Spirit Dental Blog

Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, affecting people of all ages. While they may start as small areas of decay, untreated cavities can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. The good news? Cavities are largely preventable with the right habits and dental care.Whether you’re looking for ways to protect your own smile or safeguard your child’s oral health, this guide will help you take the right steps toward prevention and long-term dental wellness.What are cavities?Cavities, also called dental caries or tooth decay, are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of teeth that develop into tiny holes or openings. They form when plaque accumulates on the teeth and produces acids that erode enamel. Over time, the breakdown weakens the tooth, leading to decay and potentially more serious dental issues.Cavities can develop on any part of a tooth, including the chewing surfaces, between the teeth and even along the gumline.Symptoms of cavitiesCavities don’t always cause noticeable symptoms in their early stages. As decay progresses, you may notice the following:Tooth sensitivityToothache or painVisible holes or pitsStaining on the tooth surfaceBad breath or unpleasant tasteSwelling or gum irritationRisk factors for cavitiesSeveral behaviors and conditions increase the risk of cavities, including:Frequent sugar and carb consumption: Foods and drinks high in sugar or refined carbohydrates fuel bacteria and acid production.Poor oral hygiene: Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up and attack enamel.Dry mouth: Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. A lack of saliva, often caused by medications or health conditions, increases cavity risk.Consuming acidic food and drinks: Citrus fruits, soda and acidic beverages weaken enamel, making it more vulnerable to decay.Receding gums: Gum recession exposes the roots of teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities.How are cavities diagnosed and treated?Early detection is key to preventing cavities from worsening and requiring more invasive treatments. At your routine checkup, your dentist will use a combination of visual examination and diagnostic tools to detect cavities. First, they’ll look for visible signs of decay, such as discoloration, holes or surface irregularities. A dental probe helps the dentist check for soft or weakened areas in the enamel, and x-rays may be taken to reveal cavities that aren’t visible to the naked eye, especially those between teeth or beneath existing fillings.Treatment for cavities depends on their size, location and severity. Common treatments include:Fluoride: If a cavity is caught in its very early stages, fluoride treatments (such as gels, varnishes or prescription toothpaste) can help remineralize enamel and stop decay.Dental fillings: For moderate cavities, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the area is filled with materials like composite resin, amalgam or porcelain to restore strength and function.Dental crowns: If a cavity is large and compromises a significant portion of the tooth, your dentist may place a crown—a custom-made cap that protects and reinforces the tooth.Root canal therapy: When decay reaches the tooth’s inner pulp (where nerves and blood vessels are located), a root canal is needed to remove the infected tissue, clean the area and seal the tooth to prevent further damage.Tooth extraction: In severe cases where a tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be saved, extraction may be the only option. A replacement via bridge or dental implant may be recommended to restore function and appearance.How to prevent cavitiesPreventing cavities starts while maintaining good oral hygiene and making smart lifestyle choices. By following these simple steps, you can protect your teeth from decay and keep your smile healthy:Brush and floss twice a dayUse mouthwash to strengthen enamelLimit sugary and starchy foods to reduce bacteriaDrink more water to rinse away food particles and neutralize acidsEat foods rich in calcium, fiber, and phosphorous to support strong teethVisit the dentist regularly to catch early signs of decayCavity prevention for kidsChildren are especially prone to cavities due to their developing oral hygiene habits and love for sugary snacks. Help protect their teeth by:Starting brushing earlyEncouraging healthy eatingTeaching good oral hygieneAvoiding prolonged bottle feedingAsking about fluoride and sealantsProtect Your Smile with Preventive CareCavities are common, but they’re easily manageable with the right preventive care and early treatment. Prioritizing good oral hygiene, making smart dietary choices, and scheduling regular dental visits can go a long way in protecting your smile.Having the right dental insurance makes preventive care even easier. Spirit Dental fully covers three cleanings per year, helping you stay ahead of cavities and other dental issues. Explore our plan options today to find coverage that fits your needs and keeps your oral health on track.

As we enter our golden years, our teeth go through significant changes that can have a profound impact on our oral health. Understanding the nuances of aging teeth becomes increasingly crucial as we embrace retirement. Implementing effective strategies to preserve oral health during this phase of life becomes paramount in preventing common dental issues that often accompany aging. What happens to our teeth as we age?Weak enamelEnamel, the protective outer layer of our teeth, gradually wears down over the years due to the cumulative effects of chewing, acidic food and drink consumption, and general wear and tear. This erosion can lead to a host of dental issues for older individuals. Teeth have less of a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and acids, and are therefore more susceptible to decay and cavities. Additionally, you may experience sensitivity and discomfort ‌while consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.Receding gumsIt’s common as we get older for gum tissue to gradually pull back or wear away, exposing more of the tooth’s root. When these roots are exposed, they’re more vulnerable to the harmful effects of plaque and bacteria, which can cause gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis. Receding gums can also lead to:Tooth sensitivityTooth mobilityTooth lossDry mouthMedically known as xerostomia, dry mouth is characterized by a reduced saliva production. It becomes more prevalent with age, as certain medications and medical treatments can contribute to persistent dryness. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy oral environment by helping to cleanse the mouth, neutralize acids and remineralize tooth enamel. When saliva production decreases, its protective effects diminish, which can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay.   Dry mouth can also result in oral discomfort and difficulty with tasks like chewing and swallowing. Furthermore, a persistently dry mouth can contribute to bad breath and an increased susceptibility to oral infections.Difficulty maintaining oral careAs you enter retirement, there are various challenges in maintaining a regular oral care routine. Several factors might contribute to this:Physical limitations: Conditions like arthritis can make gripping a toothbrush or flossing more challenging. Decreased mobility may also limit one’s ability to reach and effectively clean all areas of the mouth.Cognitive changes: Memory issues or dementia can hinder the ability to adhere to consistent dental hygiene practices. It may become more difficult to remember to brush and floss regularly, which can result in neglecting proper care.Lifestyle adjustments: Retirement, moving to a retirement community or experiencing changes in daily routines can further complicate oral care, as they may impact access to dental supplies and professional care.Methods of preventionA proactive approach to oral hygiene is key in preventing these issues. Regularly brushing your teeth, ideally after every meal, and flossing daily can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Using a mild mouthwash can also help, but use it carefully, as excessive use may lead to dry mouth. Good oral hygiene practices not only promote a healthy mouth but also support overall well-being. NutritionNutrition plays a pivotal role in keeping teeth strong in retirement. A diet rich in healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables and dairy products provides essential nutrients that support oral health. Staying well-hydrated by drinking water helps maintain saliva production, reducing the risk of dry mouth. Limiting snacking between meals can also help prevent tooth decay by reducing the frequency of acid exposure. It’s important to be mindful of the impact of medications, some of which may have side effects like dry mouth. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider and explore solutions to mitigate these effects, such as saliva substitutes or adjusting your medication regimen. Professional dental careRegular dental check-ups are vital for preventing and addressing oral health issues in retirement. Dentists do not only fully clean your teeth but also provide essential oral cancer screenings. Moreover, dental professionals are often the first to detect signs of other systemic diseases through oral symptoms, making it possible to see your dentist more than your primary physician in a year. By prioritizing oral health and maintaining a strong partnership with your dentist, you can take proactive steps to keep your teeth healthy and vibrant during your retirement years.We’ve got you coveredWhen planning for your dental care needs in retirement, exploring dental insurance plans like those offered by Spirit Dental can provide valuable coverage and financial support for various dental procedures, ensuring comprehensive care and peace of mind.

Braces are a common and effective orthodontic treatment for straightening and aligning teeth in both kids and adults. In this post we’ll discuss the advantages of braces, options, and what you can expect from the procedure.  Benefits of braces Braces help with a variety of bite issues in children, including: Crooked teeth Crowded teeth Gapped teeth Malocclusion/misalignment Fixing these problems provides a number of benefits. It doesn't just give your child a more beautiful smile, but it also helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health conditions. It’s also much easier to brush and floss when teeth are aligned.  Types of braces When opting for orthodontics for your child, there are different types of braces to choose from: Metal braces: Stainless steel bands, brackets and wires that shift teeth into the desired position over time. Ceramic braces: Similar to metal braces, but with tooth-colored brackets and wires to blend in better. Lingual braces: Similar to metal braces, but they go on the back surfaces of the teeth instead of the front. Self-litigating braces: Similar to metal braces, but hold archwire together without the elastic bands. Clear aligners: A series of clear, custom-made trays swapped out every two weeks to straighten teeth over time. When is the right time to get my child braces? While in theory, a person is never too old to get braces, the best time is typically between ages nine and 14. At this age, your child’s facial bones are more flexible, meaning teeth shift more easily into their desired position.  Braces are still effective for adults, but since their bones are less malleable, it may take longer to achieve results.   How braces work The procedure Initial consultation. Your child’s dentist will refer you to an orthodontist, who will examine the teeth and discuss the child’s oral health history at the first appointment. They will recommend a course of treatment—if braces are determined to be the best option, you'll work with the orthodontist to decide the type of braces and duration of treatment. Braces are fitted. Teeth are cleaned, dried and primed; then brackets are cemented to tooth surfaces, with high-intensity light used to strengthen the bond. Finally, the arch wires are placed. Regular visits to get braces adjusted. The orthodontist will also have a cadence in place for returning to have the braces adjusted. At these appointments, the arch wires and elastic bands are removed and replaced with new ones. Your child may have some soreness for up to 24 hours following an adjustment. Braces are removed. When teeth have been appropriately repositioned, the braces will be removed. Ties and wires are taken off first, then the bonding cement is gently broken with pressure and a special tool. The gums may be inflamed immediately following removal but should subside within a day or two. Maintain a beautiful smile with a retainer. You’ll have to visit the orthodontist for a couple of follow-up appointments to get a retainer made for your child. To ensure the results of the braces last, your child should wear the retainer at night and as recommended. Side effects of braces Although braces are proven to be an effective approach for fixing a person’s smile, your child may experience some temporary side effects, including: Discomfort Irritation on the inside of the mouth Difficulty eating Jaw pain In time, these should subside; however, if you have any concerns contact the orthodontist right away. Caring for braces For the braces to have the best impact, your child will need to:  Brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash daily  Clean and store clear aligners Avoid sticky and hard foods Visit orthodontist as scheduled for maintenance Visit dentist for regular cleanings and exams The length of time your child will have to wear braces will depend on the severity of the problem you’re trying to fix, as well as their own dental health. Typically, kids wear braces for between one and three years. How to pay for braces The total cost of braces is anywhere between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the type and duration of treatment, as well as where you live.  Most dental insurance plans partially cover braces for children under the age of 18. While the most common coverage is 50%, it’s important to check your policy details before starting the treatment process. If your plan doesn’t include orthodontic coverage, look into supplemental orthodontic insurance. Find the best no-wait dental and orthodontic insurance plan from Spirit Dental to ensure your child’s smile stays beautiful and healthy for a lifetime.

The lens of your eye, which is located behind the iris, is normally clear, allowing for light to pass through so you can see well. But when a cataract forms on the lens, it causes it to become cloudy or foggy, inhibiting the amount of light that can get through. And that results in changes in your vision because your eye isn’t able to focus like it should.  Cataracts are a common problem, and many seniors end up needing surgery to replace the lens and restore vision in one or both eyes. Being aware of the causes may help you take steps to reduce the risk of cataracts, while being familiar with the symptoms can help you recognize the problem if it develops, so we cover both the causes and symptoms of cataracts below.  What can cause cataracts? You might develop a cataract simply as a result of the aging process. Basically, as you get older, the lens changes and the proteins in it break down. As they clump together, those proteins can cause clouding.   These changes to the lens might start when you’re around 40 years old, but you might not notice a problem until years later. That’s right: a cataract can progress over time, making the cloudiness—and your vision—worse.   In addition to being a part of the aging process, there are certain conditions, medications, injuries, and habits that might lead to cataracts or speed up their development. Here are some examples: Diabetes Certain genetic disorders Other eye problems Eye injury (the cataract might even form years after an injury!) Certain medications, such as steroids  Radiation treatment, particularly to the upper part of the body Exposing the eyes to too much sunlight by not wearing sunglasses or hats Drinking a lot of alocohol Smoking What are the symptoms of cataracts? When a cataract is first forming, you might not realize that there’s a problem. Over time, though, as the cataract expands and covers more of the lens, you may start to notice changes in your vision.  Here are some of the ways in which your vision might change because of cataracts: Blurriness Vision that’s described as foggy, hazy, or cloudy Faced colors Difficulty seeing at night Needing more light for doing things like reading Double vision Halos or glare surrounding lights Sensitivity to lights (such as from lamps or sunlight), which might appear brighter than they should The need to change your prescription more often than usual  Your eye doctor can be there to help you see clearly again Keep in mind that cataracts symptoms may come on slowly because this condition typically develops slowly. And it’s important to talk to an eye doctor as soon as you notice changes in your vision so you can figure out if a cataract is to blame.  At first, your eye doctor might recommend changing your prescription to cope with the changes caused by a cataract. But if it gets to the point that you’re finding it really hard to see clearly and do things like drive or read, your doctor might recommend surgery to remove the cataract and prevent further vision loss.  Take great care of your eyes with the help of vision insurance! A last note: the symptoms caused by cataracts might also be associated with other conditions, so it’s critical that you get the right diagnosis and pursue the best treatment to save your vision. Again, don’t hesitate to talk about your symptoms and have your eyes carefully examined by a professional.  If you’re concerned about being able to afford trips to the eye doctor, Spirit is here to help. With the right vision insurance, you can worry less about the cost of eye exams and prescription glasses or contacts, so you won’t need to waste any time when you need to address changes in your vision.          Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8589-cataracts https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353790 https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts/causes-cataract https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/cataracts https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataracts.htm

Vitamin C is known for supporting your immune system, but here’s something you might not know about this vital nutrient: it can also support your dental health! That’s right, getting enough vitamin C is a smart move if you want to keep your gums and pearly whites strong. Check out the information below to learn more.  Do Your Gums Bleed? You Might Need More Vitamin C Researchers have found that, in addition to brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, another important step that may help support the health and strength of your gums is getting enough vitamin C.  What happens if you don’t have enough vitamin C in your blood? Well, you might end up with gum problems. More specifically, you might be at a greater risk of bleeding gums, which is a symptom of gingivitis. In that case, increasing the level of vitamin C in the body might help resolve these issues.  If your gums are bleeding or you are experiencing other gum problems, talk to your dentist, and consider consulting with your physician as well. They can help you determine if you’re deficient in this vitamin, and can also give you advice on how to bring the level up safely, if necessary.   Where Can You Get Vitamin C? Water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C aren’t stored in your body, so you need to get enough of it daily to maintain the right amount of it in your system.   The good news is there are a lot of delicious foods that can provide plenty of vitamin C. Eating a nutritious and balanced diet that consists of various fruits and veggies is a great place to start.  Here are some examples of foods that contain vitamin C: Citrus fruits, such as oranges Carrots Cantaloupe Berries Kiwi Sweet potatoes Spinach Kale Red peppers Broccoli Note: Even though you can also get vitamin C from fruit juice like orange juice, it’s a good idea to enjoy it in moderation because it may be acidic and high in sugar—not good for your chompers! You can also take vitamin C supplements In addition to getting this vitamin from your diet, you can take a high-quality vitamin C supplement. Or, you might decide to take a multivitamin that provides enough of this nutrient. This simple step may help ensure that, no matter what you eat, you’re getting enough of this vitamin on a consistent basis.  How Much Vitamin C Should You Aim to Get Daily?   Experts recommend that adult men get around 90 mg of vitamin C every day. On the other hand, adult women can aim to get around 75 mg each day.   If you want to take a vitamin C supplement to help support your gums, you might consider taking one that provides anywhere from 100-200 mg of vitamin C daily. But the amount you need may depend on various factors. For example, you might need more vitamin C if you’re following a low-carb diet. To figure out just how much is right for you, consult with your doctor for personalized guidance. He or she might check your current level to determine how much you need to get from a supplement. Plus, your doctor can also share valuable tips on how you can improve your diet.    Talk to Your Dentist About Vitamin C If Your Gums Bleed Easily Bleeding gums is a symptom that should be addressed, so don’t hesitate to discuss this problem with your dentist as soon as possible. By figuring out the cause—whether it’s a low level of vitamin C or not—you can receive the right treatment and prevent further damage. Bottom line: brush, floss, and keep an eye out for gum irritation, inflammation, or bleeding. Also, improving and supplementing your diet so you get adequate amounts of vitamin C every day might make a big difference in the health of your teeth and gums.      Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/5-essential-vitamins-for-teeth-and-gum-health https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/gums/vitamin-c-calcium-oral-health/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-increasing-vitamin-c-intake-help-stop-bleeding-gums https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/how-acidic-drinks-affect-teeth https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/bleeding-gums-you-may-need-more-vitamin-c