Don’t Chew That!
Do you find yourself gnawing on a pencil when you’re deep in thought? Do you like chomping on ice cubes to keep your mouth cool? While these everyday nervous habits aren’t likely to cause major health problems, they can result in chipped or cracked teeth and inconvenient dental repairs.
If you feel compelled to pop a pencil in your mouth or create crushed ice instead of letting your refrigerator do the work, consider softer-on-the-teeth alternatives. Such as chewing sugar-free gum. Doing so increases saliva production, tames the acids in your mouth and strengthens enamel.
Apples, carrots, cucumbers and celery are other sensible choices when it comes to satisfying your need to chew. These crunchy edibles are not only good for your body but great for your teeth.
Of course scheduling regular dental checkups is another great way to ensure your teeth are in tip-top condition.
How to Strengthen Your Child’s Teeth
Just as you want your child to have healthy bones for optimal growth, you want to ensure that they have strong teeth. But did you know that hormone-disrupting chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA), which can be found in water bottles and food storage containers, could affect their teeth?
To avoid your child ingesting this chemical, check the label on the packaging for water bottles and plastic storage containers to ensure they are BPA-free.
It’s also important that your child keeps their mouth healthy by brushing after every meal, flossing at least once a day and getting regular checkups. Choosing calcium-rich foods such as cheese and milk can also fortify your child’s teeth.
Other good choices include crunchy, teeth-cleaning fruits and vegetables such as apples, celery and carrots. Foods containing phosphorus, such as chicken, eggs and beef, are also good choices.
Bright Eyes But Dull Teeth?
Whether we’re getting our morning jolt of coffee or enjoying a spot of tea, these popular pick-me-ups can tarnish our pearly whites. Coffee and tea are notorious for staining. Coffee, in particular, is very acidic leading it to wear away enamel. This can result in your teeth having a dingy appearance.
Though giving up your coffee or tea habit is the best way to avoid the darkening of your teeth, it’s usually not an option as many people rely on this popular daily practice to get through the day.
Instead, consider rinsing your teeth or drinking water after consuming either beverage and limit drinking coffee or tea throughout your day. Using whitening toothpaste and brushing regularly can also go a long way when it comes to limiting stains and keeping your smile brighter. Contact us to discuss our whitening options to help enhance your smile.
