5 Signs It’s Time to Reline Your Dentures
Replacing missing teeth is nothing new, and dentures are an effective way to help you eat and speak normally. But once you have them, when will they need relining? Learn more here.
‘Tis the Season for a Sparkling Smile: Our Guide to Holiday Oral Health
The holiday season is upon us, and thoughts of festive meals, delightful treats, and weeks of leftovers are here again. But first, a word to the wise: When it comes to all the delicious meals coming your way, oral health problems are still a significant concern, affecting up to 50% of schoolchildren and over 20% of adults.
There’s nothing wrong with indulging in comfort foods and snacks, provided you take care of your teeth. However, overindulging can increase your risk of oral health problems, including dental decay and gum inflammation.
To help avoid unexpected tooth damage and more trips to the dentist, Dr. Roge Jacob and Dr. Magdalena Azzarelli of Hillsdale Dental Care are here to go over the common issues of excess feasting — and how to reduce the complications to your oral health.
Food problems around the holidays
We all look forward to the traditional foods that are brought out every year, whether it’s meats like turkey, chicken, or ham, sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or candied yams, and a range of pies, cakes, or cookies afterwards — along with something sweet or alcoholic to drink.
But trying to sample everything can take a toll on your digestive health. Weight gain is a widespread health issue at this time of year, for example; an overabundance of food, combined with a lack of physical activity, creates a dangerous combination.
Constant eating also poses a problem for your cardiovascular health, increasing the risks of hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, and stroke, among other issues.
Overindulgence and dental issues
Since your teeth start the digestive process, they can also suffer a range of problems from indulgent eating and constant snacking:
- Tooth erosion; sugars and acids in food work with bad bacteria to cause cavities
- Gum disease; gingivitis is the mild form, but as it worsens, it means problems for teeth, gums, and your jawbone
- Tooth discoloration; if teeth turn yellow or darker, it often indicates tooth decay
- Tooth sensitivity; as tooth decay worsens, teeth become sensitive to heat and cold
Here’s how to keep your mouth healthy
To stay ahead of potential issues with cavities and other dental problems this holiday season, you should:
Practice moderation
You don’t have to cut out sweets altogether, but to reduce the possible damage, cut back on how much you have, and consider healthier options like fruits, nuts, cheese, and vegetables, which can help protect your teeth.
And instead of “grazing” all day, eat at pre-set times — and keep your teeth clean in between meals and snacks.
Drink plenty of water
In addition to being great for all your other bodily tissues, water helps clear away harmful bacteria, acids, and sugars from your teeth.
Stay the course on your daily routine
Keep brushing twice a day, and flossing at least once a day. It can also be helpful to brush and floss — or at the very least, swish with water — after big meals and rich desserts that can harm your teeth.
Don’t miss your dental check-ups
Be sure your next biannual dental exam and cleaning is already on the calendar. And if you have any oral health concerns after the holidays — like enamel sensitivity, bleeding gums, or tooth pain — make an appointment right away to ensure your teeth are in good shape.
Expert dental care in San Jose, California
Treat yourself to good food, good cheer, and good company, but be mindful of your teeth while you have fun this holiday season. For any oral health concern, schedule a visit with our team at Hillsdale Dental Care in San Jose, California, today.
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