Holes in the teeth caused by decay, cavities occur when plaque, the sticky substance on teeth, combines with the sugars and starches in the food we eat. Though most people have at least one cavity in their lifetimes, the goal is to protect your smile from damage. The following pointers will help you keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Brush and floss frequently
Your daily home care routine has a big impact on your dental health. Brushing after meals and flossing regularly will ensure that you can enjoy a vibrant smile for life.
Eat a healthy diet
Cutting down on sweet treats and junk food will limit the meal supply for bacteria in your mouth. At the same time, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and low-fat diary foods provide valuable nutrients.
Schedule regular dental visits
To maintain optimal oral health, you need to see the dentist at least twice a year. These appointments allow for professional cleanings and a full exam, which will give your dentist a chance to catch tooth decay at the earliest possible point.
Ask about dental sealants
Applied to the chewing surface of back teeth, sealants protect against cavities by preventing food and bacteria from getting stuck in the deep grooves and curves. Although more commonly offered for children, sealants can offer benefit to adults as well.
Chew sugarless gum
Because it increases saliva flow in your mouth, sugarless gum actually helps decrease tooth decay. Having a piece of sugarless gum after meals is an especially good idea.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry – Toronto Canada Dentist – Cavity Prevention Tips
During the summer, parents and children alike often take vacations to relax and get away from everyday life. Though you may get a break from most of your responsibilities, you can’t escape your dental health needs. Whether you vacation on the beach or sightsee in the city, it’s important to take good care of your teeth and gums. These helpful hints provide valuable information about dental care as you travel.
Pack appropriately
Make sure you buy a travel toothbrush container that has holes for drainage and ventilation. Before and after a trip, thoroughly clean the container to prevent bacteria growth. Purchase small packages of paste and floss.
Plan ahead
Depending on your itinerary, you may have to wait for luggage. Carry travel-size oral items like toothbrushes and toothpaste so that you have an extra supply if you need it. Some hotels stock travel items in the event that guests forget to pack them.
Clean matters
In some places, the local water isn’t safe to drink. If you can’t drink it, you need to use bottled or boiled water when your brush your teeth as well.
Pack some tooth treats
Camping in the wilderness or hiking through the mountains can make traditional oral care habits more difficult. Bring along sugarless gum sweetened with xylitol or sugarless candies with green tea extract, which both have benefits for your mouth. Xylitol gum helps promote salvia production and green tea fights off harmful bacteria.
Watch your diet
Many people view vacation as a chance to toss out their normal meals and indulge in whatever they want. A few extra treats here and there won’t hurt, but the frequency of sugar exposure does matter. Try to limit your intake and rinse your mouth when you finish.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry – Toronto Canada Dentist Oral Care when you travel
Although most people apply a thin layer of toothpaste to their toothbrushes so that they can clean their teeth, toothpaste can serve other purposes as well. You may be surprised to find out what else you can do with toothpaste. In most cases, old-fashioned paste works the best. Check out theses other applications and see what you think:
Remove marks from walls
If your toddler decided to make a canvas of your wall, dab some toothpaste on the area and scrub to erase the crayon marks.
Ease pain from insect stings and bites
After you wash the area and remove the stinger, place a dollop of toothpaste on the bite and let it sit for as long as possible for maximum success.
Treat acne
Before bedtime, apply a small amount of toothpaste to that pesky pimple and it should disappear by morning.
Freshen your car
Who needs fancy air fresheners? Just take a tiny amount of toothpaste and put it on a paper towel. Fold up the towel and stick it under your seat. The heat inside the car will release a pleasant, mint smell.
Repair CDs and DVDs
Tiny scratches can ruin your favorite movies or music CDs. Wipe the disc with water and apply toothpaste to the scratched areas, which will create a smooth surface and should allow you to play the discs again.
Shine your diamond
To make your ring or pendant sparkle, use an old toothbrush and some toothpaste for renewed brilliance.
Clean piano keys
If the ivory on your piano starts to look dingy, apply toothpaste to a soft brush and gently scrub the area. Wipe the keys with a damp cloth and enjoy the renewed beauty.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz Dentistry – Toronto Canada Dentist – other uses for toothpaste
Very few dental procedures receive as much negative attention as root canal therapy. If you ask most people, they would rather do anything else besides have a root canal. While the experience won’t ever make your Top Ten list, a root canal doesn’t have to be traumatic. In most cases, the procedure isn’t any worse than getting a dental crown.
Why would I need a root canal?
Your tooth contains three layers: a hard coating of enamel, a layer of dentin, and a soft inner core called pulp. The pulp nourishes the tooth and provides adequate blood flow. If your tooth sustains severe trauma or deep decay, the pulp may be compromised and die. When this happens, pressure and infection build up. Your dentist will perform a root canal to save the tooth and rejuvenate your smile.
What is a root canal?
During this procedure, your dentist will clean out the damaged tissue, sterilize the inside of the tooth, and seal the area to prevent future problems. After a root canal, you will probably need a crown to restore the tooth.
Is it painful?
With modern sedation options, your dentist can keep your comfortable throughout the procedure. Though you may feel a little soreness afterwards, any pain you feel is probably from the infection in the tooth. Usually, over-the-counter analgesics will relieve any mild discomfort.
Why doesn’t the dentist just pull my tooth?
For optimal oral health, you need all your teeth. Whenever possible, your dentist will try to preserve your natural teeth. Root canal therapy is one way to do this.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz Dentistry – Toronto Canada Dentist – Root Canal
The old adage, “You are what you eat,” may not be 100 percent accurate but it communicates an important message: the food you choose impacts your wellbeing, including your dental health. Eating a balanced diet will promote a beautiful smile and keep your teeth and gums strong. By the same token, too many sweets and sugary beverages can weaken enamel and contribute to problems like tooth decay. As you think about what to eat, consider these foods and important nutrients:
Fruits and Vegetables
Crunchy snacks like carrots, celery, and apples not only provide good nutritional options, but these foods actually help teeth stay clean by removing plaque and bacteria from teeth.
Calcium
Necessary for strong bones, calcium can be found in dairy items such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, including low-fat options. Surprisingly, broccoli, almonds, and dried beans also provide an excellence source for calcium.
Vitamin C
Centuries ago, sailors on long voyages would eat lemons to combat various diseases. The Vitamin C in this fruit also helped prevent bleeding gums. Eating fruits rich in this nutrient is still a good choice today.
Whole Grains
Full of B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, whole grains promote gum health. Because they are high in fiber, they also increase saliva production, which washes away plaque and fights against cavities.
Green or black tea
Both of these beverages supply naturally-occurring fluoride to your mouth. Also, black tea lessens the growth of certain enzymes that allow plaque to stick to your teeth.
Water
Not only does water wash bacteria and plaque from your mouth, but it also hydrates gum and removes decay-causing food particles from in between teeth.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry for the whole family – Toronto Canada Dentist
For a variety of reasons, some people experience tooth sensitivity. These twinges that accompany hot beverages, cold foods, or contact with the air can put a damper on your beautiful smile. Tooth sensitivity can also make dental visits and cleanings uncomfortable. With the right steps, you can protect your teeth from sensitivity and enjoy your radiant appearance.
Watch your brushing habits
Make sure you aren’t brushing too harshly or for too long, wearing down enamel or causing gums to pull away from teeth. Uncovering the dentin can leave the nerves susceptible to exposure, which can result in sensitivity.
Choose the right toothpaste
To combat sensitive teeth, you may want to purchase toothpaste specially designed to deal with this issue. Toothpastes that control sensitivity often contain potassium nitrate, a substance that decreases the reaction of the nerves and restores some of the lost enamel. With consistent use, these products can help curtail your painful symptoms.
Avoid certain foods and drinks
Anything with a high acid content, like tomatoes, lemons, and oranges, can increase enamel erosion and contribute to sensitivity. Sodas and tea can also produce similar results, so limiting your intake will help decrease your discomfort.
Take care with whitening products
If you decide to brighten your smile, talk with your dentist about the right products to use. Bleaching can cause mild sensitivity, but this sensation usually disappears after a short time.
Practice good home care
If you don’t brush and floss often enough, plaque and tartar will build up, which can cause gum recession. Preventing gingivitis and periodontal disease can stop tooth sensitivity before it even starts.
Dr. Yolanda Cruz dentistry for the whole family – Toronto Canada Dentist
E-Mail Us 
416-595-5490
