Toothbrush Trivia, from Dr. Jordan Higham

It isn’t any big news to dentist Dr. Jordan Higham that toothbrushing dates back thousands of years. In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced, and people began practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss:

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• If you don’t floss, you are only cleaning 65% of your tooth surfaces
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Replace your toothbrush every two months, when bristles appear worn, or after recovering from a cold or flu
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

Many folks in Idaho Falls consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. Higham and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at Just 4 KiDDS

Safety first this winter! From Dr. Higham

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Dr. Higham and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Just 4 KiDDS.

Helpful tips to ease your fear of visiting the Dentist

Do you find yourself feeling increasingly nervous the closer you get to your next Dental appointment? Just 4 KiDDS understands that many people feel this way and we would like to provide some tips to help you feel more comfortable on your next visit.

Understand that you are not alone
There are many people out there that are afraid of visiting the dentist for various reasons.

Identify your fears
Sit down and write down everything that makes you nervous about going to the dentist. Once you have them written down, scan your list and think about some ways you might be able to overcome them.

Discuss your fears with your Doctor
After making a list, bring it in or simply remember what you wrote down and talk about them with your doctor. Just 4 KiDDS takes these issues very seriously and by discussing any reservations or concerns with you, we can work toward providing a more comfortable dental experience.

Avoiding dental treatment will only increase your fears
By avoiding dental treatment you run the risk of requiring more serious dental treatment. By regularly visiting the dentist, you will rest easier knowing that you are keeping your teeth healthy.

Dr. Higham hopes that you find these tips useful. Feel free to call our office with and questions or concerns you might have.

Why do you choose Just 4 KiDDS?

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Thank you,

The team at Just 4 KiDDS

Moooooove over gum disease!

Dr. Higham 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.

Just 4 KiDDS celebrates Halloween!

Dr. Higham and our team would like to let everyone know that our Halloween Candy Buy Back was a huge success! A few radio stations attended the event, along with many of our patients. Overall, we were able to collect 291 pounds of candy that was donated to our troops overseas through Operation Gratitude. Thank you everyone for your participation and support!

Just 4 KiDDS also participated in "Boo at the Zoo" and "Trick or Treat Street." Both of these events offered kids a safe trick or treating environment.

Be sure to visit our Facebook page to view all of the photos from our Halloween events. Happy Thanksgiving!

Replace Your Toothbrush - Cold and Flu Season is Here!

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Dr. Higham will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Just 4 KiDDS if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

A day to honor America’s veterans

Have you thanked a veteran lately? November 11 is Veterans Day - the perfect holiday for thanking and honoring our country’s military. In celebration of Veterans Day, Dr. Higham and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

• There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.
• The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777
• Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth
• Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump
• Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.
• When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).
• There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania
• The VA healthcare system now has 171 medical centers, 126 nursing home care units, and 35 live-in care facilities
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day
• Take a Veteran to School Day is a program that was developed by HISTORY in 2007 to connect students and veterans.
• Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served and currently serve our country.

What do you enjoy most about fall in Idaho Falls?

It’s fall here at Just 4 KiDDS, a time when the leaves change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Dr. Higham and our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within our Idaho Falls community. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Tackling kids' sport safety with Dr. Higham

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Just 4 KiDDS is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. Higham will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. Higham is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Just 4 KiDDS.

Just 4 KiDDS Halloween Candy Buy Back

Would you like to turn your Halloween candy into cash? Dr. Higham would like to invite our patients to participate in the Just 4 KiDDS Halloween Candy Buy Back.

All children ages 12 years-old and younger are invited to bring their wrapped Halloween candy to Just 4 KiDDS on Monday, Nov. 1 from 5:00- 7:00pm to receive $1 per pound of candy. Participating children will also receive a toothbrush, and a voucher for dinner at Outback Steakhouse.

Candy that is collected from the Halloween Candy Buy Back will be donated to our troops overseas through Operation Gratitude.

For more information on the Halloween Candy Buy Back, don't hesitate to give Just 4 KiDDS a call at 208-932-0467.

Dr. Higham, protecting your child from cavities this Halloween

With Halloween only two weeks away, Dr. Higham knows that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of our Idaho Falls, ID young trick-or-treaters.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important to follow these simple tips to prevent cavities this Halloween:





• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

For more information on cavities and your oral health, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Higham at your next appointment.

Stargazing with Just 4 KiDDS, outdoor learning for the whole family!

When was the last time that your family enjoyed the Idaho Falls, ID great outdoors? If you’ve been looking for a great educational activity for your preschooler or kindergartener, search no further! Dr. Higham recently came across a great article in Nickelodeon Parents Connect, which we would like to share with you today. We know how important it is for your child to discover the magic of science for themselves. That’s why we invite you to let your imagination run wild and take your children on a summer stargazing expedition!

When planning your stargazing trip, whether it is in the backyard, at a local park, or while camping, be sure to choose a warm, clear night. A few constellations to look for: the Big Dipper, Little Dipper, North Star, and Cassiopeia. Don’t forget to pack a flashlight, snacks, water, sleeping bags, paper and crayons, and-of course-your star map!

Have fun & be safe!

-The team at Just 4 KiDDS

Join Just 4 KiDDS Dentistry for a FREE movie this summer!

At Just 4 KiDDS Dentistry, our mission is to help provide the very best for your child. The best neighborhood, the best schools, and the best opportunities. That's why our office is sponsoring the Free Family Film Festival this summer!

Here are the details:

Who: You're invited!

What: Free Family Film Festival

Where: Edward's Theater in Idaho Falls

When: This event will be happening every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 10:00 a.m. until August 19th.

Why: To watch some great movies, for FREE! Movies include Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Monsters VS. Aliens and Paul Blart: Mall Cop. Kid’s meals are available and seating is limited!

We hope to see you at the next summer movie! Have a great week everyone!

-Your friends at Just 4 KiDDS Dentistry

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist!

How about something funny to help you ease into this lovely Wednesday afternoon? Here's some classic dental humor for you and your children to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. We loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know! You can post any comments or videos here, or on our Facebook page.

Have a great Wednesday!
-Your friends at Just 4 KiDDs

Pool safety tips from Dr. Jordan Higham

Summer is finally upon us here in Idaho Falls, Idaho at Just 4 KiDDs Dentistry. Dr. Jordan Higham and our staff know that, in some kid’s minds, the warmer weather means only one thing- it’s time for swimming! Whether your family plans to visit the neighbors, a community, or even your backyard pool this summer, it’s important to keep safety in mind. We found some helpful pool safety tips that we’d like to share with you, courtesy of our friends at the American Academy of Pediatrics.

* Install a fence at least four-feet high around all four sides of the pool. The fence should not have openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through.

* Make sure pool gates open out from the pool, and self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach.

* Never leave children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment.

* Keep rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver) and a portable telephone near the pool. Choose a shepherd's hook and other rescue equipment made of fiberglass or other materials that do not conduct electricity.

* Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as "floaties." They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children a false sense of security.

* Children may not be developmentally ready for swim lessons until after their fourth birthday. Swim programs for children under 4 should not be seen as a way to decrease the risk of drowning.

* Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm's length, providing "touch supervision."

Have more questions about your children and their safety this summer? Give us a call!

School programs at Just 4 kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry!

The school year may be over, but it's never too early to start thinking about fall classes. Dr. Jordan Higham and our team at Just 4 kiDDS offer two school programs for pre-school and grade school aged children. The programs are designed to educate children about the importance oral health. We try to make the programs fun and interactive for the children while at the same time teaching them about oral hygiene and nutrition. We will talk about teeth, “sugar bugs”, brushing and flossing, healthy snacking, and what to expect when visiting the dentist. At the end of the presentation, each child will be given a goody bag with a toothbrush and other dental supplies to take home.

Program 1: We will arrange for you to bring your school/class in to our office to meet Dr. Higham and take a tour of the office. We will talk to the children about the importance of taking care of their teeth. The office visit can be very beneficial for young children as it familiarizes them with the dental office setting and many times gets them excited to come back for their own visit to the dentist.

Program 2: We will arrange for someone from our staff to visit your school/class and give a short interactive presentation to the children about their teeth and oral health.

Please give us a call at 208-932-0467 to learn more!

Dr. Higham and Just 4 kiDDS want to know: what is your child reading this summer?

With summer only days away, we at Just 4 kiDDS have been thinking more and more about the importance of reading. Summer reading, specifically. Of course it’s easier for children to go play with their friends or sit back and watch TV, but Idaho Falls dentist Dr. Jordan Higham and team know that reading during the summer is a key step for kids to ensure they are prepared for school this fall.

So we thought we'd ask: is your child reading this summer? If so, what's on their reading list? Tell us about it!

If you happen to be out of ideas for great summer reads, we definitely encourage you to ask us for suggestions, and our staff would be more than happy to provide a few great titles. You may also ask a local librarian for some suggestions or check out various summer reading ideas that we came across this morning.

Happy reading everyone! From Dr. Higham and the Just 4 kiDDS team

Ask Dr. Higham: What should we do during an emergency?

When your child needs emergency dental treatment, Dr. Jordan Higham and team are always ready to help. Please keep our emergency number available and convenient. Here are some helpful answers to some recent patient questions. Enjoy you weekend everyone!

Q: What should I do if my child's baby tooth is knocked out?

A: Contact our office as soon as possible by calling 208-529-2199.

Q: What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out?

A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap -- use just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can't put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately. (Call the emergency number if it's after hours.) The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?

A: Contact Just 4 kiDDS immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you when you visit Dr. Higham.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?

A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?

A: Call us and visit the office promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?

A: Of course! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular dental visits to our office.