Halloween Candy Dental Awareness: Tips for Keeping Kids’ Teeth Healthy in Apex, NC

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Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for children in Apex, NC, with costumes, trick-or-treating, and, of course, candy. However, as much fun as Halloween is, it’s also a time to be mindful of dental health, especially when it comes to kids. Dr. Rylan Hansen and his team at the family dental office in Apex want to help families enjoy the holiday while keeping their children’s smiles bright and healthy. Here are some helpful tips, facts, and advice to ensure that Halloween treats don’t lead to dental tricks!

The Sugar and Tooth Decay Connection

When children eat sugary treats, the sugar interacts with bacteria in the mouth to produce acids that can weaken tooth enamel. Over time, this process can lead to cavities. While occasional indulgence is fine, consuming large amounts of sugary candy—especially if it’s sticky or hard—can increase the risk of dental issues. Understanding which types of candy are more harmful to teeth and how to practice good oral hygiene during this season can help keep your child’s smile cavity-free.

Best and Worst Halloween Candy for Teeth

Not all candies are created equal when it comes to dental health. Here’s a quick rundown on the types of candy that can be more or less harmful to kids’ teeth:

  • Worst for Teeth:
    • Sticky and Chewy Candy: Caramels, gummies, and taffy are particularly harmful because they stick to teeth and are harder to wash away. This gives bacteria more time to feed on the sugar.
    • Hard Candy: Suckers and other hard candies stay in the mouth longer, exposing teeth to sugar for an extended period. Additionally, biting down on hard candy can chip or damage teeth.
    • Sour Candy: Sour candies are acidic and can erode enamel, which weakens teeth and makes them more susceptible to cavities.
  • Better Choices:
    • Chocolate: Chocolate is easier to wash away than sticky candies and has less chance of lingering on teeth. Dark chocolate, which contains less sugar, is an even better choice.
    • Sugar-Free Candy: Sugar-free options are much kinder to teeth and are a great choice if available.

Helpful Tips for a Tooth-Friendly Halloween

  1. Set Candy Limits: Allow your child to pick a few favorite treats to enjoy each day, rather than letting them indulge in a large quantity at once. This reduces the amount of time sugar is in contact with their teeth, decreasing the risk of cavities.
  2. Encourage Good Timing: Try to have your child eat candy as part of a meal or shortly afterward. Saliva production increases during meals, which can help neutralize acids and rinse away food particles, making candy less damaging when eaten with other foods.
  3. Drink Water to Wash Away Sugar: Drinking water after eating candy helps rinse away sugar and acids, reducing the risk of cavities. Encourage kids to take a few sips of water after enjoying their Halloween treats.
  4. Establish a Brushing Routine: Make sure your child brushes their teeth twice a day, especially after eating sugary treats. Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen their enamel and help protect their teeth from decay. You can also encourage them to floss each day to remove any sticky residue from hard-to-reach areas.
  5. Consider Sugar-Free Gum: If your child is old enough, sugar-free gum can be a good option after indulging in candy. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away sugars and neutralize acid in the mouth.
  6. Limit Halloween Candy Stash: One option to consider is the “Halloween candy buy-back” program or simply offering to trade your child’s candy for a small toy or other reward. This helps reduce the amount of candy they consume while still making the experience fun.

The Importance of Routine Dental Checkups

After Halloween, it’s essential to schedule a dental checkup for your child to ensure their teeth are in good shape. Dr. Rylan Hansen’s office in Apex, NC, provides family dental care and preventive services to help kids maintain healthy smiles year-round. A professional cleaning removes any plaque buildup, and an examination can catch early signs of cavities before they become more serious. Halloween is the perfect time to reinforce good dental habits with your kids and to address any concerns with your dentist.

Celebrate Halloween with a Healthy Smile

Halloween can be a fun and enjoyable holiday without compromising your child’s dental health. By making smart candy choices, encouraging healthy habits, and scheduling regular dental checkups with Dr. Hansen in Apex, NC, you can help your child enjoy the holiday and protect their teeth at the same time.

For more advice on keeping your child’s teeth healthy during the holiday season or to schedule a post-Halloween checkup, contact Dr. Hansen’s family dental office in Apex. Together, we can ensure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy, even after enjoying a few Halloween treats!

Prevention Is Key to Dental Health. Here’s More About Our Apex NC Preventative Dentistry Services

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Preventative Dentistry in Apex, NC

Protecting Smiles for a Lifetime

At Hansen Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the cornerstone of excellent oral health. By taking a proactive approach to dental care, we help patients of all ages avoid cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. As your trusted Apex dentist near you, Dr. Rylan Hansen and our experienced team are dedicated to providing gentle, thorough preventative care to keep your smile healthy and vibrant.

Why Preventative Dentistry Matters

  • Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental visits help us catch potential problems before they escalate, saving you time, money, and discomfort.
  • Long-Term Savings: Preventative care minimizes the need for extensive treatments, making it a cost-effective investment in your oral health.
  • Healthier Smiles for All Ages: From fluoride treatments for kids to gum disease prevention for adults, we tailor care to meet the needs of every patient.
  • Comprehensive, Family-Friendly Care: We’re committed to making dental visits stress-free and educational for the entire family.

Preventative Dentistry Services We Provide

Our preventative care offerings include:

  • Routine Cleanings and Exams: Essential for maintaining oral health and preventing decay.
  • Fluoride Treatments: Strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
  • Dental Sealants: Shield teeth from decay, especially in children and teens.
  • Digital X-Rays: Advanced imaging technology for accurate and safe diagnostics.
  • Oral Health Education: Guidance on brushing, flossing, and nutrition to promote healthy habits at home.

Your Partner in Proactive Dental Care

Preventative dentistry is the key to avoiding many common dental issues, and our team is here to support you every step of the way. With modern technology, a welcoming environment, and personalized care, we make it easy to prioritize your oral health.

Schedule Your Preventative Care Appointment Today

Protect your smile with expert preventative care from Hansen Dentistry. Call (919) 363-8444 or submit a request form on our website to schedule your next appointment. Discover why Dr. Rylan Hansen is known as the best dentist in Apex for family-focused preventative care.

Not Just for Kids: Dental Sealants for Adults Improve Oral Health

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Understanding the Purpose and Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a common preventive treatment used to protect teeth from the risk of cavities and tooth decay. These thin, plastic coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, where the majority of dental decay occurs. The purpose of dental sealants is to create a protective barrier that prevents bacteria and food particles from settling into the deep crevices of the teeth.

One of the main benefits of dental sealants is their ability to significantly reduce the risk of cavities. By creating a smooth surface on the tooth, sealants make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing. Sealants are particularly recommended for individuals who have deep grooves on their teeth or are prone to cavities.

The Process and Procedure of Applying Dental Sealants

The process of applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and typically completed in one dental visit. It is typically done by a general dentist or dental hygienist. The first step involves a thorough cleaning and drying of the teeth to ensure proper adhesion of the sealant.

Once the teeth are ready, an acidic solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This solution helps roughen the surface of the teeth, making it easier for the sealant to bond securely. After rinsing and drying the teeth again, the dental sealant is carefully brushed onto the targeted areas. To ensure proper sealing, a special curing light may be used to harden and set the sealant.

After the sealant application, it is essential to check the bite to ensure that the sealant hasn’t altered the natural alignment of the teeth. If any adjustments are needed, your dentist can make them at this stage.

Maintaining and Caring for Dental Sealants: Tips and Advice

Caring for dental sealants is relatively easy, requiring only regular oral hygiene practices. It’s important to continue brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove any food particles or plaque buildup. Additionally, you should schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the sealants are intact and functioning correctly.

While dental sealants can offer long-lasting protection, they are not invincible. Over time, they may wear off or chip due to the constant forces of chewing and biting. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid habits like chewing ice, using teeth as tools, or biting on hard objects. By being mindful of these habits and maintaining proper oral hygiene, you can ensure that your dental sealants provide optimal protection for many years to come.

In conclusion, dental sealants are a valuable preventive treatment that can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. Understanding their purpose, benefits, application process, and proper care is essential in maintaining good oral health. If you’re considering dental sealants, consult with your general dentist who can provide personalized recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Find Out More About Our Apex NC General Dentistry Services

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General Dentistry in Apex, NC

Comprehensive Dental Care from the Best Dentist in Apex

At Hansen Dentistry, we believe that exceptional dental care should be accessible to everyone. As a trusted Apex dentist near you, Dr. Rylan Hansen and his experienced team provide a full range of general dentistry services designed to support your oral health and keep your smile healthy and bright.

Why Choose Hansen Dentistry for General Dentistry?

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: We prioritize understanding your dental history, current concerns, and goals to create care plans that fit your lifestyle.
  • Advanced Technology: From digital X-rays to state-of-the-art tools, our modern approach ensures accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
  • Comprehensive Care Under One Roof: Whether you need a filling, crown, or routine check-up, we are your one-stop solution for oral health.
  • Welcoming Environment: As one of the best dentists in Apex, Dr. Hansen and our friendly team work hard to make every visit comfortable and stress-free.

General Dentistry Services We Provide

  • Regular cleanings and exams to maintain oral health
  • Cavity treatment with tooth-colored fillings
  • Oral cancer screenings for early detection
  • Gum disease treatment and management
  • Crowns and bridges for restorative care
  • Nightguards for bruxism (teeth grinding)

Find Your Trusted Apex Dentist Near You

Whether you’re maintaining your oral health or addressing specific dental concerns, Hansen Dentistry is here to help. Call (919) 363-8444 or request an appointment online to experience care from the best dentist in Apex. We look forward to being your partner in oral health.

Book an Appointment with a Trusted Local General Dentist for These 5 Reasons

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Caring for Your Oral Health: A Local Dentist Who Understands Your Needs

When it comes to your oral health, finding a dentist who truly understands your needs and concerns is essential. Booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist ensures that you receive personalized care tailored to your specific requirements. Local dentists often prioritize building strong relationships with their patients, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of your oral health history, concerns, and goals.

The Importance of Continuity in Dental Care: Why Choosing a Trusted Local Dentist Matters

Continuity in dental care is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. By choosing a trusted local dentist, you establish a long-term partnership centered on your wellbeing. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for detecting and preventing oral issues before they escalate. A local dentist who you trust can provide consistent care, making it easier to monitor your oral health and address any concerns promptly.

The Key to Lifelong Dental Wellness: Building a Lasting Partnership with a Local Dentist

Building a lasting partnership with a local dentist is one of the keys to achieving lifelong dental wellness. Over time, your local dentist becomes familiar with your dental history, making it easier to identify changes in your oral health and determine the most effective treatment plans. This long-term relationship also enhances communication and trust between you and your dentist, ensuring that you receive the best possible care.

Access to Comprehensive Dental Services: The Expertise of a Local General Dentist

Booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist grants you access to comprehensive dental services. Whether you require routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, or cosmetic procedures, your local dentist can provide a wide range of treatments to meet your needs. Additionally, local dentists often stay updated with the latest advancements and techniques in dentistry, guaranteeing that you benefit from the most modern and effective treatments available.

Convenience and Community Support: Booking with a Local Dentist

Choosing a local general dentist offers the convenience of easy access to dental care. With a trusted local dentist, you won’t have to travel long distances for appointments, saving you time and effort. Additionally, by supporting local dental practices, you contribute to your community’s growth and development. Local dentists often participate in community events and initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to the welfare of their patients and the community as a whole.

In conclusion, booking an appointment with a trusted local general dentist brings numerous benefits. From personalized care to continuity in dental care and building a lasting partnership, a local dentist plays a crucial role in ensuring your oral health and overall wellbeing. Additionally, accessing comprehensive dental services and contributing to your community’s support are added advantages of choosing a local dentist. Prioritize your oral health today by selecting a trusted local general dentist who will provide exceptional care tailored to your unique needs.

6 Foods to Avoid to Save Your Teeth and Why?

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Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you follow a healthy diet. Not only will this keep you healthy, but it will also keep your teeth and gums healthy. There are several foods that you will need to limit or avoid.

1. Candy

It shouldn’t be a surprise that candy is bad for your teeth. The sugar from the candy clings to your teeth and mixes with the bacteria to create a cavity-causing acid. That is why a Apex, NC general dentist will recommend that you limit your intake of sugar.

2. Acidic Fruits And Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, but they may be bad for your teeth. Acidic fruits and vegetables, such as lemons, tomatoes and grapefruits, can damage your enamel. You do not have to completely give up fruits and vegetables. However, it is best for you to eat them along with a meal.

3. Starches

Potato chips and bread are examples of starchy foods. They are bad for your oral health as well as your overall health. Starches are broken down into sugar.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can dry out your mouth. Saliva is needed to keep your mouth clean. If your mouth does not produce enough saliva, then you will be more likely to develop cavities and gum disease.

5. Hard Foods

I knew that I needed to find a dentist near me when I found out how bad hard foods were for your teeth. Hard foods require that you put in more effort to chew. They can cause your teeth to break.

6. Dried Fruits

Our local dentist in Apex, NC will recommend that you eat fresh fruit instead of dried fruit. Dried fruit is much higher in sugar. It can also stick to your teeth.

Request an appointment with our local general dentist today and get your confident smile back!

Tips for Relieving Dry Mouth, from Our Apex Family Dentist

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Occasionally, a patient will visit our office expecting to have no dental cavities, and is very surprised to learn that they have one. Often, this patient is middle-aged or older, brushes and flosses every day, and has no prior history of tooth decay. When this happens, dentists immediately begin to suspect dry mouth caused by new medications or an undiagnosed condition. Dry mouth causes a decrease in saliva production, which is crucial for regulating oral bacteria and keeping the teeth healthy. Below is more information about the causes of dry mouth, and some treatments that can help.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth

Many medications can cause dry mouth as a side effect. Common dry-mouth inducing medications include muscle relaxants; pain medications; antidepressants; blood pressure and heart rhythm medications; Parkinson’s and Alzheimers disease medications; antihistamines; and decongestants. Recreational drug use, chemotherapy, nerve damage due to injury or surgery, and poor nutrition can also cause dry mouth. Note that this list is far from comprehensive; to learn whether a medication, behavior or condition may be causing your dry mouth, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Treatments for Dry Mouth

Regardless of the cause of your dry mouth, it’s important to do something about it, as lack of saliva can lead to cavities, gingivitis (gum disease), and halitosis (bad breath). Below are some tips on managing dry mouth from our Apex dentist.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is important for many aspects of your health in general, but for those suffering from dry mouth, it is even more important. Strive to drink at least 8-12 eight ounce glasses of water a day, unless your doctor advises against it. Taking small sips throughout the day will benefit you more than consuming a large amount in one sitting, as it helps to “wash” your teeth all day long.

Chew Sugarless Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can help to stimulate saliva production, providing your salivary glands are still operational, and not permanently damaged by injury or chemotherapy. The best sugar substitute, from a dentist’s perspective, is xylitol, a plant-derived sweetener that actively kills harmful tooth bacteria. Sucking on sugar-free lollipops can also help boost saliva production.

Avoid Drugs, Alcohol & Citrus 

Alcohol, caffeine, and citric acid can all dry out the mouth and inhibit saliva production. If you use an alcoholic mouthwash, you might want to try switching to a saltwater rinse instead. On the subject of indulgences, tobacco and marijuana can also worsen dry mouth, so if you use these, try to decrease or eliminate your use. Note that the nicotine in electronic cigarettes also contributes to dry mouth.

Add Moisture to Your Environment

Moistening dry foods with broth, sauces, milk or melted butter can make it easier to chew and swallow; you could also simply try adding more non-citric fruit and vegetables to your diet. You can also use a humidifier to add moisture to the ambient air around you, especially while you sleep.

Suffering from Dry Mouth? Talk to an Apex Dentist Today  

As oral healthcare specialists, dentists are able to assess potential causes of dry mouth, and prescribe or recommend products that can treat it. Many moisturizing gels, lozenges, and mouthwashes designed specifically to treat dry mouth are available over the counter; if these prove to be ineffective, your dentist can prescribe medications that stimulate the saliva glands. To reach a dentist in Apex NC, please click here.

Our Apex Dentist Explains 3 Common Sources for Jaw Pain

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Many people experience jaw problems that cause them pain or annoyance and sometimes they may only be temporary, but other times, they may last for weeks, months or even years.

When this happens, patients aren’t always aware of what’s causing their jaw pain, which may be a problem with their TMJ (temper mandibular joint). This joint holds the jaw to the rest of the skull, and when it causes pain and other troubling symptoms, it’s usually a sign of a TMJ disorder.

Naturally, you use your jaw for many aspects of normal day-to-day life, so a TMJ disorder can significantly interfere with it. In order to relieve jaw pain, it’s necessary to first understand the causes, and how a dentist in Apex, like Dr. Rylan Hansen, can help. Here are three common sources for jaw pain.

Malocclusion

A malocclusion is more simply known as an improper bite, and occurs when the teeth do not fit together correctly. This not only causes pain but also inefficient chewing, poor nutrient absorption and an increased risk of tooth breakage. Malocclusions can be caused by a number of factors such as genetics, wisdom teeth impaction, botched dental or orthodontic procedures, thumb-sucking and missing teeth that allow the surrounding ones to shift out of place. To address this issue, you should start by visiting your general dentist. They may place a crown or bridge to help correct small malocclusions. For more significant cases, tooth extraction, braces, or surgery in rare cases may be recommended. Because malocclusions can result from past botched procedures, your dentist may also be able to repair these if they’re the cause.

Tooth Grinding

Grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can cause them to become flattened on top. Bruxism most often occurs without the patient’s knowledge while they’re asleep. Otherwise unexplained jaw pain is the most reliable symptom especially if it occurs in the morning, but you may also experience frequent headaches. If you visit your general dentist, they can usually provide you with a special mouth guard to wear at night, thereby protecting your teeth against grinding.

Injury

Any time you sustain an injury to your head, neck or shoulders, there’s a potential for it to cause jaw pain. Injuries like these can damage the jaw joint, tear the muscle tissue, pop the jaw out of alignment or cause chronic inflammation of the area. As a result, patients can experience pain and cracking during eating or talking. Pain from these injuries can often be through one or more methods, including re-alignment, special dental devices, and in some cases, surgery.

Living with chronic jaw pain can make your life miserable. Furthermore, when we are unable to speak or eat without impediment, it complicates effective communication and your ability to keep yourself healthy. If you’ve been struggling to relieve jaw pain, contact our dentist in Apex today to find out what options you have.

Our Apex Dentist Shares Why Getting Dental Crowns Is A Good Thing!

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You already have plenty of reasons to be anxious about going to see your doctor. Dreading the thought of having a crown installed shouldn’t be one of them! As you’re about to find out, dental crowns are tremendously reliable and they play a very important role in restorative dentistry.

Reasons Why You May Need Dental Crowns

Crowns are dental appliances that almost always cover the entire surface of a tooth. (In certain cases your dentist may recommend a partial crown, but these are rare.) Dental crowns are necessary in a wide variety of different situations, from major cavities to supporting other forms of restorative dentistry. If you’re also having a bridge or a partial denture installed, for instance, you may require one or more crowns to support the larger appliance.

Any tooth that is vulnerable to further damage and incapable of functioning normally is a good candidate for a crown. Large cavities are probably the most common reason to install crowns, but plenty of others exist. Physical damage may call for a crown after an impact-related injury. Crowns may even sometimes be required to protect a tooth following a root canal.

How An Experienced Dentist Installs Crowns

Your road to a successful crown installation begins with a preparatory visit. The first thing your dentist will do is shape your tooth to receive the new appliance. This is done under anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Depending on the kind of crown you and your dentist pick out, roughly 1 millimeter of material needs to be removed from your natural tooth.

Once your tooth is ready, your dentist will take impressions to send to a dental lab. You’ll then likely be fitted with a temporary crown to keep your teeth in working order while the permanent piece is created. Once it’s ready, you’ll return to your dentist’s office so your new crown can be cemented in place.

One of Restorative Dentistry’s Greatest Success Stories

While no artificial replacement can match a healthy, natural tooth for strength and longevity, properly-installed crowns come close. Most experienced dentists will confidently predict that a crown will last at least ten years. In fact, longer lifespans (thirty years of more) are entirely possible if you take care of your crown and your other teeth.

Few dental appliances are quite as refined and reliable as good crowns, and they can make a world of difference in your mouth. Talk to our apex dentist today if you already know you need a crown installed.

 

Gingivitis Prevention – What You Need to Know to Maintain Good Oral and Physical Health

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Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. It causes your gums to become reddened, irritated and swollen. Many people are unaware they have this condition, but it’s important to take symptoms seriously and seek treatment promptly as it is the early stage of gum disease.

When diagnosed early, this conditions can be treated and even reversed. However, if left untreated, this condition can advance to gum disease, which is a far more serious oral health issue that is not reversible. Gum disease can result in tooth and bone loss, and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss among adults. Gum disease affects more than your mouth, proven by recent studies that have linked gum disease to diabetes, heart attacks and strokes.

Associated Symptoms

Healthy gums appear pale pink and are firm. This condition is rarely painful, making it difficult for you to be aware of its presence. The following are symptoms you should look for:

  • Receding or swollen gums
  • Soft, puffy gums
  • Occasional tenderness of gums
  • Bleeding gums from flossing or brushing
  • Dusky red gums
  • Bad breath

Causes of This Early Gum Disease

Typically, poor hygiene is the primary cause of this mild gum disease. The following are also contributing factors:

  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Certain medications
  • Genetics
  • Stress
  • Substance abuse
  • Pregnancy
  • Poor nutrition
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Certain diseases and conditions
  • Puberty

Steps for Gingivitis Prevention

The most important step in prevention is to visit your general dentist on a regular basis. You should have dental maintenance visits at least twice per year, unless told otherwise by your local dentist office. This condition can usually be reversed with a thorough, professional cleaning and dental checkup followed by good oral health practices at home.

To be sure you are cleaning your mouth properly, ask your general dentist to show you the proper technique. According to the American Dental Association, your teeth should be brushed, using the proper technique, twice per day. In addition, an interdental aid, such as dental floss should be used daily. Other recommendations for gingivitis prevention include using a toothpaste with antimicrobial properties, and including your tongue in your brushing routine.

While sleeping, there is no disruption to the growing bacteria in your mouth. Therefore, your mouth should be the cleanest before going to bed so bacteria aren’t doing damage to your teeth and gums while you sleep.

If you’re concerned about gingivitis or have noticed symptoms, don’t delay and schedule a visit to our local Apex dentist office today.