All Smiles
Stories, advice, and other delightful dental reads.
Calculus is Hard
Dec 3, 2024
Dentists and hygienists work on tons of calculus. Really, it's true—calculus is one of the most common issues facing their patients.
More than two-thirds of adults suffer from calculus. It adds up quickly and can become a big problem if left unchecked. Thankfully, you can solve most calculus problems on your own. It's surprisingly simple; so simple, in fact, a kindergartner can do a day's worth of calculus solving in just two minutes.
Confused? Rightfully so. Dentists aren't known for being good at math, and neither are kindergartners. So let's clear things up.
In the dental world, calculus is another term for tartar. Tartar—aka plaque buildup—is the yellowish calcified stuff that grows on teeth. This is also very different from tartar sauce, which is a tangy and herbaceous condiment served with fried fish.
So calculus isn't math, and tartar isn't a sauce. Here's why this is all still relevant to you.
Plaque happens when the sugary foods you eat mix with your mouth bacteria, creating a tacky film that coats your teeth. This film is super acidic, and if left unbothered, will harden into calculus (or, tartar). Calculus can then lead to all sorts of problems, like cavities, bad breath, or gum disease.
Calculus is tough to crack; that's why scheduling regular cleanings is so important. Dentists and hygienists use special tools like scalers, polishers, and saliva ejectors (isn't that a fun name?) to remove calculus and prevent all the potential side effects.
To be clear, calculus isn't the end of the world—especially if you stay on top of it. To stick with the math analogy, think of it like this: brushing and flossing is like doing your calculus homework. You tackle the problems on your own, and then you visit your dentist to have them check your work.
But unlike your college professor, we at Falls Dental aren't here to grade you on the job you did. We’re just here to make sure your smile stays healthy—even if that means solving your calculus for you.
Toothbrushes are a lot like us
July 2, 2024
Your toothbrush is more sensitive than you might realize. How you treat your brush affects its ability to care for your teeth effectively. If you value the bond between you and your brush, here are a few things to consider.
They are one-of-a-kind.
Your toothbrush is uniquely yours, so choosing one that meets your particular needs is important. For aggressive brushers, selecting a toothbrush with soft bristles can help prevent damage to teeth and gums. If you have sensitive teeth, opt for a brush crafted for gentle care. If you wear braces, there are even brushes specially designed to work out the gunk that gets trapped between brackets and wires. Always remember—because your toothbrush is accustomed to your mouth, it won't enjoy being shared.
They value their space.
If you come from a big family, you understand the importance of alone time. Depending on how crowded your house is, you might have anywhere from 2 to 5 toothbrushes sharing the same cup. Here's the thing: toothbrushes need their space too. When brushes touch, germs can easily transfer from one brush to another. If everyone in the family catches the same seasonal cold, the toothbrush cup may be the culprit.
They enjoy fresh air.
Drawers and medicine cabinets are common places to store toothbrushes. However, these spaces trap the humidity that comes from a freshly rinsed brush, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and a less-than-ideal one for bristles. It's better to keep your toothbrush out in the open, where it can air dry under the glow of the bathroom fluorescents. It's almost like giving your toothbrush a beach day, if you think about it.
They live life to the fullest.
Your toothbrush has a tough but heroic job, protecting you from plaque and battling bad breath day after day. However, all that hard work takes its toll, and eventually, the day comes when it's time for your brush to retire. Typically, you should retire your toothbrush after 3 or 4 months of use, or whenever its bristles begin to look worn and frayed. Just make sure to give it a proper send-off.
Big Beautiful Creature Teeth
June 6, 2024
Yeti Teeth Care
In the frosty peaks of the Himalayas, the yeti, with its giant, snow-white teeth, roams the icy wilderness. Despite their fearsome appearance, yetis are known for their excellent dental hygiene. To keep their teeth strong and healthy, yetis use pine tree branches as natural toothbrushes. These branches are sturdy enough to scrub away plaque but gentle on their gums. For flossing, yetis ingeniously use thin strips of tough yak hide, which they skillfully thread between their teeth to remove any food particles caught from their snowy feasts. By following this regimen, yetis maintain a dazzling, healthy smile that could melt even the iciest heart.
Jackalope Teeth Care
In the enchanted deserts and prairies, the jackalope, a mythical creature with the body of a jackrabbit and the antlers of an antelope, hops about with a mischievous grin. Jackalopes have a unique set of teeth that they diligently care for to keep their smiles bright and healthy. They use the fibrous bark of desert shrubs as their toothbrush, chewing on it to naturally clean their teeth. For flossing, they cleverly use cactus spines, carefully maneuvering them between their teeth to dislodge any pesky seeds or grass bits. This magical dental routine ensures that jackalopes always have a charming and enchanting smile ready for any adventure.
Dragon Teeth Care
High in the mountains and deep in ancient caves, dragons, with their majestic, glistening teeth, reign supreme. Dragons are meticulous about their dental care, knowing that a healthy mouth is crucial for their fiery breath. They brush their teeth using the abrasive scales of smaller fish, which they catch in mountain lakes. These scales act like a natural toothbrush, keeping their teeth clean and shiny. For flossing, dragons use the sturdy, sinewy tendrils of enchanted vines found in their hidden gardens. These vines are perfect for reaching between their massive teeth to remove any stubborn bits of food. Thanks to this diligent care, dragons maintain their awe-inspiring, pearly white teeth, ensuring their fiery roars are as impressive as their dazzling smiles.