Happy “Tooth-Day”!

Farah Flossit here,  wishing you well on this warm, breezy day!

Well folks, it’s about that time again,….SUMMERTIME!  Most families are wrapping up the school year with graduations, proms, award ceremonies, and surely pool parties!

Unless you are a stay-at-home mom or dad, your kiddos will probably still be sleeping when you leave for work in the morning, unless of course, they will be attending a summer camp or if they are early risers.  If you will be leaving before your kids wake up, they may forget to brush their teeth and fall off the oral hygiene routine.  With this in mind, remember to set some reminders for them, so the mouth monsters don’t get a hold of their cared for smiles.  If you are leaving them with a caretaker/sitter, make sure that person makes them brush and floss.

Below are just a couple of  starter Summer tips to keep in mind:)

• POOL WATER–The chemicals in swimming pools can lead to discoloration of your smile if you’re exposed for long enough. Research has shown that people who spent more than 6 hours a week in swimming pools ended up with discolored front teeth. The reason is the higher pH level of the water, which beaks down proteins in saliva and leave a brownish stain on your teeth. If the pool’s pH balance isn’t properly cared for, the water can also soften enamel, leading to an increased risk of decay and damage. Luckily, trips to the dentist for regular cleanings and fluoride treatments can combat both of these problems!
• SUMMER FUN FOODS–During the summer, you’re probably going to attend a lot of parties, and with parties come a variety of beverages and snacks. Summertime drinks include soda, sports drinks, white wine, beer, and lemonade, and these drinks are loaded with sugar. A simple tip for counteracting the effects of these beverages, however, is to rinse your mouth with water regularly throughout the party. But don’t brush your teeth too soon after consuming acidic beverages. These drinks can soften enamel, and brushing while the enamel is soft can do more damage. Wait at least an hour before you brush!  Party foods can be dark in color and full of sugar as well. Dark foods contribute to stained teeth, and we all know what happens when you eat too much sugar! Cavities!  But by rinsing your mouth after eating these dark and sugary foods, you can avoid staining and cavities — and a trip to the dentist during your summer can give your smile a boost!

Don’t forget to protect your skin from the strong rays by applying sunscreen multiple times while you are outside.  Wear a hat and sunglasses and now is a good time to accessorize your little ones with cool sunglasses, hats, and UV protected rash guards.  Be safe, stay cool, and let the Summertime fun festivities begin!

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)

 

Happy “Tooth-Day:!

Farah Flossit here, wishing you well after a long weekend:)

Not sure about your homes, but routines are very important in my house.  I’m a true believer that creating a routine for brushing is very important and will help your children have lasting good oral habits.

The information I’m reporting today was gathered by me from HealthyChildren.org (https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral-health/Pages/Brush-Book-Bed.aspx). In doing a brief search for nighttime books, I came across this information & thought it was a great find that I could share with my readers to help implement or improve “Nighttime Routine”.

The main message is BRUSH, BOOK, BED.  One of the things I love about this, is that it also promotes literacy.

Brush, Book, Bed, is a program of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and has a simple and clear message for parents:

• Each night, help your children to brush their teeth.
• Read a favorite book (or two)!
• Get to bed at a regular time each night.

Having a predictable nighttime routine will help them understand and learn to expect what comes next.  Additionally, routines may ease the stress that some families experience at nighttime.  Sleep is very important to your child’s health and well-being.  In fact, good sleep habits start from birth.  However, getting young children to sleep (and to stay asleep) is often one of the most daunting tasks of parenthood.  Regardless of your child’s age, the key is to have a predictable series of steps that help him wind down from the day.  All young children need help with brushing from an adult to make sure a good job is done.  As soon as baby is born, you can start good oral health practices. 

After toothbrushing and before bed, find a comfortable spot to sit and read with your child. Spending some time, even just 15 minutes each day, to read aloud together will help improve your child’s language development and social-emotional skills. Make up your own stories, use silly voices, sing songs, and just enjoy this special bonding time with your child. Visit your local library or bookstore, and give your child the opportunity to explore different kinds of books.  Remember, it is never too early to share books with your child.  As your child ages, so will the kind of books he or she enjoys.

Set regular bedtimes (and, if appropriate, nap times) and stick to them. Do not wait for your child to start rubbing his eyes or yawning — that’s probably too late. Putting your child to bed even 15 to 20 minutes earlier can make a big difference and ensure everyone has a good night’s rest.

Funny enough, I didn’t continue with my search for NEW Nighttime Books, so next week I will make sure to share my cool finds about that, lol:)  I thought today was very appropriate for the topic at hand, considering how difficult it could be getting back into the swing of things after a long weekend.  I hope this was encouraging information to help you all get back into your daily routines.

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)

 

Happy “Tooth-Day”!

Farah Flossit here, wishing you well!:)

I am a huge fan of the AAPD and their resources.  I came across this Q&A about thumb sucking, & I thought parents facing this issue might find Dr. Miller’s feedback helpful.

 

The answer to this mom’s question is answered below by the AAPD‘s very own Jade Miller, D.D.S., AAPD, President-Elect.  Dr. Jade Miller is the president-elect for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Answer: “Sucking on a thumb or finger is normal for infants and young children and most children stop on their own. However, if a child doesn’t stop on their own, we do advise parents to discourage the habit ideally after age 3. Prolonged thumb sucking can lead to crooked teeth and bite problems affecting both baby teeth and permanent teeth that are developing, causing upper front teeth to tip outward and upper jaw to narrow in the back.
Be sure to use a positive approach and focus on praising your child when they are not thumb sucking. Initially, you could try limiting the time and location thumb sucking occurs, for example only at home or only while the child is in their bedroom to help them ease out of the habit. Be sure to speak with your pediatric dentist about specific tips to help your child stop her thumb sucking habit. Your pediatric dentist can offer advice and make recommendations based on your child’s demeanor and explain the effects on teeth to your child in an appropriate manner during your regular check-ups. Often, this advice, along with support from parents, enables many children to quit.”

Stay tuned, as I would like to re-visit this topic with some practical solutions that other moms have used as well.  There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to kids, so the more ideas, the better!:)

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)

Happy “Tooth-Day!”

Farah Flossit here, sending you warm greetings!

We often discuss a lot about little ones, but today I thought I’d provide some tips to parents about their teens & how to help them maintain good oral health.  As parents you feel good that your children become independent, but teens sometimes fall off the wagon when it comes to taking care of their oral health.  In light of this, I’d like to give you some easy ways to keep them motivated.

1. Fresh Supplies–A new toothbrush is always nice to find when you go brush your teeth.  Periodically supply your teen with a new toothbrush.  Ideally, provide them with this treat at a time you know that they might “skip” out on brushing.  In addition, keep plenty of toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash handy so that there are no excuses when it comes to asking them if they brushed, rinsed, and flossed.
2. Schedule the Orthodontic Consultation–It is recommended that by age 7 you take your child for a consultation with the Orthodontist.  One of the many nice things about Casa Smile Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is that we offer both dentistry & orthodontics.  So, when your child is ready, the dentist will refer you directly to our orthodontist.  In addition, the consultation is COMPLIMENTARY!  As your children grow, so do their facial bones & muscles and it is important to seek the right guidance to your teen’s specific  needs.  There are many options with respect to obtaining a perfect & most importantly healthy smile.  A nice smile boosts self confidence:)
3. Make Healthy Choices for THEM–There are a lot of things that you cannot control about your teens, but you buy the food they eat, so if you buy junk food, that’s what they will consume.  Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with healthy snacks.  When they are hungry, they will raid the kitchen & eat what is available to them.
4. Boost Their Confidence— Teens are concerned about how they look and you can benefit from playing to their vanity.  Take advantage & tell them how attractive a healthy smile can be.  Explain that caring for their teeth is caring about how they look.  Fresh breath & a nice smile will encourage them to maintain good oral habits.
5. Mouthguard Awareness–Many teens are very active.  Make it a point to have a mouthguard made or purchase one for your active teen.  This is a topic you can discuss with your orthodontist to make the right choice for your teen.
6. Make & Take–It’s still your job to MAKE their regular check up & cleaning appointment and TAKE them!  This way you make sure to consult with the dentist yourself to get a full status report on their oral health.

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)

Happy “Tooth-Day”!

Farah Flossit here, wishing you all well!

Summer is fast approaching & vacation from work or school does not mean you can take a vacation from your dental health.  As a matter of fact, when vacation is on the horizon, it is easy to step out of your schedules & routines.  Today I’d like to share a few pointers on how to keep you smile healthy when traveling or on vacation.

1. Visit the Dentist before you depart.  You should not put off your visit to the dentist for your check up and cleaning.  Planning ahead is half the battle.  As soon as you have your travel dates, make your appointment so that you don’t have to rush.  Doing this will help prevent any dental issues from ruining your family trip by detecting any issues that need to be treated before you leave.  Summertime is a busy time for Dental Offices, so call ahead to get your preferred time & date.
2. Put together a dental travel kit.  Now-a-days you can find almost anything in travel size.  A trip to the store for this can actually be pretty fun!  Don’t forget to pack travel-sized mouthwash, floss, and of course a toothbrush.  It’s always a good idea to bring an extra disposable toothbrush just in case.
3. Toothbrush Care.  It is extremely important to keep your toothbrush covered.  Extra handling, luggage, & hotel bathrooms provide bacteria extra an opportunity to find its way into your bristles & into your mouth.  There are anti-bacterial covers, but ideally, you should take a packaged one that you can dispose of later (unless you have a great travel kit for your Sonicare).  Closed covers give a warm, damp place for bacteria to grow, so let your brush dry before you cover it up.  In addition, make sure you place your toothbrush far away from the toilet–you don’t want it to fall in or have any bacteria get close when flushing.
4. Be mindful of your diet.  I’m sure you will all eat more sugary drinks, snacks, & deserts while on your vacation, but when you can, pack some healthy snacks for the family.  You can still make some healthy choices in between those “cheat” meals & extra treats.  And always keep your oral hygiene habits in place by brushing & flossing at least 2x day!

I hope today’s report gets you looking forward to some good times this summer with your friends & family. Planning can be fun and can also help keep your family have a healthy smile all year round. 

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!  More travel tips to follow throughout the summer:)

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)

Happy “Tooth-Day”!

Farah Flossit here, wishing ALL MOMS a very Happy Mother’s Day this weekend!

As moms we are always trying to make the best decisions for our children.  In light of that, I’m here (as a MOM), to re-assure you that having chosen a Pediatric Dentist for your child is the right decision.  Sure, a general dentist can probably “get it done”, but our children are way more special than that.  There is a reason why dentists choose to “specialize” in different areas.  The reason the specialty for “Pediatric Dentistry” exists is because children have specific needs for their oral care.  I’d like to go over just a few reasons why choosing a “Pediatric Dentist” is the best choice & in turn, makes you a Great MOM:

1. Specializing in Children’s Teeth—Pediatric dentists have been specifically trained to treat children’s developing teeth.  They are also knowledgeable enough to guide parents & caregivers during the stages of development.  They know the unique problems children may face, such as cavities and gum problems.  In addition, most Pediatric Dentists are qualified to handle special cases that may need to be addressed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia.  Lastly, pediatric specialists have experience dealing with frightened children & can help your child feel at ease & comfortable.
2. Smaller Child-Friendly Equiptment–While there’s nothing wrong with using standard-sized dental equipment on children, it’s nice that pediatric dental offices use samller equipment designed for a child’s mouth.  Additionally, many pediatric dentists help ease your child into dental exams by introducing one piece of equipment at a time.  This can help children get used to complex & often “scary-looking” tools without overwhelming them.
3. Inviting & Child-Friendly Environment–For those that have actually visited Casa Smiles, you know that we go above & beyond in this department.  Not only is our office clean, pretty, & fun, but our team is also ready to greet you & your kiddos with a smile.  We have iPads for children to play with in our welcoming area along with a TV playing Disney favorites.  Then as you move on to our comfy exam chairs, you can put on your own headphones & choose a movie to watch during your visit.  Moms & dads get to listen to music playing in the office & get to enjoy coffee, tea, water, or even hot chocolate in our refreshment area.  As if that was not enough, when your child is all done our hygienists gift your kiddos stickers.  Finally. on your way out, our Casa Smiles guests get to pick a prize from the Treasure Box.  We also make sure moms & dads leave with a token of our appreciation, such as chap stick, hand sanitizer, or another seasonal gift.
4. Focus on Preventative Care–Pediatric dentists also focus on prevention of dental problems to ensure a lifetime of good dental health.  Pediatric specialists can give you advice & teach you about developing healthy habits, like 2x a day brushing & flossing.  A pediatric dentist will also have the latest information on preventative treatments as they pertain specifically to children.

We feel blessed that you have chosen Casa Smiles Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics as your dental home for your children.  If you ever have any questions or concerns about your child’s oral health, don’t hesitate to ask.  Way to go MOMS, you made the right choice & have gifted your children a healthy smile:)

Thank you for tuning in on today’s Happy “Tooth-Day’s” report!

I look forward to chatting with you all next week!

In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/casasmilespediatricdentistryandorthodontics?pnref=lhc. Instagram http://instagram.com/casasmiles/, Twitter https://twitter.com/casa_smiles, Yelp http://www.yelp.com/biz/casa-smiles-pediatric-dentistry-and-orthodontics-coral-gables & Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/casasmiles/ to hear all about our daily news! You can always call or email us with any questions, concerns, to make an appointment, or for a complimentary Ortho Consultation http://www.casasmiles.com/contact-us/.

Your Friend,

Farah Flossit (Special Agent Flossit)