Dr. Dunn Presents Toothbrush Trivia!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Are There Teeth Grinders in Your House? - Dr. Jerry Dunn, DDS

Grind, grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by calling 972-506-9688. Dr. Dunn can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Pampering Our Patients, One Smile at a Time! - Dr. Jerry Dunn

Whether you come to us for a regular check-up, to have your wisdom teeth pulled, or anything in between, comfort is something you expect during your dental visit. At Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas we make your comfort one of our top priorities. We want you to feel better than “at-home!”

We pamper our patients with free milkshakes and fresh baked cookies after each appointment. Our practice also offers aromatherapy treatments, paraffin wax hand treatments, and heated neck pillows to soothe and relax you while you’re being taken care of. We’ve thought of everything in order to make your time spent with us feel more like a day at the spa than a trip to the dentist!

We would love to hear about your experience at your last office visit. Were you comfortable and relaxed? Did you enjoy your appointment and feel rejuvenated when you left? Please let us know how you feel before, during, and after your appointments at Advanced Dental Care of Las Colinas!

Here is what a few of our great patients had to say about their visits to our office:

"Loved the milkshake! It was just what I needed for lunch. Keep up the good work."
- Karen A.

"Everyone was just super!! It made going to the office much easier than I could ever dream or imagine. I can't stand the pain of going to the dentist and I do believe you Dr. Dunn and your awesome staff are going to keep me coming and making this a part of my life to keep me in good health. Thanks for all that you do.

P.S. I love the vanilla milkshakes!!"
- Jackie A.

"Everyone went out of their way to make me feel comfortable. I am so glad to be your newest patient, and have recommended you to my wife.

P.S. The milkshake was terrific!"
- David T.