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Diet and Dental Health

Your body is a complex machine. The foods you select and the way you eat them will have an effect on your general health and therefore the health of your teeth and gums, too. If you consume too many sugar-filled sodas, sweet fruit drinks, or non-nutritious snacks, you may be in danger of tooth decay. Diet can be especially important for children’s dental health, as tooth decay is the single most common chronic childhood illness, however, the good news is that it’s entirely preventable.

Tooth decay happens once plaque comes in contact with sugar within the mouth. Plaque bacteria feed on sugar, and cause acid which eats away at the tooth enamel.

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to decay. To manage the quantity of sugar you eat, scan the nutrition facts and ingredient labels on foods and beverages and opt for choices low in sugar. Your doctor or a registered specialist may offer suggestions for a healthy diet. If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it’s going to be harder for tissues in your mouth to resist infection, which can contribute to gum disease. Severe gum disease may be a major reason behind tooth loss in adults. Several researchers believe that gum disease is more severe and progresses more quickly in people with poor nutrition.

To learn what foods are best for you, visit ChooseMyPlate.Gov, an internet site from the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, office of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The site contains dietary recommendations for kids and adults based on their levels of physical activity.

Wise selections

For healthy living and for healthy teeth and gums, think before you eat and drink. It’s not only what you eat, but also when you eat that may have an effect on your dental health. Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks. If you’re on a special diet, keep your physician’s recommendation in mind when selecting foods.

For good dental health, keep the following tips in mind when selecting your meals and snacks:

• Drink plenty of water.

• Eat a variety of foods that include

         o Whole grains

         o Fruits

         o Vegetables

         o Low-fat and fat-free dairy foods

Limit the number of snacks you eat. If you are eating a snack, opt for one thing that’s healthy like fruit or vegetables or a piece of cheese. Foods that are eaten as a part of a meal cause less damage to teeth than eating multiple snacks throughout the day, because a lot of saliva is discharged through a meal. Saliva helps wash foods from the mouth and lessens the effect of acids, which may hurt teeth and cause cavities. For good dental health, keep in mind to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste that has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, floss daily, and visit your dental practitioner frequently. With regular visits, your dentist can help to catch any potential problems, and provide the necessary treatment right away while the problem is manageable and simple to treat.

Facts you should know about Gum Disease

Gum disease is very common

You might assume that gum disease is not very common, but it is actually one of the most common dental health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, half of adults over the age 30 suffer from some form of gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque which can eventually harden into calculus or tartar, if not removed with thorough daily brushing and flossing.

Cavities and gum disease don’t always go together

Being cavity-free doesn’t ensure you do not have gum disease. Because gum disease is often painless, many people have no idea if they are at risk. Gums that bleed easily or are red, swollen or tender can be a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease and the only stage that is reversible.

Having gum disease does not mean your teeth will fall out

You won’t lose any of your teeth to gum disease if you practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth twice a day, cleaning between your teeth daily, eating a healthy diet, and scheduling regular dental visits. Gum disease does not mean your oral health is doomed.

Bleeding gums during pregnancy are normal

While it’s true that some women develop a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” it’s not true that everyone experiences this. You can help prevent this condition by taking extra care during your brushing and flossing routine. Your dentist may also recommend more frequent cleanings to help you maintain your oral health during pregnancy.

Bad breath can be an indicator of gum disease

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be an indicator of gum disease and other oral diseases, so it is important that you understand what is causing this problem. If you constantly have bad breath, make an appointment to see your dentist. Regular check-ups allow your dentist to detect any problems as your bad breath may be a sign of a medical disorder. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to another non-dental physician.

I have diabetes. Will I get gum disease?

Diabetes is a chronic disease which affects your body’s ability to process sugar. Diabetes can also lower your resistance to infection and can slow the healing process. If you have diabetes, you are at greater risk of developing some oral health problems, including gum disease, so it’s important that you are extra diligent with your oral health.

5 Things Families Should Know About Dental Health

Toothpaste with fluoride for infants and children

For children younger than 3 years, you should begin brushing a child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6 years of age, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Consider sealants to prevent decay or treat beginning cavities on the back teeth

Sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a resin material applied by a dentist to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often.

Ask about all the options for calming your child during dental procedures

Dental work can be scary for some kids. Talk to your dentist about ways to help your child stay calm. Tips for a successful dental visit can include talking to your child about what to expect, like sitting in a big chair that leans back, and about how the dentist will look at their teeth. Make sure your child is not hungry before their dental appointment and scheduling an appointment at the proper time of day.

For jaw pain, try conservative treatments first

Jaw pain can be caused by stress, arthritis or an injury. A treatment plan for jaw pain should first consist of actions like exercises and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Don’t replace fillings just because they’re old When you have a cavity, the dentist removes it and puts a filling. These fillings can last for many years, but some people get silver fillings removed because they don’t like the color. However, the process of removing a filling for aesthetic reasons can weaken the tooth, and insurance may not cover the cost of replacement if it is unnecessary.

Infection Control: Why It Matters

Signs to Look For

Whether you’re having a routine cleaning or a more serious dental procedure, infection control is important. Procedures established by the centers for Disease Control and Prevention effectively prevent transmission of infections (such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV) in the dental office. When you visit a dentist, look for these signs of good infection control.

Hand Washing

Hands are the most common way diseases are transmitted. Your dentist, dental hygienist and all health care providers should wash their hands before every patient. If you don’t see them washing their hands before treating you, ask about it. Hand washing is good for you too. According to the CDC, hand washing prevents the spread of colds and flu.

Protective Equipment

Infection control requires that all dental staff involved in patient care to wear the appropriate protective gear such as gloves, masks, gowns and eyewear. After each patient, all disposable wear needs to be discarded.

Dental Instruments

All non-disposable dental instruments should be cleaned and sterilized between patients. Ask your dentist about the sterilization process used in their practice. Ask to see the sterilization area. Disposable items, like needles, should never be reused.

Surface Cleaning

Before any patient enters the examining room, all surfaces need to be cleaned and decontaminated. Some offices may cover this equipment with protective covers, which are replaced after each patient.

Top 9 Foods That Damage Your Teeth

What you eat actually matters

Hard candies seem harmless, eat too many and the constant exposure to sugar can be harmful to your teeth. Hard candies also put your teeth at risk as they can also trigger a dental emergency such as a broken or chipped tooth. Better alternative? Chew sugarless gum that carries the ADA Seal.

Ice is not for chewing

Many people think ice is good for their teeth as it’s made of water, after all, and doesn’t contain any sugar or other additives. But chewing on hard substances can leave your teeth vulnerable to a dental emergency and damage enamel. Advice: Break the habit and enjoy water in its liquid form.

Watch out for your citrus intake

Frequent exposure to acidic foods can erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay over time. Even though a squeeze of lemon or lime can turn a simple glass of water into a fun beverage, it’s not always the best choice for your mouth. Citric fruits and juices can also irritate mouth sores. Make sure to drink plenty of plain water.

Are all types of Coffee good?

In their natural form, coffee and tea can be healthy beverage choices. Unfortunately, too many people can’t resist adding sugar. Caffeinated coffee and tea can also dry out your mouth. Frequent drinks of coffee and tea may also stain your teeth. If you do consume, make sure to drink plenty of water and try to keep the add-ons to a minimum.

Sticky foods are the worst

Many people put dried fruit at the top of the list as a healthy snack alternative. But many dried fruits are sticky. Sticky foods can damage your teeth since they tend to stay on the teeth longer than other types of food. If you find yourself eating dried fruits or trail mix often, make sure to rinse with water after and to brush and floss carefully.

Beware of things that go “crunch”

Most of us love a satisfying crunch of a potato chip. Unfortunately, potato chips are filled with starch, which tends to get trapped in your teeth. If you choose to indulge in snacks like these, take extra care when you floss that day to remove all the food particles that can lead to plaque build-up.

Swap soda with water

Most carbonated soft drinks, including diet soda, are acidic and therefore, bad for your teeth. Caffeinated beverages, such as colas can also dry out your mouth. If you do consume soft drinks, try to drink alongside a cup of water.

Reduce / Stop alcohol consumption

Alcohol causes dehydration and dry mouth. People who drink excessively may find their saliva flow is reduced over time, which can lead to tooth decay and other oral infections such as gum disease. Heavy alcohol use also increases your risk for mouth cancer.

Are Sports Drinks Safe?

They sound healthy, but sugar is a top ingredient for many sports and energy drinks. The American Academy of Paediatrics says sports drinks can be helpful for young athletes engaged in prolonged, vigorous physical activities, but are unnecessary in most cases. Before your next sip, check the label to make sure your drink of choice is low in sugar or drink water instead.

Six Harmful Habits that Impact Your Teeth (and Solutions to Help You Avoid Them)

1. Nail Biting

Biting nails can impact your jaw and can even chip teeth. “Biting nails places your jaw in a protruding position, which places unnatural pressure on it. This pressure, over long periods of time, can be associated with jaw dysfunction.

Solution: Bitter-tasting nail polishes and stress reduction can help. If certain situations are triggers for nail biting, hold something to keep your fingers busy.

2. Brushing too Hard

Brushing for two minutes twice a day is one of the best daily habits for the health of your teeth. However, make sure you do not brush too hard as it can damage teeth and irritate gums.

Solution: Use a soft toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance at the proper pressure.

3. Grinding and Clenching

This can cause chipping or cracking of the teeth, as well as muscle tenderness or joint pain.

Solution: A night-time mouth guard, can prevent harm from grinding your teeth at night. If you find yourself grinding or clenching your teeth during stressful moments of the day, relaxation exercises can also help.

4. Chewing Ice Cubes

Tooth enamel and ice cubes are both made up of crystalline structures. When you push two crystals against each other with enough force, one will break. Most of the time it’s the ice, but sometimes the tooth or a filling will break.

Solution: Cracked or broken teeth and fillings are painful and costly to repair. Because the risk of chewing ice is great, avoid it by drinking chilled beverages without ice, or using a straw. Chewing sugar free gum instead is also a safer alternative.

5. Constant Snacking

Eating frequently during day, especially on sugary foods and drinks, puts you at a higher risk for cavities. When you eat, cavity-causing bacteria feast leftover food, producing an acid that attacks the outer shell of your teeth.

Solution: Eat balanced meals to feel fuller, longer. If you need a snack, make sure it’s low in fat and sugar. If you indulge in the occasional sugary treat, follow it with a big glass of water to wash away leftover food, and brush after snacking whenever possible.

6. Using your Teeth as Tools

Your teeth were made only for eating, not to stand in as a pair of scissors or hold things when your hands are full. When you do this, you put yourself at a higher risk of cracking your teeth, injuring your jaw or accidentally swallowing something you shouldn’t.

Solution: Stop and find something or someone to give you a hand.

8 Travel Tips for Your Teeth

Make Time for a Check-up Before Travel

The best way to avoid unexpected dental problems when you travel is to prevent them before the happen. Establish a relationship with your dentist and have an open conversation about any of your risks. If you can, schedule your next regular visit a few weeks before a trip, leaving enough time to have any issues taken care of before you depart. A thorough exam with your dentist can help spot any potential problems, and make sure they are addressed. You’ll have peace of mind, and your dentist will have the most up-to-date information on your teeth, including x-rays.

In Case of Emergency…

Have your dentist’s contact information handy in your cell phone or keep a business card in your wallet. As a patient, it is hard to know the difference between something that needs to be treated right away and something that can wait for some more time, this is where a doctor can help. If you have kept up regular visits with your dentist and they have a full record of your health history, they may be able to provide insight over the phone, and may be able to provide better support to help you decide how to address it until you can see a dentist locally or until your trip is over.

In Case of Emergency Overseas…

If you are traveling out of the country and absolutely in need of a dentist, get in touch with the local consulate or U.S. embassy or your hotel concierge. If you have travel insurance, they may be able to help you find a local dentist. Even google and getting information about the nearest dentist would be recommended.

Forget Your Toothbrush?

If you find yourself temporarily without a toothbrush, you can rinse vigorously with water to wash away some of that cavity-causing bacteria. You could also put some toothpaste on a clean washcloth or your clean finger in a pinch. When you finally get to the nearest drugstore, look for a toothbrush with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. If there aren’t any Seal products, buy the softest brush you can find.

Proper Toothbrush Transport

Letting your toothbrush air dry is the best way to keep your toothbrush clean at home, but that’s not always possible on vacation. What’s a traveling toothbrush to do? Keep your toothbrush clean and out of contact with other things in your vacation luggage. Use a clean toothbrush case, or a resalable bag to keep your toothbrush separate from everything else in your luggage. If you use a sealed bag, when you get to your destination, pop it open and let your brush air dry.

Pack an ADA-Accepted Pack of Gum

Chewing sugarless gum can help relieve ear pressure during a flight and help keep cavities at bay on vacay. Research shows that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes after a meal can help prevent cavities. That’s because it gets saliva flowing, which helps wash away cavity-causing bacteria. Sugarless gum with the ADA Seal is guaranteed to do the trick.

When in Doubt, Brush with Bottled Water

If you are in a country where the water supply is compromised – or you’re on a wilderness adventure but aren’t sure how clean the stream is – always use bottled water to brush. What happens if you accidentally get local water on your toothbrush? If the local water is not safe to drink, get a new toothbrush if possible. Otherwise, rinse your brush thoroughly with clean drinkable water.

Get Back on Track After Your Trip

If you have not followed your schedule of brushing and flossing while away, or if your vacation involved indulging in too many sweets don’t worry. The best solution is to jump back into your regular routine as soon as possible when you get home.  “Just get back on your normal routine of brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing when you get home.

Dental Anxiety: 3 ways to stop fearing the Dentist

If you ever get nervous just thinking about going to the dentist, you’re not the only person. The thought that the visit might hurt, or the fact that you haven’t been in a while and you’re not sure what the dentist will find.

Whatever your reason, the right dental team will always make sure you are comfortable while they are taking care of your dental health. The more you delay – or just don’t go – to the dentist, the higher your risk of developing dental problems that will make gearing up for future dental visits even more difficult. In fact, seeing your dentist regularly can actually make the entire process – from making an appointment to sailing through it – much easier on many levels.

Use these strategies at your next appointment to help ease your anxiety and strengthen your smile.

1. Let your dentist know what you are feeling…It’s Important

Anyone with anxiety knows sharing your feelings makes a world of difference. If you’re tense or anxious, do yourself a favor and get your concerns off your chest. Your dentist and dental team are better able to treat you if they know your needs.

• Tell your dentist about your anxiety. Share any bad experiences you may have had in the past, and ask for suggestions on coping strategies.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
• Agree on a signal like asking him for a break by raising your hand or something you come up with yourself.
• If you experience pain even with a local anesthetic, tell your dentist.

2. Think about anything else

Taking your mind off the exam may seem impossible when you’re nervous, but there are some things that that can help distract your thoughts.

• Wear headphones. If the sound of the drill bothers you, bring headphones so you can listen to your favorite music or audiobook. Some dental offices even have televisions or show DVDs.
• Occupy your hands by squeezing a stress ball or playing with a small handheld object, like a fidget spinner.
• Imagine your happy place and visualize yourself at a relaxing beach or garden.

3. Relax Yourself.

Relaxation starts in the mind. Try deep breathing exercises to help relax tension in your muscles.

• Count your breaths. Inhale slowly and then exhale for the same number of counts. Do this five times while you’re waiting for your appointment, or during breaks while you’re sitting in the dental chair.

Do a body scan. Concentrate on relaxing your muscles, one body part at a time. Start with your head and work your way down to your toes. For example, you can focus on releasing tension starting in your forehead, then your cheeks, your neck and down the rest of your body.

Signs you need to see a Dentist

• You Have Some Pain : Pain / Swelling in your mouth or around your facial area can mean a lot of things, but be sure to get in touch with your dentist if you experience pain.
• Your Gums Are Acting Up : If your gums are puffy or tend to bleed when you brush or floss, or you have a family history of gum disease, it’s time to make an appointment.
• You Try to Hide your SMILE : Don’t be shy about talking to your dentist whether you’re self-conscious about a missing tooth or hoping for a brighter smile.
• You’ve Previously Had Work Done : If you have fillings, crowns, dental implants or dentures, see your dentist regularly to make sure everything is in great shape.
• Ongoing Medical Issues : Make your dentist part of your team if you have any medical condition like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders or are HIV positive.
• You are Pregnant : It’s always safe to go to the dentist while pregnant. In fact, pregnancy can make some dental problems worse, so don’t miss your regular checkup.
• Having Trouble Eating : Difficulty chewing or swallowing is not something you need to get used to. Try eating soft or liquefied foods until you can see your dentist.
• Dry Mouth : Always feeling parched could be the sign of a medical issue or a medication side effect.
• You have been using Tobacco : From bad breath to oral cancer, cigarettes and chewing tobacco are harmful to your overall and dental health.
• Jaw Pain : If your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up. See a dentist also if you have an uneven bite.
• Mouth Has Spots and Sores : If there’s something that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth, your dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a broken tooth or filling.
• It’s Time For Your Checkup : Even if you don’t have any symptoms listed above, regular checkups are important because they can help prevent problems from developing and treat existing symptoms before they become more advanced.

PREVENTING TOOTH DECAY – TIPS FOR A HEALTHIER SMILE THAT LASTS

Preventing tooth decay starts with good oral hygiene and dietary habits. As you have probably heard, it’s important that you always brush your teeth at least twice a day as well as floss daily. We probably sound like a broken record, but it’s true! Brushing and flossing are your first lines of defense against cavities.

How Does Tooth Decay Happen?

Tooth decay starts when food particles are left behind on your teeth from eating and drinking. Bacteria in your mouth feed off of these food particles and turn them into acid. The acid then eats holes into your teeth. These holes are called cavities. Before cavities get a chance to negatively affect your oral health, we have some preventive dental tips for you to follow!

Preventive At-Home Dental Care

In order to prevent tooth decay, you need to consistently maintain good oral health habits. This includes brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing. It is also important to limit your intake of carbohydrates and sugars. We know this is easier said than done, but remember that eliminating sugary, processed foods and beverages have other health benefits, too, which can help you stay motivated.

Drinking plenty of water and chewing sugarless gum can also help remove food debris from your mouth and encourage production of saliva. Naturally occurring chemicals in your saliva help fight the bacteria and the acid damage they cause!

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Even if your oral hygiene is perfect, it is still a good idea to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleaning at least twice a year. Despite your best efforts, plaque and tartar can still build up and cause damage in areas your toothbrush and floss can’t get to.

Maintaining your regular appointments and teeth cleanings will keep you on a good path for preventing tooth decay. If you are genetically predisposed to gum disease or other oral health issues, it is important that you do not skip any appointments with your dentist. Some people don’t realize that taking good preventive dental health steps early can even save you money and prevent expensive restorative dental care in your later years.

Preventing tooth decay is essential to keeping all of your natural teeth and maintaining a healthy smile. For more information about your oral health, or to schedule your next appointment, call our office today.