Dental care 101: Developing healthy habits

Limit sugar intake. The primary cause of tooth decay among children is excessive sugar intake. Regular checkup and cleaning won’t prevent the onrush of sugary treats and fuzzy drinks. It’s important for parents to monitor what their kids are eating and drinking to ensure proper health, shares Kami Hoss, MS, DDS. Brushing alone won’t keep teeth protected from cavities. Teach kids to clean between the teeth. Regular flossing reaches spaces between teeth. Avoid open things using the teeth. While it can be tempting to open packets using one’s teeth, it doesn’t help in keeping teeth strong and healthy. Brush twice a day but avoid brushing right after a meal. The surface of the teeth weakens after consuming sugary or acidic foods. Brushing right away might result in particles being unnecessarily brushed away, leaving teeth feeling painful and sensitive.

Drink more water and eat more fruits and vegetables. Chugging on water and snacking on good food ensures proper overall health, including oral health. According to Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, it’s important for one to schedule appointments with the dentist at least twice a year. Cleanings and checkups allow a dentist to see the real state of one’s dental health and may help them spot possible problems and provide solutions for these. Kami Hoss, MS, DDS, has a master’s in craniofacial biology and a doctorate in dental surgery. He co-founded The Super Dentists, the largest pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice in San Diego. For more updates from Dr. Kami Hoss, visit this page.