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Oral Health Is Important
Prenatal Moms and Dental Care
Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and premature births or low-birth weight babies. Mothers can even pass on tooth decay causing germs to their babies.
To enhance overall pregnancy health, expecting moms should make sure to see a dentist.
Children and Dental Care
Infants should see a dentist at the age of one as a preventive measure to dental problems.
One of the biggest issues is bottle tooth decay or nursing cavities. This happens when the baby has a bottle or is nursing at night or during a nap.
Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age. Encourage your baby to use a cup as much as possible when approaching their first birthday and especially when drinking juice. Unless it is advised by your child’s pediatric dentist, do not use fluoridated toothpaste until age 2-3 years. To clean your baby's teeth and gums, use a soft baby toothbrush, and gently rub the infants gums and any teeth with water.
Adult and Senior Dental Care
Over the past 50 years, there has been great progress and improvement in the nation's oral health. Most middle-aged and younger Americans expect to keep their natural teeth over their lifetime. What can you do to maintain good oral health?
Daily oral care is important. Brush your teeth and gums with a soft bristle toothbrush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use dental floss daily to clean between your teeth
Regularly drink fluoridated water
Eat a balanced diet and limit between meal snacks. Avoid sugars and starches when snacking and limit the number of snacks eaten throughout the day
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months
Visit your dentist regularly. Regular professional care is important even if you do not have natural teeth. An exam of the mouth can provide early detection of pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions
Taking good care of dentures is essential for good oral health. Keep your dentures clean and well fit. Dentures that do not fit well can cause irritations on the inside of the cheeks, gums or tongue. It is recommended that you remove your dentures while sleeping
Avoid tobacco
Limit alcohol
Talk to your doctor and dentist if medications you take give you a dry mouth
Many elders are not able to perform effective daily oral hygiene. Caretakers should ensure that daily oral care is incorporated in daily general care.
All information is general in nature and is not intended to be used as a substitute for appropriate professional advice. For more information please call 404-730-1211 (voice). Mailing address: ATTN: Public Information, Fulton County Department of Health & Wellness, 99 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303. Because of confidentiality concerns, questions regarding client health issues cannot be responded to by e-mail. For more information, contact the Privacy Officer at 404-730-1212.
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