Can you reverse cavities?
Nobody likes when the dentist ends the appointment by saying you have a cavity, or two. It seems that my dentist kept saying that every time I would visit.
dental health
How charcoal escaped the grill and ended up in your toothpaste and your face cream
Sometimes you don’t notice a new fad until you bump into it. That’s what happened to me, literally, when my shopping cart sideswiped a display of toothbrushes with black bristles. I took a closer look at the Oral-B toothbrush and discovered it was infused with charcoal. And there was some Crest black-and white-striped charcoal toothpaste to go with it.
The best toothbrush? Any, if you’re using it right.
If you have ever walked the long toothbrush aisle in a big-box store undecided, we have good news for you: “The best toothbrush is the one you’re using in your hand, if you’re using it right,” says dentist Mark Burhenne, creator and author of Ask the Dentist. We asked five experts for their picks. No matter what brush you choose, Burhenne says, what’s most important is to aim for the gum, to not overbrush and to try to clean for two minutes, depending on what kind of diet you eat; more sugar and processed foods equals more brushing.
How to get over your fear of the dentist
Almost half of American adults have at least moderate fears about going to the dentist, and 5 to 10 percent have told researchers that they avoid dental care as a result. The obvious consequences are increased cavities, bad breath and periodontal disease, but secondary consequences are broader: Decayed or missing teeth have a negative effect on self-esteem and employability.
Putting off dental care because of cost can backfire
When I was in my 30s and a dentist told me I needed a few crowns, I decided to skip the expensive devices because of my meager paycheck. Besides, my teeth weren’t hurting.
The downside to drinking flavored water
If sipping flavored water keeps you going throughout the day, I am sorry to burst your bubble. I know you are trying to do the right thing, staying hydrated and avoiding sugar and additives from sodas and other soft drinks. And the variety of fun new flavors on the market make otherwise boring water exciting to drink. If you are hooked, you are not alone.
Lesser-known threats to the pearly whiteness of your dazzling smile
As Alisa Hrustic points out on womenshealthmag.com, most of us know that coffee, red wine and soy sauce are among the consumables that, over time, can make your teeth less than sparkling white. But she asks cosmetic dentists Nancy Rosen of New York and Karoush Maddahi of Beverly Hills about other “sneaky teeth-stainers.”
A Quarter of Adults Dishonest With Dentists on How Often They Floss
While many people are aware of the basic tenants of good oral care, thousands of people still don’t floss their teeth—and they lie about it.
Tips for children’s dental health
Developing good dental habits at an early age helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Here are some tips from the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy.org:
Brush up on dental hygiene:
Eat your vegetables. Never skip breakfast. Wash your hands before eating. There are many important habits to teach your children to help lay the foundation for a long and happy life. But one crucial aspect of a child’s overall well-being that often is neglected is their oral health.
