Electronic Newsletter

SmileLine is a monthly e-newsletter distributed to consumers, media outlets, and members of the dental profession who are interested in receiving the latest oral health news delivered directly to their e-mail inbox.

Cavities/Tooth Decay Highly Preventable Disease Affects Millions The statistics are staggering: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over four million children are affected by tooth decay nationwide, a jump of over 600,000 additional preschoolers over the course of a decade.  Senior citizens, those with diets high in carbohydrates and people who live in areas without a fluoridated water supply are also likely candidates for cavities.  > > > Mouthguards Mouthguards Fight "Weekend Warrior" Most people, kids included, have experienced the "weekend warrior" syndrome, where you think your body is invincible to injury and that you do not need protective gear such as helmets for your head and pads for your knees, shins and elbows. In particular, teeth are often forgotten. Although the dental profession unanimously supports the use of mouthguards in a variety of athletic and recreational activities, consumers remain resistant to and ill-informed of the importance and advantages of wearing a mouthguard during their weekend activities.  > > >

Tooth Erosion Root Beer May Be "Safest" Soft Drink   Exposing teeth to soft drinks, even for a short period of time, causes dental erosion—and prolonged exposure can lead to significant enamel loss. Root beer products, however, are non-carbonated and do not contain the acids that harm teeth, according to a study in the March/April 2007 issue of General Dentistry, the AGD’s clinical, peer-reviewed journal.  That might be something to consider during the next visit to the grocery store.  > > > FAQs: Dental Emergencies Dental emergencies can be avoided by taking some simple precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard during sports and recreation and staying away from hard food such as candy that may crack a tooth. Accidents do happen however, and it is important to know what actions to take immediately. Oral injuries are often painful and should be treated by a dentist as soon as possible.  > > >

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