Brushing as a measure against COVID-19

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Dr. Kami Hoss offers a number of key insights about dental health and proper hygiene. This blog talks about how brushing your teeth can be an excellent way to prevent COVID-19.

It's hard not to notice how frequently people remind each other about proper health habits during this time of the pandemic. We always hear someone reminding us to wash our hands and even our faces. We are constantly barraged with reminders to bring our alcohol bottles to spray on anything we need to touch. But why aren't we talking about brushing our teeth more often?

Many people often overlook it, but Dr. Kami Hoss explains that regularly brushing your teeth can help a lot if you are serious about the prevention of COVID-19

Toothpaste offers a great way to eliminate the germs that cause COVID-19 effectively. The COVID-19 virus is a type of coronavirus that can enter the body through the mouth. However, when the virus gets into contact with something that has the potency of toothpaste, it is killed.

Dr. Kami Hoss explains that toothbrushing may help prevent infection because toothpaste's active ingredient is fluoride, a chemical that kills viruses and bacteria. Cleaning agents like bleach also contain fluoride, which is why they effectively kill the COVID-19 virus. 

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Toothpaste has an anti-viral effect that can last for as long as a few hours after brushing. This benefit is one reason why it is critical to brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day, especially if you are in an area where there is a high risk of being infected with COVID-19.

If you are looking for a way to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19, make sure to brush your teeth and floss regularly.

Dr.Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, co-founder of The Super Dentists, regularly offers advice on maintaining dental health. For more about the company, please visit this page.

Protecting teenage teeth: A few important reminders

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According to Dr. Kami Hoss, DDS, good dental hygiene is crucial during the teenage years. Along with its role in socialization, good dental hygiene is also a must to avoid dental decay, which is one of the most common chronic issues in young people from ages 5 to 17.

In today’s blog, Dr. Kami Hoss, DDS, gives a quick review on keeping your teeth and gums healthy as a teen.

Always practice wearing a mouth guard during contact sports.

Oral injuries can be the result of contact sports, so to prevent them, try wearing a mouth guard while playing. Mouth guards can be custom-fitted by a dentist or bought ready-made at a nearby store. People should also keep it clean through regular cleaning.

Always eat healthy.

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Teens are prone to snacking on sweet treats and nutrition bars in between school activities and their social life. According to Dr. Kami Hoss, DDS, they should instead stick to healthier alternatives such as vegetable sticks and pure, clear water, and do away with sodas and sweet beverages. Acidic foods and fizzy drinks are bad news, as they cause dental erosion as well.

Avoid cigarettes and alcohol.

Smoking is bad for people’s health for many reasons. One of them is that it leads to stained teeth, gum disease, as well as tooth loss. Both smoking and alcohol drinks can cause mouth cancer, as well, Dr. Kami Hoss, DDS, adds.

Kami Hoss, DDS, is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. He is also the chief executive of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. Read more on this site.

The importance of good oral health in older adults

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The body changes as people age. No matter how old a person is, their dental health plays an important role in determining their quality of life. While people of all ages need to practice good oral hygiene, older adults need to be more vigilant about their gum health as it can help determine their overall wellbeing.

Having strong, healthy, and shiny teeth become less susceptible to decay and gum diseases over time. Dr. Kami Hoss mentions that for older adults to maintain good oral health, it is integral that they pay close attention to their dental hygiene habits. This will determine the general condition of their teeth, gums, and mouth. Thanks to improved quality of life, dental health devices, more adults can keep their pearly whites healthy as they age. Although, their risk of suffering from bad oral health may increase due to medication or memory loss.

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While some older adults don’t usually have a problem when it comes to fitting dentures, those who suffer from medical conditions such as xerostomia, osteoporosis, and diabetes may find it challenging as the process of getting fitted for these can be uncomfortable and may take longer to finalize.

For Dr. Kami Hoss, neglecting to practice good oral hygiene can affect a person’s self-esteem. Thus, it’s understandable that people may choose to forgo going to the dentist or investing in dental devices and products due to financial constraints. However, it’s incredibly important for one to pay attention to dental health as much as they do with other aspects of health.

Dr. Kami Hoss is the CEO and co-founder of The Super Dentists, the biggest orthodontic practice and pediatric dentistry in San Diego. He is an author, consultant, inventor, enthusiast, and speaker in business and dentistry. Head over to this page for more articles.

All you need to know about bruxism in children

 

Bruxism or teeth grinding is mostly experienced by adults. But this sleeping-related movement disorder is relatively common in children, too. Generally happening when a person is under stress or in a deep sleep, bruxism can become a severe dental concern when left untreated.

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Some kids may grind their teeth if these hurt, while others do so due to stress or anxiety. Misaligned teeth can cause dental concern, but it’s more likely that a child feels anxious about something. Teeth grinding and jaw clenching can cause dull headaches, pain around the ear, and tension pains that start near the temples, explains Kami Hoss, DDS, MS. In other cases, kids may feel pain when chewing or when eating cold and sugary treats.

When teeth grinding is excessive, it causes wear and tear on the enamel, sometimes almost exposing the deeper layers of the teeth, increasing their sensitivity. It’s possible for kids not to outgrow the sleep disorder. Kids whose teeth grinding don’t stop may suffer from chipped or fractured teeth, while others may develop temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which causes increased pain in the jaw. Kids with TMD may find it harder to chew or open their mouth fully.

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If parents or guardians suspect their child has bruxism, it would be best to schedule a dental checkup, notes Kami Hoss, DDS, MS. A proper diagnosis will include the appropriate treatment for bruxism and its symptoms. Some kids and adults with bruxism may benefit more from stress and anxiety relief and management.

Kami Hoss, DDS, MS, holds a master’s in craniofacial biology and a doctorate in dental surgery. He also co-founded The Super Dentists with his business partner and wife, Dr. Nazli Keri. For more updates, head over to this blog.

Dental hygiene 101 - What causes bleeding gums

 

Dr. Kami Hoss continues with his series of blogs that aim to help his readers know more about dental health. In today’s discussion, he shares his wisdom on one of the common dental problems out there: bleeding gums.

What causes bleeding gums?

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1. Improper brushing

A lot of people, even those who brush regularly, still maintain poor brushing habits in that they place too much pressure on their teeth when they brush. Perhaps, thinking that they are being more thorough in the way that they clean their teeth, they press on too hard, which causes their gums to give in to the strain and then bleed. Dr. Kami Hoss adds that this becomes even worse when worn-out toothbrushes are used, because these tend to be shaped quite irregularly and can cause gum damage.

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2. Improper flossing

The type of people described in the previous point are probably the same ones who also floss the wrong way. When flossing is done in excessive force, this can cause even greater damage than any toothbrush ever can. When flossing, one has to be really gentle and extremely aware of the angle by which the floss gets into to contact with the teeth and the gums.

3. Plaque buildup

A notorious culprit that causes gum bleeding is the buildup of plaque under the gum line. Plaque is a sticky mixture made of bacteria, mucus, and food debris, that typically builds up on the exposed parts of the teeth. While it is a major cause of tooth decay, it also causes gums to be infected, which results in bleeding.

Dr.Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. He and his wife, Dr. Nazli Keri established the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. For more about his work, please visit this page.

Helping kids manage their fear of the dentist

 

In reality, there really isn’t any reason to fear the dentist. They help individuals get the smile they want and deserve through necessary dental treatments. However, some kids may have an irrational fear of the dentist which can prevent them from having their teeth checked. Adults can encourage kids to manage their fear of the dentist.

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Find friendly dentists. Dr. Kami Hoss and The Super Dentists help kids feel comfortable and at ease in every time they visit for a check-up or a procedure. It’s also important for parents to have confidence in the dentist and their staff in order for the child to feel the same. Prepare the child for the visit. Answer questions about the dentist truthfully and avoid downplaying their anxieties. Encourage the child to talk about what makes them afraid or nervous about the visit.

Adults may have the tendency to make dental visits seem scary, especially for kids. Instead, make the visit enticing. Read books and watch videos about dentists that are kid-friendly to build their excitement. Use the right words when talking about dental visits. Rather than using words that might evoke negative reactions such as “pain,” “shot,” or “hurt,” use positive, kid-friendly words like “healthy,” “clean,” and “comfortable.”

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Explore the dental office. Parents can arrange for the dental staff to tour the child around the office to help them see there is nothing to fear. They can even let kids hold kid-friendly dental tools for a little role playing before the actual procedure.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. He is also a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. Read more about Dr. Kami Hoss here.

Parent-tested ways to teach kids about oral health

 

Children learn about health and hygiene at home. Parents have a responsibility to teach their little ones how to brush their teeth properly and what they need to do to maintain their pearly whites. Dr. Kami Hoss, the CEO and co-founder of The Super Dentists, shares what moms and dads can do to teach their kids good oral habits.

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Show them the benefits

This step can be done with the help of the family's dentist during one of their visits or consultations. Dentists can boost parents' efforts to teach their child how to properly brush their teeth. Many dentists have visual aids or tools that can help children better understand the importance of developing good oral habits. Dr. Kami Hoss says going to the dentist regularly will encourage kids not to be afraid of check-ups.

Let them choose their toothbrush, toothpaste, and cup

The kids will be excited to brush their teeth every day if they have their own dental hygiene kit. Kids who are just learning to brush on their own might have seen their parents brush, gargle, and floss. Giving them their own things will make learning easier for them. If a child doesn't like the taste of toothpaste, parents can find other flavors to try.

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Make it musical

Put on some music to hype the little ones. Two- to three-minute tunes are perfect for training them to brush right. During this time, parents can create a choreography that will train the kids to brush in circles, reach the inner areas, clean the tongue, and rinse. Kids learn best when there's music and routine so this strategy will surely work with them.

The Super Dentists CEO Dr.Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. He and his wife, Dr. Nazli Keri, established The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. For more information, visit this page.

What happens to the teeth as a person ages?

 

Like the rest of the body, your gums and teeth also age. This is why it's crucial to ensure oral health. Lifestyle habits, health conditions, and injuries contribute to the aging. In this blog, Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, discusses what happens to the teeth as a person grows older.

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It becomes more at risk for cavities

Bacteria in the mouth causes plaque that turns sugar and starch components from food into acid. Having too much of this can damage the tooth enamel. Without proper cleaning and check-up, this can lead to cavities. While many people think that children are more prone to cavities, it is actually also common among adults as their teeth are already permanent. As a person grows older, the gums recede and make them more at risk of developing cavities. Having a dry mouth can also lead to dirt and bacteria buildup that might contribute to damaging the teeth.

Gum problems might be causing the pain and inflammation

Aside from age, having a habit of brushing too hard can damage the gums through the years. On the other hand, periodontal disease can also quicken the damage caused by tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth. Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, also says that habits such as smoking and poor dental hygiene might worsen gum disease that might eventually lead to tooth decay.

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Discolored teeth

Through the years, a person's teeth may become discolored. Aside from smoking or drinking tea and coffee that might lead to stains, the teeth may start yellowing because of dentin that can start showing through the enamel, which might become more fragile with age. While there are many products out there that promise a whiter smile, it's important to consult with a dentist before trying these products, as they might make the teeth even more sensitive.

Dr. Kami Hoss is a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. He has also written articles published in numerous professional and community journals and publications. Visit this page for more on dental care.

Winter oral health care: All the things you need to know

 

The holidays bring in joy, fun, excitement, and sometimes toothache. Adults and kids generally eat more than usual during the festive season, which can be tough on the teeth and gums. The combination of cold weather and hot drinks may also be a threat to a person’s oral health. 

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Kami Hoss, DDS, MS shares that hot treats and drinks, outdoor winter activities, and drier air can put a person’s teeth in danger. Stay hydrated even during winter. A person still sweats during the cold season and the recommended eight or more glasses of water per day must be followed all through the year. 

Try to eat healthy and watch out for excess sweets. Partying and eating with friends seem worlds away due to the pandemic. Take this opportunity to eat and drink right. Encourage kids to skip candies and other sweets. Watch the juice and hot cocoa as these may contain excessive sugar which can lead to sore throat and tooth decay. Practice proper oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day to prevent cavities. Teeth can get a little too sensitive during winter, especially when biting into cold food. To get rid of the pain, brush with a desensitizing toothpaste. 

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Dr. Kami Hoss shares that people tend to have weaker immune systems during the cold months, leaving some to become more susceptible to infections and inflammations. Prevent germs from entering the mouth by maintaining proper oral hygiene. Should there be concerns about one’s dental health, call the dentist immediately.

Kami Hoss, DDS, MS, holds a master’s in craniofacial biology and doctorate in dental surgery. He co-founded and built The Super Dentists with his business partner and wife Dr. Nazil Keri. To read more from Dr. Kami Hoss, subscribe to this blog.

Some creative ways to get children to brush their teeth regularly

 

For many parents, the struggle to instill regular brushing habits in their children is quite real. No parent would truly let this go, considering the dire consequences of having dental problems at a young age. For this blog, Dr. Kami Hoss shares some advice on how to get children to brush their teeth regularly. 

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1. Reward good brushing behavior.

Think about what motivates your child. It might be a good idea for you to start a reward chart or a scoring system that your child can add to each time they brush. The rewards do not have to be grand! If your child is the type of kid who wants to read, let them pick out the bedtime story. Even giving him candies is an effective reward tool; just don't let them have any right before bedtime. Something as simple as praise can work, too, says Dr. Kami Hoss.

2. Turn brushing into a fun activity.

The truth is, brushing can be a boring activity in a child's mind, even if this only lasts for 2 minutes or so. Try doing this activity to the tune of your child's favorite nursery rhyme, even if you have to dance to the music while you brush. You can turn it into an imitation game, where the child does exactly as you do when brushing. If you can find other ways to make things interesting, go for it. 

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3. Use a character toothbrush 

Character toothbrushes are available in most supermarkets and even at local dental clinics like The Super Dentists, which has its own line of toothbrushes with superhero characters and embedded custom music. These kinds of toothbrushes are not too expensive, so get several of them so that your child can pick one that they want to use for each time they brush their teeth. This gives the child a feeling of freedom to choose, and suddenly brushing becomes something they look forward to. What's important is that they form the regular habit of brushing teeth.

Make your kids love brushing with The Super Toothbrush from The Super Dentists, the pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice of Dr. Kami Hoss, DDS, MS. The Super Toothbrush is the only toothbrush with augmented reality technology. It is also perfect for children who are just learning how to brush on their own as the Super Toothbrush plays a two-minute song so kids know exactly how long they should be brushing. Click here to purchase a Super Toothbrush and to learn more about the latest additions to the collection.

Oral hygiene tips during COVID-19

With almost everyone locked up in their homes to prevent the spread of COVID-19, getting one’s teeth checked and cleaned by a dentist may be challenging, if at all, necessary. Dr. Kami Hoss offers some oral hygiene tips to keep plaque and other dental issues at bay while many dental clinics

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Proper oral hygiene must be practiced at all times. However, during COVID-19 pandemic, everyone may have to add a few more steps to their dental health routine. Store toothbrushes as far from the toilet as possible. Studies suggest that the novel coronavirus can be spread through fecal matter. Close the toilet bowl lid before flushing to prevent the spray from flying out of the toilet.

Change brushes regularly. Toothbrushes must only be used for three months, with some not even lasting that long. Doing this prevents the spread of bacteria and provides better cleaning. Dentists recommend to brush at least twice a day and floss once daily to keep the teeth and gums healthy while most dentist offices are closed. A key component of the immune system is the oral microbiome. Gargle with mouthwashes with little to no alcohol content to not disrupt the health of the oral microbiome.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, reminds everyone to keep practicing basic oral hygiene. Aside from washing hands regularly, brushing at least twice daily helps in keeping one healthy. Drinking plenty of water and cutting down on sugary snacks and drinks keep the teeth and gums healthy, as well.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is the CEO and co-founder of The Super Dentists. He is also the CEO of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. He holds a master’s in craniofacial biology and a doctorate in dental surgery. To know more about Dr. Hoss, head over to this page.

Post-braces: Maintain dental alignment with these steps

Graduating from braces can be a relief for those who have worn the dental appliance for years. After multiple check-ups and adjustments, taking out these brackets shouldn't be the end of one's dental care. Dentists usually require their patients to wear retainers to protect the alignment of their teeth for up to a year. Kami Hoss, DDS, MS, shares some steps that will keep those pearly whites clean and aligned after braces.

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Brush teeth at least twice a day

It's important to keep up with a brushing habit especially after the braces have been removed. Dirt buildup can cause receding gums that can also affect the alignment of teeth. Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush is a basic but effective way to prevent teeth from shifting.

Clean retainers regularly

Retainers are required by most dentists for six months to a year to maintain dental alignment. However, most people forget to take off their retainers during mealtimes or even clean them regularly. Dr. Kami Hoss suggests washing removable retainers daily. Using lukewarm water and dish soap can wash away the debris that builds up during the day. Before soaking the retainers, it's best to ask dentists about the number of hours and the solution to be used to prevent damaging the retainers. One should also keep retainers case clean and dry to prevent bacteria.

Stay hydrated

A dry mouth can be a breeding ground for bacteria that can damage the teeth and gums. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water every day will keep the teeth strong and healthy, especially after treatment with braces.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. He is also a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. For similar reads, click here.

An easy guide to disinfecting a toothbrush

Brushing the teeth is considered the most important step in ensuring oral health. However, according to Dr. Kami Hoss, most people forget to disinfect their toothbrushes. This step is crucial as a brush can be exposed to germs and dirt even when covered. Here is an easy guide to disinfecting a toothbrush.

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Washing: Be sure to wash hands before brushing the teeth. After brushing, clean the brush to make sure that no toothpaste or debris remains on the bristles. Don't forget to clean the handle and the back.

Soaking: Dental professionals like Dr. Kami Hoss suggest soaking toothbrushes overnight in mouthwash, baking soda, or hydrogen peroxide. These cleaning agents will keep dirt from building up and will also eliminate the bacteria in the toothbrush. Putting one to two teaspoons of one of these solutions in a cup of water is enough.

Drying: When it comes to drying toothbrushes, it's important to keep them away from each other. Sometimes it's better to leave them to air dry without a cover. It's also better to wash and dry the toothbrush covers. Experts suggest keeping brushes as far away from the toilet as possible. When storing them in a cup or a holder, it's important to keep the brush heads inches apart.

Dentists advise individuals to replace their toothbrush when it softens or shows signs of fraying. In case someone at home gets the flu or other viruses, it's important to keep their toothbrush away to prevent others from sickness. It's also best to dispose of contaminated brushes.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is the CEO of The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. Dr. Hoss is also the chief executive of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. Follow this blog for more on dental health.

Tooth extractions: When does one need to have their teeth pulled out?

With his extensive experience as a dental surgeon, Kami Hoss has helped countless of people with their dental problems over the years. On top of that, he educates and informs everyone on everything related to dentistry through his series of blogs.

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For today’s topic, Kami Hoss answers the question, “When does a person need to have his teeth extracted?”

The fact that humans only grow two sets of teeth in the lifetime means that the second set must be maintained thoroughly. Even if modern medicine has afforded people painless tooth extractions, dentists only perform the procedure as a last resort.

The most common reason people need tooth extractions is because the tooth in question has become damaged to the point that it can no longer be repaired. Sometimes, this happens through decay, and sometimes, through infection. Normally, extraction is straightforward, unless infection has spread throughout the surrounding tissue.

Another common reason for extraction is the existence of wisdom teeth, especially in cases wherein the jaw of the person is too short. Though the procedure is normally harmless, when there is a lack of space for wisdom teeth, the other teeth become impacted or worse, infected.

There are also circumstances wherein some teeth that emerge are simply too large (or, conversely, the jaws may be too short). This affects the alignment of the teeth. Kami Hoss notes that there are also instances in which people have more teeth than normal.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS is the CEO and co-founder of The Super Dentists. He is also the CEO of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. He holds a master’s degree in craniofacial biology and a doctorate in dental surgery. Visit this blog for more dental care tips.

Smart ways to choose a local dentist

Choosing a dentist might seem like a fairly easy decision to make. But not when you consider how radically important this specialist’s role is in maintaining your dental health in the long term, or in correcting the alignment of your teeth through metal braces. Here are several things to consider when choosing a dentist in your area.

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Cover the basics

Answer some crucial questions: Is the dentist’s office easy to get to from your home or office? Does it have convenient office hours? If dental benefits are covered by your insurance plan, is the dentist in that network? Is the dentist a member of the ADA? You will do regular visits to this dentist, so it’s a must to cover these basics.

Gauge your personal comfort

Determine if you’re comfortable with the person. Are you able to ask questions freely and explain your symptoms? Does the dentist hear you out and understand your concerns, or do they merely shrug them off? Are you confident discussing important dental procedures with the dentist?

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Look at professional qualifications

Obtain information about the person’s qualifications from the local dental society as well as your insurance carrier. Organizations of specialty dentists list their members as well as qualifications. The dentist’s office, too, should reflect cleanliness and an ongoing policy on infection control.

Launch your search

Use the ADA’s Find-a-Dentist tool, research your local dental society, or seek referral from a trust friend or relative. Local health departments or dental schools can also assist in finding affordable dental services for you.

Meet and greet the dentist

Call or visit the dentist before choosing. See if the office is neat and welcoming and if you think you can work with the dentist for a long time. It’s your oral health at stake after all, and you shouldn’t settle for anything less than the right fit for your needs.

Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, is a sought-after author, consultant, inventor, and speaker in the fields of dentistry and business. He is the co-founder and CEO of The Super Dentists and the chief executive of Acceledontics and Howard Healthcare Academy. For similar reads, visit this page.