Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Fountain Valley Dentist Advises: Everyday Habits That Ruin Your Teeth

Teeth are built tough. However, there are certain habits that can wear down the effectiveness of your pearly whites. As such, Dr. Hagen, a Fountain Valley dentist found this article about the everyday habits that ruin your teeth particularly useful for people who are concerned with the health of their teeth. Read about what you can do to keep your smile healthy:
You plan meals, grab drinks, and play sports without giving much thought to your teeth. But you might not realize how food, beverages, and activities can wreck the health of your pearly whites. Twenty-five percent of U.S. adults over age 65 have lost all their teeth - here's how you can protect your own. 
Sugar and TeethSugar is the No. 1 enemy of your teeth, and the longer it stays in your mouth, the worse it is. Sugar is consumed by acid-producing bacteria in your mouth. The acids eat away at tooth enamel. Avoid foods like jelly candies, which stick in your teeth longer than other foods and bathe them in sugar. Dried fruit such as raisins are no better. Reach for fresh fruit instead. 
 

Beverages and TeethSoda is just plain bad for teeth, sugar-free or not. "You're bathing teeth in an acid environment," says Robert Sorin, DDS, clinical instructor in the department of dentistry and oral surgery at New York-Presbyterian Hospital. Club soda is harmful, too, because of its acidity, and so are juices with added sugar. 
Alcohol, even just a glass of wine, is also acidic and can erode the teeth. In addition, alcohol dries out your mouth, reducing saliva production. "Saliva bathes the teeth and helps remove plaque and bacterial accumulations from the teeth's surface. Less plaque equals less risk for bacterial acids to cause decay," Sorin says. Rinse your mouth with water between drinks. 
Other Risks to TeethIf you use your teeth to snap off bottle caps, remove clothing tags, or open plastic bags, stop immediately. Smokers should also consider how the habit affects oral health. Nicotine yellows teeth and can also cause oral cancer. Chewing tobacco is even worse because the tobacco and associated carcinogens come into direct contact with the gums and soft tissues and stay there for a long time. 
To continue reading this article, Dr. Hagen your Fountain Valley Dentist, recommends heading over to Web MD: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/your-teeth-bad-habits

Hagen Dental
18426 Brookhurst St., #101
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Tel. 714.965.5255
Follow us on Twitter: @hagen_dental 

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