The holiday season provides the perfect opportunity to indulge in special foods and treats; it is also important to take care of your oral health. The teeth and gums have to put up with a lot over the holidays, so let’s look at the biggest challenges and what you can do to live it up a little and still avoid the worst.
I tell my patients that there are types of food and drink they should avoid. Sugary, acidic, hard, processed, and sticky food or drinks are generally not good for teeth and gums. When you break it down, these food groups are either naturally acidic or feed the bacteria found in plaque.
When parents teach their children to brush and floss on a regular basis, those kids are on their way to healthy teeth. Summer is the perfect time to teach them another habit – healthy snacking. With all the fresh fruit and vegetables available, children learn to substitute healthy snacks for candy and other sugary options.
Dental caries, or cavities, begin with a tiny hole in the tooth enamel. As time progresses, the hole becomes larger and more tooth structure becomes decayed. In the worst-case scenario, the decay progresses and attacks the nerve center of the tooth. But what causes cavities to form in the first place?
Halloween is all about costumes and treats, and fun. But when those trick-or-treat bags come home, often the “sugar wars” begin. All that candy to be eaten! How do parents set limits? Is it OK to let the kids splurge on their collected loot? Children’s dental care is on the minds of us all at this time of year.
Does taking a breath of the cold air through your mouth makes your teeth hurt? Do cold beverages or food give your teeth a sharp ache? Maybe even foods that are sweet or sour are a problem. If any of these situations apply, you probably have sensitive teeth.
A common question for dentists – Why do I have these cavities? Most people have one or two. Cavities are holes that develop on teeth as a result of decay. The truth is that while all of us are at risk, most tooth decay can be prevented. A healthy oral care routine and smart food choices can lower your risk.
Everyone knows that if you want to prevent cavities, regular brushing and flossing is essential. However, it may no longer be that simple. Today, cavities are the second most common disease – the common cold is the first. Fortunately, there are other things you can add to your brushing and flossing routine that will help prevent cavities.
Parents are usually surprised to see cavities in their infants and toddlers. It doesn’t happen often, but one of the most common causes is “baby bottle tooth decay.” While it can have long- term damage, it can also be prevented. Speaking as a dentist and a father, here’s what I want parents to know:
When dentists perform a dental exam, they look at more than the condition of your teeth and gums. Did you know that they also look for clues about your general health? There is a connection between your oral health and your overall health. Your oral health offers clues about your general health and problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body.
