The cavity equation

Wall Street journal interviews Dr.Ruchi

The Wall Street journal interviewed Dr. Ruchi last week. Take a look at the article in the newspaper today... Or online here: http://www.wsj.com/articles/do-teeth-stand-a-chance-against-halloween-1445889999?mod=e2tw

Teeth Before Dentists

Have you ever wondered how our distant ancestors managed to maintain healthy teeth and gums  before toothbrushes and dental floss were invented? 

According to recent research involving analysis of plaque (the sticky film that develops naturally on teeth) taken from 34 ancient skeletons, our ancestors’ teeth had more good bacteria than our own teeth have. 

As a result, the ancients’ teeth were better able to fend off bad bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. 

One reason for the healthier bacteria is that our ancestors didn’t eat processed foods. As time progressed and hunters and gatherers turned to farming, teeth took a turn for a worse. The advent of processed sugar and corn syrup has led to further decline of our teeth.

Did you know candy wasn't always a part of Halloween?

Along time ago, trick-or-treaters were given non candy treats such as homemade cookies, fruits and toys. 

History.com reports,

"For most American kids, it wouldn’t be Halloween without trick-or-treating for candy; however, that wasn’t always the case. When the custom of trick-or-treating started in the 1930s and early 1940s, children were given everything from homemade cookies and pieces of cake to fruit, nuts, coins and toys. In the 1950s, candy manufacturers began to get in on the act and promote their products for Halloween, and as trick-or-treating became more popular, candy was increasingly regarded as an affordable, convenient offering. It wasn’t until the 1970s, though, that wrapped, factory-made candy was viewed as the only acceptable thing to hand out to all the little ghosts and goblins that showed up on people’s doorsteps. A key reason for this was safety, as parents feared that real-life boogeymen might tamper with goodies that weren’t store-bought and sealed"

Gum disease linked to Stroke

Over the past few years, there has been increased awareness that periodontal (gum) disease is linked with other health conditions. Much of the problem has to do with the fact that gum disease is fueled by bacteria that cause inflammation. 

Patients may therefore want to note the finding of a study recently published in Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association, which involved examination of over 500,000 individuals with untreated periodontal disease and over 200,000 without gum problems over a ten-year period. This study linked periodontal disease to an increased risk of stroke. Those study participants who had regular dental cleanings and/or extensive treatment for advanced gum disease (periodontitis) had the lowest risk of stroke.

Dr. Ruchi Reviews - Mrs. Funnybones by Twinkle Khanna

We've been talking about this book in the office because both of us (Dr.Nijjar and Dr.Ruchi) have been reading Mrs. Funnybones for our book club.

Here is Dr. Ruchi's Book Review... leave a comment below. Let us know what you think.

"Written by the daughter of Bollywood superstars, wife of a Bollywood superstar, and probably a mother of future superstars, this book is short and sweet, witty and full of smart-allicky jokes, and all-around fun. It has moments of silliness mixed in with poignant reflections on life. She shines as a mother. Doesn't take herself too seriously. And twinkles in the crazy, glamorous life she lives --yet makes me think that she is in the end... just one of us. "

Chewing ice can be dangerous

So many of our patients admit that they chew ice. 

Though it seems innocent... it can actually be very dangerous.

Be careful, continuous chewing on ice can wear and tear on the enamel of your teeth. 

Are you brushing correctly?

Did you know that two minutes twice a day can save you from bad breath, cavities, and gum disease?

That's right. IF you brush correctly twice a day, you can prevent bacteria from causing all pain, cavities, and infections in your mouth.

Let's learn how to brush from Dr. Ruchi on this video from the American Dental Association

• Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums. 
• Gently move the brush back and forth in short (tooth-wide) strokes. 
• Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up-and-down strokes.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.