National Corn on the Cob Day

Corn on the cob is an essential part of summer and no barbecue could be complete without it. Unfortunately, it’s also a main offender when it comes to food stuck between your teeth.

While corn on the cob makes it obvious that food particles are trapped in the gaps between teeth, no matter what you eat some food will inevitably get trapped. Leftover food particles can build up plaque and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.

Fortunately there is a cheap and simple solution that can remove trapped food and preserve oral health – dental floss. Many people don’t like to floss. However, a little work now will save you a lot of time and expense later if gum disease develops.

Many patients shy away from flossing because it causes their gums to bleed. However, if your gums bleed while flossing that is an indication you should floss more, not less. Bleeding gums indicate your gums are infected. Flossing can help dislodge the bacteria causing the infection and prevent serious gum disease from developing.

Of course, flossing can only go so far. Make sure you come into Falmouth Dental Arts for regular cleanings every six months. Give us a call at (207) 781-5900. We can’t wait to see you.

How can gardening help improve your health?

National Gardening Exercise Day is June 6th. Use this occasion to get out there and work on your garden. If you don’t have a garden, start one from scratch! Studies have shown that gardening can contribute to mental well being. It also can have a positive effect on physical health. Digging, weeding, hoeing, and planting burn calories and get the body moving.

While you’re enjoying some exercise and soaking up the sunshine, plant vegetables and herbs that can help keep your teeth healthy. Calcium and phosphate can help redeposit minerals into tooth lesions caused by acidic foods and beverages.

Leafy greens like spinach are high in calcium and phosphate. They are also relatively easy to grow in Maine’s cool climate. Garlic is a fairly low maintenance crop with antibiotic properties that can fight plaque and tooth decay naturally. For your herb garden, try mint and parsley. Both help support oral health.

While diet and exercise are both essential parts of keeping healthy, nothing can replace a visit to the dentist. Regular cleanings are an essential defense against expensive and painful tooth decay. Call us at 207-781-5900 to set up an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you.

How can fishing in Maine can help your teeth?

It’s summer in Maine and a favorite pastime is fishing in our incredible lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, and oceans. If you think about it, fishing can even have an impact on your teeth if you eat what you catch (side note: be sure to follow the Maine state regulations on fishing and obtain a fishing license before casting your lines in the water).

In recent years study after study has come out extolling the positive impacts of fatty fish and fish oil on many areas of health. This certainly holds true for your smile. Fatty fishes like salmon, mackerel, trout, and herring can help prevent gum disease by fighting inflammation.

Fatty fish is rich in polyunsaturated fats. You may know these fats better by their individual names – Omega 3, Omega 6, and Omega 9. These acids have been proven to reduce inflammation, one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease. Gum diseases are serious conditions that can lead to infections, tooth decay, and even bone loss.

Fish is also good for your heart. Scientific studies have proven there is a link between a healthy mouth and a healthy heart. Fatty fish can serve as a one-two punch; keeping your heart healthy at the same time it protects your smile.

Best of all, fish makes it easy to eat local while eating better. Maine is well-known for its high quality local seafood. Visit your local fish market and get a healthy meal that also supports Maine’s economy.