The Benefits Of Drinking Straws

Did you know that just a few cent drinking straw can have many benefits when it comes to your oral health?

• Drinking straws help prevent your teeth from staining. By using a straw, you're avoiding constant contact between your teeth and dark colored beverages. 
• Using a straw to consume liquids can promote good hygiene. This is especially true when drinking out of a can or bottle. Using a straw can also limit exposure to germs on restaurant drinkware. 
• Drinking through a straw reduces the exposure your teeth have with that food or drink. This results in less of the surgery substance and bacteria sticking to the front of your teeth, causing erosion. 
• It has been said that using a straw reduces the risk of choking. People tend to sip from straws, rather than gulping down a liquid from a glass. 

For more useful tips on keeping your smile healthy, contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at 410-665-5205.

Dr. Robert A. Jacobson, DDS
8109 Harford Road
Suite 3
Parkville, Maryland 21234
Ph 410-665-5205
Fx 410-665-5208
baltobestdds@yahoo.com
www.affordable-dentistry.com

Dental Myths That Need To Be Dispelled

We all know someone who is worrisome about visiting the dentist. Actually, 12% of adults say it gives them anxiety. Roughly 4% are so scared that they simply do not go. Even though your friendly dentist is here to make sure your pearly whites stay clean and healthy, some myths have been concocted over time to justify dental issues and alleviate stress. While there are many myths surrounding the health industry in general, below are a few dental myths that need to be dispelled.

Myth - An artificial set of teeth or complete denture that is made once is forever.

Fact - While it is true that well fitting dentures are used by the patient for many years, it is a myth that they can be retained forever. The oral tissues that lie below and above the dentures will change over a period of time. If an ill-fitting denture is continued to be worn, it can cause damage to the underlying tissues. Most dentists advise replacing dentures once at least every 5 years.

Myth - When the gums bleed, it is better not to brush the teeth.

Fact - Bleeding of gums is a sign that they are inflamed and are not healthy. This usually is a result of plaque and food particles accumulating around the teeth. Until this collection is removed, the gums will continue to bleed. This is an indication that the individual needs to visit a dentist for treatment. Brushing teeth with a soft toothbrush and the proper technique can remove the plaque and help the gums recover. Initial bleeding seen during brushing should gradually reduce over a period of time with proper care.

Myth - Dental treatment should be avoided during pregnancy.

Fact - The above notion is not true. Many times dental treatment is provided even during late pregnancy. Routine dental procedures can be carried out without any fear.

Myth - Bleach weakens teeth.

Fact - Bleaching products are generally harmless when used according to directions. Bleaching one's teeth only affects the color of the tooth, not their health or strength. Since all bleaching does is remove some of your teeth's pigmentation, if abused, it is possible to remove too much so that the teeth appear translucent. This does not mean your teeth are weaker, they just have less color.

Myth - Having bad breath means you're not brushing your teeth well enough.

Fact - While that is a possibility, there are many contributing factors to bad breath. The foods you eat, like garlic and onions, can play a part, no matter how many times you brush, floss, or rinse. Certain illnesses like pneumonia can result in foul smelling breath. As long as proper steps for oral health are taken you can rest assured it's most likely not a result of dental hygiene. However, if you're still unsure or concerned, speak to a dentist.

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert A. Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for more information on common dental myths.

How To Improve Your Child's Oral Hygiene Habits

Taking kids to the dentist can be a daunting task. It can sometimes involve kicking, screaming, begging, and pleading. Kids can develop a fear of dentists that carry on in to adulthood. Which then leads to major health issues when avoiding dentists. Early on, children should learn that dentists are there to help and not to hurt. Life without a dentist is an exceedingly scarier scenario than a biannual visit.

Teaching children the value of dental maintenance at an early age is the key to a life of good dental health. Start by being unafraid as a parent. A parent who is afraid of the dentist surely has bestowed this fear on their child. Why not? "If Mom and Dad are afraid of Dentists, I should be terrified!" -- That's the message one would be sending. "Do as I do" is the key to making oral hygiene a positive daily practice.

Brush and floss twice daily. Rinsing after a meal is best, along with chewing sugar free gum for 20 minutes. Studies show sugar free gum can help reduce tooth decay and aid in digestion. However, gum isn't a replacement for brushing and flossing.

At home, make a fun game of brushing. Sing a song and brush along. It's time spent together that simultaneously promotes good health.

Get new tooth brushes often. Kids love anything that's packaged and new. Instead of buying bubble gum at the grocery store, why not a new toothbrush? For the younger ones, something with a colorful, cool handle. Spiderman and Hello Kitty make brushing more fun for all.

Be mindful with your kids about procedures they are facing. Assure them that the end result will greatly benefit them. Also understand that Pediatric Dentists are well versed in a vernacular that will explain procedures to children without scaring them. In short, they "speak kid." Cleaning cooties off of your teeth is a procedure any kid would want done. A root canal? Not so much.

Start the game today. Get excited about it and your kids will follow suit. The result? A family with a healthy and bright smile. Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for more information on how to improve your child's oral hygiene habits.

When Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

People between the ages of 16 and 19 should have their wisdom teeth evaluated. If they need to be removed, it should be considered before age 20 when generally fewer complications occur. At a younger age, tooth roots are not fully developed, the surrounding bone is softer, and there is less chance of damaging nearby nerves or other structures. There is also less surgical risk and healing is generally faster.


Extractions of wisdom teeth may be performed by a general dentist. If your dentist anticipates any special care will be needed, he or she may refer you to an oral or maxillofacial surgeon. An oral or maxillofacial surgeon is a dentist who specializes in surgery and the removal of wisdom teeth.

What Should One Expect?

Before surgery, your dentist will explain what to expect, and give you personalized instructions to follow. Keep in mind these general items in order to help your surgery go smoothly.


Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange to have someone be with you after surgery. Extraction can be performed under local conscious sedation or general anesthesia. Following surgery, you may experience some swelling and mild discomfort, which is part of the normal healing process. Cold compresses can help decrease the swelling and medication prescribed by your dentist can help decrease the pain. You may be instructed to drink only clear liquids following surgery and later progress to soft foods.


Some patients experience numbness or tingling following surgery. Normal sensation usually returns in a short period of time. Occasionally, a dry socket occurs when the blood clot breaks down earlier than normal. A dressing placed in the socket protects it until the socket heals.


If you have a child between the ages of 16 and 19 and have yet to have their wisdom teeth evaluated, encourage them do so now. If you have exceeded that age and have not had them examined, do so now as well. The temporary pain will save you a lifetime of teeth shifting and pain. Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for more information on wisdom tooth removal.

How Can Dentures Improve My Life?

Whether you're seeking information about dentures for a loved one or for yourself, it's important that you know the facts. The following information offers the basic facts about dentures. If you think you may need them, don't hesitate to get a consultation today. Often times people think dentures are too expensive or too difficult to maintain. Neither is the case. Struggling through the discomfort of chewing without teeth is something no one should have to experience.

1. No one has to know that you're wearing dentures. Dentures of today can be tailored to you.

2. Denture wearers can eat more normally and easily today. Eat the foods you love again with your new dentures. Properly fitting dentures will also allow you to chew more thoroughly, allowing for better digestion.

3. Even though today's dentures are very durable, they won't last forever. Your mouth changes over time, which is why it's important to still visit your dentist for regular checkups.

4. Even if your dentures fit perfectly, you should still see a dental professional regularly. Your mouth can reveal a lot about your overall health. Certain diseases, such as diabetes, first manifests in the mouth.

5. Denture wearers can speak more clearly. A properly fitting denture will allow your tongue, teeth, lips, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth to work together properly while speaking.

6. Over-the-counter and prescription medications can affect dentures. Make your dentist aware of any medications that you are taking regularly to avoid any complications.

7. Adhesives can play a role in your denture's fit and comfort.

8. Do not try to do your own denture repairs, you could do more harm than good to your dentures as well as your jaw bone.

9. Don't assume regular denture care is too costly.

10. Don't wait to replace your dentures just to avoid the adjustment period. Use of Ill fitting dentures can change the shape of your mouth, making it difficult to be fit with regular dentures.

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for more information on how dentures can improve your life.

Teen Dental Health Care In Baltimore

Teens go through many changes during this time in their lives, emotionally and psychically, and their mouths are no exception. Developing healthy hygiene habits are essential during this time because the choices we make in our teen years can have a huge impact on us as adults. 

Unfortunately, many teens don't care for their teeth the way they should. Recent studies show that 80% of tooth decay cases in the United States are found in teenagers. Given those statistics, it's no surprise that over 80% of teenagers have cavities by age 17. This is a time when many teens start to drink a lot of soda and consume excessive amounts of sweets. Sodas contain a ton of sugar, approximately 9 to 12 teaspoons just in a single 12 ounce can. Soda is also very acidic, which damages the teeth's enamel, this includes diet soda. Excessive consumption of the fizzy drink paired with poor hygiene habits lead to an increased amount of tooth decay in teens.

In addition to cutting back on the sugary drinks, Delta Dental offers a few suggestions to keep your teen's smile healthy:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day for two minutes (about the length of a favorite song) and floss at least once daily
• Visit a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and preventive assessments
• Talk to a dentist about dental sealants to protect against cavities 
• Include a travel-size toothbrush and toothpaste in your gym bag, backpack or locker for use after meals or on-the-go 
• Choose nutritious snacks and drinks that contain less sugar. Keep in mind it's not just what you put in your mouth that is important, but also how often you are snacking. Each time you eat or drink anything with sugar, it interacts with 
the bacteria in your mouth, bathing your teeth in acid for about 20 minutes 
• Drink water after eating meals and snacks to clean the teeth of bacteria and food 
• Avoid tobacco products and mouth jewelry or consider switching to non-metal jewelry 
• Wear a mouth guard during sports activities 
• If you have an eating disorder, tell your dentist so they can help you protect your teeth 
• Choose mints or gum with xylitol, a natural cavity-fighting sweetener, as the first ingredient 
• Check with your dentist before using tooth-whitening products 

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert A. Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for your teen's check up.

Oral Health Issues Seniors Should Know

Even if you brush and floss regularly, you may face certain issues in your senior years when it comes to your oral health. Wearing dentures, taking medications, and general health conditions are some of the issues many seniors face. Luckily, your dentist and physician can help you meet most of these challenges quite successfully. Here are a few tips...

• Cavities and decay on the surfaces of the teeth are more common in older adults. So it's important to brush with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily,and see your dentist regularly. 
• If you experience sensitivity, try an anti-sensitivity toothpaste. If the problem persists, see your dentist, as the sensitivity may be an indication of a more serious condition, such as a cavity or a cracked or fractured tooth. 
• Existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer can affect your oral health. Be sure to let your dentist know of any general health issues you're facing so that they understand the whole situation and can help you meet your special requirements. 
• Dentures can make life easier for many seniors, but they require special care. Follow your dentist's instructions carefully and see your dentist if any problems arise. 
• Because the earliest stages of gum disease are reversible, it is important to spot it early on. Regular dental checkups can insure early detection and treatment of gum disease. Best of all, it is easy to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place by practicing proper oral hygiene. 

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at 410-665-5205 for your senior check up.

Dental Tips For Kids

1. Curb thumb-sucking by approximately age 5 to prevent developmental abnormalities.

2. Don't allow young children to carry around sippy-cups containing anything but water.

3. Take care of your own oral health. Research shows that the bacteria that causes decay can be passed from caregivers to infants and young children. Rinsing with antibacterial mouthwashes has been shown to significantly reduce the number of cavity-causing bacteria.

4. Limit sticky foods such as raisins and fruit roll-ups, which cling to the teeth. Experts note that raisins are very nutritious, but they tend to get wedged in the teeth and stay put. Encourage children to take a sip of water after eating these and other snacks.

5. Limit the sharing of spoons and bottles between caregivers and children and among children themselves.

6. Cut down on sugary snacks between meals. One of the major cavity-causing culprits is eating sugary foods throughout the day,

7. Let older children chew sugar-free gum. Gum increases the flow of saliva in the mouth and helps neutralize acids on the teeth. Further, studies have suggested that chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after meals can help prevent tooth decay.

8.Parents, don't let your children brush their own teeth until around the ages of 7 to 9 - or until they're able to tie their shoes or cut the meat on their plates.

Schedule an appointment with Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson at (410) 665 - 5205 for additional dental hygiene tips for children.

All About Cavities...

What causes cavities?

Your mouth is a busy place. Think of it as Grand Central Station... With teeth. Instead of commuters, Bacteria - tiny colonies of living organisms are constantly on the move on your teeth, gums, lips, and tongue. Having bacteria in your mouth is a normal thing. While some of the bacteria can be harmful, most are not, and some are even quite helpful.

Certain types of bacteria can attach themselves to hard surfaces like the enamel that covers your teeth. If the bacteria is not removed, it multiplies and grows until a colony forms. More bacteria of different types attach to the colony already growing on the tooth enamel. Proteins that are present in your saliva also mix in with the bacteria colony and become a whitish film on the tooth. This film is called plaque, and it is what causes cavities. Brushing and flossing after EVERY meal is the only way to prevent this.

How does Plaque cause cavities?

The hard, outer covering of your teeth is called enamel. Enamel is very hard, mainly because it contains durable mineral salts, like calcium. Mineral salts in your saliva help add to the hardness of your teeth. Mineral salts, however, are prone to attack by acids. Acid causes them to breakdown.

The plaque that forms on your teeth and doesn't get washed away by saliva or brushed away by your toothbrush, produces acid as it eats up sugar. This acid is produced inside the plaque and can't be easily washed away by your saliva. The acid dissolves the minerals that make your tooth enamel hard. The surface of the enamel becomes porous - tiny holes appear. After a while, the acid causes the tiny holes in the enamel to get bigger until one large hole appears. This is a cavity. It's important to see your dentist before a cavity forms so that the plaque you can't reach with your toothbrush or floss can be removed.

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today at (410) 665 - 5205 for a dental cleaning and check up.

Got Halitosis?

Bad breath is something we all fear. We know the guy at the office who stuffs his face with pastrami and onions, downs a soda, and then smokes a cigarette to cap it off. You pull out a mint and quickly offer him one. "No thanks, I'm good," he replies. While you are being inundated with his odorous onslaught, take this time to ask yourself, "What can I do to NEVER have breath like that?"

To avoid bad breath the first step is awareness. Take proper measures to ensure that you don't offend. Perform a quick test. Lick the back of your hand, waive it around and then smell it. I know, sounds gross -- but, if it smells gross that's a pretty good idea what your breath smells like...providing you haven't been handling rotten eggs.

Once you are aware of the state of your breath, take measures to combat the culprit. What does your diet consist of? Halitosis is caused by several factors, one of them being diet. Foods such as garlic and onions can consume our blood and digestive systems releasing gasses that exit through the mouth. If you love garlic, as many do, take a travel tooth brush to lunch with you. Give your teeth a thorough cleaning and rinsing after lunch. Halitosis is often easily treatable if the cause is recognized. A mint won't cut the mustard. Brush and floss after every meal and you should be fine. If the problem persists, it could be an underlying medical problem that needs further diagnosing.

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today if you have an issue with persistent halitosis.

Dental tips for thirty-somethings

As we age, so do our teeth. Over the age of 35 we become much more susceptible to dental health woes. Here are 10 things to be aware of as we age...

• Biannual Check Ups. It's a good idea for everyone to visit the dentist twice a year for a check up and thorough cleaning. Over the age 35, it is of great importance to practice dental vigilance as this is the age when we become susceptible to tooth, gum, and mouth disease. Adults need to be aware of the repercussions of skipping dental visits. Even flossing incorrectly can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and worse.
• Caffeine -- Enemy of the tooth. Coffee and Tea not only discolor our teeth, the caffeine in them can cause excessive teeth grinding. So, moderation is the key... And maybe decaf!
• Have Many Headaches? Do you frequently suffer from headaches? Many people aren't aware that their headache could be caused by a dental malady. If you suffer from headaches contact our office to schedule a consultation for TMJ.
• Missing Any Back Teeth? Anytime we lose a tooth, we MUST replace it immediately. Not doing so will cause our bite to cave in and ultimately age us beyond our years.
• Need Your Teeth Aligned? Feel Too Old For Braces? There are a great many ways to straighten a smile. You don't have to get the cumbersome braces you stereotypically associate with adolescents. There are removable transparent retainers available, Invisalign, or any of the other invisible orthodontic pieces that are widely available. Don't discount the simplicity of straightening your smile. Depending on the severity of the problem it can be fixed in as little as a few months. Contact our office for a consultation. 
• Are You Preventing Wear And Tear? If you are grinding your teeth in your sleep, consider a bite-guard. It will prevent the irreparable damage caused by grinding our teeth in our sleep.
• Whitening! As we age, our teeth tend to lose their luster. Contact our office for teeth bleaching today to keep your smile white, bright, and youthful. 
• Smoking! We all know the risks: GUM CANCER, THROAT CANCER, FACE CANCER, LUNG CANCER, and DEATH
• Smile! Take care of your smile and share your smile with the world!

Contact Baltimore Dentist Dr. Robert Jacobson today if you would like to address any dental issues or to prevent any future dental issues.