|
Every stage of life has dental considerations. Most people have either decay tendencies or gum disease. Both of these conditions are controlled by regular checkups, regular cleanings and maintenance, effective home care, controlling the acid and sugar in your diet, and controlling medical issues such as diabetes.
We are committed to caring for your oral health. It makes a difference in the quality of life at every age.
A picture is worth a thousand words! With the Intra Oral digital camera you can see the conditions and the problems in your own mouth! This allows you to better understand the recommended treatment. These cameras allow the dentist to diagnose problems earlier resulting in less expensive treatment.
|
 |
|
Eating Habits
Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay. Almost all foods, including milk or vegetables, have some type of sugar. However, they shouldn't be removed from our diets because many of them contain important nutrients. And they add pleasure to eating. To help control the amount of sugar you consume, read food labels and choose foods and beverages that are low in added sugars. Added sugars often are present in soft drinks, candy, cookies and pastries.
If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to resist infection. This may contribute to periodontal (gum) disease, a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Although poor nutrition does not cause periodontal disease directly, many researchers believe that the disease progresses faster and could be more severe in people with nutrient-poor diets.
Eating patterns and food choices among children and teens are important factors that affect how quickly youngsters may develop tooth decay. When bacteria (plaque) come into contact with sugar in the mouth, acid is produced, which attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more. This can eventually result in tooth decay.
Not sure your family is getting the nutrients, vitamins and minerals needed? Check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Web site. The USDA oversees the nutritional health of the nation. The agency's dietary recommendations are designed to promote optimal health at every life stage and to prevent obesity-related diseases including cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and cancers. (ADA)
What can you do?
- Maintain a healthy diet.
- Make sure water is readily available.
- Limit the number of between-meal snacks. When you must snack, choose nutritious foods that are low in sugar.
- Brush thoroughly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste that has the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance.
- Floss or use another kind of interdental cleaner daily to remove plaque (a thin film of bacteria) from under the gums and between teeth.
- Schedule regular dental visits for checkups and cleanings.To schedule an appointment call 281-580-0770
- Keep a food diary for a week. Record every item you eat and drink, including hard candies or chewing gum that contains sugar. Compare the diary to the food Pyramid recommendations.
|