BASIC STEPS
IN KEEPING
YOUR TEETH
STRONG
Enamel is the outermost layer of our
teeth and is the hardest substance in
our bodies. Despite the hardness of
teeth, they are not immune to breakdown. Wear and tear is inevitable as
we age. Dental decay can also occur
under certain circumstances. Here
are some basic guidelines to keeping
our teeth strong:
Be mindful of sugary foods and drinks.
Bacteria in our mouth (which forms dental
plaque) takes the sugar in our diet and
creates acid. This acid is the culprit in
enamel breakdown or “dental cavities”.
Many beverages containing acid can
soften the teeth surfaces which contribute to
further wear. Acidic drinks include carbonated drinks, coffee, tea, sports drinks and
citrus drinks. Unfortunately, most beverages
have some amount of acidity. Your safest bet
is plain water. (As a side note: Avoid brushing
teeth for at least 30 minutes after drinking or
eating anything acidic.)
TEETH CARE
Avoid grinding and clenching your teeth. Many of us
deal with stress in many ways and sometimes it involves
teeth grinding and clenching. It often occurs unconsciously as you sleep. Patterns of wear on the teeth are
obvious signs that a habit exists. Unfortunately, this habit
cannot easily be stopped. If you are prone to grinding or
clenching during sleep, one way to prevent breakdown of teeth
surfaces is to place a shock absorber in the form of a night guard
between the opposing teeth before you go to bed. This appliance
is worn on either the upper jaw or the lower jaw.
Have a solid routine of home care for plaque
removal. If you aren’t a great toothbrusher
or flosser, find some alternatives that get the
job done. An absolute must: brush twice a
day (especially before bedtime) and reach in
between teeth with floss or another device.
Consider getting an electric toothbrush to get the
job done properly and efficiently. Electric toothbrushes
are easy to use and ideal when you are feeling tired at
the end of the day. An oral irrigation device that shoots
water in between the teeth such as the Waterpik is an
excellent tool. You’d be amazed by the amount of food
particles that come out after using one. Lastly, make
sure to use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps rebuild
enamel surfaces broken down by acid and is effective in
preventing plaque bacteria from producing acid.
CommunityServices.svusd.org
Get routine dental checkups.
A lot of anxiety with a dental
visit is related to the fear of
the unknown. Many people
will often avoid the dental visit
at the expense of their dental
health. Dental decay is preventable and
early intervention can avoid costly and
extensive dental treatment.
Children 16 years and younger are invited to a
complimentary exam and checkup x-rays.
Valid until January 31, 2016
Donna S. Bautista, DDS
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Health & Wellness for
the Family
949.226.7222
26137 La Paz Road, Suite 270
Mission Viejo
www.donnabautistadds.com
Winter 2015 | 7