December 2015
holiday foods and teeth
December 14, 2015
- Dairy Products: The calcium, phosphates, and Vitamin D in dairy products such as cheese and milk are important for your teeth. Calcium from milk can strengthen your teeth, just like the way it strengthens your bones.
- Fluoride in water: Our tap water contains small amounts of fluoride, which is beneficial to your teeth. According to ADA, American Dental Association, fluoridation prevents at least 25% of tooth decay in children and adults today. Bottled drinking water may not contain as much fluoride as tap.
- Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables: Saliva is a natural defense against cavities, by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids that are attacking your teeth. Fiber-rich foods can help stimulate saliva flow in your mouth.
Adding these options to your holiday diet can both be delicious and healthy. Enjoy your holidays!
SENSITIVE TEETH
December 2, 2015
Tooth decay (cavities)
Fractured teeth
Worn fillings
Gum disease
Worn tooth enamel
Exposed tooth root
In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth—the part above the gum line. Under the gum line a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is dentin.
Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed when gums recede. The result can be hypersensitivity.