GREENSBORO, N.C. — Oral health care is important!
Did you know Americans buy more than 14 million gallons of toothpaste every year but roughly 25% of adults do not brush their teeth twice a day?
Not only does that increase the risk of developing tooth decay, but it could lead to bad breath too.
Nobody wants stinky breath.
Dr. Malik Johnson, a dentist with Eric J. Sandler, DDS & Associates, shares some tips on oral hygiene during the summer months.
What to do if a tooth gets knocked out
- Keep the tooth moist.
- Place it in milk to preserve it.
- Visit your dentist as soon as possible for an emergency appointment.
Steps to take if a tooth is cracked
- Immediately rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- To combat swelling, place a cold compress on your face.
- Visit your dentist.
How to avoid dental emergencies:
- Wear a mouthguard when participating in sports or recreational activities.
- If possible, avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy, all of which can crack a tooth.
- Do not open items with your teeth.
Toothbrushes: what you should know
- Do not share toothbrushes.
- Clean your toothbrush by rinsing it with water after each use to remove any remaining toothpaste and/or food particles.
- Store your toothbrush upright.
- Do not store toothbrushes in closed containers. An enclosed moist environment may breed bacteria.
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
- A worn toothbrush won’t clean teeth effectively.
Below you will find the talking points for Tuesday’s interview. Please let me know if you have any questions or need any additional information. Thank you both for taking the time to discuss oral health.
Food/Beverages that stain teeth:
- Coffee
- Red Wine
- Tea
- Berries
- Dark-colored juices
- Soy sauce
How to avoid staining:
- Consume food/beverages that stain your teeth in moderation.
- Drink using a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth.
- Drink lots of water. Rinse your mouth out with water after eating/drinking.
MORE WAYS TO GET WFMY NEWS 2
Subscribe to our daily newsletter Let’s Get 2 It!
Download the WFMY News 2 APP from your Apple or Google Play store.
ADD THE WFMY+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WFMY.
Amazon Fire TV: Search for WFMY to find the free app to add to your account. You can also add the app directly to your Fire TV through your Amazon account.