Gingivitis can affect the health of both mother and baby in pregnancy

Oral health is directly linked to overall health. This is especially true for women during pregnancy. It is important that you practice exceptional oral care habits in order to promote your oral health and always visit your dentist for routine cleanings and a check-up even during this amazing time. Dental treatment is usually completely safe to be done during the second trimester, only as part as a precautionary measure. If you are hesitant as to whether or not you should keep your dental appointment, feel free to contact our office for more information.

Gingivitis is a condition that should be taken care of promptly and even more so during pregnancy or if you have decided to become pregnant. Since your immune system can become weakened during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes occurring in your body, gingivitis is something that can develop if good oral habits are not practiced. Untreated gingivitis can develop into gum disease, which has been linked to premature birth.

Ways to avoid Gingivitis during pregnancy includes:

• Brushing and flossing twice daily
• Use mouthwash once daily, if tolerated
• Maintain routine cleaning appointments with your dentist
• Contact us if you see any changes in your mouth tissue or anything of concern

Congratulations on your pregnancy or if you have decided to take the next step to becoming a mother. We understand that this is an important time in your life and we will be with you every step of the way. May you be pampered and love not just on Mother's Day, but every day.

Happy Mother's Day!

Contact Us:
Trunkey Dental
Phone: (661) 322-3892
Address: 3807 San Dimas Street Suite A,
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Email: smile@trunkeydental.com
Website: http://trunkeydental.com/

Smile bright and visit our Dentist in Bakersfield for all your dental needs!

Trunkey Dental strives to provide excellent customer care and comfort when attending to every dental need.

From preventative, general or cosmetic dentistry to sedation dentistry for nervous patients, Dr. Donald Trunkey - Dentist in Bakersfield - and staff have the knowledge and experience needed to get the job done.

Our dental office in Bakersfield provides a comfortable atmosphere where you can relax. We promise you will leave our office smiling bright!

Call us today at (661) 322-3892 or visit our website for more information: http://trunkeydental.com/


Trunkey Dental
3807 San Dimas Street Suite A,
Bakersfield, CA 93301
(661) 322-3892
http://trunkeydental.com/

Join us in the battle against Oral Cancer now in April!

http://trunkeydental.com/

What are oral cancer risk factors?

Anyone can get oral cancer, but there are some factors that can increase the chances of you getting the disease. Just like with any of the other types of cancer, oral cancer risk increases as you age. Additionally, men are more likely that women to develop the disease along with those 55 or older.

Other risk factors for developing oral cancer include: 

• Tobacco Usage: 80% of patients nationwide that are diagnosed with oral cancer yearly are tobacco users, whether it be through cigarettes or chewing tobacco. The amount of risk usually depends of the frequency and duration of the use. The more tobacco you use, the higher the risk of developing oral cancer. 
• Alcohol: About 70% of patients nationwide that are diagnosed with oral cancer yearly are heavy drinkers. Logically, the risk is much higher for patients that are heavy drinkers and also use tobacco. 
• Increased or prolonged sun exposure: Oral cancer of the lip is extremely frequent in patients that work outdoors or are increasingly exposed to sunlight. 
• Age: Even though the median age of patients diagnosed with cancer is 62, patients are encouraged to attend regular oral cancer screenings when over the age of 50. 

Patients with family history of the cancer or those who are at an increased risk of developing the disease are urged to visit much earlier. We invite you to schedule a visit to Bakersfield dental office for a cancer screening. The earlier you are diagnosed, the better chances you have for a cure. Call today!

What are the symptoms of a tooth infection?

A tooth infection can be extremely painful and usually affects of the root or portion between the gum s and tooth. It is generally caused by severe tooth decay that has not been addressed in some time. This is the reason we always recommend visiting a dentist routinely about every 6 months or sooner if advised to do so by the dentist. We all have different types of teeth and many patients are more prone to cavities and tooth infections than others. Always listen to the recommendations given to you by your dentist.

The most common symptom of a tooth infection is constant, throbbing pain of the tooth and portions around it. Other symptoms of an infected tooth include:

• Fever 
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods/liquids 
• Halitosis (smelly breath) 
• Swollen gums or glands 
• Open sore on gums 

The root of the tooth can die from the tooth infection which will make the pain stop; however, this does not mean that the tooth has healed. Dental treatment is still required. The infection may then spread to other teeth or other areas of the mouth and should be addressed as soon as possible.

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above or think that you may have an infected tooth, please contact our Bakersfield dental office for treatment as soon as possible. Not getting treatment in a timely manner may result in tooth extraction or other costly dental procedures.

Healthy Thanksgiving Snacks for Your Teeth!

I know it’s hard to think about oral health while preparing your holiday meal and celebrating with family and friends, but try to include foods that are beneficial to your teeth. It’s simple! All you have to do is improve your diet to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Vitamins and minerals are essential for excellent oral health. Here are some options to include in your holiday menu that will help keep your smile healthy:

• Turkey: is high in phosphorous. When phosphorus is mixed with calcium and vitamin d it helps create strong bones and teeth. It also rebuilds tooth enamel which is damaged by acid-producing bacteria. 
• Strawberries: act as an astringent and undo stains you may have gotten from a cup of coffee earlier that morning. They’re also bursting with vitamin C, a mineral that is essential for dental health. 
• Dairy: products such as milk and cheese have a mineral called calcium that helps build stronger teeth. 
• Sweet Potatoes: are packed with nutrients like vitamin A, C, and B6, which can contribute to the health of your teeth. Potatoes don’t stick to teeth like other starchy foods who serve as a shelter for oral bacteria.
• Fruits & vegetables: Crispy fruits and vegetables clean your teeth while you eat, like tiny delicious toothbrushes. Vegetables also boost saliva levels in the mouth, which helps conquer acids and enzymes. Vegetables are gushing vitamins A and C. These avoid soft, bleeding gums and protect against oral cancer. 

Many of your favorite foods are also nutritious and vital for great dental health. A balanced diet can help those family members who are more vulnerable to oral health problems, including pregnant women, children and seniors.

Have a happy Thanksgiving and don't forget to brush and floss! Don't forget to call our dental office for your next dental appointment.

How bad is Halloween candy for your teeth?

Halloween has become a big tradition in the US, the children often look forward to because they can dress-up and eat lots of candy. With this said, Halloween is a good reminder to tend to you and your family’s oral health. Large amounts of candy consumption and lead to numerous health problems. We’re not saying that candy should be prohibited, as this can lead to unhealthy eating habits. We do, however, recommend consuming candy in moderation.

Candy is loaded with sugars and acids that are extremely harmful for teeth. They can create hazardous environments in our mouths that cause bacteria to grow exponentially. This puts our teeth at risk for cavities and other infections. During Halloween and throughout the year, it’s imperative that good oral care habits are practiced in order to maintain a healthy smile. Additionally, after consuming candy, brushing your teeth thoroughly is highly encouraged. If this is not possible, rinse your mouth out or drink a glass of water. This will help flush away any leftover particles until you have access to a toothbrush.

In other words, we won’t give Halloween candy a bad name. It is okay to let your kids indulge on this day and you could even do so yourself. However, we recommend paying close attention to the amount of candy consumed by each individual family member while also making sure that everyone brushes thoroughly afterward.

On behalf of Trunkey Dental, we wish you all a happy and cavity-free Halloween!