Dr. Brian Scaff

When introducing baby foods, it's important to choose options that are not only nutritious but also gentle on their developing teeth and gums. Here are some baby food ideas that are beneficial for oral health:

Mashed Fruits: Opt for soft, ripe fruits like bananas, pears, and peaches. These fruits are naturally sweet and provide essential vitamins and minerals without being too harsh on sensitive gums.
Cooked and Pureed Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas can be cooked until soft and then pureed to create smooth, tooth-friendly options. These vegetables offer important nutrients and help introduce your baby to different flavors.
Plain Yogurt: Full-fat plain yogurt is rich in calcium and probiotics, which are beneficial for dental health.
Soft Cooked Grains: Cooked and mashed grains like rice, quinoa, and oats are easy on gums and provide energy and nutrients. They also encourage your baby to practice chewing as they transition to solid foods.
Mashed Avocado: Avocado is packed with healthy fats and nutrients.
Soft Cooked Meats: As your baby starts to consume protein, consider offering soft, well-cooked meats like chicken or turkey. These provide essential nutrients for growth and development.
Steamed and Mashed Beans: Beans are a good source of protein and fiber. Steam them until they are soft and then mash or puree them to create a nutritious option for your baby.
Homemade Vegetable
Whole Grain Cereals: Opt for whole grain baby cereals that are iron-fortified. Mix them with breast milk, formula, or water to create a gentle and nutritious meal.
Soft Whole Fruits: Once your baby has developed some chewing ability, you can introduce soft fruits with edible skins like apple slices (peeled and cooked), ripe berries, and melon.
Remember to avoid foods high in added sugars which can contribute to tooth decay. It is important to practice good oral hygiene by gently cleaning their gums and teeth with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush and water.

The time has come for Chris to retire and she would love if you could join her on August 31 to help her celebrate! Drop by Tuscano Italian Kitchen Restaurant in Cedar Park between 2:30 - 5:00 to wish her the best! 🎉

Have you ever noticed enamel wear at the gumline of your teeth and wondered what it is from and what can be done to correct and prevent it? This wear is called cervical erosion and is often caused by mechanical factors like toothbrush abrasion or grinding but can also be caused from acidic foods and beverages. Modifying the method that you brush your teeth and limiting acidic foods and beverages can help as well as wearing an occlusal guard. For treating cervical erosion, you might consider these steps:
Determine if the erosion is due to factors like acidic diet, improper brushing technique, teeth grinding/clenching or other underlying health conditions. Consulting a dentist is crucial to diagnose the cause correctly. If improper brushing technique is causing erosion, your dentist can provide guidance on proper brushing techniques to minimize further damage. Reduce consumption of acidic foods and beverages that can contribute to enamel erosion. In more severe cases, dental restorations like bonding or dental crowns might be necessary to restore the damaged tooth structure. Get fitted for a custom-fit removeable dental appliance, known as an occlusal guard, to protect teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching, especially during sleep. Lastly, maintain regular visits to your dentist for checkups and professional cleanings to monitor the progression of erosion and receive timely treatment. Remember, the appropriate treatment for cervical erosion depends on the specific circumstances and underlying causes for each individual. It's important to consult a dentist to get a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Oral cancer self-screening is an important practice to detect any potential signs or symptoms of oral cancer early on. Detecting oral cancer in its early stages greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and improves overall outcomes. If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms during the self-screening or experience any of these persistent symptoms, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation from a dentist or doctor:

Persistent sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal.
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
Red or white patches on the tongue, gums, or other areas inside the mouth.
Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something stuck in the throat.
A persistent sore throat or hoarseness.
Numbness or pain in the mouth, face, or neck.
Swelling or lumps in the mouth or neck.
Remember, oral cancer self-screening is not a substitute for regular dental check-ups or medical examinations. If you have any concerns or questions about oral health or potential oral cancer symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
gums

Happy National Avocado Day! Did you know that avocados are an excellent source for strengthening your gums and teeth due to the high amounts of potassium? Avocados are also high in folic acid which helps in cell renewal; therefore, strengthening gum tissue! So, I guess you could say...eat an avocado a day to keep the dentist away!

It's amazing what orthodontics can do to improve one's smile! Come in for your free consultation to see if orthodontics is a good option for you! We'll make you smile!

Loose dentures are no laughing matter! Dental implants are a great option for securing dentures effectively giving greater self-confidence and function. Give us a call if you would like more information about dental implants and to find out if you are a good candidate.

Here's your little reminder to be sure you are flossing regularly!

Happy Shark Week from Dr. Scaff and Team!

Did you know that the same toothpaste that you use to polish your teeth can come in handy to repair and clean lots of things around the house? It's best to stick with a solid white toothpaste rather than a gel. The gel formulas often contain a bit of dye that can discolor some materials you're trying to clean. Here are 20 ways you can use toothpaste around the house.
Jewelry cleaner
Whitens yellow nails
DVD and CD scratch remover
Wall nailhole filler
Removes crayon and marker stains from walls
Removes phone screen scratches
Shoe scuff cleaner
Clears pimples
Cleans foggy headlights
Removes mild car paint scratches
Cleans and shines chrome
Defogs eyeglasses and mirrors
Banishes odors from hands
Carpet cleaner
Removes countertop stains
Stops bug bites from itching
Iron cleaner
Lessens poison ivy sting
Removes gum from hair
Removes soap scum from shower doors and fiberglass

Happy International Retainer Day! Today celebrates the importance of wearing retainers after the completion of orthodontic treatment. Here are some reasons why wearing an orthodontic retainer is crucial:

1. Teeth Stability: After orthodontic treatment, teeth tend to shift back to their original positions naturally. Wearing a retainer helps keep the teeth in their new, aligned positions, preventing relapse and maintaining the desired outcome.
2. Bone and Gum Adaptation: The bone and gums surrounding the teeth need time to adapt to their new positions after orthodontic treatment. A retainer helps in this process by allowing the bone and gums to stabilize around the teeth.
3. Preventing Crowding: Retainers are especially useful for preventing crowding of teeth, which is a common issue after orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer helps prevent overcrowding and the need for further orthodontic treatment.
4. Preserving Bite Correction: In addition to aligning the teeth, orthodontic treatment may correct an improper bite. Wearing a retainer helps maintain the corrected bite and prevents any undesirable changes.
5. Gradual Adjustment: Retainers can be designed to be worn full-time initially and then gradually transitioned to nighttime use only. This gradual adjustment helps ensure the teeth stay in their proper position while minimizing the inconvenience of wearing a retainer.
6. Long-Term Investment: Orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment of time and money. Wearing a retainer diligently ensures that this investment pays off in the long run, maintaining the beautiful smile achieved through orthodontic treatment.

Water plays an important role in maintaining good oral health, including preventing and managing gum disease. Water helps maintain overall oral health by keeping your mouth moist, neutralizing acids, remineralizing teeth, and washing away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to gum disease. While water is beneficial for oral health, it's important to note that it doesn't replace other essential oral hygiene practices. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and visiting your dentist for professional cleanings and check-ups are crucial for preventing and managing gum disease. If you're experiencing signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath, it's best to consult a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

We hope everyone is having a great Monday!

TBT to 2018 when Chicken Man came to see us for his 6 month checkup. Luckily, with his fowl mouth, he got a clean bill of health!
#2018

If you've got some bad teeth...come see Dr. Scaff and Team! We'll get you back on track!

Did you know that brushing your teeth with too much force can be harmful to your oral health, causing enamel erosion, gum recession, and tooth sensitivity? To avoid brushing your teeth too hard, consider the following tips:

1. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard or medium bristles can be harsh and cause damage if used with excessive force.
2. Use proper technique: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular or back-and-forth motions. Avoid scrubbing vigorously or using excessive pressure.
3. Be mindful of pressure: Apply only enough pressure to feel the bristles against your teeth and gums without pressing too hard. Gentle and consistent pressure is sufficient for effective cleaning.
4. Use a timer: Set a timer for two minutes to ensure you're not rushing or brushing too long.
5. Electric toothbrushes: Consider using an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor feature.
6. Let your toothbrush do the work: Remember that it's the bristles and toothpaste that clean your teeth, not excessive force. Allow the bristles to gently glide along your teeth and gums, removing plaque and debris without aggressive scrubbing.
7. Be aware of signs of overbrushing: If you experience gum sensitivity, bleeding, or your toothbrush bristles are frayed quickly, it may be a sign that you're brushing too hard. Take it as a cue to adjust your brushing technique.
8. Regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular dental visits to ensure your oral health is in check. Your dentist can provide guidance on proper brushing techniques and assess any damage caused by aggressive brushing.
Remember, brushing your teeth with proper technique and the right amount of pressure is more effective and safer for maintaining good oral health.

Happy 4th of July! May everyone have a fun and safe Independence Day!

Having a healthy smile is not only aesthetically pleasing but also important for your overall well-being. Here are some key tips for maintaining a healthy smile:

1. Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Also, floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline.
2. Use fluoride toothpaste: Look for toothpaste that contains fluoride to protect your teeth.
3. Maintain a balanced diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.
4. Drink plenty of water: Water helps rinse away food particles and neutralize acid in the mouth. It also keeps you hydrated, which is essential for overall oral health.
5. Avoid to***co and limit alcohol: To***co products can cause numerous oral health problems, such as gum disease, tooth discoloration, and oral cancer. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to gum disease and other oral health issues.
6. Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.
7. Protect your teeth during physical activities: Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from fractures, chips, or loss.
8. Avoid bad oral habits: Habits like nail biting, teeth grinding, and using your teeth to open packages can damage your teeth and strain your jaw. Try to break these habits for the sake of your oral health.
9. Manage stress: Stress can contribute to teeth grinding and jaw clenching, leading to dental issues. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercising, meditating, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy. 😁
***co

Unfortunately, individuals may have a limited ability to detect their own bad breath. The reason for this is that over time, our brains become accustomed to the smells and odors that are constantly present in our own mouths. This phenomenon is known as olfactory adaptation. If you suspect you have bad breath and are unable to self-diagnose, here are some ways to help you determine if you might have an issue:

Ask a Trusted Person: Approach someone you trust and ask them if they can detect any unpleasant odor when you speak or breathe near them.

Cotton Test: Take a piece of gauze or a cotton pad and rub it along your tongue, the back of your throat, or the inside of your cheek. Wait for a few seconds and then smell the gauze or cotton pad. If it has an unpleasant odor, it may indicate bad breath.

Breath Odor Test Kit: Several commercially available breath odor test kits are designed to detect the presence of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) in your breath. These compounds are often responsible for causing bad breath. These kits typically include a swab or a test strip that changes color based on the level of VSCs present.

Consult a Dental Professional: If you suspect you have bad breath or want a professional opinion, it's best to consult a dentist or dental hygienist. They can examine your oral health, detect any underlying issues, and provide appropriate advice or treatment.

Remember that bad breath can have various causes, including poor oral hygiene, certain foods, smoking, dry mouth, dental issues, sinus infections, or systemic conditions. If you consistently experience bad breath despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.



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Baby bottle decay is a dental condition that affects infants and young children. It is characterized by the rapid decay of the baby teeth due to prolonged exposure to sugary liquids, such as milk, formula, fruit juice, or sweetened drinks, especially when they are given to a child through a bottle. When a baby falls asleep with a bottle containing sugary liquids or is allowed to continuously suck on a bottle throughout the day, the sugary substances bathe the teeth, promoting the growth of bacteria. These bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay. If left untreated, the decay can progress rapidly and may result in pain, infection, and early tooth loss. Early childhood tooth decay can also impact the development of permanent teeth.

To prevent baby bottle decay, it is important to:

Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle containing anything other than water.
Limit the consumption of sugary drinks, including fruit juice, and encourage the use of a regular cup as soon as your child is ready.
Clean your baby's gums and teeth after feedings with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush.
Begin brushing your child's teeth with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a smear of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Schedule regular dental check-ups for your child, starting around their first birthday or as recommended by their dentist.

Everyone wants fresher breath and mouthwash is a good addition to your oral hygiene routine. Gargling mouthwash is a common practice for oral hygiene and freshening breath, but it can also help to kill bacteria in the mouth, reduce plaque buildup, and prevent gum disease. It's important to note that while mouthwash can be a beneficial addition to your oral hygiene routine, it should not replace brushing and flossing. Regular brushing twice a day and daily flossing are still the most effective ways to maintain good oral health. We recommend using an alcohol-free mouthwash if you suffer from dry mouth.

Happy Throwback Thursday to 2016! This photo was taken on our Annual Port Aransas Girls Beach Trip playing the game Watch Ya’ Mouth! We had lots of fun cracking up over each other's attempts to talk with lip retractors in our mouths. Good times!
#2016

Happy first day of Summer! Summertime is a great time to come visit us for a dental checkup and to get those teeth pearly white! We offer take-home whitening for $200 and in-office whitening for $500 which includes take-home whitening trays and solution for touchups. If you have already whitened your teeth and need touchup whitening solution, we offer touchup whitening for $11/syringe. Give us a call if you want to schedule a dental checkup and teeth cleaning or would like more information on our teeth whitening services.

We hope everyone is having a great Monday! .

Spread some positivity and show off your pearly whites on National Smile Power Day - smiling is the best way to brighten up someone's day! This special day was created in 1999 by the Smiley Company with the mission of helping people celebrate their individuality and express themselves through a positive attitude. So, smile and the world will smile with you!

A dental hygienist has published the new children’s book “A Guy Named Peri-O”, which explores the consequences of improper flossing and brushing. Author La-Vawn Simons’ book is inspired by her desire to encourage young readers to adopt proper dental hygiene. Also, Simons has authored Cavity City, The Haunted Mouth, Tales of a Tooth, and First Name Ginger, Last Name Vitis. Her new book is available on Amazon.

Dental digital x-rays, also known as digital radiography, are a modern alternative to traditional film x-rays in dentistry. Digital x-rays use electronic sensors instead of traditional photographic film to capture images of the teeth and surrounding structures.

These sensors capture the x-ray image and transmit it to a computer, where it can be viewed and stored digitally. Digital x-rays offer several advantages over traditional film x-rays,
including:

Reduced radiation exposure: Digital x-rays use up to 90% less radiation than traditional film x-rays, making them safer for patients.

Improved image quality: Digital x-rays provide high-quality, clear images that can be enhanced and magnified for better diagnosis and treatment planning.

Faster results: Digital x-rays can be viewed immediately, without the need for processing time, which means patients can receive faster diagnosis and treatment.

Reduced environmental impact: Digital x-rays do not require the use of chemicals for processing, which makes them a more environmentally-friendly option.

Overall, digital x-rays are a safe, efficient, and effective tool for dentists to diagnose and treat dental conditions.

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealants protect the teeth from decay by forming a barrier between the tooth surface and bacteria that can cause cavities. The application of dental sealants is a painless and non-invasive procedure that can be done quickly in a dentist's office. Sealants are typically recommended for children and teenagers because they are more prone to cavities. Sealants can last for several years before they need to be replaced. It is important to note that sealants do not replace good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. Overall, dental sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially in individuals who may be at a higher risk of developing cavities. If you would like more information about sealants, come by for an exam to see if you or your child would benefit from sealants.

In case you didn't know, our office is accepting new patients so send over your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers! We'll make them smile! 😁

Pulpitis is a dental condition that refers to inflammation of the dental pulp, which is the innermost layer of the tooth containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It is typically caused by dental decay (cavities), trauma to the tooth, or bacterial infection.

There are two main types of pulpitis:

Reversible Pulpitis: This type of pulpitis is characterized by mild to moderate inflammation of the dental pulp. The tooth may experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, but the pain is temporary and subsides once the stimulus is removed. Reversible pulpitis can often be treated by removing the source of irritation, such as a cavity, and applying dental restorations like fillings.
Irreversible Pulpitis: Irreversible pulpitis is more severe and occurs when the inflammation and damage to the dental pulp are significant. The pain associated with irreversible pulpitis is typically intense and can be spontaneous or persistent. The tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes and may ache or throb. Treatment for irreversible pulpitis usually involves root canal therapy or, in some cases, tooth extraction if the tooth cannot be saved.
It's important to note that pulpitis can progress if left untreated, leading to abscess formation or infection spreading to surrounding tissues. Therefore, if you suspect you have pulpitis or are experiencing tooth pain, it is advisable to visit a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

We would like to acknowledge our wonderful team member Ashley on her one year work anniversary with our office! Ashley is the first person to greet our patients when they walk in the door and has been a great addition to the team! We love working with her and appreciate all she does to help our office! 🤩

The Contagious Smile
Poet Unknown

Smile a smile!
While you smile,
Another smiles;
And soon there are miles
And miles of smiles
And life's worthwhile —
If you but smile. ✨😁✨

Happy Memorial Day! Many thanks to those who have served and protected our country. 🇺🇸