Blog Posts

Why Are They Called "Wisdom" Teeth?

Scientific Evidence Does Not Support Benefits Of Oil Pulling

Although the ancient, traditional folk remedy of oil pulling has experienced a resurgence in recent years as a way to improve oral health, there is no proof it actually does so. The American Dental Association's Science in the News states: "Based on the lack of currently available evidence, oil pulling is not recommended as a supplementary oral hygiene practice, and certainly not as a replacement for standard, time-tested oral health behaviors and modalities."

The ADA continues to recommend that to maintain good oral health, you brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoridated toothpaste and floss between your teeth once a day. 

So the bottom line is, there still is no "magic bullet" to replace flossing!

Health Challenges for Older Adults

Because our bodies become more vulnerable as we age, decay, infections, and bacteria that occur in our mouths can grow into serious problems that impact overall health.

Medications can create dry mouth. Dry mouth can also be part of the aging process. Saliva protects against tooth decay and controls bacteria. A dry mouth becomes very acidic, which leads to more tooth decay and gum disease.

Arthritis limits dexterity and creates transportation and mobility issues. Arthritis can make brushing and flossing difficult.  Poor oral health can increase the risk for diabetes, pneumonia, and infections elsewhere in the body and strokes.

The Centers for Disease Control offers a checklist for seniors to maintain good oral health that includes: 

• Drink Fluoridated water and use fluoride toothpaste to protect against tooth decay.
• Brush and floss regularly to reduce dental plaque and prevent periodontal disease.
• See your dentist regularly, even if you wear dentures and have no natural teeth.
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol to lower risk of oral and throat cancers.
• If you have a dry mouth, drink plenty of water and chew sugarless gum. Avoid sweetened beverages.