Every parent knows that babies need a lot of TLC to grow up happy and healthy. From feeding them healthy foods to ensuring they are bathed and cleaned, parents need to tend to every aspect of caring for their little ones.One area that is sometimes overlooked is dental care. After all, children lose their first set of teeth, right?Dental care is of great importance, and something to be considered even before baby cuts his first tooth. There are products on the market, such as small toothbrushes that fit on a fingertip, that not only get a child used to the routine of brushing, but also clean their gums to keep them healthy.Once the baby teeth have begun poking through the gums, parents should start brushing their teeth and gums at least twice a day with non-fluoridated toothpaste until the child knows how to spit out the paste fully. This will keep their teeth in great shape until they fall out (naturally) to make way for their adult teeth to come in. This will also keep their pearly whites pearly white for when they flash their cute-as-can-be smile.Around 3 years old is a good time to call the dentist to make the child’s first appointment. A good general rule is to take the child in during your routine cleanings to get them comfortable and see you having a fearless visit.If there are concerns beforehand, such as discolored teeth or odor, call the dentist sooner rather than later. We call this first appointment their "Happy Visit".The thought of taking a little one to the dentist might sound daunting, but that shouldn’t be the case. Little ones don’t know about drills or root canals. They get to sit in a chair that goes up and down, play with Mr. Thirsty, and have someone look at their smile! Parents should express enthusiasm for going to the dentist rather than fear.The first visit gives the dentist a chance to meet the child and have a very casual meeting, focusing more on getting the kids used to the dentist’s chair and educating the parents. The dentist will check the teeth, gums, bite, and jaw, as well as look for tooth decay. The dentist also may clean the child’s teeth, or may opt to do this on the second visit depending on the child.After a discussion about good oral hygiene, the dentist will answer any questions a parent or child may have about the visit or their teeth. Some common topics discussed include the introduction to flossing, appropriate healthy diet, and thumb sucking.A check-up every six months is routine, unless there are other issues that need to be addressed.
Summer brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, whether you are shopping at a local farmers market, grilling with family, or spending the day outdoors. While most people know that brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are important, many do not realize that certain foods can also support good oral health.At Norge Dental Center, we believe healthy habits start with everyday choices. Adding nutrient rich fruits and vegetables to your diet can help support healthy teeth and gums while giving your body the vitamins and minerals it needs.
Read MoreFor a long time, dental health was treated like it lived on an island, completely separate from the rest of our physical health. We used to think that what happened in the mouth stayed in the mouth, but modern medicine has completely flipped that script.Today, we know that your oral health is actually a major window into your overall well-being. When you take care of your teeth and gums, you are doing so much more than just keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright for photos. You are actively protecting your heart, your brain, and your immune system.The connection between your mouth and the rest of your body comes down to a single, powerful concept: systemic inflammation.
Read MoreLet’s be completely honest for a second. Around here, coffee isn’t just a morning beverage—it’s a lifestyle. If you’ve walked into Norge Dental Center early in the morning, you’ve probably smelled it brewing, and you’ve definitely seen our team clutching our favorite mugs like they hold the secrets to the universe.We love coffee. We need coffee.But as much as we worship the bean, we also worship a healthy smile. And unfortunately, some of the most common daily coffee habits are secretly wrecking your teeth.
Read MoreWhether you’re new to the Williamsburg area, or new to the Norge Dental family… we welcome you to a new dental experience. We are so thankful you are here.
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