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5 Ways to Protect Tooth Enamel

June 17th, 2018 by | Comments Off on 5 Ways to Protect Tooth Enamel

How to Protect Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel is a protective hard tissue found on the crowns of your teeth. The barrier protects against the daily effects of chewing, biting, and grinding. It also helps you enjoy cold and warm drinks without sensitivity. Dietary choices and habits can cause tooth enamel loss which is irreversible. But, you can help protect it with these 5 tips!

Tooth enamel

 

How do you lose tooth enamel?

Tooth enamel loss can happen in a variety of ways which include diet, health conditions, and medication. Examples include:

  • Soda
  • Citric acid
  • Sugary and starchy food
  • Dehydration
  • Bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding)
  • Acid reflux disease
  • Certain medications

Moderation is key.

Sometimes soda is better with pizza and orange juice is too good to pass. But, you do not have to eliminate them entirely from your diet. Consume soda and citric acid in moderation and with food. It is less harsh on your teeth. And, rinse with water afterwards. Water helps wash away leftover soda and citric acid which minimizes their effect.

Avoid sugar and starch.

It can be difficult to avoid cookies and starchy food like bread and crackers. These snacks are desirable but, like the tip above, enjoy them minimally. Another tactic is to choose healthier sweets like “no added sugar” yogurt or sweet potatoes. Also, there are high starchy foods you can avoid to minimize tooth enamel loss like cornmeal, pretzels, soda crackers, and bagels.

Drink water.

Just drink more water. It can be your new go to beverage for every meal and when you need to quench your thirst. Plus, the hydration keeps your tooth enamel protected.

Wear a mouthguard.

Teeth clenching and grinding is an involuntary behavior that easily wears your tooth enamel. A proper examination will detect if you are suffering from this condition. Some people are not aware they clench or grind until a dentist identifies the signs. To control the effects of this behavior, a mouth guard is prescribed and is usually worn at night. Some severe cases may require day time use as well.  

Protect your overall health.

Health conditions and medication that affect tooth enamel is unavoidable. Your overall health should always be priority. So, the best advice is to follow the top 4 tips. Improving your diet and using a mouthguard, if needed, will help a lot.

If you are experiencing enamel loss, visit us for an examination and consultation. Tooth enamel loss is irreversible but there are ways to restore teeth to improve their appearance and functionality. Call (781) 894-0347 or request an appointment online.

 

5 Tips to Maintaining Healthier Gums | Dentist in Weston MA

gum disease | Dentist in Weston MA
May 23rd, 2018 by | Comments Off on 5 Tips to Maintaining Healthier Gums | Dentist in Weston MA

gum disease | Dentist in Weston MA

How to Maintain Healthy Gums | Dentist in Weston MA

Gum Disease Prevention | Strive for healthier gums everyday! Why? Gums are essential to great oral health. Even though brushing helps avoid gum disease, you should do more to protect your gums. This vital oral tissue keeps your teeth stay firmly in place. So, show them appreciation with these 5 tips to maintaining healthier gums!

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a progressive gum infection that causes tooth and jawbone loss. Also, diseased gum tissue can not grow back which is why gums need proper dental care. Signs of gum disease include:

  • Tender, red, or swollen gums
  • Receding gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth

The effects of gum disease are irreversible but the disease is preventable. Learn more below.

Brush and floss.

You’ve heard it more than once. But, there is no denying that brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily helps avoid gum disease. This is the easiest and most common way to protect your entire mouth from bacteria buildup. Be sure to brush for about 2 minutes and change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Flossing should be done at least once a day. Be careful to not cut your gums in the process. It could lead to infection.

Get picky.

Make smarter choices for your daily diet. Not only will you feel great but your smile will show it. Healthy food choices benefit oral health in surprising ways. For example, yogurt is great for added protein, calcium, and probiotics. The protein and calcium create stronger teeth but the probiotics help eliminate bad oral bacteria. Other healthier options are apples, raw carrots, and celery. These choices are high in fiber and water which helps wash away bacteria naturally.

Stay hydrated.

Hydration is very important to maintaining a great quantity of saliva which helps wash away bacteria. Stay hydrated with water to avoid sugar and carbonation. And remember, each sip flushes bacteria away too!

Quit.

Smoking and consuming alcoholic drinks are both detrimental to your oral health. Smoking weakens your immune system which leaves your mouth susceptible to gum infection. While, alcoholic drinks dehydrate the body which causes a drier mouth and promotes bacteria buildup. Eliminating these habits are your defense against gum disease and, of course, a healthier life.

Visit us. Your dentist in Weston MA.

Visit our dental office in Weston, MA for your routine dental examinations and cleanings. We can detect oral issues, like gum disease, early on and treat it effectively. In addition, your professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar that you may miss during regular brushing and flossing. Schedule an appointment by calling (781) 894-0347 or requesting an appointment online.