Once again Dater Dentistry has chosen to become involved in the U.S Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots Program for the 2017 holiday season. Their mission is to collect new, unwrapped toys during the months of October, November and December each year and distribute them as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in...
When moving—especially to a new state—there are many different things (aside from your own possessions) you’ll have to transition as you settle in your new location. One of those items is choosing a new dentist in your new town. By using online resources, speaking with locals, and being proactive in...
Dental caries or tooth decay is caused by acid-producing bacteria that cause a clear sticky film called plaque that collects around the teeth and gums. Teeth are vulnerable to tooth decay without good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay in both children...
Body piercing is a very popular way people express themselves today. Individuals may think oral piercing and tongue splitting are great ways to express their individuality, but they can be detrimental to your health. The health of your mouth and overall health may be affected. Your dentist can answer all...
There are plenty of myths about dental care. These myths are spread like wildfire leaving many misinformed about their dental health. Some myths about dental care can lead to fewer routine visits which can have negative long term effects on your health. When in doubt about your dental health, it’s...
As summer picks up, there are plenty of yummy summer treats that make their debut again. Although these treats are all okay in moderation, over indulging in summer treats can cause some substantial tooth decay. That’s why it’s important to understand what treats cause tooth decay so you can be diligent...
As allergy season is in full swing, many people suffer from common symptoms. These range from itchy eyes, to a runny or stuffy nose. However, there are many other symptoms that aren’t as common but are also associated with allergies. One of those symptoms is allergy tooth pain. As your...
When you experience tooth pain, it can feel like it’s never ending. Even if you’ve scheduled an emergency appointment to remedy the pain, the few days you might need to wait can seem much longer with persistent pain. While waiting for your next dental appointment, there are plenty of natural toothache remedies that...
Cosmetic dentistry has become more popular amongst patients. Dentists not only have modern methods to common procedures including fillings and teeth straightening, they also have the ability to completely re-design a patient's smile. With cosmetic dentistry procedures on the rise, are you aware of what options are available? Modern cosmetic...
Bring your child to the dentist after their first teeth have erupted at approximate 24-36 months, unless a problem is suspected. The primary goal of the first visit is to let them become familiar with the surroundings and meet Dr. Dater and his staff. This visit is an icebreaker for the child....
Dr. Dater is currently participating in a joint services exercise with the Air Force, Army, Marines, Canadian Forces and the Navy to deliver care to remote villages in Alaska. It is called Arctic Care 2017. As a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy Reserves Dental Corp he has a commitment to...
Thumb sucking is a common habit that often starts in infanthood, but without proper action and guidance, it can last far too long, and create long-lasting physical damages your child’s jaw and tooth alignment. Plus, the germ factor of sucking on one’s thumb (or any fingers for that matter) can...
There are numerous options of mouth rinses available so how do you choose the right one? Options include anti-plaque, anti-gingivitis, fluoride-containing and breath-freshening which claim to help protect your teeth and gums. Here is some information to help you decide which is right for you. Fluoride-Containing Mouth Rinses Fluoride helps prevent...
Tooth pain can be persistent and debilitating. At times it can feel like the pain came out of nowhere and will never end. There are many different things that cause tooth pain to occur. Here are the top 4 reasons for tooth pain so that you can narrow down the...
Maintaining proper oral hygiene not only includes flossing, brushing daily, and regular dental checkups, but also making sure you change your toothbrush on a regular basis. There are a variety of factors that go into the deterioration of a toothbrush. As a rule of thumb, you should change your toothbrush...
There are a plethora of modern options when fixing damaged, discolored or gapped teeth. When deciding how to customize a patient’s smile, a dentist will go through a series of evaluations of the patient's current health to decide which option will best fit their needs. Common options when repairing and...
There are a variety of toothpastes that you can choose from, however each have a different purpose depending on your needs. Although the primary purpose of toothpaste is to clean your teeth, there’s also secondary purposes that vary between each toothpaste option. Now, aside from the generic toothpaste there's a...
Excessive soda drinking can have a variety of negative effects on your overall health. Specifically though, the biggest risk of drinking soda are the negative effects it can have on your teeth. Soda is extremely acidic and non-diet sodas are loaded with sugar causing the protective layer of your teeth...
Having healthy dental habits are important for every member of your family. Be sure to start positive dental habits at a young age in your children and help them continue those habits throughout each stage through adolescence. Follow the five healthy dental tips for the whole family listed below. #1 Introduce...
Now that we are several weeks into 2017, it’s time to check how earnestly you’re following your new year’s resolutions. If you didn’t make any resolutions for 2017, take a look at this recent post, New Year’s Resolutions for a Better Smile for some ideas—it’s never too late to make positive changes...
According to the National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, "childhood tooth decay is the #1 chronic childhood illness in America." However, by implementing proper brushing and flossing into your child’s daily routine, as well as regular checkups you can help your child avoid long term tooth decay. The most overlooked part of preventing...
With colder temperatures looming ahead, prepping your home, tires, and winter clothing shouldn’t be the only things you focus on when winter is about to arrive. Maintaining a healthy mouth and smile are an essential part of your health to think about ahead of time before winter sets in. Just...
If you ask most dentists their opinion on which kind of toothbrush you should be using, the most common answer is whichever toothbrush you're more likely to use regularly. If you're considering buying a loved one an electric toothbrush for Christmas, you may be wondering whether they're really better than...
When the new year rolls around, the most popular resolutions tend to be the most drastic and challenging to accomplish. The best (and most realistic) changes to make are small ones that will still make a significant impact on your life. Keeping a better dental routine is a simple resolution...
People often treat the holidays as an ongoing "cheat day" for their diets. However, if you're wearing braces, you might have to ignore the holiday cheat days everyone else is partaking in, and stick to the general rules of wearing braces. While eating extra calories might not be too harmful,...
Between Halloween and the Christmas season, our teeth take a beating with the sugary snacks we tend to indulge in for the season. However, Thanksgiving can be a healthy break between those two sugar-filled holidays, if you do it right. We made a guide below to help you find foods...
As fall sets in, we get to see the leaves change color, experience a drop in weather temperature, and get the chance to break out our favorite boots and flannels. And when it comes to our favorite fall beverages, we get a wealth of all things sugar and pumpkin spice. But...
Whether you have issues with sensitive teeth or have experienced some trauma leaving you with chipped teeth, you're not alone in your dental woes. Most people experience several different dental issues throughout their lifetime. Here are some of the most common dental problems people face and how you can fix...
Once summer is over, many of us tend to forget about maintaining a health diet. As cold weather starts to set in, it's common to start reaching for heavier and sweeter foods. While an expanding waistline frequently stereotypes fall and winter months, your teeth are more susceptible to decay during these...
Everyone knows what it feels like to have bad breath. Most cases of bad breath occur after a good night’s sleep or a meal with moderate to heavy garlic or onion contents. In some cases, however, people may find that they have bad breath no matter how often they brush...
With fall setting in, and holidays such as Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas in our midst, it’s exciting to have all the school parties, trick-or-treating, and special family meals quickly approaching. With all of those events though, often comes candy, desserts, and drinks that are loaded with sugar, which make our...
While many of us have tried whitening our teeth through a new toothpaste or using white strips, nothing compares to professional grade whitening trays and solutions. To achieve noticeable and fast results, the best route is to whiten your teeth with whitening trays offered by your dentist. How to Get Take-Home Whitening...
While you can ensure that your child is eating nutritious food and taking care of their teeth at home, it’s hard to make sure that they’re doing the same thing at school. Here are some tips to packing healthy school lunches for your child. Healthy Lunch Tip #1: Choose Nourishing...
Once you’ve chipped a tooth, it's common to be self-conscious of that chipped tooth, even after it’s bonded. If your chipped tooth suffered an exposed nerve, you probably still remember the shooting pain in sharp detail. Above all else though, you fear it happening again and strive to take every...
Whether your child has knocked out an adult tooth or a baby tooth, your first instinct is likely to panic. Take a deep breath—your child is probably going to be hysterical, or at least distraught, when they come to you with a bloody mouth and tooth in hand. It’s your...
Braces aren’t just for middle and high schoolers anymore. In fact, these orthodontic procedures can be just as common for adults. If you’re wondering why adult braces are getting more popular, you don’t have to look too hard to find an answer. It’s all about achieving the perfect smile and...
Many are under the assumption that natural teeth never last for a lifetime and dentures are inevitable at some point in life—but that is simply not true. By taking proactive measures, and maintaining proper oral care, you can have confidence to keep your teeth for the entirety of your life....
People might wear a night guard for a number of different reasons, the most common is to protect their teeth from wearing down due to grinding or clenching, a condition called bruxism. Other reasons to wear a night guard include the reduction of jaw pain, to stop clicking and popping of...
Two Types of Teeth Stains Intrinsic stains are found on the innermost parts of your teeth. Potential causes of this kind of teeth staining range from genetic development to childhood antibiotic staining to normal and natural aging. These stains are more deeply set than extrinsic tooth stains. Extrinsic stains are found more...
Put simply, dental implants are replacements for tooth roots. These implants provide a strong foundation for either permanent or removable tooth or teeth replacements, which are made to match your natural teeth. Dental implants are a good option for those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an...
Ever noticed a round, white spot on one of your teeth, specifically one of the front teeth? Well, you’re not alone. There are many people that develop these unwanted spots, but the important part is understanding what’s causing them. Fluorosis Getting too much fluoride , especially during childhood, can cause...
Invisalign is the modern approach to correcting and straightening teeth, and it uses a series of custom-made aligners created specifically for the wearer. These aligners are trays made of smooth plastic that are worn over the teeth. They work by gently and gradually shifting the teeth into place, based on...
Have you been noticing that your pearly white smile is looking a little dull? Many types of food and drinks may cause your teeth to become discolored over time. Foods high in acid and those that contain tannins may be the culprits. Top Foods That Cause Teeth Staining Coffee and...
Tooth pain is incredibly uncomfortable, sometimes crippling, and sometimes sporadic and ignored. Most of us probably can’t tell the difference in what’s causing our tooth pain. We might always assume that it’s a normal toothache, when in reality it may be more serious. Experiencing certain types of pain may be...
We all know the flash of pain that you feel when something hot or cold hits and shocks your teeth. The wind might even hurt them. You might be using a sensitive toothpaste, like Sensodyne, but your teeth have still begun to hurt recently. I’ve heard people claim that they...
Experiencing the feeling of a loose tooth as an adult can not only be nerve racking but at times, embarrassing. Whether it was caused by an unforeseen event or is the result of poor dental hygiene, it is important that you address it to make sure that you don’t lose...
You're pregnant - congratulations! There are many changes that expecting mothers have to make, and one of those is how they approach their dental care. I've put together a list of top dental tips to help guide you during your pregnancy months. Communicate With Your Dentist It’s crucial to communicate...
Everyone deals with stress in their own, unique way, and for most that is through body language. And one of those - teeth grinding is one of the most commonly found acute physical responses to stress. Teeth grinding can be exercised consciously or unconsciously, either throughout the day or night....
There are a lot adjustments people need to make when they get braces, and flossing is no exception. If you struggle flossing with your braces on, here are some simple steps to follow to make the process easier. Step 1: Rinse Your Mouth With Water To start, the best thing...
Do you wake up with a sore jaw or headache? Or find yourself clenching your teeth during the day? You may be grinding your teeth which is called bruxism. Here is some information on this condition. Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. This may occur while...
It’s common to hear of someone being allergic to things like pollen, dust and pets, but toothpaste? Believe it or not there are thousands of Americans that may have some sort of sensitivity or allergy to certain toothpastes. What are you Allergic to in Toothpaste? An allergic reaction can be...
Not only is dental floss a necessary item used in your daily dental hygiene routine but it can be used in a pinch for numerous other things. Dental floss is something you get from your dentist each time you get your teeth cleaned, usually every six months. A Clothesline-If you are somewhere and...
Children's bodies grow so fast, and it's no different when it comes to their teeth especially within the first year of life. Knowing what to look for can help you identify early on if there are any issues that need to be addressed by a dentist. Keep in mind that every...
Let’s be honest - brushing your teeth is not necessarily the most thrilling activity of the day, especially for a young child. However, there are ways that you can make this important activity more fun in order to help get your kids on board with regularly brushing their teeth. Try...
Wisdom teeth removal can occur at a broad range of ages, and is an important decision for every patient. Read through these tips to know when and why you should remove your wisdom teeth, as well as why you may not have to remove them at all. Reasons to Remove Your...
In the first year of life, babies are growing and developing at a rapid pace. One of those things that you will see a dramatic change in is their teeth. So how do you keep those pearly whites healthy while they’re still young? Follow these five rules of thumb. Cut...
It’s not uncommon for children to be hesitant and afraid of visiting the dentist. After all, typically they’re the only ones that get to stick tools and gadgets into their mouths, and the thought of someone else doing that can be scary at first. If your child is fearful of...
Proper oral care is critical for everyone's health, but it's especially crucial for those who wear braces. Braces can fix an incorrect bite, straighten teeth, and give lifelong confidence. On average, patients wear braces for one to two years. Given this lengthy timeframe, it's critical to brush your teeth correctly in order...
The fall and winter holiday seasons are the times when many people indulge in treats that they have been looking forward to all year. While many of these treats may evoke a nostalgic feeling, they aren’t always the best for our dental health. If you’re trying to avoid the post-holiday...
Don’t let the cold weather keep you at home this winter. Check out all the fun things that GrandRapids has to offer. Shop at the Downtown Market Since the farmers markets are closed for the season the downtown market is an option for you. There are great cheeses, wines spices...
Periodontal (gum) disease is a buildup of bacteria that, over time, forms a sticky, colorless plaque along the surface of the teeth. Plaque that isn’t removed by regular brushing eventually hardens to form tartar, which can only be removed by a dental cleaning. The longer plaque and tartar stay on...
Brushing your teeth is widely known and accepted as an important health and hygiene practice; As parents we demonstrate it and as doctors we preach it’s importance. However, what sometimes gets overshadowed by teeth cleaning is the practice of cleaning your tongue. Find out why brushing or cleaning your tongue...
Canker sores are small and painful ulcers that appear on the inside of your mouth, and can make basic activities such as talking and eating uncomfortable. Learn more about how to identify a canker sore and its causes, possible treatments and ways to prevent getting them in the future. Identifying...
We've been warned since childhood about the tooth-decaying threats of sugary-candy and soda pop. But certain foods (even fruit!) decay your teeth more quickly than you might realize. Take a look at the worst food for your teeth and healthy alternatives you can eat to replace them. Worst Food for...
With the growing importance of eliminating obesity in America, many scientists and researchers have said that sugar-free foods and drinks are a healthy substitute for foods that are loaded with pure sugar. Although eating sugar-free foods may help prevent weight loss in some aspects, the disadvantages far outweigh the advantages,...
A substantial amount of people experience anxiety, in varying severities, when it comes time to see the dentist. Whether you experience mild anxiety about visiting the dentist or severe fear, there are things you can do to lessen the negative feelings you might have about going in for dental work....
If you suffer with teeth sensitivity from time-to-time or on a daily basis you’re not alone. You’re actually among thousands of people that experience some level of dental sensitivity when they’re eating, drinking, brushing or just simply going about their normal, daily activities. While the causes of this can range...
Reasons Why Fluoride in the Water is Important In 1945, the city of Grand Rapids was the first community in the United States to introduce fluoride to its drinking water as a means to prevent tooth decay. The introduction of fluoride into the water of communities has been identified as...
It's not a new revelation that seeing a dentist for a routine teeth cleaning is important for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. During these visits, your dentist will examine your mouth to check for oral cancer, diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies, in addition to plaque and tartar build up. Plaque and tartar...
Temporomandibular Joint Disorder, or TMJ, is a condition in which the temporomandibular joint is injured causing facial muscle and nerve issues. This joint connects the jawbone to the skull, and when injured can lead to painful chewing, popping or clicking of the jaw along with swelling, tooth grinding, headaches, and...
Having the kids home for the summer adds a whole other layer to your daily schedule; on top of work and other daily duties, you now have to find time to keep the kids busy during the day. Luckily, Grand Rapids is full of activities for all members of the...
We’ve all been there before: you’re standing a few feet away from someone really important, having an excellent and insightful conversation, but all you’re thinking about is if your breath smells okay. With a thousand things running through your mind at any point in the day, your breath shouldn’t be...
Whether you’re dissatisfied with previous dental services or simply moving, choosing a new dental office can be a more complex process than one may think. If you’re like many, you’ve most likely had a maximum of one or two dentists throughout your lifetime, whom you trust to provide you with...
Oral cancer is a cancer of the lips and mouth that will not go away on it’s own if not treated. Common symptoms of oral cancer include swelling of the inner lining of the mouth, bumps, unexplained bleeding and numbness. Like most cancers, everyone is naturally at risk for being...
Porcelain veneers have come a long way in the last 30 years and now provide a solution for people experiencing a large array of dental issues or abnormalities. Are you wondering if veneers are a good option for you? Here are five types of people who would be perfect candidates for...
We all know common food items to avoid in order to maintain healthy teeth: sugary candies, soda and fruit juices all contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel, ultimately causing unwanted cavities. However, a multitude of common “healthy” foods also belong on the list of harmful food to your teeth....
As a dental professional, Dr. Dater is one of the first people who will screen for oral cancer and identify it in a patients’ mouth. You, the patient, should also watch for any changes in your mouth so you can be proactive in getting suspicious areas looked at by Dr. Dater. The...
As a dental office, we find that patients don't always floss as often as they should. Over the years, we've uncovered a handful of reasons why people do not floss their teeth. Here are top reasons we have found with tips for why these reasons should not stop you from flossing...
Even though teeth are the strongest bones in our bodies, they can be negatively affected by what we drink. Excess intake of beverages that are highly acidic can wear down tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Unfortunately, many of our favorite drinks are highly acidic and can cause damage over...
Taking care of your teeth and gums every day will only have a good effect on your oral and overall health. Brushing and flossing daily can help prevent tooth decay, enamel erosion, and gum disease. However, research has shown that bad oral health can lead to more serious conditions that...
Parents are a child’s first teachers and play a significant role in maintaining their child’s overall health. Parents are encouraged to begin good oral health practices with their infant children and continue to be role models throughout childhood. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay...
Brushing your teeth will always be a key ingredient to good oral health. It's important to brush your teeth at least twice daily to prevent cavities, gum disease, and the calcification of minerals on your teeth. Choosing a toothbrush that will thoroughly clean your teeth and put you on the...
Have you ever looked in the mirror and wished your smile was whiter? Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures in the world. Your smile should be something you are confident with, and a white smile can be achieved through over the counter or professional...
The trick to maintaining a healthy, white smile has to do with a lot more than just brushing your teeth two times a day. Your daily habits and diet also play a large role in the condition of your smile. Here are eight ways that you can maintain a sparkling,...
There are usually a few options for orthodontic treatment. Braces and Invisalign are two of the most popular choices when it comes to straightening teeth, fixing bite problems, and correcting tooth spacing. However, there are significant differences between the two and many factors determine which treatment if right for you. Below you...
Halloween is iconic for pumpkins, crazy costumes, trick-or-treating, and of course, candy. Because there is never a candy deficiency around Halloween, it is important to be aware of the lasting negative effects Halloween candy can have on your teeth. Below are some of the worst candies for your teeth; the...
Although Halloween candy can be very tasty, the usual candy corn, chocolate bars, and chewy treats have lasting negative effects on your teeth, causing tooth decay and deterioration of tooth enamel. Because of the heavy intake of candy around Halloween, the dentist office is a popular place following the season....
Dr. Dater provides dental services in Rockford, Michigan and is always interested and willing to volunteer and provide dental assistance to organizations that strive to serve those individuals who need help obtaining dental care. There are numerous organizations that he has been involved in over the years that help people both locally...
It is not uncommon to talk to encounter a patient that is confused about the differences between dental sealants and dental fillings. Frequent questions include what are they made of, when do you use one over the other, how long do they last, and so on. If you find yourself...
