Start off the New Year right.... keep your teeth pearly white...

While the winter chill might have your teeth chattering, there are a lot of easy ways you can keep those pearly whites smiling through the winter months. Speaking of teeth chattering, it’s usually related to shivering, the body’s natural response to cold. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRUSH 

Your toothbrush goes to work for you every day, so make sure you take good care of it and replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn, to make sure it is cleaning effectively.

It’s a good idea to thoroughly rinse your brush each time and store it in an upright position where it can air dry between uses. Avoid storing your toothbrush in a closed container or covering it, as the moist conditions can encourage the growth of bacteria. 

AVOID SPREADING GERMS 

With the many winter colds and flu bugs, it’s important to replace your toothbrush after you've been sick. Never share your toothbrush, as it can result in exchange of germs between users.

If toothbrushes are stored in the same holder, make sure they are separated to prevent cross-contamination. People with compromised immune systems might consider replacing toothbrushes more frequently to decrease exposure to bacteria.


WEAR A MOUTH GUARD 

If you like to venture out on the ice for a bit of hockey or hit the court for a basketball game, be sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.  Oral health injuries among athletes account for more than 600,000 emergency room visits per year, and sports-related injuries account for three times more facial/dental injuries than violence or traffic accidents. Mouth guards not only protect the teeth and gums but cut the risk of concussion by 50 percent. 

DRINK LOTS OF WATER 

Make sure to keep drinking plenty of water — fluoridated is best — throughout the winter months. The water will help wash away food particles and reduce the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Staying hydrated also will keep your body producing a healthy amount of saliva, which works to help build and maintain the health of soft and hard tissues in your mouth. 

DON’T IGNORE SENSITIVITY 

If the cold air is bothering your teeth, be sure to get it checked out. Your dentist can help determine if there is a problem or if it is general sensitivity that can be taken care of with special toothpaste. 

SEE YOUR DENTIST REGULARLY 

Regular exams and cleanings will help you prevent problems and identify them early so they can be addressed in the most effective way possible. Don’t put off scheduling your dentist appointment. 

Reference: 

Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists also are members of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association. 

Happy Holidays

from the Nylaan Dental Team 

Healthy Smile Series: Reduce your risk of tooth decay

 

Americans consume foods and drinks that are high in sugar and starches more than ever before. Alarmingly, a steady diet of sugary foods and drinks can ruin teeth, especially among those who snack throughout the day. Grazing habitually on foods with minimal nutritional value, and frequently sipping on sugary drinks — such as pop, energy drinks and juice — all have a tendency to contribute towards tooth decay and send you straight to the dentist.

Sugar on teeth supplies food for bacteria, which produces acid. The acid in turn can eat away the enamel on teeth. Almost all foods have some type of sugar that cannot and should not be eliminated from our diets. Many of them contain important nutrients and add enjoyment to eating. But there is extra risk for tooth decay if your diet is high in sugars and starches. Starches can be found in everything from bread to pretzels to salad dressing, so read labels and plan carefully for a balanced, nutritious diet.

Some ways you can reduce your risk of tooth decay:

• If you choose to consume sugary foods and drinks, do so with meals.
• Limit between-meal snacks.
• Drink more water.
• Brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily.
• See your dentist regularly.

Brought to you by the office of Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

Have you been naughty or nice to your teeth?

If you've seen the holiday TV special “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” then you know Hermey the Elf is very excited about becoming a dentist. He loves teeth, and he thinks everyone should know how to take care of them.

Here is a healthy teeth checklist Hermey uses so he can remember how to keep his mouth healthy.

Moms and dads, using this checklist can help your kids remember to take care of their teeth, too.


•Brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes. Even the boss elf brushes his teeth for two minutes two times a day.

•Eat healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables. It’s not good for your teeth when you eat sticky candy or sugary cookies.

•Avoid drinking sodas, juices and sports drinks with a lot of sugar. Rudolph and Santa’s Sleigh Team always drink lots of water with fluoride in it. That’s why they have such strong, healthy teeth.

•Protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard whenever you play any sports. Rudolph and the reindeer never play games without wearing their mouthguard! 

•Visit your dentist. Just like Hermey, your dentist wants to help you take care of your teeth. Going to the dentist and getting your teeth cleaned is very important. Why?

Because yucky plaque can stick to your teeth and make a hole in your tooth. This is called a cavity.

Hermey doesn't want you to have a cavity because it can make your tooth hurt.

Remember, it’s never too late to be nice to your teeth. A healthy mouth is good for your whole body.

Now that’s the kind of joy that makes Santa ho-ho-ho.

Reference: West Michigan District Dental Society  WMDDS Member Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

West Michigan District Dental Society Member ~ Brian S. Nylaan, D.D.S. 

Start the new year off right....keep pearly whites healthy all year round

While the winter chill might have your teeth chattering, there are a lot of easy ways you can keep those pearly whites smiling through the winter months. Speaking of teeth chattering, it’s usually related to shivering, the body’s natural response to cold. 

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BRUSH 

Your toothbrush goes to work for you every day, so make sure you take good care of it and replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles appear worn, to make sure it is cleaning effectively.

It’s a good idea to thoroughly rinse your brush each time and store it in an upright position where it can air dry between uses. Avoid storing your toothbrush in a closed container or covering it, as the moist conditions can encourage the growth of bacteria. 

AVOID SPREADING GERMS 

With the many winter colds and flu bugs, it’s important to replace your toothbrush after you've been sick. Never share your toothbrush, as it can result in exchange of germs between users.

If toothbrushes are stored in the same holder, make sure they are separated to prevent cross-contamination. People with compromised immune systems might consider replacing toothbrushes more frequently to decrease exposure to bacteria.


WEAR A MOUTH GUARD 

If you like to venture out on the ice for a bit of hockey or hit the court for a basketball game, be sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.  Oral health injuries among athletes account for more than 600,000 emergency room visits per year, and sports-related injuries account for three times more facial/dental injuries than violence or traffic accidents. Mouth guards not only protect the teeth and gums but cut the risk of concussion by 50 percent. 

DRINK LOTS OF WATER 

Make sure to keep drinking plenty of water — fluoridated is best — throughout the winter months. The water will help wash away food particles and reduce the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Staying hydrated also will keep your body producing a healthy amount of saliva, which works to help build and maintain the health of soft and hard tissues in your mouth. 

DON’T IGNORE SENSITIVITY 

If the cold air is bothering your teeth, be sure to get it checked out. Your dentist can help determine if there is a problem or if it is general sensitivity that can be taken care of with special toothpaste. 

SEE YOUR DENTIST REGULARLY 

Regular exams and cleanings will help you prevent problems and identify them early so they can be addressed in the most effective way possible. Don’t put off scheduling your dentist appointment. 

Reference: 
Brought to you by the 600 members of the West Michigan District Dental Society in Kent, Ottawa, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta counties. West Michigan District Dental Society dentists also are members of the Michigan Dental Association and the American Dental Association.