It’s that time of year when coughs, colds and flu can make you or someone in your family miserable. And like most people, you’ll probably take some over-the-counter medication to help with your symptoms. But did you know that taking the medication could potentially add a side effect of tooth decay? Many over-the-counter medicines contain large amounts of sugar to make them taste good. The sugar usually comes in the form of high fructose corn sugar. Many people do not realize the added sugars in the medicine can contribute to tooth decay.
Also, may people start to take lozenges to help deal with nagging coughs or sniffles. However, just because cough drops help with your cold symptoms, does not mean they are healthy for you. Most brands also contain high levels of sugar. So, if you find yourself using cough drops, lozenges or taking cold medicines, make sure to brush well. If you cannot brush after taking medication or cough drop, please rinse your mouth out with water or consume sugarless gum. This may help limit sugar levels in mouth, which helps limit acid levels. These 2 tips can help prevent cavities while you are sick. Never miss brushing and flossing while ill. Cold medicines tend to dry out your mouth, which will also increase bacteria levels in your mouth. You may want to opt for purchasing sugar-free cough drops and buying cold medication in the pill form. Make sure to drink plenty of water when you’re sick. Water is your body and mouth’s best asset during the cold and flu season. If you have any questions about medication and your teeth, please ask our staff and they can give you helpful tips. Please take care yourself and family members this cold and flu season. Each and every child must have a first at the dental clinic, how you prepare the child and yourself can make a difference on how that FIRST dental visit goes. Here are some helpful hints:
Be there for your child and be a role model in the dental visit. If you are going to be there during the visit, then it’s important you are able to keep a positive attitude. If you’re afraid of the dentist then you could easily transfer these negative emotions to your child. Sometimes if you show fear during the first visit, it can last a lifetime. It’s sometimes hard for parents to realize, but most kids are comfortable during the first visit. Most are very curious about things around the office. If all the NEW things are explained to a child, they are enthusiastic about trying them out. Do not bring up past dental experiences or show emotion around your child. What they learn from you they will model. Your feelings can be very different from the feelings of your child. Remember that dental anxieties can be learned, you must be very careful not to pass those fears down to your child. Tips Your goal is to provide moral support. We ask that you support us as the authority figure while we’re working with your child. Try to speak in a low, calm voice and try not to repeat what we ask of your child. We would like to create a bond with your child (one of trust). If your child requires additional visits shortly after their initial exam, it’s a good idea for the same parent to come with them. It creates a continuity for child. We want a lifetime of good experiences at the dentist. A person isn’t born with a fear of the dentist. Today’s dental procedures are virtually painless and there are so many options for care such as:
Your dentist will go over your child’s treatment plan with you and come up with the best for your child’s needs. The first experience at the dentist should be a positive one. This will lead to a lifetime of healthy teeth. |
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Young at Heart Dental and Braces with Vision Now! 317 W 3rd St., Suite 104 La Junta, CO 81050 Phone: 719-733-3303 |