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I would like to start my blog with a big thanks to Saathee readers. Glad you enjoyed my writing on Children’s dental health in the last issue. I have received several suggestions on other dental topics including adult oral health, cosmetic dentistry, handling emergency dental problems for visitors from India. I will certainly cover these topics in the subsequent issues. In the mean time, if you have any questions, please do feel free to send me an email.

As you read this issue, I am sure most of you will be winding down your schedule, getting ready for the holidays and ready to welcome the New Year. It is a great time to reflect on the past, plan for the future, and to follow up with actions. I am sure most of you are already thinking about the New Year resolutions to improve your financial, social and personal health goals. Resolutions for personal health typically revolve around fitness, diet, and general well-being. This year, I would encourage you to consider dental health as well. As a Dentist, I can give you ’32 reasons for a happy smile’. However, let us keep it short and manageable.

(Please feel free to cut and paste it in your bathroom mirror)

Let me explain the benefits of these resolutions.

Why Brush and Floss? The oral cavity is like an Amazon Rain Forest. It is moist, warm and rich with food left on the tooth surfaces, a perfect condition for bacteria to grow and flourish. Bacteria form a sticky film on the teeth called Plaque and produce acids that can damage the tooth enamel and create cavities in the teeth. Here is the nasty part!! Some types of bacteria breeding in the food debris also release chemical compounds that cause embarrassing bad breath which reflects poorly on one’s personality.

Brushing and flossing help remove plaque from tooth surfaces and in between teeth. When plaque is not removed it hardens to form calculus or tartar that requires professional cleaning for removal. The bacteria in the mouth release toxins that inflame the gums causing gum disease. Recent research suggests that periodontal diseases increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and preterm, low birth weight babies in pregnant women. Hence it is important to keep your teeth and gums clean in order to maintain not only your oral hygiene but also your overall health and social well-being.

Here are a few tips for brushing and flossing recommended by American Dental Association:

Tips for brushing:

Following the right brushing technique is very important. Place the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the tooth surface.

Gently brush 2 to 3 teeth at a time. Remember to brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of all teeth.

Brush for at least 2 minutes

Make sure that your child is brushing twice a day.

Clean the tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue cleaner.

Change your tooth brush frequently, once in 90 days or sooner if the bristles wear out. I suggest keeping a tooth brush handy in your office/work place for after-lunch brushing

Tips for brushing:

Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers. Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion.

When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a C shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.

Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth.

Don't forget the back side of your last tooth.

If you have difficulty handling the dental floss, you can try other interdental cleaners.

Why Clean? Cleaning, called as prophylaxis by dentists, is much more than a routine cleaning and is an important preventive care visit to your dentist’s office.

Preventive Visit: In addition to doing a thorough oral cleaning including removal of tartar and plaque buildups, Dentists use this opportunity to examine and evaluate your oral health including checking for gum diseases, cavities, and screening for oral cancer

It is covered by your insurance: Most of the dental insurance plans pay for preventive care visits. Please check with your carrier for details.

Why Smile? Happy smile is the reflection of your overall well being. Keep smiling through out the Year!!

Hope that I have provided enough information to keep you motivated with your New Year resolutions for a Happy Smile. Should you have any questions, please feel free to consult your Dentist or send me an email

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Dr Meena Chelury, a long time resident of the Triangle, is a graduate of University of North Carolina Dental School and with advanced degrees in Public Health and Oral Pathology. She balances her life between two demanding but wonderful children and her family friendly practice of dentistry. You can reach her at meenac@yahoo.com or soon to open www.AmberlyFamilyDentistry.com

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