Top 5 Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth | Plainview Dentist

When it comes to maintaining your oral health, your diet plays a crucial role. What you choose to eat can either support your dental health or lead to problems down the line. By focusing on beneficial foods and minimizing harmful ones, you can enjoy a lifetime of smiles. Here’s a guide to the best and worst foods for your teeth, specifically tailored for residents of Plainview.

Best Foods for Your Teeth

1. Dairy Products

Foods like cheese, milk, and yogurt are excellent choices for your dental health. They are rich in calcium and protein, which help strengthen tooth enamel. Incorporating these dairy products into your diet can provide essential nutrients for maintaining strong teeth.

2. High-Fiber Foods

Fiber-rich foods, such as leafy greens, beans, and a variety of fresh fruits, promote saliva production. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against bacteria, helping to wash away food particles and combat decay.

3. Water

Water should be your primary beverage. It helps rinse away sugars and food particles while keeping saliva levels balanced. Staying hydrated is vital for overall health and specifically for maintaining good oral hygiene.

4. Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum can be beneficial for your teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), it increases saliva flow, which can help clean your mouth after meals. A piece of gum can be a great post-meal option to help keep your teeth clean.

5. Lean Proteins

Foods such as eggs, fish, chicken, and lean cuts of red meat are excellent sources of phosphorus. This mineral is essential for calcium absorption, supporting healthy teeth and bones.

Worst Foods for Your Teeth

1. Acidic Foods

Be cautious with acidic foods like citrus fruits, wine, and candies. The acids in these items can erode tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to decay.

2. Sodas

Soft drinks are high in sugar and acidity, both of which are detrimental to your dental health. Regular consumption can lead to cavities and enamel erosion.

3. Sports Drinks

While they may offer hydration during exercise, sports drinks are often loaded with sugar. It’s best to limit their intake and opt for water instead.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing the risk of cavities. It can also lead to tooth staining over time.

5. Sticky or Sugary Candies

Candy is a primary culprit of tooth decay due to its high sugar content. Limit your candy intake, and remember to rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away any lingering sugars.

By being mindful of your food choices, you can significantly improve your oral health. Focus on incorporating teeth-friendly foods while limiting harmful options. Regular visits to your dentist in Plainview for cleanings and check-ups are also essential for keeping your smile bright and healthy. Contact our office today to schedule your next appointment!

How to Maintain Your Oral Health While on Vacation | Dentist 68769

Keeping up with your dental hygiene routine can be easy during your regular workweek, but going on vacation often disrupts those good habits. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Plainview, we want to help you enjoy your trip while maintaining a healthy smile. Here’s how you can keep your oral health on track during your vacation.

Plan Ahead
Before you leave, pack all the essentials you’ll need for proper dental care, including a toothbrush, floss, and travel-sized mouthwash. Be sure your toothbrush has a protective cover or is stored in a separate bag to avoid contamination between uses. It’s also a good idea to take care of any pending dental work—such as a filling or root canal—before your trip, to avoid any potential emergencies while you’re away.

Set a Routine
Vacations often come with irregular schedules, but it’s important to maintain your oral hygiene routine even when things get busy. Set a plan to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once. Sticking to this routine as much as possible will help keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your trip.

Watch Your Diet
Vacation is a time to indulge in delicious food, but be mindful of how sugary and acidic foods and drinks can affect your teeth. Cocktails, sodas, and desserts can wear down tooth enamel and contribute to tooth decay if consumed excessively. To protect your teeth, enjoy these treats in moderation. Consider packing healthy snacks like fruits and nuts for your outings—they’re easy on your teeth and wallet!

Also, keep a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated and rinse your mouth after meals or sugary drinks. This helps wash away food particles and prevent plaque buildup.

Maintain Your Smile with Ease
With a little planning and discipline, you can maintain your oral health while enjoying your vacation. Pack the right tools, stick to a routine, and be mindful of what you eat and drink to keep your teeth in great shape.

If you need a cleaning or treatment before heading out on your next adventure, contact your dentist in Plainview at Family 1st Dental. We’re here to help you prepare for a healthy, stress-free vacation!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Cracked Teeth and How to Prevent Them | Dentist Plainview

A cracked tooth can affect both the appearance of your smile and the functionality of your teeth. Depending on the severity, you may experience discomfort or difficulty chewing. Fortunately, many cases of tooth damage can be avoided by understanding what causes cracks and taking preventive measures. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Plainview, we’ve gathered the most common reasons for cracked teeth and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Chewing Hard Foods
While your teeth are strong, they aren’t indestructible. Chewing on hard foods such as nuts, ice, or popcorn kernels can put stress on your teeth, leading to cracks. Limiting your intake of these foods or being mindful while chewing can help prevent damage.

2. Grinding Your Teeth at Night
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, often happens without you even realizing it, particularly during sleep. Over time, grinding can wear down enamel, leading to stress fractures or craze lines in your teeth. If you grind your teeth, wearing a night guard can protect them by acting as a barrier between your upper and lower teeth.

3. Natural Aging
As you age, your teeth naturally become more susceptible to cracks. People over the age of 50 are more prone to cracked teeth due to the cumulative effects of years of chewing. While aging is inevitable, you can minimize its impact on your teeth by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist in Plainview regularly.

4. Trauma to the Mouth
Accidents, such as vehicle collisions or sports injuries, can result in dental trauma and cracked teeth. While some accidents are unavoidable, wearing a mouthguard during contact sports can significantly reduce your risk of dental injury.

Preventing Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth are one of the leading causes of tooth loss, especially if left untreated. By avoiding common causes like chewing hard foods or grinding your teeth, you can help keep your smile healthy. However, if you do experience a cracked or chipped tooth, our team at Family 1st Dental is here to help restore your teeth to full health.

For more information or to schedule your next appointment with your dentist in Plainview, contact our office today. We’re dedicated to keeping your smile strong and beautiful!

Family 1st Dental of Plainview

Phone: (402) 582-3344

Url: https://ffdplainview.com/

406 West Locust Avenue

Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Repair Your Smile with Dentures

Our dental team is pleased to provide high-quality removable dentures to new and existing patients who have experienced the loss of some or all of their teeth. These dentures are custom-crafted to fit the individual patient’s mouth and specific tooth replacement needs. They provide both a cosmetic and functional replacement solution for tooth loss.

To make the dentures, we will make a series of impressions of the patient’s jaw, teeth, and gums, including several measurements. A model will be crafted, tested, and adjusted until the color, shape, and fit of the denture are right for the patient’s unique needs. Once the model is ready, it is sent to the dental lab and used to cast the permanent denture. Finally, the patient will receive the permanent denture and minor adjustments will be made, if necessary, to ensure comfort and fit.

There are two basic types of dentures: Conventional Full Dentures and Partial Dentures. Each of these meets a different teeth replacement need.

  • Conventional Full Dentures are a great option if a patient needs replacement for all of the upper and/or lower teeth. Once the gums have fully healed from any extractions, we will take impressions and measurements of the jaws and gums. These are used in crafting a custom model of the future denture. The model will be adjusted for fit, then sent to the lab for the denture to be made. Once complete, he will fit the denture to the patient’s mouth, making any minor adjustments needed to ensure a secure, comfortable fit.
  • Partial Dentures, also known as Dental Bridges, are a replacement for one or more missing teeth. Besides the aesthetic reason for bridges, patients often choose to have a bridge to prevent teeth from rotating or shifting into the empty spaces caused by tooth loss. A standard bridge places a crown on the teeth surrounding the empty space, then attaches a replacement tooth to those crowns. We will match the replacement to the patient’s natural teeth for a consistent look to their smile.

With any form of dentures, the patient should follow up with the doctor as recommended. We may need to make adjustments to dentures over time to keep proper fit and full comfort. Dentures should be cleaned regularly using a soft bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleanser to avoid buildup of plaque. Generally, dentures should be replaced every 5-10 years. Ask our doctor to evaluate whether your dentures should be refit or replaced.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with our Plainview dentist, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview today.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | 12 Reasons to See Your Dentist

Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see your dentist! Most people make time to clean out the house, car, garage, or closets at least twice a year. Why not include your oral health on your “to do” list?

Schedule an Appointment Now!

Regular professional cleaning and examinations are essential to maintaining optimal oral health. These routine visits are your first line of defense against tooth decay, periodontal disease, oral cancers, and more. Early identification and treatment of any oral illness improves outcomes and allows for less-invasive treatment options. Don’t wait until it hurts!

Why Do We Avoid Going?

The HDI institute, in a study done with the American Dental Association, lists some of the main reasons we sometimes delay going to the dentist. Cost, low perceived need, time, and anxiety are the most common causes. However, if we allow these concerns to interfere with oral care, we may allow more serious issues to develop.

When Should We See the Dentist?

The ADA or American Dental Society recommends maintaining twice yearly visits for cleaning and examinations. In addition, they advise making an appointment for any of the following concerns:

  1. Pain in your mouth, teeth, or face
  2. Injury to your mouth, teeth, or face
  3. Conditions that can affect oral health, such as diabetes
  4. Pregnancy
  5. Jaw pain or stiffness
  6. Bleeding, swelling, or redness in your gums
  7. Recent dental treatment, such as fillings, crowns, implants, or root canal
  8. Pain or difficulty eating or drinking
  9. Chronic dry mouth
  10. Smoking or tobacco use
  11. Sores in your mouth that are not healing
  12. You have questions or concerns about your oral health or hygiene

Our Plainview dentist is here to help you achieve and maintain your best oral health. To schedule your next appointment, please contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Restoring Smiles with Veneers

About 1 in 4 adults in the United States feels embarrassed by the look of their smile. Our dental office is proud to offer porcelain dental veneers to new and existing patients. Our doctor has the training and experience to provide porcelain veneers to patients who wish to restore a whiter, healthier, more even look to their smile.

Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic and restorative dental solution that mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Veneers create an immediate improvement in the appearance of a smile. They are a minimally invasive treatment option and can be more cost-effective than many other cosmetic improvement options.

Patients  whose teeth are healthy, but are chipped, cracked, crooked, or mildly stained can benefit from veneers. Patients whose teeth are uneven or have gaps may also find veneers are a great solution for improving the look of their smile.

We offer custom-crafted porcelain veneers that are fitted precisely to cover the front surface of the tooth. Because porcelain is a semi-translucent material, the tooth continues to have a natural healthy appearance with the veneer in place. Veneers are chosen with care to match the natural teeth around them, to ensure optimal aesthetic results.

Once placed, porcelain veneers are a strong, stain-resistant, and long-lasting cosmetic dental solution. However, porcelain dental veneers need ongoing dental care, just like natural teeth. They should be brushed and flossed regularly and normal dental exam and cleaning schedules should be maintained. When cared for properly, veneers can last a lifetime.

There are some additional factors to consider before choosing veneers. First, it is common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages for a few days following the placement of veneers. This is generally mild and unlikely to last more than about a week.

Second, while porcelain is a strong and durable material, it is recommended to avoid activities that will put great stress on the veneers, such as chewing excessively hard foods or using the teeth to attempt to open a nut or bottle. Finally, any patient who has issues with bruxism (grinding) should discuss this with our doctor before deciding whether to have dental veneers placed.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with our Plainview dentist, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview today. We’re here to give you a smile that you can show with pride.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | How to Get Your Kids to Eat Healthier

The food children eat affects their long term oral health. Some foods have nutrients teeth need. Others are full of acids and sugars that are harmful to teeth. With so many unhealthy food choices being marketed to children every day, it is vital that you take a stand. Offer fun, healthy snacks and model the better food choices you want your kids to make.

Offer healthy snack choices. Kids should have a well-balanced and nutritional diet. This not only promotes overall health but also helps build a strong healthy smile. Nutrition is an important part of oral health. Teaching your kids about eating healthy and limiting sugary foods will help foster a balanced diet from an early age. This will form habits that will result in a lifetime of strong teeth and better overall health.

Have fun with snacks. Promote a nutritious diet by getting creative with snack choices. If you show your kids that healthy snacks are fun, they will be more likely to eat them. Apple slices with peanut butter, fruit smoothies, and yogurt with granola or fruit are great examples of fun, yet healthy combinations. Remember to avoid soda and sugary drinks. These can leave sugars on teeth and can increase the risk of plaque and tooth decay. Water is always the best solution! Eating a well-balanced lunch and dinner is important as well. Make sure to add a variety of fruits and vegetables to every meal so that your kids become accustomed to them.

Be a good role model. Children learn habits by following the example set by their parents. Send your kids the right message by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables yourself. Avoid sugary snacks that can cause cavities or gum disease. Be sure to practice good oral hygiene in front of your kids. If you brush and floss after meals and snacks, your kids will follow the example. Consider brushing together with your child to reinforce good brushing skills and habits. Make sure to brush at least twice a day, after breakfast and before bedtime. If it is possible, try to encourage your child to brush after lunch or after sweet snacks.

Follow up. Don’t forget it is also very important to have regular dental appointments for your child, and model healthy habits by seeing your own dentist regularly. If you have any further questions for our Plainview dentist, feel free to contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview for more ideas on how to promote healthy snacking for great long term dental health!

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | The Periodontal Disease – Diabetes Connection

In our mouths, we have numerous forms of bacteria. Some are helpful and some are harmful. Bacteria in the mouth can be helpful because it helps to sanitize the mouth and breaks down food particles. However, too much bacteria can lead to the development of gum disease which can be damaging to your oral health.  

When the bacteria start to collect in the mouth, it can create a sticky colorless substance known as “plaque” that sticks on to your teeth. If the plaque is not removed during brushing or flossing, the particle can harden and turn in to tartar. Over time, plaque and tartar becomes more difficult to remove at home so a professional cleaning with the dentist is important for maintaining your oral health and preventing decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

The longer the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, the more harm they can cause to your oral health. Eventually plaque and tartar will create a mild form of gum disease called Gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue. Ideally, routine cleanings and proper oral care can prevent gingivitis from developing. Once gum disease is prevalent, only your dentist can help to maintain the disease and prevent it from progressing.

In cases where gingivitis is not treated, it can then advance to periodontal disease. With periodontal disease, the inflammation now affects the soft tissue (gums) and the tooth and if left unattended, it can cause the tooth to loosen or fall out.

Having periodontal disease also can affect your overall bodily health. In many studies, there have been connections with periodontal disease to diabetes and heart disease. It is important to regularly see the dentist for a routine, professional cleaning and examination to prevent gum disease.

With periodontal disease, the Plainview dentist has solutions to help you prevent and maintain gum disease. A common solution for controlling periodontal disease is a deep dental cleaning, which can be performed by your dentist or certified hygienist. Contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview to schedule your next visit today.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Dental Implant Restorations

About 1 in 4 adults experience tooth loss between the ages of 21 and 30. Dental implants are a safe and long-term option for tooth replacement that improve the appearance and functionality of your smile.

A dental implant can be paired with a replacement crown for single tooth replacement or can be used in small groups to anchor a denture or dental bridge. Dental implants are a strong, long-lasting solution for tooth loss and serve to prevent jaw bone loss in the same manner as a natural tooth root.

There are many benefits to choosing dental implants as a tooth-replacement solution. Some of these include:

  • Natural looking smile: Dental implants are crafted to closely resemble your natural teeth, restoring a natural-looking smile.
  • Improved oral health: Since there is no need to alter surrounding teeth to anchor implants, more of your natural teeth are preserved intact, improving long-term oral health.
  • Improved speech: With removable, non-anchored dentures, teeth can slip within the mouth, causing slurred or mumbled speech. Dental Implants remove that concern.
  • Improved comfort: Dental Implants avoid the slipping and discomfort of removable dentures.
  • Improved function: Dental Implants function like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat without pain.
  • Durability: Dental implants are stable, strong, and stain-resistant.
  • Protect healthy bone structure: Empty spaces caused by tooth loss can, over time, lead to deterioration of the jawbone. Since Dental Implants function like tooth roots, they are able to prevent this type of deterioration, just as natural teeth do.
  • Long-term solution: Dentures must be replaced about every 5-7 years. Dental Implants, when cared for properly, can last a lifetime.

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants may be right for you. We will consider your oral and overall health prior to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Some considerations include:

  • Adequate bone support to anchor the implant
  • Healthy gum tissue
  • Sinus and nerve location
  • Overall health, including any chronic illnesses

In some cases, we may recommend advance treatment for your upper or lower jaw to enable you to have the bone support needed for implantation. As always, your treatment plan is created based on your specific needs and goals for your healthy smile.

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview today for an appointment. We’re here to help restore the health and beauty of your smile.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Plainview NE Dentist | Are Dental Veneers Right for Me?

We often have visitors to our office ask about solutions for fixing stained teeth or filling in gaps between teeth. We sometimes suggest veneers. Veneers are one cosmetic option available for correcting your smile. Here’s what you should know about veneers, and whether they are right for you and your smile.

What Are Veneers?

A Veneer is a thin cover placed over the front of the tooth. Typically, they are made of dental porcelain and designed to cover your existing tooth, not replace it.

What They Do

Veneers are used to fix a broken or chipped tooth, shrink the noticeable gaps in between teeth, or reduce the visible stains on teeth. Our office specially sizes them to fit your teeth. Generally, the structure of your teeth is not altered since the veneers are placed over your teeth.

What You Need to Know

Those who get veneers sometimes experience a minor increase in sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold food and drinks. Veneers are typically nonreversible, as they often require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed. After getting them, it is advisable to avoid drinks such as wine, coffee, or tea that are often culprits of causing staining. Taking care of them still requires you to brush twice each day and floss regularly as well. Your teeth are not invincible to staining or decay so be sure to continue to take care of them.

It is important to know that veneers are a solution to minor tooth issues such as discoloration, gaps, or misaligned teeth. They are not a substitute for braces, bridges, or other dental work. Schedule a visit to our office to meet with our Plainview dentist. Together our team can work with you to develop a plan to reach the goals and look you are hoping to achieve.

For more information on how to achieve the smile you have dreamed of, contact Family 1st Dental of Plainview. We look forward to seeing you during your next visit with our Plainview family dentist.

 

Family 1st Dental of Plainview
Phone: (402) 582-3344
406 West Locust Avenue
Plainview, NE 68769

Visit Our Plainview Dental Office

Plainview Location

406 West Locust Ave,
Plainview, NE 68769

(402) 582-3344

Dr. Christina Cambre - Creighton and Plainview

Our Dental News

Top 5 Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth | Plainview Dentist

When it comes to maintaining your oral health, your diet plays a crucial role. What you choose to eat can either support your dental health or lead to problems down the line. By focusing on beneficial foods and minimizing harmful […]

Learn More

How to Maintain Your Oral Health While on Vacation | Dentist 68769

Keeping up with your dental hygiene routine can be easy during your regular workweek, but going on vacation often disrupts those good habits. At Family 1st Dental, your trusted dentist in Plainview, we want to help you enjoy your trip […]

Learn More

Cracked Teeth and How to Prevent Them | Dentist Plainview

A cracked tooth can affect both the appearance of your smile and the functionality of your teeth. Depending on the severity, you may experience discomfort or difficulty chewing. Fortunately, many cases of tooth damage can be avoided by understanding what […]

Learn More