Avoiding cavities

Many teenage patients are consuming an increasing amount of soda, sweetened fruit drinks, and non-nutritious snack foods. Eating patterns and food choices are important factors that can affect the overall dental health.  Maintaining a healthy diet is achieved by drinking water more often and limiting snacking between meals. Eating foods as part of a meal generally reduces the effects of acid forming bacteria, since more saliva is released during a meal, which helps wash foods from the mouth and lessen the effects of acids.

Good oral hygiene is a step toward a healthier life. Brushing and flossing daily, eating a balanced, and regular visits to the dentist will help maintain a healthy smile.

You have not outgrown tooth decay. In fact, dental decay may be more of a problem for you during the teenage years than it ever has been before. What you eat and how you keep your teeth clean can really change your risk of getting cavities. Here are a few tips:

• Eat intelligently! We know you can be busy and in a hurry but choose good foods like fruits, vegetables, cheese, nuts and water instead of junk foods - they can be just as fast to prepare and to eat. Try to limit the number of snacks you take and rinse with water after (or brush…)
• Brush your teeth (for 2 minutes!) twice a day and floss every night; it really makes a difference.
• Don't forget to visit us for your check-ups and cleanings; if you have specific problems, we can discuss them and try to help you resolve them. We can also evaluate if you need special mouth rinses or vitamins for you teeth.

Remember: The choices are yours! But you have to live with the consequences…

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