Healthy news and information from Exquisite Smiles / 2018 January Issue
If you’re like a lot of people, your New Year’s resolutions may include working out more and eating a healthier diet. While those are essential to good health, you also should resolve to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Here’s a trio of easy tips to remember:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to use a soft bristle brush and brush for at least two minutes. It’s also a good idea to brush your tongue to remove bacteria.
Floss at least once daily. Brushing alone can’t remove food particles that can get stuck between teeth so flossing is a must.
Visit your dentist twice a year for preventative checkups. When you stay on top of tooth care, you can keep your pearly whites healthy for a lifetime.
We want you to keep your teeth healthy in the New Year and for life!
Does eating a spoonful of your favourite ice cream result in pain?
If so, it’s likely you have sensitive teeth. Living with sensitive teeth can make it seem impossible to eat cold (or hot) foods, or even brush your teeth. Thankfully, sensitive teeth aren’t something that you have to live with for life—you just have to know what steps to take to minimise the symptoms.
Here are a few tips:
Tip 1: Don’t over-scrub. Brushing too hard or using a medium to firm-bristled toothbrush can cause gum recession and abrasion to your enamel. When exposed, your tooth will become more sensitive than it already was.
Tip 2: Use sensitive toothpaste. Toothpaste that is specifically formulated for sensitivity block off the pores of your sensitive teeth, protecting the nerves from stimuli.
Tip 3: Apply a fluoride varnish. Fluoride varnish is a nearly instant desensitiser when applied to your tooth.
Irritability, drooling, sleep difficulties and tooth eruptions under the gum are common signs of teething. These and other symptoms may last for a few days or as long as several months. Here are some ways to help your baby during this uncomfortable time:
• Keep it cool. Give your baby a cold spoon or washcloth to bite down on for relief.
• Provide gum relief. Massaging your baby’s gums with a cool, damp washcloth can be soothing.
• Purchase a teething ring. Select a firm, rubber ring and avoid any that are liquid-filled.
Remember that teething is normal and temporary. Be sure to avoid using over-the-counter pain relieving teething gels as many of these contain benzocaine. If swallowed, the substance can be harmful to babies.
Also be sure to bring your child in by their first birthday to ensure that they can enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime.
