Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry

Teeth discoloration or staining can significantly affect how you feel about your appearance, especially when you smile or talk to others. This can affect your interpersonal relationships and work, among other areas of your life. Teeth whitening is an option that can help you boost your confidence and improve your smile. However, before opting for teeth whitening, it is important to have a good understanding of the following information, which can help you decide if it is the right option for you.

Causes of Discolored or Stained Teeth

To choose the best teeth whitening option, it’s essential to understand why your teeth are discolored or stained. Your tooth enamel can be weakened by acidic beverages such as tea, coffee, and red wine, leading to tooth discoloration. Tobacco use or smoking can also lead to staining or discoloration of your teeth. Other common causes of tooth staining include certain antibiotics, injuries that damage your teeth, and aging. As you age, your tooth enamel erodes, making the yellowish interior of your tooth more visible. Some teeth whitening treatments may not be effective for certain types of stains or discolorations.

Types of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening options include over-the-counter products that you can purchase at local drugstores and professional treatments. While over-the-counter products such as teeth whitening strips and toothpaste are convenient, they contain bleaching agents that are less effective than professional teeth whitening products. In-office treatments and take-home treatments are professional teeth whitening options.

In-office treatments involve applying a whitening agent to your teeth, while take-home treatments require the use of kits that contain a whitening tray and bleaching agent at home. While in-office treatments are the most effective teeth whitening option, take-home kits offer convenience.

Good Candidates for Teeth Whitening

Not everyone with discolored or stained teeth is a suitable candidate for teeth whitening treatments. Teeth whitening works best on mild stains and discolorations, but it may not be effective if your teeth are discolored from antibiotic use. Teeth whitening tends to be more effective at breaking up yellowish or brownish stains and discolorations than grayish stains. More severe stains and discolorations respond better to professional treatments done in-office than to take-home kits or over-the-counter products. You should also note that teeth whitening products are not intended for changing the color of cosmetic treatments such as veneers, crowns, and other artificial teeth.

If you need more information on teeth whitening to improve your smile or determine if you’re a suitable candidate, please contact us at Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

Good gum health is the foundation for a great smile. If you’re like many people, though, you don’t think too much about your gums as you are putting in the effort to keep your teeth clean and healthy. There are a number of easy things you can implement into your daily life to foster good gum health.

1. Know If You Have Risk Factors

Like other conditions, there are certain risk factors that can make you more prone to having poor gum health. While some of these risk factors — such as pregnancy, genetics, and crooked teeth — are beyond your control, there are others that can often be managed or addressed. For example, if you smoke or chew tobacco or have poor oral hygiene, your gums are at risk.

2. Signs of Poor Gum Health

In addition to knowing if you have any risk factors that could affect the health of your gums, you should also be aware of the signs that could indicate issues. These include gums that bleed easily or that no longer meet your teeth, gaps in your permanent teeth that weren’t there previously, partial dentures that no longer fit as they used to, and changes in your teeth bite or the way they fit together.

3. Practice a Good Diet

Of course, eating a sweet treat is one of life’s many pleasures and they can often be enjoyed guilt-free on occasion. However, most days you should aim to practice good dietary habits. Not only is doing so the best way to protect your overall health, it can also contribute to good gum health, too. Incorporate more foods like apples and leafy greens into your diet. The extra chewing they require helps reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth. Add ginger root and raw onions to your diet on a regular basis. Both contain properties — such as anti-inflammatories and antimicrobials — that can kill bacteria and promote better gum health.

If you are concerned about an issue with your gums, give us a call. At Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry, we partner with you to provide top-notch dental services for your whole family. For more information about us or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

We know that the cold winter weather and dry air wreak havoc on the skin. Did you know that these weather conditions can also facilitate dental problems? Being aware of these winter dental woes, as well as how to combat them, will help to keep your mouth healthy in the cold, and avoid the tooth pain and increased sensitivity which many of us experience in the wintertime.

4 Reasons to Visit the Dentist in Winter:

1. To Avoid Crowds and Long Waits:

The winter is a great time to schedule a dental appointment! Summertime means that there will be an influx of parents taking their children in for a check up, especially during the back-to-school season. Many college students might make appointments during spring break, but the longer winter break means that the appointment times won’t be as concentrated. We recommend that you come in now to ensure your dental health all year long––without the wait!

2. Getting sick affects your teeth, too:

Maybe you were unlucky enough to catch a cold or flu. Cough syrups, cough drops, and other remedies contain high amounts of high fructose corn syrup or other sugars. These can have a negative impact on the teeth, especially if you are not flossing and brushing regularly. Other drugs may contain citric acid or alcohol, which attack the enamel of your teeth. Additionally, it’s important to switch out your toothbrush after you’ve been sick. You don’t want to reinfect yourself!

3. To Fight Harsh Winters:

The cold weather and lack of sunlight that accompany winter can be tough for the best of us. As many as 20% of Americans, especially those in Northern climates, can be afflicted with Seasonal Affective Disorder. This form of depression arises during the winter season and may make it hard to perform even basic oral hygiene activities. Depression is highly correlated with poor dental health, so it’s important to try to maintain oral hygiene all year long.

4. Prepare for Spring:

Winter means that many of us are huddled up in our homes, whether we are enjoying the heater or a toasty fireplace. Fewer outings are planned, which means more free time. It’s a good idea to schedule a winter dentist appointment to get out of the house and to take advantage of these more idle months. Springtime consists of spring cleaning, gardening, chaperoning the kids’ sports and other activities, so be sure to schedule your appointment now before things get too busy!

Final Verdict:
If you need one of your regular dental checkups, December is just the right time. Book your appointment and visit Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry this winter!

Contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today to schedule an appointment!

Gum disease, medically termed gingivitis, is a serious condition. If left untreated, it can actually cause your gums to be unable to hold your teeth in place and could lead to tooth loss. Unfortunately, there is no way to correct the damage that gum disease has caused. As such, it is best to not let it progress to a point where damage is done.

Being aware of what causes gum disease may help you to know when you should visit a dentist. A dentist can help you treat the condition before serious damage is done. Here are a few of the signs that you may have gum disease.

Gum Disease: 3 Signs To Be Aware Of

Your Gums are Red, Puffy, or Swollen
One of the first signs you may experience if you have gum disease is gums that begin to turn red, get a bit puffy, or begin to swell. Unfortunately, there is no standard color for gums or appearance. Some people may naturally have darker, pinker, or redder gums than someone else.

This is a sign that is hard for dentists to see. However, you should be aware of what your normal gum color and appearance is and when things begin to change. When you notice these changes taking place, you will want to bring it to the attention of your dentist so they can document the changes and begin you on a treatment course for the early stages of gum disease.

Your Gums are Bleeding
Odds are, you have experienced bleeding gums at some point in time. You may have brushed too hard or gotten a little vigorous when flossing. An isolated incidence of your gums bleeding is nothing to fret over. You simply want to be careful the next time you brush or floss.

However, if you notice some pink in the sink after brushing or flossing routinely, you want to bring this to the attention of your doctor. The bleeding is often caused by irritation, which is a tell-tale sign of gum disease. Unfortunately, if left untreated, the bleeding may get worse as well. As such, you want to correct and treat the problem.

Your Gums Are Receding
The last sign of gum disease is receding gums. If you notice or experience this symptom, you have advanced gum disease. When gum disease is left untreated, it begins to kill your gum tissue, which is what causes the receding to occur. This leaves more of your teeth exposed and fewer gums holding them in place.

Eventually, the gums will erode away, leaving nothing holding your teeth in place, and they can fall out. Dentists are beginning to check for gum recession during normal appointments.

Technological advancements have made it easy to determine the length of a person’s gum tissue and see how much, if any, is lost from one appointment to the next.

If you are showing signs of gum disease, you will want to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can offer you treatment options to correct the problem, as well as monitor your symptoms to ensure the condition is improving.

If you are showing these signs, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today for help!

November is National Diabetes Month, and as we raise awareness we also want to examine our lifestyle routines to make sure we are not only managing diabetes well but are also taking the proper preventative measures to ensure that this disease doesn’t affect other areas of our bodies. Did you know that people who have diabetes are at a higher risk of developing periodontitis, or advanced gum disease? Those with diabetes are also more susceptible to tooth decay, gingivitis, thrush, and dry mouth. Fortunately, these conditions and diseases are preventable if you maintain a healthy dental regimen while managing your diabetes.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR MOUTH AND BODY

If you haven’t already established a healthy dental regimen, talk with your dentist about how you can improve your daily hygiene routine. Make sure your dentist is aware that you are a diabetic. Studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and an increased risk of diabetic complications, so always keep regular appointments for cleanings and examinations and make sure you are managing your diabetes as directed by your doctor. Keeping your blood sugar at a healthy level can help further prevent the development of periodontal disease.

When maintaining your at-home care, always check for any signs of gum disease such as any redness, swelling, or bleeding at the gums. If you begin experiencing dry mouth or any new pain, talk to your dentist. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Talk with your dentist about possibly adding antiseptic mouthwash to your daily dental regimen. Avoid smoking, as this is an additional risk factor for periodontal disease.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

In addition to maintaining a healthy dental regimen, there are a few details that might be beneficial for you to consider when scheduling dental appointments and procedures. Try scheduling your exams and cleanings in the morning. Usually, this is the time of day when blood sugar levels are optimal and the risk of hypoglycemia is reduced. Be mindful of the time of day when you have peak insulin activity. If mornings are not a good time for you, try to schedule your appointments around the parts of your day when you feel the best and when your blood sugar is best under control.

Here at Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry, we know you have a choice when it comes to your dental care. We are proud to help you manage your dental routine in conjunction with the treatment you’ve been prescribed for the management of your diabetes. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry today.

Halloween is just around the corner, which means an endless supply of sugary treats from trick or treating. Kids get a ton of candy from school parties, friends, neighbors, or relatives during Halloween. Sometimes the candy is so much it can last up to thanksgiving or Christmas time! However, the sugar crash is detrimental to you and your child’s teeth and overall health. More people are looking for creative alternatives to sugar to keep their kids from unhealthy sugary treats. Additionally, with the rising number of food allergies, it would be best to avoid traditional candy treats. Your child can develop cavities nearly overnight, and they would have to undergo expensive, painful dental restoration procedures, something that can be easily avoided.

Despite this, it is still important for those passing out treats and your kids to have fun and enjoy the festivities. You can still find a middle ground and enjoy Halloween in plenty of healthier and fun ways without being the Halloween Grinch. Here are non-sugary treats that your kids can enjoy for Halloween.

1. Go for Nonsticky Fruits

You can give your kids healthier alternatives to trick or treating by putting together a fun bag of yummy fruits. But this does not mean you give them dried fruit because it contains high sugar. Consuming large amounts of dry fruits could lead to weight gain, and the fruit can stick between teeth and erode the enamel. Instead of giving your kids sticky fruits, you can swap them with healthier fruits like:

• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Apples
• Grapes
• Cranberries
• Oranges

You can get creative with the fruits and ask your kids to help you make spooky fruits like bananas, strawberry ghosts, frightful fruit kebabs, or pumpkin oranges. Your kids will have fun helping you be creative with the fruit monsters while keeping your mind at ease, knowing they won’t indulge in the typical cavity-filled Halloween candies.

2. Low Sugar Chocolates and Candies

There are various zero-sugar chocolate companies that sweeten their chocolate bars with natural sweeteners that taste great and are healthier for the teeth. You can also try healthy alternatives to candy treats like Halloween pretzels, peanut butter cups, pudding cups, Goldfish, or other types of sugar-free snacks. You can find a variety of nonsugary treats in your local grocery store or online.

3. Bubbles for Trick or Treaters

Kids love blowing bubbles, and you can incorporate them in goody bags or as one-piece giveaways for the little ones as they come to trick or treat. They are a great way to keep the kids relaxed and distracted from the candy. Bubbles are inexpensive, and you can find various bubble bottles with different Halloween-themed designs like ghouls, ghosts, monsters, vampires, or mummies. Additionally, you can avoid some candies that cause choking hazards, like lollipops, tootsie rolls, and skittles.

4. Stickers

You can get an assortment of Halloween stickers as early as September and fill them up in your candy bowls. There is a variety to choose from, like glow-in-the-dark, scary, or goofy ones. You can buy a selection of them in bulk, and the little ones can select the ones that appeal to them. If you cannot find Halloween stickers, you can go with popular cartoon-themed characters that kids love these days.

5. Chilled Water Bottles

Kids get dehydrated easily from running around to collect their stash of candy. Chewing on sugary treats can make your kids pretty thirsty, and what better way to quench their thirst than with a cool bottle of water. Additionally, water helps to flush out or buffer the acid attack in the teeth brought about by eating candy. It may seem odd to hand out mini water bottles for treats, but parents and kids will highly appreciate them. Keep the mini water bottles in an ice cooler to keep them chilled and refreshing before passing them around. You can also quench their thirst with healthy juices to keep them re-energized.

Tips on Avoiding Sugar During Halloween

Kids learn through observation. If you consume candy in moderation or restrict yourself from overindulging, your kids will do the same. If you practice good habits and show your kids that candy is not something they should value, they will pick up on it and become less interested. You can allow them to eat some candy on Halloween but afterward, let them know the remaining candy can only be eaten at snack time and let them stick to the rules.

Keep your kids full by feeding them their favorite meal to keep them satisfied before going trick or treating. After eating, there is usually more saliva in the mouth, which will come in handy to protect their teeth from an acid attack that occurs after eating candy.

According to studies, kids denied candy completely tend to overindulge when they come across candy more than those who eat some candy regularly. Limit the amount of candy they can eat, and you can occasionally allow them to choose the type they like.

After binging on candy, ask your kids to drink lots of water right away and wait 30 minutes to an hour before brushing. This is because the acid in the sugary treats can temporarily weaken your child’s enamel. Therefore, brushing immediately after eating candy puts their teeth at irreparable enamel damage (chipping or breaking).

Here are some candies you should stay away from if you are not planning on avoiding candy altogether during Halloween:

Hard candy: This can break your tooth or harm your jaws when you try to bite on it. Additionally, it is highly concentrated in sugar, and as you suck on it, your teeth are constantly coated with sugar, exposing them to more damage. This greatly increases your child’s risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Gummy worms: They are highly acidic and can wear out the enamel leading to tooth sensitivity and other dental issues.

Sticky or chewy candy: These sticks or wedges between teeth increase the risk of cavities.

Conclusion

The best way to stay away from candy is to keep it away from your home. Keep healthier options at home, educate your kids on the importance of avoiding candy, and remind them to continue flossing and brushing daily.

For more information please contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry.

There are over 300,000 cases of oral and lip cancer worldwide. Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer, develops in the mouth’s tissues (oral cavity). Men are at a higher risk of getting it than women.

What Is Oral Cancer?

This is a life-threatening condition if not diagnosed and treated early. It presents itself as growths or sores in the mouth that do not go away. Many cases are discovered when it has already spread to the neck lymph nodes. It is essential to have regular dental visits, which involve an examination of the mouth, lips, throat, and face. Additionally, your doctor may also screen you for oral cancer. To be safe, it is essential to know the early signs of oral cancer should they occur.

Oral cancer occurs in the following areas of the body;

• Roof of the mouth
• The last part of the tongue
• Lips
• Cheeks
• Tonsils
• Gums
• The sides and back of the throat
• Sinuses
• Inner lining of the cheeks mouth
• Floor of the mouth

There are several types of mouth cancers, categorized as head and neck cancers Cancer that affects the mouth and the oropharynx is known as oropharyngeal cancer.

Grades and Stages of Oral Cancer

The stages and grade of oral cancer help determine your treatment. It also lets the doctors know how cancer might behave or present itself. The three grades include:
Grade 1: This means that the cancer cells look like typical mouth cells. It is a low grade of oral cancer.
Grade 2: This is the intermediate grade. It looks slightly different than typical mouth cells.
Grade 3: This is the highest grade, and the cancer cells look abnormal, unlike the normal mouth cells.

A physical examination and the results of your tissue biopsy will determine the stage of your cancer. The following are the basic stages of oral cancer:
Stage 0 Mouth Cancer: It is also known as carcinoma in situ (CIS), the very early stage of oral cancer. In this stage, the abnormal cells in the lip lining and oral cavity are likely to become oral cancer.

Stage I Mouth Cancer: This describes the earliest stage of invasive cancer, meaning the tumor has not spread to the lymph nodes, tissues, or other organs. The tumor is not more than 2 centimeters and is 5 millimeters deep or less.

Stage II Mouth Cancer: In this stage, cancer has not spread to the nearby lymph nodes or organs, and the tumor is 2 centimeters or smaller but not more than 4 centimeters, deeper than 5 millimeters, but not deeper than 10milimetres.

Stage III Mouth Cancer: The cancer is any size, but one lymph node contains cancer cells, and the tumor is larger than 4 centimeters.

Stage IV Mouth Cancer: This means cancer has advanced. It may be any size and has spread to nearby tissues, other parts of the oral cavity, and areas beyond the mouth such as the lungs. The lymph nodes are more than 3 centimeters in size.

Oral Cancer Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

• Mouth pain
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Ear pain
• Dramatic weight loss
• Mouth sores that do not heal
• Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
• Numbness, loss of feeling in the face area, mouth, or neck
• Soreness or feeling like something is caught at the back of the throat
• White or red patch on the inside of the mouth
• Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice
• A growth, swelling, bump, crusts, or lumps inside the mouth
• Pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing
• Lower lip, neck, face, or chin numbness

When To See A Doctor

You should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as you have persistent pain lasting more than two weeks or an infection.

Oral Cancer Causes and risk factors

The exact cause of oral cancer is not known. The following factors may increase the risk of oral cancer:
Most mouth cancers begin in the squamous cells lined up in the lips and the inside the mouth cavity. Mouth cancers develop when lips or mouth cells mutate their DNA. The mutation changes inform the cells to continue growing and multiply while the healthy cells continue to die. A tumor is formed by the accumulated abnormal cancer cells. The cancerous cells spread to other areas in your mouth and eventually other body parts.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus and those sexually active get HPV at some time in life. This virus causes cancers of the mouth, especially in men over 50 years and those with multiple sexual partners.

Other risk factors include:

• Gender: Men are more likely to have oral cancer than women
• Age: Most people get it after 55 to 60 years
• Family history of oral cancer
• Smoking: Cigarette and cigar smokers are six times more likely to get it than nonsmokers.
• Tobacco users: Chewing tobacco, snuff, or dip users are 50 times more likely to develop cancers of the gum, cheek, and lining of the lips
• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can increase the risk of oral cancer six times more than nondrinkers.
• Poor diet: Studies link oral cancer with not eating enough fruits and vegetables.
• Excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UV) especially when young, can cause lip cancer.
• A weakened immune system can increase the risk of oral cancer.

Oral Cancer Diagnosis

The determination of tests to be done is based on your condition. Tests include:
Physical examination: An oral screening exam is done by a dentist who will check and feel any lump or tissue changes in the neck, head, face, and oral cavity. They will look for any sores or discolored tissues and other abnormalities.

An endoscopy might be done to get a better look into your mouth. Cell samples may also be examined under a microscope. Your doctor may take biopsy samples depending on the nature of the problem.

Your doctor may order imaging tests to determine how far it spread. They include:

• X-rays to show the areas cancer cells have spread
• CT scan to reveal the tumors present and where
• MRI to show the head and neck images and determine the stage of cancer.
• PET (Positron emission tomography) to determine if the lymph has been affected, including other organs
• Endoscopy to examine the sinuses, inner throat, windpipe, nasal passages, and tracheas.

Oral Cancer Treatment

Treatment depends on:

• Whether cancer cells have spread to other parts of your body
• Size and location of the main tumor
• Your overall body health
• Type of oral cancer
• Your age

Treatment options include:

• Radiation therapy and chemotherapy
• Drugs to destroy any remaining cancer cells
• Drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen and stronger ones like morphine for pain relief
• Nutritious food that is gentle and smooth to the throat because poor appetite and weight loss are common
• Mouth hygiene is crucial. Keep the mouth moist, gums and teeth clean
• Immunotherapy helps boost the immune system
• Targeted therapy for early and advanced stages of growth
• Surgery to remove the cancerous growth. The tumor’s location determines the type of surgery.

Prevention

There is no proven way to prevent oral cancer. However, you can minimize the risk by:

• Quitting smoking or use of any tobacco-based products
• Drink alcohol in moderation or stop drinking altogether
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Limit excessive sun exposure and wear a UV-A/B-blocking sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats to protect your lips and face from the sun
• Make an appointment with your dentist regularly
• Practice good oral habits by brushing and flossing twice daily
• Conduct a self-examination test at least once a month, like feeling your lips and gums and looking at them to check for abnormalities.
• Oral cancer screening for people in the age bracket of between 20 -40 years is essential

Oral cancer is treatable. Get screened regularly to prevent the condition or detect it in its early stages for effective treatment. For more information please contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry.

Sugars are simple carbohydrates. Our body requires glucose converted from carbohydrates to fuel energy and brain function. Consuming sugar in moderation can be healthy, which is the secret to consuming sweet foods and drinks. Naturally occurring sugars in fruits or dairy are part of a healthy diet but should be consumed in moderation, especially for pre-diabetics and people with diabetes. Sugar comes in various forms, such as natural sugars like white sugar, brown sugar, or honey, and caloric sweeteners manufactured chemically like high fructose corn syrup and cane sugar.

Processed Foods Are Unhealthy

Processed foods are high in added sugar because they add color, taste, thickness, and bulk to your favorite food products. Sugar is also added to prevent mold formation; as a preservative and browning capability of some foods.

Added sugar is any sugar or caloric sweeteners added to food or beverages during processing, food preparation, or at the table. The primary sources of added sugar include:

• Sugar-sweetened beverages like sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, alcoholic drinks, and cocktails
• Dairy products include ice cream, sweetened yogurt, and sweetened milk.
• Fruit drinks, such as fruit punch.
• Candy and sugars like chocolates
• Processed sandwiches
• Desserts and sweet snacks like cakes, cookies, and Pies
• Coffee and tea
• Breakfast cereals and bars

Healthy Sources for Sugar Include

Certain vegetables and root vegetables contain natural sugars like yams, sweet potatoes, beets, potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and yams. These foods contain greater nutritional value than food products with added sugars. Fruits also contain healthy sugars. This does not mean that they should be excessively consumed. Eat 2-3 pieces of fruit per day.

Raw honey, maple syrup, and molasses have natural sugars that contain antioxidants, minerals, and other nutrients. Lactose in milk contains protein that provides sustained energy supplies that make you feel full for longer than processed foods.

The following are some of the foods that have a high sugar content and should be consumed in moderation:

• Ketchup
• Low-fat yogurt
• Barbeque sauce
• Packaged fruit juice
• Granola
• Chocolate milk
• Pasta sauce
• Sports drink
• Iced tea
• Flavored coffee and tea
• Breakfast cereal
• Protein bars
• Canned fruits and beans
• Ready-made smoothies
• Flavoured green tea
• Salad dressing

Consuming the foods mentioned above in moderation is essential since they can spike up your sugar levels.

Moderating Sugar Intake

Adding a small amount of sugar to nutrient-dense foods such as wholegrain bread and cereals improves their palatability and may encourage eating more of these foods.

A moderate intake of refined sugar can be an acceptable part of a healthy diet. Experts define a moderate intake as not more than 10 percent of calories per day (that’s 200 calories per day of a 2,000-calorie diet: 12 teaspoons or 50 grams). Men should consume no more than 9 teaspoons (36 grams or 150 calories) of added sugar daily. For women, the number is lower: 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 100 calories) per day.

Adding extra glucose to your diet is not necessary. Your body extracts glucose from the sugars and other carbohydrates in your food. It also produces new glucose, mainly in the liver. A healthy dietary pattern limits added sugars to less than 10 percent of calories per day.

You should limit foods and drinks with high amounts of added sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and energy drinks.

Importance of Eating Less Sugar

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to serious chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and heart disease. If you are trying to limit or moderate your sugar intake is essential. Sugar intake. Excessive sugar intake can also cause oral health problems like cavities, especially when you do not practice good oral hygiene. Sugar encourages the breeding grounds for bacteria to multiply, increasing tooth decay risk.

How to Cut Back Your Sugar Intake

Learn to identify sugar on the product food labels. They can be listed as sucrose (table sugar), corn sweetener, high-fructose corn syrup, and fruit juice concentrate. Other names are nectars, raw sugar, barley malt syrup, maple syrup, fructose sweeteners, liquid fructose, honey, molasses, beet sugar, invert sugar, coconut sugar, rice syrup, honey, agave syrup, coconut sugar, demerara, or anhydrous dextrose.

The other way to identify it on a food label is to look out for any “-ose” endings, like glucose, dextrose, sucrose, maltose, and lactose. Buying less processed foods will help stave off some of these hidden sugars, the chemical suffix for sugars. You can also under the category called “Total Carbohydrate.”

Many try to cut back on calories by switching from sugar-sweetened to diet foods and drinks containing low- or no-calorie sweeteners. These artificial sweeteners are also known as sugar substitutes. They are sweeter than table sugar; therefore, smaller amounts can create the same level of sweetness. They contain little to no calories and should be consumed with caution since they can intensify a person’s craving for sugar, making it challenging to maintain a sugar-free diet.

Foods containing natural sugars are low in sodium and calories and high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water content. Fiber is highly beneficial to the body because it is digested slowly; therefore, it doesn’t spike sugar levels like added sugar.

Tips On Cutting Down On Sugar

• Eat fresh, dried, frozen, or canned fruits. Avoid fruits canned in heavy syrup.
• Always check food labels and choose those with the least amount of added sugar
• Reduce sugar quantities in recipes
• Avoid artificial sugars like Stevia, Splenda, Equal, or Nutra sweet
• Eat whole, unprocessed foods
• Avoid simple carbohydrates like white bread, rice, or pasta
• Be wary of “sugar-free” foods
• Cut back on the amount of sugar you add to hot drinks
• Take plain yogurt instead of flavored yogurt
• Balance carb intake with lean protein
• Substitute sugar with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla
• Reduce liquid sugar intake
• Keep healthy food around you to avoid reaching out for sugary foods

Conclusion

You can gradually reduce the amount of sugars in your diet until your palate gets used to it. Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, complex carbs, water, and regular exercises to prevent sugar-related diseases like diabetes or obesity. For more information please contact Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry.

Do you regularly go to the dentist? Probably not as often as you should. Most people visit the dentist to have their teeth cleaned or whitened. Gums tend to take the back seat compared to their white counterparts, but they are equally important. The state of your gums indicates the health of your teeth and has a profound effect on overall body health.

Healthy gums can help prevent various diseases in the body. Therefore, it is; essential to take care of your mouth to protect your overall health. Read on to learn how gums affect your overall health.

How Gum Disease Starts

Gums are tissues that surround and protect the teeth, teeth roots, and jawbones. Gums seal the teeth forming a protective layer against disease-causing bacteria (plaque). They are the supportive structure keeping teeth in place. Gums also prevent sensitivity, preserve bone mass, help reduce foul mouth odor, and support dental installation or restorations such as crowns and bridges.

Once bacteria make their way into deeper parts of your teeth, the structure of your teeth collapses. Leaving gums untreated paves the way for harmful bacteria to get into the bloodstream, causing inflammation, bleeding gums, and gum redness leading to periodontal disease.

The advanced stage of periodontal disease is periodontitis, which causes teeth to fall out by affecting the bones and tissues connected to your teeth. This affects the health of your teeth and overall body health by predisposing you to chronic medical conditions.

Inflammation is the link between gum disease and chronic health conditions. Maintaining healthy gums balances out the good and bad bacteria in the mouth, minimizing the risk of acquiring the periodontal disease.

Effects of Gum Disease On The Body

If you don’t take care of your teeth and gums by brushing daily or avoiding visiting the dentist regularly, you can build up to harmful bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria cause infections that can be easily treated if caught early. However, if left untreated, the infection spreads severely throughout the body.

Additionally, it can trigger the immune system to become hyperactive, putting you at risk of allergic reactions. Studies show that people suffering from periodontal disease are at risk of developing the following chronic medical conditions.

• Chronic respiratory disease
• Dementia
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Pregnancy complications
• Stroke
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Osteoporosis

The link between healthy gums and overall health is undeniable. Maintaining healthy gums is the best way to minimize the risk of developing medical conditions associated with gum disease. Other factors that may contribute to periodontal disease include:

• Illnesses like diabetes or heart disease may affect the state of the health of your gums.
• Some medications reduce saliva production, which helps protects teeth and gums.
• Smoking inhibits gum tissue repair
• A family history of dental disease may contribute to the development of gingivitis.
• Hormonal changes increase gum sensitivity, increasing the risk of developing gum disease.

Periodontal Disease Prevention

To prevent and manage gum disease, do the following:

Brush and floss consistently: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at night. If you have wide spaces between your teeth or are fitted with bridges, implants, or mouth plates, you may use interdental brushes with tiny bristles at one end to clear trapped food particles.
Use mouthwash and fluoride toothpaste to protect your enamel and replace a worn-out toothbrush. Avoid sugary foods and drinks.

Quit smoking: Smoking dramatically affects the health of your teeth and gums. It greatly increases the chances of developing periodontal disease. This is because tobacco hinders the normal functioning of gum tissue cells. Smoking also promotes the production of bacterial plaque, which causes gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Quitting is the best way to improve oral health drastically.

Consume a healthy diet: A healthy diet helps minimize inflammation. Eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and legumes, and take plenty of water.
Carrots, dairy products such as yogurt, cheese and milk, celery, apples, and onions are beneficial for dental health. A diet rich in fatty fish (omega 3) improves oral health and prevents further infection.

Get early treatment for gum disease: Learn the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease like swollen, bleeding gums, pus, gums that have pulled away from teeth, and ill-fitting dentures. If you are experiencing any of these signs, visit the dentist immediately.

Regular dental visits: Do not skip or avoid going to the dentist every 6months. Your dentist will clean and remove build-up plaque and check the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. If you are suffering from gum disease, he will advise you on treating and managing the infection.

Healthy gums are vital to preventing gum disease and improving overall health. If you are experiencing any changes in your mouth like bleeding gums when brushing or mouth sores, visit Viet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry as soon as possible.

When it comes to your oral health, your routine at home is arguably just as important as seeing the dentist once every six months for teeth cleaning. A good at-home routine is essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. But what is the ideal at-home oral care routine? It’s pretty simple, consisting of daily brushing and daily flossing. You can even elect to complement your at-home oral care routine by using a mouth rinse to further eliminate plaque-causing bacteria within the mouth. Remember, it’s never too late to start.

Here’s a closer look at what your daily oral care routine should consist of.

Brushing

Minimally, it would be best if you were brushing your teeth at least twice per day. To do this, you should be using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an ADA-approved electric toothbrush. Be sure to use fluoride toothpaste and try brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle, gently and in small circular movements. Make sure you also brush your tongue and the area of your mouth where the teeth meet the gum line. While most people elect to brush their teeth first thing in the morning and then before they go to bed at night, it’s also a good idea to brush if you’ve consumed foods or drinks high in sugar.
It’s also worth noting that you should be changing out your toothbrush every three to four months, as the bristles become worn and less effective over time.

Flossing

Flossing serves two very important purposes. One, it helps remove food stuck between the teeth that the toothbrush cannot reach. Two, it helps remove plaque buildup around the gum line, which can lead to gum disease if it’s not removed. On that note, it’s important to incorporate daily flossing into your oral care routine. It doesn’t matter what time of the day you floss, just so long as you commit to doing it. Though you should find the type of floss that you prefer, we recommend a waxed type for easy gliding between the teeth. Gently slide the floss in between each tooth and up so it’s underneath the gum line. Make a few passes to ensure that you’re removing all of the plaque buildup that has accumulated.

Mouth Rinse

A mouth rinse isn’t necessarily crucial to a good oral care routine, but it can serve as a nice complement to flossing and brushing. Mouth rinse serves a couple of purposes, as it can help freshen breath, help eliminate acids and minimize plaque buildup. To properly use a mouth rinse, take the suggested amount and then swish it all around in your mouth before spitting it out into the sink.

Finally, while a good at-home oral care routine is essential to a healthy mouth, you should still be seeing the dentist at least once every six months for teeth cleaning. Also at these appointments, we will conduct a thorough oral exam and recommend areas where improvements should be made when it comes to brushing and flossing. It’s at these appointments where any small issues that are detected can often be easily resolved before they become larger, more complex issues. Contact Vet Ho Prosthodontics and Implant Dentisty to schedule an appointment today!