going deeper

The fall can be a time for tasty apple cider, pumpkin pie or candied apples, but those treats can be filled with sugar that can harm your teeth, especially for little ones. Try these tips to help protect your child’s dental health.

• Replace your toothbrush - Change your brush every three to four months. Using the same one for a long period of time makes you less able to clean your teeth well.
• Brush Twice a Day - Brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day is the suggested time by the American Dental Association for healthy teeth.
• Use mouthwash - This will help prevent bad breath, plaque buildup, gingivitis and tooth decay
• Floss properly - Flossing at least once a day will help dislodge any plaque or food particles.
• Use a tongue scraper - Brushing alone will not get rid of bacteria on the tongue. A tongue scraper will keep your mouth feeling fresh.

If you want a sugary treat, plan to eat it shortly after a meal. The increased saliva production during the meal will help neutralize acids produced by mouth bacteria and rinse away food particles. This is a good way to decrease the urge to overindulge in candy. As always, sweets should be eaten in moderation.

Not all candy poses the same risk. There are certain sweets that you should avoid more than others. Hard candy and gummy bears increase the risk of tooth decay because the candy stays in your mouth for a long time.

If you want more information on dental hygiene, visit Adventist HealthCare’s Blog for additional tips and tricks.

Each Wednesday at 7:40am, Jerry & Blanca speak with a local health professional to offer helpful tips for your health and well-being, brought to you by our friends at Adventist HealthCareYou can find recent topics, listen back or to share.