Diet
Oral Concerns of Older Adults
As we age, our over all health and needs change, and oral health is no exception. As we get older, it is important to maintain a healthy diet so that our bodies continue to get all the vitamins and minerals needed to support our overall health, and oral health. Older adults, however, face certain challenges as they age which can make it difficult for them to maintain good oral health. It’s common for elderly people to have teeth and mouth issues, which can end up affecting their diets. These issues often lead to the consumption of softer foods, which means that … Continue reading
The Best Way To Clean Dentures
Having dentures can present a distinct set of challenges. From getting used to the fit in your mouth to the way it feels when you chew, there’s a learning curve when it comes to acclimating to life with dentures. Luckily, caring for your dentures themselves isn’t too difficult once you know what to do! Here are some simple steps to keep your new smile clean and comfortable. 1. First, you’ll want to rinse your dentures before brushing. This will help dislodge any food or debris before you go in with the toothbrush. 2. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all of the surfaces … Continue reading
Is Chewing Gum Good For Your Oral Health?
Here’s something to chew on: gum has some surprising health benefits. Bacteria be gone: In a 2015 study, researchers at Holland’s University of Groningen observed that after chewing sugar-free gum for 10 minutes, up to 100 million bacteria were removed from participants’ mouths. That’s 1/10 of the bacteria that lives in our mouths! But before you clear out your local supermarket of all the gum in their checkout aisle, be aware: after 10 minutes of gum chewing, no additional bacteria was found to be removed, just redistributed around the mouth. Spit is it: Chewing gum can also be helpful in preventing tooth … Continue reading
Here comes the sun, here comes the smiles!
Living in New England during the blustery cold winter months, we may find it hard to seek sunshine. When the sunshine disappears, our moods are lulled, our immune systems are down, and we do not feel as energized. With the sun shining however, the Vitamin D helps to regulate our calcium levels, maintain healthy bones and teeth, and also protect us from varying diseases. According to the Vitamin D Council, “Dental caries, more commonly know as tooth decay, are tooth infections caused by bacteria that lead to a loss of the hard tissue on your teeth.” Statistically speaking, “92% of … Continue reading
Are Pregnant Women More at Risk for Periodontal Disease?
During pregnancy, it’s more common for women to experience problems with their gums and teeth. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause sensitive teeth and gum swelling and bleeding. Because of the changes to oral health during pregnancy, it is very important for pregnant women to practice good oral health care and to visit their dentist regarding any oral health issues that may arise. This can help prevent further damage to gums and teeth. If you do not get treated for your problems with your teeth and gums then periodontitis can occur. During periodontal or gum disease, the gum pulls away … Continue reading
Prostate Cancer Awareness
It turns out that treating gum disease could lower prostate inflammation. Prostate inflammation, often called prostatitis, has been linked to gum disease in many previous studies. But, a new prostate study has found that men who treat their gum disease show improved symptoms with their prostatitis. 21 of the 27 men in the Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine and the Departments of Urology and Pathology at University Hospitals Case Medical Center study showed lower levels of prostate inflammation. Men with the highest level of inflammation benefited the most from periodontal treatment. Since September is national Prostate Cancer Awareness … Continue reading
The Problem with your Tongue Could Be Something Serious
When it comes to oral health, our teeth and gums shouldn’t be our only concern. The tongue shouldn’t be ignored because it is an important part of oral health. Check your tongue regularly and make sure to pay attention to any bumps, lumps, or rashes that you might get on your tongue, because it could mean something more serious than a canker sore. While many tongue problems are treatable, others can signal more serious conditions. Color changes in your tongue can mean serious problems. A white tongue can be a sign of leukoplakia, oral thrush, and oral lichen planus. These … Continue reading
Fighting Tooth Decay, Naturally
Researchers have recently discovered a natural plant-based chemical that stops bacteria from harming teeth when utilized in oral hygiene products. The compound is called trans-chalcone and it has been found to block a key enzyme from allowing bacteria to thrive in the mouth. Plaque, that terrible substance your dentist is always warning you about, is formed when bacteria attaches to the teeth, creating an unhealthy film. By adding trans-chalcone to products such as toothpaste or mouthwash, researchers believe the buildup of plaque could be greatly reduced. Until the day this exciting compound arrives on store shelves, however, it is important … Continue reading
