A Surprising Superfood for Your Smile
Delicious and decadent, dark chocolate is not only considered to be an antioxidant-rich superfood, but it also may have some cavity-fighting properties.
While most sweet treats can be tough on the teeth, particularly hard candies, dark chocolate may be helpful when it comes to preventing cavities, plaque and tooth decay.
According to some studies, the compounds in cocoa have antibacterial properties. Dark chocolate also contains theobromine, an alkaloid substance, which has been shown to toughen tooth enamel.
Milk chocolate, on the other hand, is loaded with sugar so if you’re going to indulge, it’s important to choose dark chocolate and in small quantities. It’s always a good idea to brush your teeth after consuming dark chocolate or, at least, rinse your mouth with water.
Visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup is also critical when it comes to keeping your pearly whites gleaming clean!
Brush Your Tongue to Banish Bacteria
Everyone knows that scrupulous daily teeth brushing and flossing are two of the best ways to optimise oral health and prevent decay. Did you know, however, that it’s also critical to brush your tongue each time you brush and floss your teeth? That’s because your tongue harbours bacteria that can not only cause bad breath but also cavities.
You can simply use the bristles of your toothbrush, or you can use a tongue scraper. Here’s how to do it:
• Use a back and forth motion
• Next, brush from side to side
• Lastly, rinse your mouth with water
You also can rinse with mouthwash to kill any additional bacteria that are left behind. Brushing your tongue can give you fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
Another essential way to maintain excellent oral health is by scheduling checkups every six months with your dentist. We want to help you smile brighter!
X-rays: An Important Diagnostic Tool
In addition to preventative checkups, X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth.
That’s because images, or radiographs, can alert us to a range of conditions, such as tooth decay between teeth or under existing fillings, gum disease, bone infections, abscesses, problems with teeth formation, and even tumours.
When we can identify these types of problems in their early stages, we can save you pain, discomfort, money and extended care in our office. As X-rays can detect serious conditions, such as tumours, they may very well save your life. Therefore, the small amount of radiation that you are exposed to during the X-ray process is minimal when compared to the benefits of having them taken.
Give us a call today to schedule a routine dental care visit, which would include any necessary X-rays. Your oral health is important to us!