Robert B. Ruyak, DMD

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Tips for Brushing with Braces

Brushing your teeth is essential for a healthy mouth; however, brushing with braces is even more important. Braces can hold in plaque easier and can cause strange staining when not taken care of properly. Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD of Bethlehem, PA wants to remind our patients of how to properly brush their teeth while wearing braces to continue optimal oral health.


To start, brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth as you normally would. Remember, brushing your teeth should take about two minutes normally. Then, brush the insides and the fronts of your teeth, paying attention to your gum line. When you go to brush around your braces, angle the toothbrush and brush along the tops of the brackets. Then, do the same for the bottom brackets. Take an interdental toothbrush to brush the sides of each bracket. These are tiny, tree-shaped brushes that allow you to get underneath the wires.


When it is time to floss, there are a couple of dental supplies that may make it easier. Superfloss has a built-in threader on it so you can easily get the floss over and under the wire. Separate floss threaders are also available.


Taking good care of your teeth while you have braces will ensure a healthy mouth and a stain-free smile when the braces come off. To schedule your routine cleaning and examination with Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD in our Bethlehem, PA office, call us at (610) 861-0777 or visit our website, www.drrobertruyak.com

Thursday, January 21, 2016

How to Stop Bad Breath

Bad breath can be embarrassing, especially if it is a recurring ailment for you. While there are mints you can pop, they often do not last very long and just temporarily cover up the odor. In our Bethlehem, PA dental practice, Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD, wants his patients to know how to tackle the root of bad breath.


Bad breath can come at very inopportune times like when you’re in a car with someone, on a dinner date, or in a meeting. To prevent these instances from occurring, you must take steps to avoid it. The first rule is probably the most obvious; good oral hygiene.


Keeping a clean mouth cuts down on the bacteria that causes bad breath. Keeping a good oral hygiene routine is your first step. Brush your teeth two or three times per day and floss once per day. Also, be sure to brush your tongue. It is an area of the mouth that can easily harbor bacteria.


Your second step is to avoid foods and drinks that will create more bad breath causing bacteria. For instance, dairy contains bacteria that tend to be smellier; with the exception of yogurt. Yogurt actually contains bacteria that fight off odor-causing bacteria. So if you have a big meeting in the afternoon, consider eating some yogurt for lunch!


In addition, caffeine and alcohol dry out the mouth, causing bacteria to thrive. While everyone may not want to completely steer clear of their cocktail or cola, avoid them if you are going to be in a situation where you want fresh breath!


For more dental hygiene tips or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert B. Ruyak, DMD in our Bethlehem, PA dental practice, call us at (610) 861-0777. Appointment requests and helpful information may also be found at our website, www.drrobertruyak.com

Thursday, January 7, 2016

Cavity Prevention

At the practice of Dr. Robert Ruyak, DMD, we have all sorts of materials to fill your cavities once they arise, however, we’d rather you prevent them altogether. Cavities are what you get from tooth decay and tooth decay can affect both the outer coating of a tooth (enamel) and the inner layer (dentin). Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to help prevent the formation of a cavity.


Cavities are created when bacteria in your mouth interact with refined sugars and carbohydrates such as the ones found in soda and sweets, so there is reason dentists advise you to stay away from sugary treats. This combination of sugars and acids promotes the loss of protective calcium and phosphate in your teeth’s enamel, eventually leading to decay. Prevention is always easier than treatment and it begins by adopting healthy oral hygiene habits and making the right dietary changes in addition to scheduling regular dental checkups every six months.


If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services provided at the office, visit www.drrobertruyak.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert Ruyak, DMD at his practice in Bethlehem, PA, call 610-861-0777.