Yes, Oral pH Matters
We should brush and floss our teeth daily and have semi-annual cleanings to ensure our oral health is in the best shape. But if you have a medical condition that compromises your immune system, there are additional preventive measures you should take. DIABETES CAN SEVERELY AFFECT YOUR MOUTH It’s National Diabetes Month
BREAK OUT THE MARKERS AND CRAYONS
Creating art is a fun activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. There are many options for kids — they can try creating things with clay, drawing, coloring, and even finger painting. Get your child a new set of markers or crayons, and they’ll keep themselves entertained for hours. Art isn’t just for entertainment, though. When kids are allowed to create under the right conditions, it can bring many benefits. Young kids can refine their motor skills and some will even show improvement in their cognitive development. Art has the ability to open many doors for kids. Below you will find three major things that young children can learn from crafting. CREATING ART HELPS KIDS BUILD NECESSARY SKILLS. One of the most beneficial ways that art benefits children is by helping them work on their motor and problem-solving skills. When kids draw something, they need to think about how they can create what they’re picturing in their minds. They may have to fix errors, and working on their drawing skills will help them gain better control over their hands and wrists. Children who cut and glue, finger-paint, or sculpt clay will have improved coordination and dexterity. ART PROVIDES KIDS WITH ANOTHER WAY TO COMMUNICATE. Not all kids are great communicators, and this can hinder their confidence and prevent them from speaking their minds. Art provides an alternative solution to their communication problems. They can draw what they’re thinking and share that with others around them. Even when kids aren’t creating art, being around it helps ignite their imagination. CRAFTING BOOSTS CONFIDENCE. When you were a child, did you ever give your parents a picture you drew that they decided was worthy of hanging on the fridge? How did that make you feel? Chances are you felt pretty good about yourself. When kids create art, they are choosing what they make, which helps boost their self-esteem. When they share their art with others and are met with positive feedback, their confidence skyrockets. Art is much more than an activity to entertain your children. It’s an opportunity for them to fine-tune their skills and improve themselves. Encourage your children to create art — you’ll soon notice the benefits. THE BENEFITS OF KIDS CREATING ART
In honor of November being National Diabetes Month, learn how diabetes can affect your oral health.
WHAT HAPPENS IF DIABETES GOES UNTREATED? If you have diabetes, several things can compromise your oral health. The first health issue concerns a lack of moisture — your mouth is dry, or you’re producing less saliva. Saliva protects your teeth, so if your mouth is dry, you may have a higher chance of getting cavities or tooth decay. You may have high blood sugar if you have diabetes. High blood sugar can lead to cavities because the acid in sugars and starches can wear away your teeth. Another issue includes gingivitis. Since diabetes reduces your ability to fight off bacteria, your gums may be inflamed and begin to bleed, which is a sign of gingivitis. ARE PEOPLE WITH DIABETES PRONE TO GUM DISEASE? Unfortunately, yes. If you have diabetes, you have a higher chance of having a gum disorder called periodontal disease. This inflammatory condition can destroy your gums, tissues, and even bones. You’re at a higher risk of gum problems because of poor blood sugar control. This is because diabetes causes your blood vessels to change and affect the blood your gums and bones receive. CAN A DENTIST HELP ME WITH MY DIABETES? While diabetes is uncurable, it is treatable. If you have diabetes, you must visit your dentist every quarter for cleanings. Why? Because your medications can affect your gut health, making you more prone to cavities and gum disease. Frequent teeth cleanings will allow your dentist to prevent infections and other issues. Recent studies also suggest that treating gum disease can help you manage your blood sugar, which may reduce the spread of diabetes.
If you have any questions about how diabetes can affect your oral
health and how to prevent cavities and other diseases from happening, call us! We can provide more information on preventive measures and
how we will help keep your smile and mouth happy and healthy.
2 • WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
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