February 20th, 2012
Cavities occur as a result of the destruction of tooth structure, called tooth decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin (the inner layer of the tooth). While it is very important to brush and floss every day to remove food particles and plaque, regular cleanings and checkups at Dr. McCarthy & Dr. Lindal's office is the best way to help avoid cavities.
Dr. McCarthy & Dr. Lindal can discover cavities during your regular dental checkup. The tooth surface feels soft when probed with a dental instrument. X-rays can also show cavities before they become visible to the eye. In advanced stages of tooth decay, you might experience a toothache, especially after consuming sweet, hot, or cold foods or drinks. Other signs of tooth decay are visible pits or holes in the teeth.
Don’t wait for a toothache!
Remember, the longer you wait to treat a cavity, the more extensive your treatment will be. A small cavity can be treated with a filling, while a large cavity that weakens the structure of your tooth may require a crown. If the decay is so bad that it causes the nerve or pulp of the tooth to die, a root canal or tooth removal may be your only options. If you think you may have a cavity, contact our Camarillo dental office and schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure you leave with a healthy, pain-free smile!
February 13th, 2012
Happy Monday! Did you know that now through Thursday, Feb. 15th you have the opportunity to enter our sweepstakes to WIN an iPad2?
Here’s how to enter: LIKE our Facebook page and complete the entry form located in the Sweepstakes Tab on the left hand side of our page.
We look forward to connecting with you on Facebook! GOOD LUCK!
- From Dr. McCarthy, Dr. Lindal our entire team
February 6th, 2012
You may remember our post from last week, when we discussed February being National Dental Health Month. But did you know February also marks American Heart Month at the office of Dr. McCarthy and Dr. Lindal?
It’s a great time of the year to take notice of the health of your heart – cardiovascular disease remains American’s number one killer, claiming more lives than the rest of major causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and heart disease, underscoring the importance of good oral health care.
Visiting our Camarillo office regularly can help prevent gum disease or at least catch it in its early stages - a healthy mouth begins with a visit to Dr. McCarthy and Dr. Lindal's office. In observance of Heart Month, it’s also important to know your numbers: blood pressure (less than 120/80), cholesterol (less than 200) and BMI (less than 25). If you have any questions about heart health, or about your ongoing treatment at our office, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Or, you may ask us on Facebook!
February 1st, 2012
Did you know February is National Dental Health Month?
It’s a great time of the year to renew those resolutions about continuing to practice great dental hygiene. Today, Dr. McCarthy and Dr. Lindal thought we’d discuss the importance of preventative oral care. While most people are familiar with traditional heart-saving practices such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, lesser-known are the benefits that great oral hygiene provides to one’s cardiovascular health.
Here are a few tips to help you continue those New Year’s resolutions:
*Remember that poor oral hygiene is linked to serious common diseases such as cardiovascular disease, bacterial pneumonia and osteoporosis.
*Brush and floss every day to remove the plaque that can lead to cavities. Flossing daily removes food debris that your toothbrush cannot reach.
*Replace your toothbrush on a regular basis. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or after a cold or illness to prevent re-infection. Remember to use a soft toothbrush so you won’t wear off the enamel of your teeth.
*If heart disease runs in the family, a diagnosis of gum disease increases the likelihood of developing heart disease, but an improved oral care regimen and healthy diet can lower the risk.
*Visit our office regularly. The American Dental Association recommends you visit our Camarillo office every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. Fluoride treatments twice a year will help prevent tooth decay.
Each February, our team focus on the preventive oral care of our patients. Have you visited our office during the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!
Cavities occur as a result of the destruction of tooth structure, called tooth decay. Tooth decay can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin (the inner layer of the tooth). While it is very important to brush and floss every day to remove food particles and plaque, regular cleanings and checkups at Dr. McCarthy & Dr. Lindal's office is the best way to help avoid cavities.