COVID-19 Stress and Oral Health
It is currently a stressful time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies show that stress not only harms your overall health, but it can harm your oral health as well. Reducing stress is important to maintaining a healthy smile and good oral health. Stress has been shown to contribute to the following oral health conditions: Bruxism (teeth grinding) Dry mouth Canker sores Tooth decay Gum disease Here are some good ways to help keep your whole mouth healthy, while you work to lower your stress levels. Stay on track with your oral health routine. Always brush two times each day for two minutes, floss once daily and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and exams to lessen your risk for cavities or gum disease. Get plenty of sleep, stay active and try relaxation techniques, like meditation, to help you de-stress. Limit your caffeine and alcohol intake and eat a well-balanced diet […]
How can gum disease be linked to heart disease?
February is American Heart Month and because heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, we hear a lot about it. But did you know that evidence shows there is a relationship between gum disease and heart disease? Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gum tissues and bone that hold your teeth in place. In its early stage, it’s called gingivitis and can cause inflamed, red gums that bleed. If not managed with proper daily oral care, gingivitis may worsen and become periodontitis. Periodontitis is a form of gum disease that causes the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth allowing for further tooth decay, loss of bone and eventually tooth loss. Oral bacteria may be the link to heart disease The main cause of gum disease is harmful oral bacteria found in tooth […]
Keeping your mouth healthy during winter
It’s cold outside. Are you someone that enjoys the cold weather and enjoys winter outdoor activities? Or would you rather be inside where it’s warm? Whether you’re going outside for a quick minute or spending an extended period of time, the cold weather during the winter months can have an impact on your oral health. Here are some healthy mouth tips to keep you smiling all winter long. Chapped lips can occur year-long, but exposing your lips to the wind and cold can quickly dry them out. Inside heat can also remove moisture from the air. Wear a moisturizing lip balm (with SPF) daily to protect your lips. Reapply it often. Already have chapped lips? Petroleum jelly locks in moisture and is an inexpensive way to keep your lips hydrated. Dry Mouth can occur in the winter months as a result of the dry air too. Keep your body well-hydrated […]
Delicious holiday treats to share and care for oral health
The holidays bring family and friends together and often, gatherings are filled with sweet treats of the season. This holiday, offer healthier options that are tasty as well as healthier for your teeth. Chocolate covered strawberries with pistachios Strawberries are available year-round and are a tooth-friendly treat when you choose dark chocolate. It’s lower in sugar than milk or white chocolate and offsets the sweetness of the strawberry. Pistachios are high in antioxidants and can help improve blood vessel health in the gum tissue. Easy-to-make, these dark chocolate-covered strawberries with pistachios will leave your guests smiling. Cinnamon spiced pumpkin muffins and breads A well-known spice, cinnamon has been shown to be beneficial to your oral health by helping to prevent inflammation and fight bacteria. Pumpkin contains Vitamin A which promotes the production of saliva and improves symptoms of dry mouth. Its magnesium content can help prevent the development of gum […]
Teen oral health
With school, sports and social outings, it’s easy for teens to lose sight of their oral health. Maintaining good oral hygiene is important at every stage of life, including the teen years. Use these tips to help your teen have a healthy smile into adulthood. Brush twice and floss once a day. Following this oral health routine daily should be the norm. Regular visits to the dentist are important, too, for a professional cleaning and a thorough oral examination. Eat and drink healthy. Teens should choose a variety of foods from the major food groups, drink mostly milk or water and limit sugary snacks. Teens tend to eat often so help them opt for healthy snacks like fruit, veggies or cheese. Soft drinks and sports drinks should also be limited because of their high sugar content, which can lead to tooth decay. Wear a mouth guard. Mouth guards should go […]
