Magnuson Dental - Eugene, Oregon General Dentist Office

Posted May 15, 2013:Prevent Plaque with Good Oral Hygiene - How does plaque affect the mouth?

Plaque produces bacteria that irritate the gums, making them red, sensitive, and susceptible to bleeding. Consistent plaque buildup can cause tooth enamel to wear away, which will result in cavities. Plaque that is not removed with thorough daily brushing and cleaning between teeth eventually can harden into calculus or tartar. This makes it more difficult to keep the teeth clean.

When tartar collects above the gum line, the gum tissue can become swollen and may bleed easily. This is called gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. You can prevent plaque buildup and keep teeth cavity-free by regularly visiting the dentist, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and cleaning between the teeth with dental floss daily. (AGD Impact March 2013, Vol. 41, No. 3)

Posted May 6, 2013:Prevent Plaque with Good Oral Hygiene - What is plaque?

Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria-containing film that accumulates on teeth, especially in places where toothbrushes can’t reach. Many of the foods that children eat cause the bacteria in the mouth to produce acids. Sugary foods are obvious sources of plaque, but starches (such as bread, crackers, and cereal) also can cause acids to form. (AGD Impact March 2013, Vol. 41, No. 3)

Posted April 30, 2013:Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants - Will my insurance pay for sealants?

Health insurance usually will pay for sealants for children and teenagers’ permanent molars. If your dentist suggests sealants for other teeth, he or she will tell you whether or not the costs will be covered. Be sure to check with your dental insurance company about your plan, as coverage may vary. (AGD Impact February 2013, Vol. 41, No. 2)

Posted April 23, 2013:Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants - Are sealants safe and just for kids?

Are sealants just for kids?

Sealants can protect adults’ teeth, too. Ask your dentist whether sealants would be beneficial for you.

Are sealants safe?

Yes. Although in rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to the plastic. Prior to receiving any dental treatments, it is important that you talk to your dentist regarding any allergies you or your children may have. (AGD Impact February 2013, Vol. 41, No. 2)

Posted April 15, 2013:Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants - How long do sealants last and when sealant should be applied

How long do sealants last?

The risk of decay decreases significantly after sealant application, and as long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last five to ten years before a reapplication is needed. During your child’s regular dental visits, his or her dentist will check the condition of sealants and reapply them when necessary.

When should dental sealants be applied?

Decay can begin early in life, so children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon as they erupt—around age 6 for first molars and age 12 for second molars. (AGD Impact February 2013, Vol. 41, No. 2)

Posted April 8, 2013:Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants - Aren't brushing and flossing enough

While brushing and flossing help to remove food particles and plaque from the smooth surfaces of teeth, toothbrush bristles often can’t reach into teeth's depressions and grooves. However, sealants can protect these areas and prevent food and bacteria from building up. (AGD Impact February 2013, Vol. 41, No. 2)

Posted April 1, 2013:Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants - What are dental sealants?

In addition to good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, there are other ways to prevent tooth decay. Dental sealants can help protect your children’s teeth by sealing them off from decay-causing bacteria.

What are dental sealants?

Made of plastic, dental sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect tooth enamel from decay-causing bacteria and acids. These sealants fit perfectly into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of your children’s teeth, protecting them from decay. (AGD Impact February 2013, Vol. 41, No. 2)

Posted March 24, 2013:Pacifiers and Oral Health - Saying goodbye to the pacifier

For some infants, giving up the pacifier can be difficult, especially if they become emotionally attached to the habit. Parents looking to wean their children from the pacifier can begin by offering other alternatives, including:

• Rocking motions, singing, or music before naps or at bedtime.

• Activities and games.

• Toys.

To further help break the pacifier habit, parents also can:

• Limit pacifier use gradually over time.

• Reduce pacifier satisfaction by piercing the pacifier’s nipple.

• Dip the pacifier in a safe but undesirable flavor, such as white vinegar.

• Go “cold turkey” and refuse to offer the pacifier.

For more information regarding pacifier use, talk to your doctor or dentist, and visit KnowYourTeeth.com.

(AGD Impact January 2013, Vol. 41, No. 1)

Posted March 18, 2013:Pacifiers and Oral Health - Proper Pacifier Cleaning

The shape and materials of pacifiers make them susceptible to colonization by bacterial organisms, including Staphylococcus, which causes staph infections. To prevent the spread of bacteria and disease, clean your child’s pacifiers at least once a day. They can be cleaned using mild soap and water. When cleaning pacifiers, make sure to remove all excess water from the nipple, where it can collect and cause bacterial growth.

Also, pacifiers that are dishwasher safe can be cleaned easily in the dishwasher; just follow the instructions on the pacifier package. (AGD Impact January 2013, Vol. 41, No. 1)

Posted March 11, 2013:Pacifiers and Oral Health - Tips for correct pacifier use

For infants, correct use and care of pacifiers must be considered. Here are a few tips:

• Purchase orthodontically designed pacifiers.

• Clean pacifiers regularly.

• Check frequently for cracks, discoloration, or tears in pacifiers’ rubber.

• Discard if damaged.

• Replace old pacifiers.

• Wash pacifiers prior to first use.

• Do not tie pacifiers around your infant’s neck.

• Offer pacifiers after and between meals, before naps, or at bedtime.

Following these basic rules will help ensure your infant’s pacifier use is both safe and healthy.

(AGD Impact January 2013, Vol. 41, No. 1)

Posted March 5, 2013:Give Kids a Smile with Magnuson Dental

On February 8th, Magnuson Dental and other community volunteers put on a free dental clinic for kids. We did cleanings, exams, radiographs, extractions, and fillings. We provided over $13,000 is dentistry to about 20 kids. Dr. Norman Magnuson and Dr. Tim Richardson were our volunteer dentists. A special thanks to all the volunteers who made the day successful.

Posted March 4, 2013:Pacifiers and Oral Health - Potential pacifier problems

Pacifiers can be great for children, especially during their first six months. In addition to its calming effect, pacifier use in infants can help decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome and aid in the development of jaw muscles. Although pacifier use is generally a healthy habit within the first two years of life, continued or improper use may ultimately have a negative impact on your child’s oral and overall health.

Pacifier use typically is acceptable after an infant is 1 month old and has had sufficient time to develop a healthy breast-feeding habit. However, experts recommend that children stop using pacifiers after age 2, when it becomes more of a habit than a developmental need. Research shows that continued pacifier use, especially after age 2, often is associated with:

• Increased risk of middle ear infection.

• Improper growth of the mouth.

• Misalignment of teeth.

• Dental crossbite and/or open bite.

• Development of a thumb-sucking habit.

Parents should aim to rid children of their pacifier habit before age 2 to avoid associated emotional and habitual attachments to the objects. (AGD Impact January 2013, Vol. 41, No. 1)

Posted February 25, 2013:Your Child's First Dental Visit - When should we schedule the next appointment?

Children, like adults, should see the dentist every six months. When your child is very young, some dentists may schedule interim visits every three months in order to build the child’s comfort and confidence levels or for treatment needs. If you have questions about your child’s dental needs, please talk to your dentist. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 11)

Posted February 18, 2013:Your Child's First Dental Visit - What happens during the first visit?

Often a first visit is simply a time to acquaint your child with the dentist and the practice. As a parent, you should reassure your child that the visit is not scary or something about which to be afraid. Short, successive visits can build the child’s comfort with the dentist and the dental office. Your child’s appointment should be scheduled earlier in the day, when your child is alert and refreshed. You may need to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the first examination. The first visit usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes and may include any of the following, depending on the child’s age: • A gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums, and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas;

• A gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar build-up, and stains;

• X-rays;

• A demonstration on how to properly care for your child’s mouth and teeth at home;

• Nutritional counseling; and,

• An assessment of the need for fluoride.

The dentist will be able to answer any questions you have and will make you and your child feel comfortable throughout the visit. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 11)

Posted February 11, 2013:Your Child's First Dental Visit - How do I prepare my child and myself for this first visit?

Before the visit, ask the dentist about the procedures that will take place during the first appointment so there are no surprises. Plan a course of action for any possible reactions your child may have. Very young children may be fussy and not want to sit still. Others may become very frightened and cry. Some children may not react negatively at all. Some may enjoy the appointment very much! Make the upcoming appointment something for your child to look forward to. Help your child understand what will happen during the visit. There are a number of children’s books about going to the dentist. Read these books with your child before his or her first visit to familiarize your child with what will happen at the dentist and help lessen any potential anxiety. Also, be sure to bring records of your child’s complete medical history for his or her dental file. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 11)

Posted February 4, 2013:Your Child's First Dental Visit - When should my child first see a dentist, and why?

The ideal time for a child to visit the dentist is six months after the child’s first (primary) teeth erupt—and no later than his or her first birthday. This time frame is a perfect opportunity for the dentist to examine carefully the development of the child’s mouth. Because dental problems often start early, the sooner the child visits the dentist, the better. The dentist also can provide or recommend special preventive care to protect against problems, such as early childhood tooth decay, teething irritations, gum disease, and prolonged thumb- or pacifier-sucking. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 11)

Posted February 4, 2013:"Like" us on Facebook

"Like" Magnuson Dental on Facebook for a chance to win a set of custom bleach trays and bleach tubes. Drawing will be held April 1, 2013.

Posted January 28, 2013:Good Oral Health Starts at Home - How can I get my children to brush?

Children also should brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day. There are a number of methods that you can use to encourage good oral health habits. First, lead by example: Be sure that your child sees you and other family members brushing your teeth. Second, to make brushing more fun, allow your child to choose his or her toothbrush (a variety of styles, including musical models with timers, are designed to appeal to kids). When your children brush, always supervise and instruct them about the proper technique and make sure they are doing a thorough job. Parents also should assist young children with daily flossing; flossing can begin as soon as your child has two teeth that touch each other. Do you have questions about your family’s oral health care? Talk to your general dentist. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 12)

Posted January 21, 2013:Good Oral Health Starts at Home - How long should I brush?

It is recommended that you brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes twice a day. If you think you’re already doing a good job, you might be surprised: People generally think they are brushing longer than they are, but most spend less than 1 minute brushing. To make sure you are brushing for the full 2 minutes, set an egg timer or invest in a toothbrush with a built-in timer. And get your entire mouth clean: Brush the front and back of teeth, the chewing surfaces, between your teeth, and your tongue. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 12)

Posted January 14, 2013:Good Oral Health Starts at Home - What is the best technique for brushing?

There are a number of effective brushing techniques. Patients are advised to check with their dentist or hygienist to determine which technique is best for them, since tooth position and gum condition vary. One effective, easy-to-remember technique involves using a circular or elliptical motion to brush a couple of teeth at a time, gradually covering the entire mouth. Avoid using a back-and-forth motion, because this can cause the gum surface to recede, expose the root surface, or make the root surface tender. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 12)

Posted January 14, 2013:Congratulations Dr. Magnuson

Dr. Norman D. Magnuson was awarded by the Oregon Academy of General Dentistry, General Dentist of the Year. He received this award because his outstanding citizenship and service to dentistry. Practicing in Eugene, Oregon since 1982. He has been very involved in the community currently serving on the Oregon Board of Dentistry, Western Regional Exam Board and Examiner, also in 2007 started a free dental clinic to help those in community. Dr. Magnuson is proud to receive this award but looks forward to doing more in the future.

Posted January 9, 2013:Good Oral Health Starts at Home - Why is brushing so important?

Regular tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste plays a major role in reducing the growth of plaque—a thin, sticky film of bacteria that causes cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. When you brush your teeth, you remove most of the plaque causing bacteria. Brushing also helps clean and polish your teeth, removes stains, freshens your breath, and leaves your mouth feeling clean. (AGD Impact December 2012, Vol. 40, No. 12)

Posted August 13, 2012:Dr. Norman D. Magnuson recieved his AGD Master's Degree

Dr. Norman D. Magnuson just received his Master Degree from the Academy of General Dentistry on June 23, 2012. This was accomplished by 1100 hours of disciplined and comprehensive dental study covering all aspects of dentistry.