Did you know that certain foods can have a positive effect on the health of your teeth? Just as other aspects of our body can deteriorate over time, our teeth are susceptible to deterioration if not properly cared for. Good news! There are some simple steps that can be taken to preserve our teeth including eating foods that promote dental heath.
1. Practice good oral hygiene:
Regular plaque removal is key to proper oral hygiene care. Plaque is the accumulation of oral bacteria on food debris that remains on the teeth and gums. When it combines with saliva, it will form a hard sediment known as calculus. Calculus must be removed by a dental professional to prevent periodontal disease.
2. Visit your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website is a good resource for parents regarding commonly asked questions. In particular, the AAPD recommends twice yearly visits to the dentist.
During a routine dental visit some of the following procedures will occur:
1. Oral hygiene evaluation, review, and homecare recommendations
2. Coronal Polishing
3. Scaling to remove plaque and tartar
4. Fluoride Treatment
A dental cleaning and exam is especially important for children. The cleaning will help establish good oral hygiene practices and during the exam the child will be evaluated for development of the teeth and jaws, orthodontic/bite problems, and the timing for sealants.
3. Consider the following foods for their “dental” benefit
Green Tea-has natural antioxidant compounds which can prevent plaque from accumulating. It also reduces the risk of cavities and bad breath.
Dairy Products-milk and yogurt are low in acidity and sugar which makes them great choices as healthy snacks. Milk is rich in calcium which fortifies teeth and bones.
Cheese-balances pH levels in your mouth and increases saliva production. It can also help rebuild tooth enamel and kills the bacteria that causes cavities and gum disease.
Fruit-raw fruit is best for your teeth because it limits plaque build-up and massages your gums. Fruits rich in vitamin C are best. If your body is short on vitamin C your gums may become tender and more susceptible to gum disease.
Vegetables-raw vegetables are best for your teeth and are high in vitamin A. Vitamin A helps tooth enamel form and remain healthy. Some of the vegetables that are rich in the vitamin A are broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
Sesame seeds-are best when on bread or a roll. The seeds dissolve plaque and help build tooth enamel. They are also rich in calcium, which keeps teeth and jawbones healthy.
Fun Tooth Tidbits:
In Germany, a common Middle Age custom was to kiss a donkey to relieve toothaches.
Many, many years ago people used charcoal, ground up chalk, ashes, lemon juice, and honey-tobacco mixture to clean their teeth.
Toothpaste was only invented about one hundred years ago.
Cleaning and exam with Dr. Richard=chance of gift card!!!
Remember to bring in your reminder card (the one you get in the mail) when you come in for your appointment with Dr. Richard. Your name will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $25 gift card!
Coming Up!
Reid & Reid will be sponsors for the fall YMCA soccer season. The Y is taking registrations so if you are interested check out the Y’s website! Look for Dr. Alison out on the field as she will be coaching the Dynamo Kickers team!
