Did you ever hear your mom say, “Don’t bite your nails! It is an awful habit.”  Well, mom was right. The result is short stubby nails, bitten ragged and sometimes bleeding skin, but also damage to your teeth.

It is estimated that about 40% of all children bite their nails. Nail or cuticle biting or chewing stresses the front teeth. It increases the pressure on the front teeth, which are not strong enough for continual use. The result can be fractured, cracked or worn down front teeth. Gum damage can also result from the sharp and ragged edges of nails digging into the gum. The other side of the constant biting and chewing is the introduction of unwanted bacteria from the mouth that can then spread back to the nails and into the blood stream.

The use of a mouthguard is often used as a deterrent to nail biting. Dr. McDowell can fit you with a custom mouthguard and offer suggestions to help you break the cycle of nailing biting to protect your hands and teeth.

Call our office at 952-473-4900 or use our request an appointment page. Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa is conveniently located if you are in the Wayzata, Plymouth or Minnetonka area.

It is well known that drinking coffee, tea and red wine can cause stains on your teeth. Another study now shows that drinking white wine can help create staining. There are acids in white wine that can cause rough spots and grooves that let the chemicals in other drinks get deeper into the tooth.

Some helpful hints to reduce the staining:

1. Eat cheese with your wine. Cheese has calcium and it can help to neutralize the saliva and reduce acid attack.
2. Wait an hour before you brush your teeth.

Remember, we are the SmileSpa. Dr. McDowell and his staff are experts in cosmetic dentistry. Call us at 952-473-4900 or use our Request an Appointment link. We are conveniently located if you are in the Wayzata, Plymouth and Orono area.

Pregnancy and Dental Care

You are excited about your pregnancy and, soon, you will experience many changes in your body. Some of those changes can affect your teeth and dental health.

When making an appointment for dental care, be sure to let your dentist and hygienist know you are pregnant. It is suggested during the first trimester that you have only a checkup and cleaning. If you have any major dental work needed, it is best to delay until the second trimester. However, if you have a dental emergency, get it taken care of immediately.

It is estimated that at least 50% of all pregnant women experience pregnancy gingivitis. It is critical to maintain a good dental hygiene routine during your pregnancy. Twice daily flossing, brushing, and keeping on schedule with dental checkups should be a priority.

Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa is a family dentist and we look forward to providing the best dental care to you during your pregnancy and for your little one when the time is right. Call us at 952-473-4900 or use our Request an Appointment link. We are conveniently located if you are in the Wayzata, Plymouth and Orono area.