February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. The National Children’s Dental Health Month is a…
Surprising Things That Can Damage Teeth
It is hard to imagine how you would have to function if you didn’t have any teeth. Teeth are a vital part of our body and are used frequently throughout the day. They are an important step in the process of breaking down food, as well as digestion, and should be cared for properly. What many people don’t realize is just how easily your teeth can be damaged through breaking or being chipped. There are a number of obvious ways that you can damage your teeth from eating sugar and not brushing to grinding your teeth. What most people do not realize however is that there are many other things that negatively affect your teeth.
There are certain types of foods that make tooth care more difficult. Meat, for example, is a food that can unexpectedly cause more bacteria and plaque buildup, especially if you don’t brush often. When eating meat it can get stuck easily in between the teeth, and may stay there if you don’t think about it. As it is stuck it builds bacteria which can lead to more plaque as well as tooth decay.
Another unexpected food that to be cautious around is bread. Bread is high in sugar as the starches and carbohydrates that make up the bread will change into sugar as it is digested. Some breads are even made with added sugar; this is especially true in processed white bread. Always make sure to brush regularly, or at least rinse out your mouth after eating a meal.
One thing that most people do not realize is that the type of toothbrush you use may actually have a negative effect on your teeth. When it comes to toothbrushes there are soft bristled and hard bristled brushes. Hard bristled toothbrushes may have a negative effect since they are sometimes too abrasive on teeth and can cause damage to your gums and even wear down tooth enamel. In terms of toothbrushes, the safest option is finding one with soft or medium bristles.
Another surprising fact is that it is actually possible to brush your teeth too much. Over-brushing the teeth can be a negative habit as it can start to wear down the enamel on your teeth. Dentists recommend brushing between two and three times a day to keep up with your oral health.
Dr. Rasmussen is a Hot Springs native who graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2017 (Go Bears). After receiving his D.D.S from The University of Tennessee in 2021, he is looking forward to serving the central Arkansas community and the wonderful people who live here.
Dr. David Cole is a graduate from the University of Arkansas, receiving his degree in 2016, and is a huge Razorback fan! He then went to dental school at the University of Tennessee where he received his D.D.S. in 2021. He looks forward to getting to know the Central Arkansas area, and serving his community!
Dr. James Cooper was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He studied at the University of New Mexico and graduated from dental school from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. After 2 years of dental experience with the Army, Dr. Cooper moved to Jacksonville in 1973 to practice dentistry.
Dr. Jordan Cooper is from Jacksonville, AR. His father is Dr. James Cooper, a Jonesboro, AR native and practicing dentist of 39 years and his mother, Tracy Cooper, is a dental hygienist from Little Rock. Dr. Cooper graduated high school from Central Arkansas Christian, after which he entered at the University of Arkansas as a Chancellor’s Scholar in 1998.