oral health Archives | Smile Glen Ellyn Restorative Dentist
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Tag: oral health

8Feb

Did you know that oral health is a major factor in overall physical health? When your mouth is healthy, the rest of your body is more likely to be healthier, too. In fact, a recent study found that people who regularly visit their Glen Ellyn, IL dentist for check-ups and cleanings every six months are less likely to get pneumonia.

The connection between oral health and overall health is well-known. This study reinforced that fact, and provided further evidence that visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings will help keep you healthier. By getting check-ups every six months, the study theorizes, microbes that can cause pneumonia can be reduced so you won’t have to worry as much about getting through the winter safely.

To get an assessment of your oral health as part of your plan to stay pneumonia-free this winter, call today to make an appointment with Dr. Thomas Gibbs at Smile Glen Ellyn.

5Oct

Most of us think of sugar as the number one enemy of healthy teeth. However, there are other foods and drinks that can wreak havoc on your oral health as well. This is why simply eliminating or reducing the amount of sugar from your diet is simply not enough. Dr. Thomas Gibbs knows that this is a common misconception and works to educate patients on the best ways to improve oral health.

More Sugar Anyone?

Sugar can cause cavities when it mixes with the plaque on teeth and creates an acidic environment that wears on the enamel of your teeth over time. Many people understand that sugary foods and drinks aren’t the healthiest choices for good oral health; however, few understand why. As a result, many people will cut down on sugary foods or choose sugar-free options thinking they are improving their oral health.

What Else Can be Done to Protect Tooth Enamel in addition to  Eliminating Sugar?

Your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist understands that most patients think that eliminating sugar will stop the slow assault on tooth enamel and reduce cavities. However, there are other factors that should be considered as well. Acidic foods and drinks may or may not be sugary, but the acids present in these foods and drinks can be just as troublesome as sugary foods because they wear away at tooth enamel as well. This is why it’s a good idea to reduce your consumption of acidic foods as well as sugary foods and drinks, or remembering to rinse or brush after having these foods. The Smile Glen Ellyn team is committed to educating patients and providing tips to help preserve tooth enamel and improve overall oral health.

9Feb

Your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist probably reminds you at every appointment about the importance of flossing as part of your oral hygiene routine. Cleaning between your teeth prevents plaque buildup around the teeth and gums. Combined with brushing and professional cleaning, flossing is an important part of your dental health.

If you don’t floss every day, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one-third of adults never floss. However, dental floss or interdental cleaners reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by disrupting the bacteria colonies that form in unattended spaces between your teeth, keeping them from taking root. This makes flossing a key component to your oral health.

 

When Should You Floss?

The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day. Whether you do it before you brush or after is a personal preference — the important thing is that it gets done frequently. Ask Dr. Thomas Gibbs for tips on flossing and brushing to maintain your beautiful smile in Glen Ellyn. Take care of your mouth not only for your confidence and self-esteem, but also for your overall health.

18Nov

A baby’s arrival seems to bring an endless to-do list. There’s the numerous doctor visits, preparing the nursery, and of course those cravings. A mom-to-be may have a lot on her mind, but she has to make sure to remember her oral health. That means learning about proper teeth cleaning when pregnant. After all, you’d want a perfect smile to be one of the first things the newborn baby sees, right?

Pregnancy actually increases the risk of tooth decay, and this occurs for many reasons. Women consume more carbohydrates and brushing their teeth becomes more of challenge due to morning sickness and other issues like bleeding gums. Plan your dental visits throughout the entire pregnancy. Having a healthy mouth decreases the risk of delivering prematurely or having a baby with a low birth weight.

Taking care of your mouth allows you to better focus on the coming arrival of your little one. Brush at least twice a day and don’t forget to floss. Pregnancy is a special experience so you want to maintain your health throughout it.

29Apr

You’re most likely aware that poor nutrition can lead to health problems, but did you know that initial warning signs for declining health often affect your mouth first? Since the nutrients or additives within food come in contact with teeth and gums first, daily menu choices have an essential impact on oral and overall health.

The act of chewing and swallowing are considered the first steps of many in the digestive process. You can keep your dental health in check not just by building a relationship with your dentist, but by following these suggested nutritional guidelines.

Vegetables and fruits should make up half the plate at mealtime. When it comes to protein, not all is created equal. Make lean choices like fish and skinless poultry, and include eggs, legumes, peas and beans. Add at least eight ounces of seafood weekly. When consuming dairy, try to stick with fat-free or low-fat options. In regards to grain, at least half should be whole, like brown rice and oatmeal.

Keep in mind that individual caloric and nutritional needs depend on gender, age, physical activity and other health factors. However, since the Center of Nutrition Policy and Promotion considers these foods part of a healthy and balanced diet, they’re the basis of a healthy lifestyle.earn more about how to improve your oral health in Glen Ellyn, IL

Learn more about how to improve your oral health in Glen Ellyn, IL

26Mar

Although many people don’t realize it, your oral health is tied into every aspect of your body’s holistic health. Luckily, with a few easy changes, you can greatly improve your overall oral health. Hold off on brushing your teeth for at least an hour after you eat. Your tooth enamel is weakened and immediate brushing may cause damage. Instead chew a piece of sugar-free gum which will help shield your teeth from harm, be sure to select gum that contains Xylitol.

The food that you are eating is also important; consuming a plant-based diet will help to head off gingivitis. Limit your snacks in between meals, because the more times a day you eat allows your teeth to come into contact with potentially troublesome food particles.

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