Sports Drinks = Cavities ?

9-year-old patient Zenda Furtado says, “I play baseball and basketball, and if I’m really thirsty, I’ll just drink a Powerade or a Gatorade.”

Sports drinks. New research from NYU finds that they can cause severe tooth decay. And it’s not all from the sugar. Dr. Stella says, “They’re loaded with acids, and to the surprise of everybody, the acids are actually a big part of causing enamel erosion.” He says acid strips calcium from the enamel of the teeth. “It pretty much washes away your enamel, and you only have two millimeters of enamel normally. So you are not allowed to lose much of it,” says Dr. Stella.

The research is a major shake-up for both parents and dentists. Mother Cindy Furtado says, “I didn’t realize that the acid content of the sports drink would have so much of an effect on the enamel of the teeth.” Dr. Stella says, “Even myself, choosing drinks or food for my family, I always look at sugar content. Now all of a sudden, it’s shifted to the acid content.”

“I know that stuff is bad for your teeth now, so I don’t drink it that often anymore,” says Zenda.

Dr. Stella urges parents to limit sports drinks and cola whenever possible. When you do have these beverages, use a straw. Drink water immediately afterwards and wait at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth. It also helps to use an acid neutralizing toothpaste.
 

Tips for Parents

Many dentists and parents are worried that kids are drinking too much soda and that they are at risk for developing dental cavities. However, new research shows that sport drinks may also contribute to tooth decay. However, the National Soft Drink Association (NSDA) cites a study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, which shows that soft drinks do not cause increased cavities in children or young adults. The NSDA goes on to say that it is unfair to blame soft drinks or any single food or beverage as the cause of cavities. The NSDA points out that many factors contribute to cavities, including the types of foods that are consumed, the amount of time those foods are in the mouth and lack of proper oral hygiene.

Cavities are caused by plaque, a build-up of bacteria on the tooth enamel. Sugar plays a harmful role in the development of cavities because it provides energy for the bacteria to multiply more quickly. The sugar is turned into a kind of glue that makes it harder for the bacteria to be washed away with saliva.

Plaque that does not get washed or brushed away produces acid as it eats up the sugar. The acid dissolves the minerals that make up the tooth enamel and a cavity is formed.

The American Dental Association recommends parents use the following tips to prevent tooth decay:

• Eat a balanced diet and limit the number or between-meal snacks. Sugared foods and starches, such as bread, crackers and cereal, cause bacteria to flourish.
• If you need a snack, choose nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, chess or a piece of fruit.
• Brush teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush.
• Use toothpaste that contains fluoride which helps protect teeth from decay.
• Use floss or interdental cleaner to clean between the teeth once a day.

For kids who drink soda, sport drinks or other sugary beverages during the day, the Academy of General Dentistry has these tips to prevent cavities:

• After drinking sodas or sport drinks, kids should rinse out their mouths with water to wash away excess sugar that bacteria consumes to create acid.
• Kids should drink soda from a straw to reduce sugar exposure to their teeth.
• Drink soda from a can, not a bottle with a replaceable cap, to deter sipping throughout the day, which can exacerbate acid attacks.
   

Call us for more information or an appointment today, (562) 627-8800!

Dental Braces for Kids and Adults

 

I Many people think of braces as a teenage rite of passage, but more adults are taking advantage of the opportunity to improve their appearance and oral health by getting braces.

Teeth can be moved and straightened at any age, and the benefits go beyond cosmetic. Crooked or crowded teeth or a misaligned bite can make teeth cleanings more difficult, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Also, a misaligned bite can interfere with speaking and can even lead to jaw problems.

No matter what your age, you can choose braces that are inconspicuous or obvious. If you want your braces to be subtle, ask Dr. Stella about Invisalign. Or, if you have brackets attached to the front of each tooth, they are available in clear or tooth-colored versions. But you can make a statement with your braces, too. You can choose brackets in your school colors and brackets are available in different shapes, such as hearts and footballs.

If you play any contact sports that might result in a head or jaw injury, be sure to wear a protective mouth guard. If you aren't sure what type to buy, ask your dentist for a recommendation. Don’t put off your braces consultation any longer, we offer free orthodontic consultations for kids and adults twice a month, call us to reserve your appointment today (562) 627-8800.
 

Easter Sweets BEWARE!  We are telling on you

Did you know that Easter is one of the top-selling candy holidays celebrated?It's actually second to Halloween! This really didn't come as a big surprise to us knowing that many children receive baskets and eggs full of candy. In fact, we read that the National Retail Federation has said consumers are expected to spend more than $2 billion on candy this year!! WOW!

Dental health is very important, and with the unavoidable sugary treats many of us give our children each year for holidays like Easter, it concerns many of us that their oral health may be at risk. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease...even more so than asthma and hay fever! I'd say with those facts, parents have a right to be concerned, wouldn't you?!!

We are asking that you consider alternatives to candy this Easter. For example, stuff their basket with books, gift cards, movie tickets, videos, cool powered-toothbrushes, fun toothbrush timers, school supplies, etc. In fact, we have you covered with FUN powered-toothbrushes available in our office. Also, we carry many Sugar-Free treats that you can stuff in their baskets and inside plastic eggs. We have Sugar-Free jelly bellys, gummi bears, chocolate bunnies, peeps, coconut eggs, chocolate eggs.....and so much more. Stop by today and receive a FREE GIFT with your Sugar-Free Easter Candy purchase of $10 or more.

*If you have any questions, or would like to schedule a visit, please call (562) 627-8800 email
Dr. Stella at Info@FuntasticDental.com