March Is Nutrition Month

Eat Right focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. Registered Dietitian Day, also celebrated in March, increases awareness of registered dietitians as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services and recognizes RDs for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.

The 2013 National Nutrition Month theme is “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.”

Check their website for more info http://www.eatright.org/Media/content.aspx?id=7849#.UTZcdDCG1Cg

Prevent Decay with Dental Sealants

What are dental sealants?

Made of plastic, dental sealants applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to protect tooth enamel from decay-causing bacteria and acids. These sealants fit perfectly into the depression and groves (pits and fissures) of your children’s teeth, protecting them from decay.

When should dental sealants be applied?

Decay can begin early in life, so children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon as they erupt – around age 6 for first molars and age 12 for second molars.

Are sealants safe?

Yes. Although in rare cases, some people may have an allergic reaction to the plastic.

Will my insurance pay for sealants?

Dental insurance typically will pay for sealants for children and teenagers’ permanent molars.  Be sure to check with your dental insurance company about your plan, as coverage does vary.

Pacifiers and Oral Health

Pacifiers can be great for children, especially during their first six months. It has calming effects and aids in the development of jaw muscles. Although pacifier use is generally a healthy habit, continued or improper use may ultimately have a negative impact on your child’s oral and overall health.

Potential pacifier problems:

Increased risk of middle ear infection

Improper growth of the mouth

Misalignment of teeth

Dental crossbite and/or open bite

Development of a thumb-sucking habit

Tips for correct pacifier use:

Purchase orthodontically designed pacifiers

Check for cracks, discoloration or tears in rubber

Clean pacifier daily with mild soap and water

Do not tie pacifiers around your infant’s neck

Saying goodbye to the pacifier:

Limit pacifier use gradually over time

Reduce pacifier satisfaction by piercing the pacifier’s nipple

Dip the pacifier in a safe but undesirable flavor, such as white vinegar

Go “cold turkey” and refuse to offer the pacifier