Adding fluoride to public water supplies is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay and has played a major role in in improving the public’s dental health for more than 70 years. "Fluoride’s effectiveness in preventing tooth decay extends throughout one’s life, resulting in fewer—and less severe̵—cavities," says former Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy. Read on to learn more about what the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has proclaimed as one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century. What Is Community Water Fluoridation?     Fluoridation of community water supplies is simply the adjustment of the existing, naturally occurring fluoride in drinking water to an optimal level for the prevention of tooth decay. Think of it this way: Water that has been fortified with fluoride is similar to fortifying milk with Vitamin D, table salt with iodine, and bread and cereals with folic acid.  The number of communities who make th...

You don't need another reason to feed your child nutritious snacks. Though, you might be interested in knowing those wholesome foods that fuel your child's growing body also impact the health and development of their teeth. Understand how your child's foods affect oral health and find out which teeth-healthy snacks to keep stocked in your pantry or fridge. A Teeth-Healthy Snack Plan for Kids The eating habits your kids learn today will impact them for the rest of their lives. Teach them the "what," "when," and "how" of teeth-healthy snacking to set them up for years of nutritious choices. What Are Teeth-Healthy Snacks? With more options than ever before, it can be challenging to determine which kid-friendly snacks are the healthiest choices. When it comes to your child's teeth, foods high in vitamins and minerals, and low in sugar make the best snacks. Sugar feeds the bacteria in plaque and causes it to release an acid that attacks the ena...

If you suspect you have gum disease and are experiencing some of its symptoms such as sore gums , it may help to compare your gums to the pictures of healthy gums and gum disease below, from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis . If your gums look like they’re in the early stages of gum disease, bring it to the attention of your dentist and hygienist at your next visit. Gingivitis The most common way to identify gingivitis is to look for gum inflammation and bleeding.     Early Periodontitis Pictures During the early stages of periodontitis, symptoms include noticeably receding gum and pockets between gums and teeth.     Advanced Periodontitis As periodontitis progresses, tissue and bone that support teeth are lost, causing loose teeth.   Healthy Gums vs. Unhealthy Gums If you have healthy gums, they will look firm and pink. Some signs of unhealthy gums include redness and swelling, gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth, and gums that appear to be...