What you can do
Healthy mouth and healthy body.
Recent research has proven there is a link between gum disease and systemic health problems such as heart disease, artery blockages, and stroke. Your mouth can show signs of nutritional deficiencies, pregnancy complications and even diabetes.
What you can do.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss once per day.
- Have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit snacks.
- Tell your dentist about changes in your overall health (recent illnesses or chronic conditions).
We are what we drink.
Increased sugar in your diet increases the risk of decay. Tooth decay results when acid in your mouth attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more. Beverages low in nutritional value and high in sugar (e.g. pop, juices and sports drinks) increase the risk for tooth decay.
What you can do.
- Drink soft drinks in moderation.
- Don’t sip for extended periods of time, especially between meals.
- After drinking, swish your mouth out with water to dilute the sugar and brush.
- Never drink pop or juice before bedtime.
- Drink water or flavored water instead of pop.
- Get regular checkups and cleanings to remove plaque. And, floss!
