Oral Risk Factors From Lack of Calcium in Reno, Nevada

July is National Ice Cream Month, which is a great time to load up on extra calcium for strong teeth and nutrients that help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease. While ice cream should not be a key part of your diet, it is possible to choose a healthier version of this sweet treat to enjoy in moderation.

ice-cream-bowlChoosing the right ice cream

With more health-conscious consumers on the rise, ice cream manufacturers now offer a myriad of options that are low in sugar or sugar free. It is also important to check for labels that use natural sweeteners such as sugar and fruit juice.

Cultured milk products like yogurt have additional health benefits due to probiotics and protein, calcium riboflavin, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Select a frozen yogurt rather than traditional ice cream to help lower the odds of developing tooth decay.

Get the scoop on calcium and vitamin D

We have all heard that calcium builds strong bones and teeth, but did you know that a lack of calcium is actually a risk factor for gum disease? Calcium can also be used to help treat gum disease, as studies have shown that supplements improve treatment outcomes.

Vitamin D, which is found in ice cream alongside calcium, can also help treat gum disease, and it has been linked to the success of dental implants. Several studies have shown that vitamin D deficiencies can lead to early failure of dental implants, while a healthy dose of vitamin D can actually spur dental implant success by enhancing the fixation of titanium.

ice-creamMake Eating Ice Cream Fun Again

Sometimes dental issues cause us to avoid eating ice cream. You may experience tooth sensitivity when it comes to cold foods, or you may be tired of eating primarily soft foods due to missing teeth. Caffaratti Dental Group can make eating ice cream fun again!

Sensitive teeth are caused by enamel loss, and there are many treatment options. Depending on your level of sensitivity, desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride gel, a crown or root canal may be able to reduce or eliminate your tooth sensitivity. Often your sensitive teeth can be treated through proper at-home oral hygiene and regular visits for teeth cleanings and checkups.

If you’re missing teeth and unable to enjoy sprinkling nuts or hard, crunchy candy on your ice cream, you should consider dental implants or implant-supported dentures. These options allow you to eat practically as well as someone with real teeth. So go ahead, eat the cone!

Minimize negative effects

As a reminder, sugar begins its disastrous work on your teeth as soon as you eat it; so try these tips when enjoying that double-dip cone or banana split:

  • Avoid ice cream with extras like caramel or syrup
  • Rinse with water after eating
  • Brush teeth as soon as possible

Care for your teeth – you only get one set!

If you are unable to comfortably celebrate National Ice Cream Month, let us help! We offer many treatment options for both tooth sensitivity, like sealants and root canals, and missing teeth, such as dental implants and dentures. And don’t neglect regularly scheduled cleanings to avoid gum disease, especially if you’ve had a few too many hot fudge sundaes! Call (775) 358-1555 today to schedule your private consultation.