Tuesday, March 18, 2014

News You Can Use

Diet and Dental Health

Most people understand the connection between eating healthy and overall health but the effects of a good diet on oral health may not readily understood. A diet of healthy and varied foods from the major food groups is not only good for the body but also for the mouth.

One aspect of diet that is important for oral health specifically is limiting snacks.  Eating snacks is ok, especially if it is a piece of fruit, some vegetables, or a piece of cheese but snacking too frequently can be detrimental.  Foods eaten as part of a meal do less harm to the teeth than those eaten as a snack, primarily because more saliva is produced during a meal to wash away food particles stuck between teeth and lessen the acidity in the mouth that may cause decay. 

Snacking less frequently and choosing healthier options is a good diet choice for both overall health and oral health. Remembering to brush twice daily and floss at least once daily also contribute to better health.


Source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/~/link.aspx_id=BA5088B8D8474C758B83D4E787B54AF2&_z=z


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental

2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Dental Did You Know

Tooth Ware

Tooth ware is defined as the wearing away of enamel and dentin from the tooth surface due to a process other than decay.  There are three types of tooth ware illustrated in the figure below along with the typical causes of each type and where they are noticeable. 







R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental 
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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Tuesday, March 11, 2014

News You Can Use

Secondhand Smoke May Affect Children's Teeth

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association reviewed 15 observational studies on the affect of secondhand smoke on children's teeth. The researchers found a moderate link between cavities in primary teeth and secondhand smoke.  Additionally, they found a weak link between cavities in permanent teeth and secondhand smoke.

Dental decay is considered the most prevalent chronic disease in children and adolescents ages 6-19, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Because dental caries (AKA cavities) are so widespread, there is a push for more research into what factors influence cavities. 

The links to more tooth decay in children that are already established include low exposure to fluoride and a diet high in refined sugars. Secondhand smoke may also prove to be a factor but more research needs to be done to explore that issue.

Dentists and other oral health professionals strive to understand the link between human behavior and dental concerns.  This will become especially important as we move from surgical treatment of dental problems to prevention and management of them. 


Source: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2014/article/ADA-02-study-explores-how-secondhand-smoke-may-affect-childrens-teeth.cvsp


R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental

2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
Like us on Facebook!