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DENTAL CARE

Cavities and tooth decay
Can ruin anybody's day.
I'd rather brush than hear him drill
The very sound gives me a chill.
I'll brush and floss and keep em clean
And practice excellent dental hygiene.
My teeth will last my whole life through,
And I'll be proud to smile for you!

Proper dental care begins with infants. Even before a child's first teeth emerge, it is important to keep his mouth and gums healthy.

Careful parents will wipe a baby's gums with a clean washcloth before his teeth even appear. Very young toddlers can begin to develop the excellent habit of tooth-brushing, even though they should not use more than a drop of toothpaste. (They tend to swallow it.)

DENTAL HYGIENE IS A LIFELONG COMMITMENT.

Tooth decay and gum disease originate in our mouths when food is allowed to lodge there and decompose. Before long, the food particles create bacteria, and plaque develops. The outer layers of a tooth may be damaged. Soon, the cavity (opening) grows into the deeper layers of the tooth.

In time, the infection may spread below the gum-line, causing a painful infection and inflammation. (This may lead to a root canal, although we all hope not!)

How can this be prevented? Good personal dental hygiene can greatly minimize your risk of tooth and gum problems.

PRACTICING DENTAL HYGIENE

1) Brush your teeth after every meal, or at least twice a day. First thing in the morning and right before bedtime are the absolute minimums. Brushing in up-and-down motions actually cleans teeth and gums better than side-to-side scrubbing. Select a toothpaste with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.

2) Be sure to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth, as this will help to eliminate germs and halitosis (bad breath).

3) Remove food particles between teeth by flossing or using an inter-dental cleaner. (These pick-like disposable devices can be found at pharmacies, discount stores, and grocery stores. This step is important to remove decay-causing food, plaque, and bacteria along and below the gumline.

40 Choose and use an anti-cavity oral rinse or mouthwash.

5) When you cannot brush, as at a luncheon meeting, rinse your mouth well with clean water. Gently use a toothpick, if you can, to loosen any food particles that may be stuck between teeth.

6) Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. Avoid sugary sodas, candies, and other sweets. Choose sugarless gum, if you must chew.

7) Eat calcium-rich foods (milk, yogurt, cheeses, etc.), as calcium contributes to stronger teeth and

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