Time to take care of your teeth

The Christmas season usually means that it's time to indulge in eating lots of sweet treats like candy canes, lollies, cakes, ice-cream, soft drinks and heaps more. I wanted to give all you girls a warning. It's really important to watch out for decay - it won't hurt until it's really 'bad'.

Learn to floss and brush correctly. Not only will this keep your teeth healthy and clean, it will also stop bad breath. Below are some tips that are recommended by Leanne Malisano, who is a top dental surgeon. These tips will help you to look after your teeth this Christmas season, and all through the New Year.

LEANNE'S TIPS…..

SPORTS DRINKS
Do you need to "put back what sweat takes out"? Keeping fluid intake adequate during sports is very important. But unless you're competing in Iron-man competitions, all you really need is water. Sports drinks do have small amounts of salts, which increase the rate of water uptake. This can be important because often you may not feel thirsty even though your body needs more water to re-hydrate. Carbohydrate rich foods are far better than soft drinks to replenish lost "energy stores" in muscles and liver.

BEWARE
- Diet soft drinks - these are usually acidic and erode dental enamel (the coating on your teeth).
- Fruit juice - usually acidic even if freshly made.
- Water filters - don't use one that takes out fluoride. It's your best protection against decay.

TRY TO
Use a straw if you MUST drink these liquids.
Drink a lot of water or milk.
Mineral water is less damaging to your teeth than soft drinks.

DENTAL FLOSS
Use dental floss regularly to clean between your teeth. It helps prevent BAD BREATH.

ORTHODONTICS
Many teenagers have orthodontic treatment to straighten crowded or irregular teeth or correct jaw problems. When you have orthodontic treatment you need to:

1. Keep your teeth very clean.
2. Prevent damage in sports activities.
3. Watch your intake of acidic foods and drinks.

WISDOM TEETH
You may find new wisdom (in the form of extra back molar teeth) coming through at about age 16 to 25. The problem is that you might not have enough room in your mouth for these teeth to grow into a normal position.

While they grow, a teething gel can relieve pain. A mouth rinse (chlorhexidine) may also assist in keeping the area free from bacteria and infection. For many, the only cure is to remove them. This can be simple or complicated depending on how the teeth have grown.

I think we all know what it's like to have a tooth ache. It is horrible!!! Christmas is a time for fun and laughter. So please girls, don't let a toothache ruin it. Have a great holiday and remember to look after your teeth.