Auutumn Foods for Oral Health

Best Nutritious Autumn Foods for Oral Health

Apple picking. Pumpkin pie. With the new season of fall comes a menu of fresh foods that we start to crave. No more days at the beach with a cooler full of watermelon and cold soda. We stop hunting for ice cream in the evening and start looking for recipes heavy in apples and green tea. Yet what are some scrumptious fall foods that are also good for your teeth? Here are a few that go hand and in with the cooler air, and will make your dentist proud.
Let's start with the obvious:

Apples
This nutritious fruit has long been known to keep the doctor away, especially during its harvest season. A compound in the skin of apples called quercetin is responsible for fighting an array of diseases, from reducing cancer risks, lowering chances of heart attack and controlling asthma. The high water content in apples is also good for your teeth. It stimulates saliva production and helps to dilute sugars in the food, washing down other food particles and buffering acid. Beyond that, there are a number of delicious apple recipes you can make. The crunch in them even wards away dental plaque, as it dislodges food particles between teeth.

Bone broth
This steaming bowl of soup warms the soul. As a literal melting pot of vegetables, herbs and spices, grandma's famous broth is a superb source of minerals that help boost the immune system (chicken soup when you are sick) and eases digestive functions. It is also high in calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, each of which are great for tooth health. No wonder you always smiled so much when Grams was around.

Fish
Fish oil is great for your diet. Eating fish and other sources of polyunsaturated fat may help combat gum disease, according to the Journal of Dietetic Association. Keep your teeth and gums healthy with a tasty salmon dinner, which is especially good for treating and prevent periodontitis.

Pumpkin pie
As a fall fave, a half cup of pumpkin pie gives you almost a quarter of your daily recommended fiber and contains a heap of vitamin A,  vitamin C and iron, leaving your body recharged and keeping you far away from iron deficiency, which can result in tooth decay and an inflamed tongue. According to Nutritionists at the National Institute of Health, eating foods high in carotenoids, which includes orange and yellow vegetables like pumpkins and squash, may help lower the risk of some cancers.  If you can you help it, however, don't eat the pie crust - it holds up to 188 grams of fat and a quarter of your daily cholesterol.

Raw Dairy
At the store, pick out the raw milk, cheese, butter and yogurt for healthy bones and teeth. Avoid pasteurized or homogenized varieties, and try to purchase brands who allow the cows to graze on pasture. As you know, milk's a good source of calcium, which can protect against dental caries and gum disease.

Green tea
When it's cold outside and you don't got the month of May, but rather September through November, make yourself some green tea. This after-dinner heart-warmer provides natural catechins which reduce dental plaque and destroy bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, that cause plaque to develop. For optimal benefits, chew a piece of sugar-free gum afterward to stop the tea from staining your teeth.

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Isidoros  Mereos enjoys bettering the lives of his patients through the practice of cosmetic dentistry at Precious Smiles in the Miami Beach area. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and developing a plan tailored to meet your individual needs. You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting www.precioussmiles.com  Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry.

Tooth Pain & Sinus Congestion

Tooth Pain & Sinus Congestion

Sinus congestion is the result of inflamed and swollen sinus cavities, commonly from a sinus infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. Inflamed sinuses press on the surrounding areas of the face such as the teeth, aggravating the roots of the teeth. The constant pressure can make you feel like you have a cavity or a severe toothache.

 

Symptoms

The Consumer Guide to Dentistry states that studies have demonstrated that frequent sinus infections play into impacted wisdom teeth, cavities and a tooth fracture. Tooth pain associated with sinus congestion manifests itself with nasal discharge, sinus pressure and an itchy nose. The pain in the teeth will come and go and manifest itself as a dull, throbbing pain. The pain can switch from tooth to tooth over time, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry. Bad breath may also result from sinus congestion.

Diagnosis

Tooth pain resulting from sinus congestion can be diagnosed by a dentist. The dentist takes an instrument and taps on all the upper teeth to locate the pain. If the pain is from sinus congestion, all the teeth will be sensitive to the tapping, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry. In rare cases, X-rays may be required to identify the problem or to confirm that the pain is not from a dental issue.

Treatment

Treating sinus congestion associated with tooth pain may require antibiotics, decongestants, antihistamines and routine nasal washes. The need will be determined by a doctor. Antibiotics may be used to treat sinus congestion if it is the result of a bacterial sinus infection. Decongestants are used to reduce inflammation in the sinus cavity; antihistamines are used to treat sinus congestion due to allergies and are commonly combined. Nasal washes are used to cleanse the sinus cavity from impurities and irritants.

Complications

If the nasal congestion is the result of a sinus infection, you should talk with your doctor. A sinus infection left untreated can lead to more severe conditions such as an eye infection, brain infection and bone infection. Seek dental advice before treating tooth pain or concluding it is the result of nasal congestion.

You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry.

Healthy Teeth for Life: 10 Tips for Families

  Healthy Teeth for Life: 10 Tips for Families

1. Start children early. Despite great strides in decay prevention, one in four young children develops signs of tooth decay before they start school. Half of all children between the ages of 12 and 15 have cavities.

2. Seal off trouble. Permanent molars come in around age 6. Thin protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth can prevent decay in the pits and fissures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sealants can significantly reduce caries. Yet only one in three U.S. kids receives dental sealants. Talk to your dental professional.

3. Use enough -- but not too much -- fluoride. The single biggest advance in oral health has been fluoride, which strengthens enamel, making it less likely to decay. Three out of four Americans drink water that is fluoridated. If your water isn’t fluoridated, talk to your dental professional, who may suggest putting a fluoride application on your teeth. Many toothpastes and mouth rinses also contain fluoride. Fluoride should be used sparingly in young children -- no more than a pea-sized dab on the toothbrush. Too much can cause white spots on teeth.

4. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Gum disease and tooth decay remain big problems -- and not just for older people. Three-fourths of teenagers have gums that bleed, remember:

• Toothbrushes should be changed 3 to 4 times a year.
• Teenagers with braces may need to use special toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools to brush their teeth. Talk to your dentist or orthodontist.
• Older people with arthritis or other problems may have trouble holding a toothbrush or using floss. Some people find it easier to use an electric toothbrush. Others simply put a bicycle grip or foam tube over the handle of a regular toothbrush to make it easier to hold.

5. Rinse or chew gum after meals. In addition to brushing and flossing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial rinse can help prevent decay and gum problems. Chewing sugar-free gum after a meal can also protect by increasing saliva flow, which naturally washes bacteria away and neutralizes acid.

6. Block blows to teeth. Sports and recreational activities build healthy bodies, but they can pose a threat to teeth. Most school teams now require children to wear mouth guards. But remember: unsupervised recreational activities like skate-boarding and roller-blading can also result in injuries. Your dentist can make a custom-fitted mouth guard. Another option: buy a mouth guard at a sporting goods store that can be softened using hot water to form fit your mouth.

7. Don’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco. Tobacco stains teeth and significantly increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. If you smoke or use chewing tobacco, consider quitting. Counsel your kids not to start.

8. Eat smart. At every age, a healthy diet is essential to healthy teeth and gums. A well-balanced diet of whole foods -- including grains, nuts, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products -- will provide all the nutrients you need. Some researchers believe that omega-3 fats, the kind found in fish, may also reduce inflammation, thereby lowering risk of gum disease.

9. Avoid sugary foods. When bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, opening the door to decay.

10. Make an appointment. Most experts recommend a dental check-up every 6 months -- more often if you have problems like gum disease. During a routine exam, your dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque build-up that you can’t brush or floss away and look for signs of decay.

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Isidoros  Mereos enjoys bettering the lives of his patients through the practice of cosmetic dentistry at Precious Smiles in the Miami Beach area. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and developing a plan tailored to meet your individual needs. You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry.

 

Say No to Tobacco!

Say No to Tobacco!

Do you smoke? If you don't, you probably know some friends or see other students at school who do. Too many young people today are getting addicted to tobacco, and the results are showing up in their mouths.
Smoking or using smokeless "chewing" tobacco can make you four times more likely of developing oral cancer (especially on the rise in women as more younger girls take up smoking) - and it's not just something that older adults get anymore.

On top of cancer, tobacco causes:

bad breath
stained teeth
bone loss
shrinking gums
mouth sores
leukoplakia(an irritation frequently caused by tobacco, it can eventually become cancer)   

Young people who think that smokeless "chewing" tobacco is somehow safer than lighting up are putting themselves at terrible risk of illness. Chewing tobacco releases a variety of chemicals into the body and often causes mouth sores, cracked and bleeding lips and gums, and can lead to cancer of the throat, mouth and gums.

How does Tobacco
affect oral health?

Tobacco contains many substances known to be cytotoxic (destructive to your body's cells and tissues). Smokers have more calculus (hardened dental plaque) than nonsmokers, and heavy smokers have more calculus than light smokers. The Nicotine in tobacco causes something called vasoconstriction (narrowing the blood vessels). Blood circulation - certainly an important thing! - has been shown to decrease by as much as 70% in your mouth during the smoking of a cigarette. Tobacco smoking, furthermore, also affects your body's immune responses (defense system).
New studies are even showing the possibility that second-hand tobacco smoke (the smoke from someone else's cigarette) causes periodontal disease (gum disease).

Sugar? In tobacco?

We all know that sugar is a major cause of tooth decay. More than one-fifth of the content of some brands of smokeless "chewing" tobacco is sugar, and causes a much greater risk of developing cavities.

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Isidoros  Mereos enjoys bettering the lives of his patients through the practice of cosmetic dentistry at Precious Smiles in the Miami Beach area. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and developing a plan tailored to meet your individual needs. You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry.

What Foods are Good for Children's Teeth?

Happy Healthy Smiles

You probably know that sweets and soda are bad for your children's teeth, but have you stopped to think about what foods are good for their teeth?

Some foods support tooth and gum health. Keep these foods in mind the next time you pack your children's lunches:

* Look for vegetables high in vitamin A. Veggies like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, broccoli and carrots are high in vitamin A, which is important in the formation of tooth enamel. Try packing baby carrots in children's lunchboxes or making homemade, baked sweet potato fries.

 

Say "cheese." Cheese helps balance the pH in the mouth, making it less friendly for destructive bacteria. It also contains calcium. Just be sure to watch portion sizes, as cheese is high in fat and salt. An appropriate serving of natural cheese, like cheddar, is the size of two domino pieces.

* Snack on fruit. You may know that vitamin C is good for your skin, but did you know that it's also good for your gums? Healthy gums help support teeth, so make sure your children get enough vitamin C. For their size, kiwis have more vitamin C than any other fruit. If green things are a tough sell, try apple slices, strawberries or orange wedges.

Don't Forget Good Oral Hygiene

 

Remember that there is no substitute for good oral hygiene. Make sure your children brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste and floss at least once a day. Teach them to drink water after eating, as it will help flush food from their mouth.

Of course, children aren't always the most diligent brushers and flossers. Some parents give their children an oral care probiotic to help pick up any slack in kids' oral care habits. Oral care probiotics work by flooding the mouth with good bacteria, which adhere to tooth surfaces, including crevices, pits and fissures in the chewing surfaces, leaving less room for bad bacteria to grow. The probiotics effectively compete with certain harmful bacteria for both nutrients and space on teeth surfaces, reaching where brushing and flossing can't.

 

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Isidoros  Mereos enjoys bettering the lives of his patients through the practice of cosmetic dentistry at Precious Smiles in the Miami Beach area. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and developing a plan tailored to meet your individual needs. You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry.

 

Oral Health Concerns for People Over 60 - Tips form Miami Dentist

Just 60 years ago, it was an assumption that as we age we would lose our natural teeth. But, that’s not the case for today’s older adults who are keeping their natural teeth longer than ever before. A healthy mouth and teeth help you look good, eat delicious and nutritious foods, and speak clearly and confidently. Being mouth healthy is essential for good quality of life.

Your mouth is the gateway to your body

Maintaining good oral health habits now is especially important because unhealthy bacteria in the mouth not only can harm your teeth and gums but may be associated with serious medical conditions. Research has shown that infections in the mouth may be associated with heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pneumonia and other health problems that are common in older adults. It really only takes a few simple steps, brushing and flossing daily, visiting your dentist regularly and eating nutritious foods to be Mouth Healthy for Life.

You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting http://www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, tooth whitening, or dental implants.

Precious Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry Center -Miami Beach

http://www.precioussmiles.com
(305) 532-9114
1315 Alton Rd.
Miami Beach, Fl 33139

Brushing Your Teeth the Right Way can Make a Huge Difference! - Tips on Proper Brushing from Miami Dentist

Brushing your teeth is an important part of your oral hygiene routine. For a healthy mouth and smile
the we recommend you:

•Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.  •Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.  •Make sure to use a fluoride toothpaste.  Make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day. Any respectable dentist will tell you the same thing about how to care for your teeth. Ensure that you are brushing twice a day to help protect your teeth. Don't forget to floss when you brush.

TIP! Choose a good toothbrush, but don't keep it too long. A good toothbrush will be gentle on your gums.

 The proper brushing technique is to: •Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. •Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. It is best to avoid sodas during the day. The sugar can really damage your teeth, so drink water instead. Healthy teeth lead to improved overall health. TIP! The method you use to hold your brush actually impacts your brushing success. Hold a toothbrush with an angle towards your teeth. •Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. •To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes. •Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.  You may have a lot on your plate with work and home, but you should reserve time for proper dental care. By using a bit of time to floss and brush, you're helping your smile stay white. Brushing and flossing are the best preventative methods for your mouth. It doesn't cost lots of money and it will make your smile beautiful.

TIP! Women can use lipstick to conceal your smile's color. Your teeth will seem whiter when you choose shades of light red or coral.

 Of course, brushing your teeth is only a part of a complete oral care routine. You should also make sure to: •Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.  •Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.  Be sure to replace your tooth brush regularly. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months. The bristles fray long before it is possible to see the damage. The older a toothbrush is, the less effective it is at cleaning your teeth. Regularly replacing your toothbrush is an important step in maintaining healthy teeth.

TIP! Brushing your teeth should never take less than two minutes. The longer you spend on your teeth, the more debris you'll knock free, so take the time to do it right.

Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

You can make an appointment with our cosmetic dentist by calling our friendly staff at (305) 532-9114 or by visiting http://www.precioussmiles.com. Please don't hesitate to contact Precious Smiles if you have any questions about cosmetic dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, tooth whitening, or dental implants.

Precious Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry Center -Miami Beach

http://www.precioussmiles.com
(305) 532-9114
1315 Alton Rd.
Miami Beach, Fl 33139

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