleaning, and evaluation of your oral hygiene practices, including personalized tips for improvement, contact our office today.

At Cater Dental of Lombard, your trusted Cosmetic Dentist in Lombard, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Schedule an appointment with us to embark on a journey towards a healthier, brighter smile.

If it has been more than 6 months since your last dental visit, it may not be possible to regain optimal oral health care without the assistance of professional care. While creating your oral health plan, make sure to start by scheduling an examination and professional thorough cleaning with our team. Once you’ve received professional care, it’s imperative to adopt an at-home care plan to maintain your oral health between appointments.  

How often should you receive professional care?  

 Your professional oral health care plan will vary based on your individual needs. For patients with mild to severe periodontal disease, a program involving 4 visits per year may be necessary to keep the disease from progressing. For others with a smile less susceptible to periodontal disease and tooth decay, 2 visits per year may suffice. Regardless of your individual needs, once set, do your best to keep to your regular schedule. This will prevent harmful bacteria from causing damage to your beautiful smile and affecting your overall health.  

Home Care 

Many don’t realize the regular dental appointments alone do not ensure optimal oral health. In fact, according to the research conducted by the American Dental Association, brushing should occur twice per day for 2 full minutes with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Interdental cleaning should occur daily and can be done with floss or alternative methods, such as with the use of a Waterpik.  

Decay can occur in a few months or less of oral hygiene neglect. Decay can also occur due to an acidic oral environment, underlying health conditions or as a result of a poor dietary habit.  

Oral Health and Overall Health 

Your oral health is directly related to your overall health. The bacteria and infection found in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream to important organs. It’s imperative to care for your smile, just as you would your heart, lungs or brain.  

Whether it has been only a few months or several years since you’ve last received professional oral health care, we welcome you at our practice. You’ll receive compassionate care, free of judgement. It’s our goal to help you achieve a smile that you’re happy to display.