Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Joseph Lohner wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

"Cookies for the Troops" at the offices of Dr. Joseph H. Lohner DDS MS PA

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!!

During February, the offices of Dr. Joseph Lohner DDS MS PA, are kicking off "Cookies for the Troops" to send a little bit of home to our servicemen and servicewomen currently deployed overseas and to support our local Girl Scouts. All of our patients involved with the Girl Scouts are welcome to bring your cookie forms to the office and we will place orders. Upon delivery, we will send the cookies to our troops. You can also help with our efforts by supplying us with names of patients who have "graduated" from our practice, family members, or friends currently deployed so that we can make sure to add them to our cookie recipient list. Your involvement is much appreciated, both at home and abroad!

If you any other questions about “Cookies for Troops,” feel free to give us a call!

-Dr. Joseph Lohner and team

All the cool kids do it!

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as Incognito, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Joseph H. Lohner, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited the office of Dr. Lohner for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Free Consultations with Dr. Lohner

From February 1st until June 1st, the offices of Dr. Joseph H. Lohner, located in Vernon and Sparta NJ, will be offering FREE orthodontic consultations. All you need to do is visit www.Braces.org and download the American Association of Orthodontists' free initial orthodontic consultation coupon.

Learn more about Dr. Lohner and our staff by visiting our website and our Facebook Page. Give us a call if you have any questions. We look forward to your visit!