Regular Dental Visits = An ounce of prevention!

Tuesday, December 13, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

You may have heard the old adage, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In health matters, this folk statement is more than true. Unfortunately, due to economic restraints and “tightening-the-belt” budgeting, our doctors are finding that more and more patients are putting off regular dental care in favor of “when it hurts I’ll fix it!”

Dental care should have a different focus than simply “fixing the broken part” when necessary – akin to the idea of forgoing regular car maintenance and spending more dollars at the pump and mechanic shop when several issues that could have been prevented if caught earlier all combine into one large fix-it bill. Having a healthy mouth and body occurs when families are working toward daily habits of health, including a visit to a health professional regularly.

5 Mistakes to Help Your Teen Avoid!

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

While many of you may still have younger children still learning the basics of oral hygiene, have you stopped to think of what to prepare for when your children grow into that fun age between 12 – 18? We recently came across an article that addresses those top 5 issues you may have already experienced in your household. What techniques have you found to help your child or teen avoid these toothy troubles?

Asthma and Cavities?

Friday, April 29, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

A recent article published in Doctor of Dentistry highlighted another health link in the development of cavities in children. A recent study in Sweden found that children and adolescents suffering from asthma are at an increased risk for the development of caries and tooth decay.

Are cavities contagious?

Thursday, April 21, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

…it is absolutely essential for me to help parents understand that sharing a cup of water or sharing food utensils during a meal can facilitate in creating future decay for a child already struggling to maintain a healthy mouth or a sibling that doesn’t yet have cavities.

Your mouth is part of your body…

Friday, March 4, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

Our mouth is the pathway to great health — if your child neglects brushing and flossing regularly and develops gingivitis, it may lead to periodontal problems. Periodontal disease has been linked to diabetes and heart disease. If a child has diagnosed health issues that lead to dry mouth, then your child is at a higher risk to develop cavities. Our body is a whole system – let’s keep it healthy!

The changing face of healthcare

Monday, February 14, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

As healthcare costs continue to rise, many families are struggling to find ways to cut back and find the right financial solution for them. You can fight back with these three money-saving tips!

Get it done in Year ONE!

Friday, January 21, 2011 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

There isn’t a mom I know that doesn’t keep a checklist of some kind – whether it’s mental, electronic, or on paper (or maybe all three for those of us that really don’t want to forget!). As moms and (for some of us) career women, there are pediatrician visits, vet visits, the grocery list, the… Read the Rest >>

Are x-rays really necessary?

Tuesday, November 23, 2010 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

Do you have concerns about radiation exposure to your child? Find out why x-rays are necessary to dentistry and how you can minimize your child’s risk.

Perfect Attendance!

Friday, August 27, 2010 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

Begin the school year on the right foot (or tooth, as it were) and help your student prevent oral-health-related absences. Find more parent resources at www.aapd.org and www.visitworldofsmiles.com.

“I don’t wanna brush!”

Thursday, August 19, 2010 by Michelle Stafford, DDS

We chase our kids through the house, finally cornering them in the bathroom. With a bright smile and cheerful voice flowing out from behind [often] gritted teeth, we announce those dreaded words, “It’s time to brush our teeth!” Armed with toothpaste in one hand and the brush in the other, we struggle against tight-lipped defiance… Read the Rest >>