Rutgers dentists offer New Year’s resolutions for healthier smiles
Dog comforts kids at the dentist office
Aldo, the trained emotional assistant dog, helps reduce stress and anxiety for kids while they get their dental work done at Parque Dental in Ecuador.
Experts at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine have revealed their best advice for oral health with New Year’s resolutions in mind.
From brushing techniques to lifestyle habits, their recommendations aim to help individuals maintain a healthy mouth throughout the year.
Regular oral cancer screenings top the list of crucial resolutions.
Rabie Shanti, director of maxillofacial oncology, has highlighted the potential life-saving benefits of these screenings.
Those who use tobacco, consume excessive alcohol, or have weakened immune systems are urged to undergo screenings more frequently than the standard annual check.
Padma Mukherjee, a professor of orthodontics, stressed the significance of consistent elastic band usage for individuals with braces. She explained that such small measures could result in significant improvements.
The school also emphasized the importance of preventative measures against cavities.
Mary Beth Giacona, associate professor of pediatric dentistry, said that simple habits, like brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks and drinks, can go a long way in preventing tooth decay. These practices should be cultivated from an early age, with parents serving as role models, she said.
Demonstrating a slightly unconventional viewpoint, diagnostic sciences associate professor Steven Toth stated that if someone chooses to indulge in a sugary drink, it should be consumed in one sitting, not sipped throughout the day. This helps minimize acid attacks on the teeth and is a more enamel-friendly approach, he said.
Carla Falcon, associated with the endodontics department, cautioned against hasty tooth extractions. She advocated exploring the potential of root canal treatments to save natural teeth before considering implants.
Ioanna Tsolaki, director of postgraduate periodontics, underscored the importance of paying attention to gum health, noting possible connections between gum disease and other conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Tsolaki recommended brushing, flossing, and a comprehensive periodontal evaluation every year.
Furthermore, having a personalized oral health plan can contribute to oral wellbeing.
The recommended plan, from regular visits to fluoride treatment, can enhance dental health, according to Donald Lapine, director of operative dentistry and assistant professor of restorative dentistry.
Assistant professor of oral biology Carla Cugini emphasized the connections found between poor oral health and various other bodily conditions, such as inflammatory diseases, pregnancy complications, and cardiovascular problems.
She stated that taking care of one’s teeth from a young age could notably contribute to overall health in later stages of life.
Hence, in ensuring good oral health, one also advances towards maintaining overall bodily health, she said.
This story was created by reporter Joe Martino, [email protected], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more.
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