Friday, August 31, 2012

Dental Care and Dementia

On our last blog post we discussed how brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand could help give your brain cells a boost, and today we are excited about the new study on Dentition, Dental Health Habits and Dementia which explores the association between good dental health and lower cases of dementia. 5468 adults, with the average age of 81, were followed from 1992 to 2010 regarding dental health, specifically on the number of natural teeth, dentures worn, number of visits to the dentist and oral health habits. The research shows that in addition to helping maintaining natural, healthy, functional teeth, oral health behaviors are associated with lower risk of dementia in older adults.


This study supports the importance of taking care of your teeth. Please remember to:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
  • Make sure to use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
  • Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay-causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
  • Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Thursday, August 16, 2012

Give Your Brain Cells A Boost While Brushing Your Teeth



We all know how important it is to brush your teeth, for a healthy mouth and smile, but did you know that if you brush with your non-dominant hand you can also give your brain cells a boost?  Doing simple tasks such as brushing your teeth, combing your hair, opening jars, washing dishes and even eating with chopsticks with your opposite hand actually strengtheners neural connections in your brain and will help grown new ones.  It might feel awkward to do some of these tasks, but brushing your teeth with the opposite hand is pretty easy once you get used to it.

Don't forget, when brushing to use a soft-bristled brush that fits your mouth and allows you to reach all areas easily.  Replace your toothbrush every three or four months or as soon as the bristles are frayed.


Thursday, August 2, 2012

Health Facts: Diabetes and Periodontal Disease


Did you know that 95% of diabetic patients have periodontal disease?


Diabetes and periodontal disease are closely linked. Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease and people with periodontal disease are more likely to develop diabetes. Treating and managing one of these conditions can help improve the other.

If you are diabetic, or have risk factors for diabetes, such as a family history, or high cholesterol, contact us to discuss your periodontal health. Request an appointment or call our office at 914.713.2424 to schedule a personal consultation during your next visit.