Baton Rouge Pediatric Dentist Offers Spring Cleaning Tips

for Healthy Teeth

The term “spring cleaning” typically involves an annual tradition where homeowners thoroughly clean their homes to from top to bottom, however the same (and even more) attention should be devoted to taking care of your teeth.

“As our population becomes increasingly busy in their daily lives, and more prone to consuming sugary foods and drinks, we all need to take the time to focus on the health of our teeth and gums,” notes Dr. Candice Sullivan of Sullivan Dental Center.  

“There are actually several very simple things that we can each do, on a daily basis, that can make a dramatic improvement in the overall health and beauty of our teeth, and as Dentists, we want to help our patients be successful, every step of the way.”

Dr. Sullivan also references a recent article published by The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry that provides additional information about the “Five habits dentists recommend that adults do each day to keep oral hygiene in top shape”, and an excerpt of that article is below.

1. Use an Electric ToothbrushAt more than 30,000 strokes per minute

compared to the average of 100 strokes per minute with a manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes work harder by pushing fluid between teeth and around the gum line, which provides a more effective cleaning. 

2. Floss at NightThe CDC reports that nearly 65 million

Americans—one out every two adults ages 30 and older—have gum disease. Therefore, flossing once a day is crucial to avoid plaque and tartar, a hard mineral deposit that can cause gums to become swollen and inflamed, leading to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.

3. Select the Right ToothpasteDr. Jack Ringer, president elect of AACD

who practices cosmetic dentistry in Anaheim, Calif., cautions his patients to be skeptical of any toothpaste that promises to “whiten” teeth.

The reality is that removal of surface stains by a toothpaste will make the tooth “look” lighter, but not change its inherent color. To lighten or “bleach” teeth, schedule a professional in-office whitening treatment, or use over-the-counter name brand bleaching products that work on the internal aspect of the tooth, not just the external aspect as a toothpaste does.

4. Don’t Forget MouthwashA refreshing and cost-effective alternative

to store-bought mouthwash is creating a Homemade Anti-Cavity Mouth Rinse. The following recipe was developed for the AACD by Dr. Shawn Frawley, a cosmetic st francisville family dentist with a family practice in Beverly Hills, Calif.

This recipes uses xylitol,  a sugar substitute that studies show prevents tooth decay.

Ingredients:8 ounces water2 teaspoons PreviDent GEL (1.1% Sodium Fluoride)*½ teaspoon baking soda1½ Tablespoons xylitol* ¼ teaspoon peppermint oil extract or favorite flavor * Sodium Fluoride is available from a pharmacistDirections:Blend ingredients together with an emersion blender or regular blender. Store in the refrigerator in an air-tight container.

Usage:Rinse with 2 teaspoons for approximately 1 minute, 1-2 times per day after brushing. For best results, do not eat, drink, or rinse for 30 minutes after expectorating.

Do not swallow.This recipe makes approximately a 2-week supply. 

5. Eat Foods Good for Healthy TeethResearch studies show that certain foods

naturally cleanse your teeth while you eat them. The AACD developed nine nutritious recipes from breakfast to dinner using these key ingredients: 

Fruits like strawberries and pineapple are high in fiber and vitamin C. The citric acid in pineapple also provides an all-natural bacteria-fighting mouthwash.

Veggies like Kale and broccoli are high in minerals that strengthen tooth structure and prevent enamel erosion (or yellowing).

Onions and wasabi –a type of Japanese horse radish both contain compounds that reduce oral bacteria.

Quinoa has minerals including Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphorus to strengthen teeth

Read more about st francisville family dentistry here:

http://www.sullivandental.com