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November 23, 2022
NewsDental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Expert Tips for a Teeth Healthy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of the year. It’s a time when we all come together and celebrate the things we’re thankful for. If you don’t want to risk any damage to your pearly whites this holiday season, here are some simple tips to be followed:

Pre-Thanksgiving Day Tip

If you eat a lot of starchy or sugary foods, consider brushing your teeth and flossing prior to your feast. Brushing will give you fresher breath and help remove some surface stains from the teeth. Flossing will help remove any food particles stuck between teeth. This will help prevent the buildup of plaque that contributes to tooth decay.

Use Mouthwash

Sugary drinks and starchy food can lead to cavities and tooth decay, so it’s important to clean your teeth after meals! If you don’t have access to a toothbrush or a sink, you can use mouthwash instead. Mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from your smile, but it won’t replace the benefits of brushing or flossing.

Talk to your dentist about the best mouthwash to use and what ingredients will be most effective for your oral health needs. Some mouthwashes are better at preventing decay than others, and some contain fluoride to help rebuild tooth enamel. Look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance to avoid potentially harmful products.

Post-Thanksgiving Feast Tip

While you’re enjoying the delicious foods at your Thanksgiving dinner, try to eat slowly to savor the flavors. In between bites, remember to rinse your mouth with water to help flush away any leftover debris. Then, brush your teeth thoroughly to keep bacteria from multiplying and causing decay. Lastly, floss to remove any remaining bits of food stuck in between the teeth.

Shop Smart for Holiday Treats

It’s easy to shop for sugary and sticky foods in the weeks leading up to the holidays, but make sure you’re also stocking up on healthy foods like apples, broccoli, leafy greens, and nuts. These crunchy snacks will soothe your sweet tooth while also benefiting your teeth!

If you crave something sweet for dessert, try making a fruit salad with bananas or berries coated in a yogurt dip. This healthy treat will satisfy your sweet tooth without damaging your teeth.

Avoid Chewing Ice

If you are anything like the average American, chances are good that you’ll be munching on ice cubes this Thanksgiving. But did you know that ice is one of the worst foods for your teeth?

Although it seems like the harmless little cube won’t hurt much, biting on ice can crack tooth enamel or chip off a portion of a tooth entirely. Plus, the freezing temperatures can cause teeth to ache and ache! When your mouth is in a cold state for too long, your body’s blood flow gets redirected to your organs to keep them warm. As a result, your gums become sensitive from a lack of blood and poor circulation. Your gums may even recede from this constant exposure to cold temperatures and lack of adequate blood flow. Yikes!

Chew Gum After Meals

Allowing our saliva to wash away any food particles, sugar, and starches from our teeth is a simple way to clean your mouth and reduce the chance of problems like tooth decay and bad breath during your holiday feast.

Contact Fear Free Pembroke Dental & Spa, for the best dental care. Call Dentist in Pembroke Pines, FL at (954) 419 4455 or visit 15671 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Fl 33027 to schedule an appointment

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November 5, 2022
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Why should I use dental floss?

Why should I use dental floss?

You’re advised to use interdental brushes in addition to brushing as part of your daily oral health routine from the age of 12.

Some people may not have large enough spaces in between their teeth to use an interdental brush, so flossing can be a useful alternative.

Your dental team can show you how best to clean between your teeth.

How to use dental floss

Dental floss is a thin, soft thread. If you find floss hard to use, you can try dental tape, which is thicker.

Do not be too aggressive with the floss: you risk harming your gums.

The main action of flossing is a firm but gentle scraping of the tooth from the top down.

Your dental team can advise you about using dental floss.

Flossing tips

  • Break off about 45cm of floss and wind some around 1 finger of each hand.
  • Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers, with about 2.5cm of floss between them, leaving no slack.
  • Use a gentle “rocking” motion to guide the floss between your teeth. Do not snap the floss into the gums.
  • When the floss reaches your gumline, curve it into a C-shape against a tooth until you feel resistance.
  • Hold the floss against the tooth. Gently scrape the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum. Repeat on the other side of the gap, along the side of the next tooth.
  • Do not forget the back of your last tooth.
  • When flossing, keep to a regular pattern. Start at the top and work from left to right, then move to the bottom and again work from the left to right. This way you’re less likely to miss any teeth.

What if my gums bleed?

When you first start flossing, your gums may be tender and bleed a little. Carry on flossing your teeth as directed by your dental team and the bleeding should stop as your gums become healthier.

If you’re still getting regular bleeding after a few days, see your dental team. They can check if you’re flossing correctly.

What if I find flossing difficult?

If you find flossing difficult, your dental team can give you advice about other ways of cleaning between your teeth.

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October 18, 2022
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

5 falsos mitos sobre las carillas dentales

En este último tiempo las carillas dentales son el tratamiento más demandado en el mundo de la odontología. La rapidez con que son colocadas y su menor costo respecto a las fundas dentales las hacen muy valoradas en rehabilitación cosmética.

Las carillas son finas láminas de porcelana o composite que se adhieren en la cara frontal del diente para mejorar su aspecto y funcionalidad. Están hechas a medida del paciente.

Si estás pensando en optar por este tratamiento, es importante que estés bien informado. Es por ello que en esta nota te traemos los mitos que existen sobre las carillas dentales.

Mitos de las carillas dentales

Es importante señalar que las carillas dentales tienen muchas ventajas y dan excelentes resultados en cuanto a obtener una sonrisa estética. Sin embargo, no es aplicable para todos los problemas de salud bucal.

1. La carilla está indicada para quienes tienen los dientes torcidos

Falso. Están indicadas para mejorar defectos menores del diente, tales como la forma, brillo y color. Pero cuando los dientes están chuecos o torcidos, se debe recurrir a un tratamiento de ortodoncia.

2. La carilla dura para siempre

Falso. La duración de las carillas dentales es variable y depende del cuidado que tenga el paciente y del material que estén compuestas. Se estima que las de composite duran entre 7 – 10 años, las de porcelana de 10 – 15 y las Lumineers hasta 30, si están bien cuidadas.

3. Su colocación es muy dolorosa

Falso. Este tratamiento se realiza bajo anestesia local, por lo tanto, el paciente no siente ningún tipo de dolor durante la colocación de las carillas. Tampoco hay molestias posteriores, salvo que hayan quedado mal puestas.

Por esto es recomendable que acudas a odontólogos especialistas en rehabilitación oral y estética dental.

4. Las carillas cambia de color con el tiempo

Falso. Las carillas de porcelana o Lumineers se mantienen inalterables con el paso de los años. No así las de composite que si pueden verse afectadas si el paciente no tiene cuidado en sus hábitos. Algunos alimentos y bebidas, así como el cigarrillo puede oscurecerlas.

5. Para colocar las carillas se debe limar todo el diente

Falso. Solo hay que limar una pequeña parte del esmalte dental para colocar la carilla y que no sobresalga. Es una capa muy delgada de aproximadamente 0,5 milímetros.

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September 26, 2022
NewsDental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Do You Really Need a Dental Checkup Every 6 Months?

It’s commonly said that you should see a dentist twice a year. When in doubt, this is a good rule of thumb to follow. But if you want to be sure about how often you need a dental checkup, you should consider your unique mouth, hygiene, habits, and overall well-being.

The Difference Between Dental Checkups and Dental Treatments

Dental checkups are routine visits that consist of an examination and cleaning. Dental treatments are specialized visits to treat issues with fillings, deep teeth cleanings, root canals, teeth removal, and more. Dental treatments are scheduled on an as-needed basis, while dental checkups follow a regular schedule. Planning regular dental checkups can prevent the need for dental treatments.

Why Do I Need Dental Checkups?

Everyone should go for dental checkups. These routine visits allow your dentist to find any dental problems and other oral health issues you might not have noticed. Without regular visits to the dentist, untreated conditions will likely become painful and difficult to treat down the road.‌

Letting your dentist regularly inspect your teeth and gums will also help to prevent problems. When your dentist checks for cavities and gives you specific instructions to improve your oral hygiene habits, you are less likely to get cavities.‌

A survey done in the EEUU revealed that children who only visited the dentist when they noticed a problem had more decaying teeth and fillings than children with regularly scheduled visits. Children who regularly visited the dentist also needed fewer teeth extractions.‌

Another survey done with adults showed that those who had regular dental checkups had significantly fewer teeth missing than those who went to see the dentist only for dental treatments. There are many factors that contribute to good oral health, but regular visits to the dentist are an essential part of keeping your teeth healthy and preventing problems.

What Will Happen During My Dental Checkup?

It can be intimidating to go to the dentist, and this fear is what keeps a lot of people from visiting regularly. Knowing what will happen during your dental checkup might make it a little easier to make an appointment and get in that reclining chair.‌

At your next checkup, your dentist will:

  • Perform a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums
  • Ask questions about your overall health and any dental issues you’ve had since your last appointment
  • Ask questions about what you eat and your tobacco or alcohol use
  • Advise you on ways to improve your oral hygiene and general teeth-cleaning habits
  • Recommend treatment or other measures for dental problems, if necessary

At the end of the appointment, your dentist should suggest a date for your next visit. It might be sooner than six months, and it might be further out. Your dentist will take into account your current oral health and risk of developing problems when scheduling your next checkup.

How Often Should I Go to the Dentist?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. When deciding on a dental checkup routine, there are many things to keep in mind. Factors that affect how often you need to see the dentist include:

Lifestyle. If you drink or smoke often, you may need to see the dentist more frequently. Studies show that people who drink alcohol have a three times higher rate of permanent tooth loss than the national average in the United States, and tobacco usage is linked to common oral diseases.

Attitude. If you are dedicated to your oral hygiene, your oral health will be better than if you aren’t diligent to keep good oral hygiene habits. The more you commit to keeping your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy, the less likely it is that you’ll need to see the dentist often.

Biology. There are certain things about your dental health that you simply won’t be able to change. If you’re prone to getting cavities, you’ll need to take extra steps to fight them. If you have a family history of certain oral diseases, you’ll need extra attention from your dentist.

Access. Preventative actions are a great way to maintain your oral hygiene, but if you can’t easily access the products and services you need to take care of your oral health, you’re more likely to need frequent dental checkups. ‌

Keeping a regular schedule of dental appointments is important to prevent problems and protect your oral health. Talk to your dentist to decide when your next checkup should be.

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February 19, 2022
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

How stress can affect your teeth and jaw

Stress is caused by a whole range of factors. We may have emotional or psychological stressors in our lives, environmental stressors such as exposure to toxins or pollution, postural stress from the way we position ourselves during work, sleep or when exercising, nutritional stress from the things we consume, or oral stress from dental issues. And while our bodies are designed to handle short term stress, prolonged or chronic stress can have major health consequences.

How does stress affect our teeth and jaw?

During stressful experiences, our adrenal glands release the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol to facilitate our nervous system’s ‘fight or flight’ response. However, though useful during an acute stressful experience, if we are exposed to these hormones for long periods of time they can negatively affect our memory and learning as well as heighten our susceptibility to depression.

Stress also has serious effects for our oral health, which is also linked to our general health. Here are some of the ways stress can impact on our oral health:

Tooth decay

Stress is linked to tooth decay due to the fact that it causes our bodies to flush out protective minerals and increase the acidic, bacteria-laden, cavity-causing environment in our mouth.

Apart from this involuntarily physiological effect, we often also increase our chances of tooth decay by the poor diet choices we make when stressed. When stressed out, we often try to alleviate our symptoms by turning to comfort foods, which are often sugary items like chocolate or sweets, or we try to boost our mood artificially with alcohol, or use stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine. All of these products are not only bad for our teeth in themselves, but rather than relieve stress, they ultimately worsen it by leading to increased toxicity and inflammation through our bodies and therefore amping up the physiological stress we experience.

Gum disease

Extensive scientific research has revealed there is a connection between gum disease and experiencing negative emotions, with the severity of the gum disease increasing as the intensity of the negative emotions increases.

Associations between stress and gum disease are thought to come about because when people become stressed, they may neglect their oral hygiene, forgetting to brush or not visiting their dentist. Because of the way chronic stress impairs your immune system, it can lead to chronically inflamed gums, which leads to gum disease. The damage to your gums that chronic stress causes can loosen up the foundations holding your teeth in place, damage the supporting bone, and result in tooth loss.

When gum disease is severe, the uncontrolled infection accompanying it can then increase the risk of suffering from a whole range of other serious health issues, from the minor (such as chronic colds) to the major (heart disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, and more).

Bruxism (Grinding)

The technical term for when you grind or gnash your teeth or clench your jaws is bruxism. While there are a range of causes of bruxism, one of the causes is stress. Bruxism typically occurs when you are asleep though it can also happen when you are awake.

The signs of bruxism include sore jaw muscles, earaches or headaches near the jaw joint, experiencing problems opening and closing the jaw, heightened sensitivity, or wearing down of the tooth enamel. When severe, bruxism can actually cause the teeth foundations to be loosened and the teeth to fall out. While stress can lead to bruxism, not all bruxism is caused by stress; some data suggests there is a genetic basis. Treatment for bruxism can involve your dentist recommending jaw exercises or prescribing a mouth guard to help protect the mouth.

Disorders of the joints in your gums – TMJ disorders

When stress causes repeated clenching of your jaw, it can lead to temporomandibular (TMD) disorders which involve the joints in the gums. TMD disorders result in chronic pain and/or popping and clicking of the jaw. When not treated, TMD disorders can have a major effect on our oral health.
A vicious cycle

Stress and oral health are a vicious cycle. Experiencing stress can be the cause of many teeth, mouth, gum or jaw problems, but experiencing oral health problems can lead to more stress which then exacerbates the problems. It’s therefore crucial to deal with the sources of stress in your life before they can have a chance to impact on your oral health. And if stress has already caused oral health issues for you, it’s vital that you work with your dentist to work out how to successfully treat them and further preventative measures so that you don’t find yourself stuck in this endless cycle of stress and poor oral health.

As well as seeing your GP to look after your physical health and obtain referrals for any psychological treatment required to deal with your chronic stress, it’s also vital to regularly see your dentist for routine check-ups and cleaning. This is the best thing you can do to help guard against stress-related oral health problems occurring, because at your check-ups, your dentist will test all your teeth for mobility and make sure your teeth aren’t hitting your dental arch more than they should be, and will make sure there’s no sign of gum disease.

Most importantly, your dentist will be able to take action if they find any dental problems. Just knowing your dentist is on top of your oral health will provide a source of stress-relief in itself, helping to break that vicious cycle of stress and ill-health.

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December 3, 2021
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Dreaming Of a Tooth Whitening For Christmas?

This time of year it can feel impossible to get everything on your list crossed off. However with family coming to town, Christmas photos to take, seeing old friends for the holidays, you may want to have your smile brightened. Thankfully tooth whitening is just one of the many cosmetic dental treatments available at Smiles by Shields that can be performed quickly and yield instant results.

If you desire a brilliant, white smile, any time is a great time to ask your Pembroke Dental & Spa, dentist about a tooth whitening treatment. However, during the holiday season many people realize that their smile could use a little extra shine. Depending on the urgency of your occasion, you can have your teeth whitened in as little as a few weeks.

Why White Teeth?

Bright, white smiles convey an air of youth, cleanliness, and vitality. They can take a smile from beautiful to stunning, and can make people feel like a star every time the take a selfie. But, it wasn’t until 1980 that brilliant white teeth became available. In the early 1980s dentists were using peroxide as an antiseptic for gums, however they could not keep the solution from touching the teeth. They found that the peroxide was able to break up the stains on a patient’s teeth to reveal a fresh, white smile. Understandably, this happy accident became a sought after treatment soon after. Following this discovery, new techniques in whitening were discovered, and toothpaste companies were eventually able to offer consumers toothpastes and products that promised a whiter smile. Now, anyone can purchase tooth-whitening treatments from their local pharmacy or grocery store. While these over-the-counter products work fairly well, if you’re seeking a bright, white smile before Christmas hits, give your Pembroke Pines, Florida dentist a call today.

Whiten Teeth With a Dentist

Dentists have access to the most powerful and effective whitening treatments. So, if you are looking for white teeth in a flash, it only makes sense that you would schedule an appointment with our Dentists At our Pembroke Pines, Florida dental practice we can whiten teeth in only two weeks. Take home trays are one of the most powerful methods of whitening teeth, and you can achieve these results without leaving the comfort of your home. At your appointment, Dr. Shields will create an impression of your teeth. From that impression, she will mold custom-fit bleaching trays, and send you home with a whitening solution and straightforward instructions. Every night you will fill the trays with the peroxide solution and wear them for a certain amount of time. This process will continue for as little as two weeks, or until you have reached your desired shade of white. It is important to follow the instructions given to you by our dentists. This whitening agent is very powerful and can cause harm to your gums if not used correctly. Over the course of treatment, whitening agents will penetrate the tooth and break apart stains. After the treatment you will notice a vivid change in the color of your teeth. You’ll be ready to smile for photos and croon your favorite carols without embarrassment.

Over-The-Counter Overdoing It

All whitening agents available are very similar in chemical composition. But, the treatments available at your dentist’s office are the most potent and effective. As they are prescribed and performed under the supervision of a professional they are very safe to use. Using over-the-counter whitening strips and gels is safe, however sometimes people overdo it and can cause damage and permanent discoloration to their teeth. Over-bleaching causes the teeth to become translucent – and even blue in color, and can increase the sensitivity dramatically. This can happen very easily when strips and gels are used well beyond their intended instructions. Another concern dentists have about over-the-counter bleaching products is chemical burning of the gums. Because trays are not custom fit and gels can be sloppily painted on, burning the gum tissue is common. By following the advice and treatment plan of a professional you can ensure that your teeth will be bright and safe when you are finished.

If you’re hoping to flash a bright smile this Christmas, don’t hesitate to call this Doral, Florida dental office today! Our dentists can have you on a path to a brilliant smile before the in-laws have a chance to walk in the door.

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July 27, 2020
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Prepare for Oral Surgery: What You Need to Know

What is oral surgery?

Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed in or around your mouth and jaw, usually by a dental specialist who’s trained to perform certain kinds of oral surgeries.

How many different types of oral surgery are there?

There are many types of oral surgery, including surgical procedures such as a tooth removal or a root canal. Some oral surgeries involve the repositioning of the jaw. In other instances, oral surgery may involve the removal of a tumor. Oral surgeries might be performed by any one of a number of different kinds of dental specialists, including endodontists, periodontists, and prosthodontists.

What are some common types of oral surgery?

Some of the most common surgeries for teeth and jaw include:

  • Impacted wisdom teeth
  • Gum graft
  • Tooth implants
  • Maxillofacial surgery
  • Root canal
  • Jaw and teeth repair following an injury

When would I need oral surgery?

For tooth and jaw procedures that go beyond the expertise of a general dentist, you might need oral surgery. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, for example, removing them may require you see an oral surgeon. If you suffer from gum disease and have to have a gum graft, you’d be referred to a periodontist who performs those types of oral surgeries.

If you require oral surgery, your general dentist will talk to you about it and refer you to the right provider.

How do I prepare for oral surgery?

Prepare for an oral surgery in the same way you would for any serious medical procedure, depending on the type of surgery. And always make sure to follow your dentist’s direction.

  • Start by making sure that the space you’re returning home to is clean and neat, so you’re comfortable for at least a couple of days, if necessary.
  • Set up your bed so that, if need be, you can sit at an incline.
  • Follow the pre-surgery instructions your oral surgeon gives you. Typically you will be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything in the 8-10 hours before your surgery.
  • Arrange for transportation back home, if necessary. Talk to your oral surgeon about what kind of anesthesia you’ll be getting. Some types of anesthesia can inhibit your ability to drive. Depending on the type of oral surgery you’re having you may have a topical or local anesthetic. If you are having an IV anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home.

What are some important aspects of oral surgery recovery?

Your oral surgery recovery is of critical importance to the outcomes you and your dentists have discussed. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol afterward—they can slow your healing process. If you’re in any pain from swelling, use an ice pack to reduce inflammation. Rather than brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth with salt water every few hours to kill off any bacteria.

Be patient with yourself. Depending on the type of oral surgery you’ve had, recovery can range from 48 hours to 1 month. Make sure you follow up with your dentist as directed.

What are some good foods to eat after oral surgery?

Soft foods eaten at room temperature are the ideal foods to eat after oral surgery. Avoid consuming anything through a straw and don’t eat any hard, crunchy, or chewy foods.

Oral surgeries are common and can range from simple to complex. It’s important to be prepared and to properly manage your recovery. Set up your recovery space for optimum comfort, make sure you’ve arranged for someone to drive you home, and give yourself a minimum of 2 days to heal. In that time, consume soft foods and regularly rinse your mouth with salt water.

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June 18, 2020
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

How does Invisalign® treatment work?

Invisalign clear aligners work the same way traditional braces do: by applying carefully controlled forces to teeth to move them into a better position. But they are not made of metal; instead, they are made of clear, flexible plastic.

Here’s how it works: Specialized computer software helps us design a plan for moving your teeth from their current positions into the best possible alignment. This movement will be broken down into perhaps several dozen stages. For each stage, the Invisalign company will manufacture two plastic mouth “trays” or “aligners,” one to fit over your top teeth and one for the bottom. You will wear this first set of trays for two weeks, for a minimum of 20 hours per day. You will then move on to the next set of aligners in your series to accomplish the next stage of gradual movement. You will keep doing this until your teeth are correctly aligned.

In the past several years, two features have been added to make Invisalign a more appropriate orthodontic treatment method for teenagers. Special “eruption tabs” hold the appropriate amount of space open for molars that have not fully grown in. Invisalign for teens also comes with “compliance indicators” built into the aligner material, which fade with wear. This allows parents, dentists, and the teens themselves, to make sure the trays are being worn as prescribed. Treatment with Invisalign can only be successful if this is the case.

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June 18, 2020
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

Importance of Visiting a Dentist in Pembroke Pines

It’s something that you’ve heard over and over but why are regular dental visits so important?

Dental appointments shouldn’t just be made when you have a problem that needs to be addressed. Prevention is always better than needing a cure and there are plenty more reasons why it’s important to maintain regular visits to your local dental practice:

Check for mouth cancer

This is one of the most important things your dentist will do at every check-up. Dentists will do an examination for signs of mouth cancer, as well as head and neck cancer. To do this they will be checking for any lumps on your head or neck. They will also check for any red or white patches in the mouth. Usually these checks will find nothing unusual, but they could potentially save your life.

Dental hygienists

Dental hygienists and therapists are often overlooked when it comes to our oral health, but they can be extremely valuable for both the services they can offer and the advice they can give. Dental hygienists are mainly concerned with ‘preventive’ dental health and treating gum disease – showing you correct home care and helping you to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This includes professionally cleaning your teeth (usually called a ‘scale and polish’) by removing plaque and tartar, both of which encourage tooth decay and gum disease.

Consultations about tooth whitening

Tooth whitening has grown in popularity over recent years but there are plenty of myths out there that can lead to confusion about what is safe, as well as issues of legality. Your dentist is in the best position to give you advice about your options when it comes to tooth whitening. They are in the best position because not only do they know a lot about teeth whitening but they are also the only place you can legally get your teeth professionally whitened.

They can catch things early or prevent them from happening

With just a mirror you can see how your teeth are looking but underneath your gums a lot can be going on without you even realising it. Dentists not only solve problems, they can prevent them. Potential problems they can spot include the onset of gum disease and dental decay. When it comes to your oral health it is important you are proactive and seeing your dentist regularly so that they can catch any issues early, before they become a problem.

Dentists can provide help and advice specific to your needs

Often when people have a problem they turn to the internet, a placed filled with lots of great information, but also misinformation. On the other hand, a dentist has had to train for years to be qualified in the profession and will provide guidance you can trust. By visiting your dentist regularly you can build a good relationship that will allow them to tailor advice and support specific to your needs over a long period of time.

There really isn’t anyone better placed to help you keep on top of your oral health than your dentist, so they should be your first port of call when it comes to concerns about your teeth and mouth.

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May 21, 2020
Dental
Pembroke Dental and Spa

How to Prevent Cavities and Tooth Decay Naturally

It’s no fun passing up sugary treats like cookies and candies. But when it comes to tooth decay, food choices play an important role. Some foods can harm your teeth, while others contain essential nutrients to keep them healthy and strong. To help prevent tooth decay, keep the following food choices in mind.

Calcium
Calcium is a prime ingredient for preventing tooth decay, especially for growing children. Dairy is a great source, with choices such as milk, yogurt and cheese. And calcium isn’t hiding in the fat, so skim milk and low-fat yogurt are just as good. Other options are leafy greens such as broccoli and bok choy, canned fish with bones, almonds, Brazil nuts and dried beans.

Fruit, Fiber and Veggies
Eating high-fiber foods keeps saliva flowing, which helps create mineral defenses against tooth decay. Good sources of fiber are dried fruits such as dates, raisins and figs, and fresh fruits, like bananas, apples and oranges. Other options include veggies, such as beans, Brussels sprouts and peas, along with peanuts, almonds and bran.

Whole Grains
Whole grains provide B vitamins and iron, which help keep gums healthy. Whole grains also have magnesium-an important ingredient for bones and teeth. In addition, whole grains are high in fiber. Look for foods such as bran, brown rice, and whole-grain cereals and pasta to be good sources of whole grains.

Avoid Foods that Cause Cavities

When looking to follow a healthy diet that’s good for your teeth and the rest of your body, try sticking to the food pyramid. The pyramid is structured to give you a healthy serving of all the necessary food groups you need throughout the day.

Sugar Snacks
When you get the munchies, focus on choosing healthy foods, like the ones we mentioned earlier. Try to steer clear of sweets, because sugar partners with plaque to weaken enamel, leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay. In fact, each time you eat a sugary snack, your teeth are under siege for the next 20 minutes. Brushing after eating sugary snacks can help prevent plaque buildup and the onset of tooth decay.

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