What’s On Your Summer Reading List?

With summer in full swing, our team at 19th Street Dental wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on your summer reading list? What books do you plan to read out in the sunshine? Which ones would you recommend to your friends? Is there a book you just can't help but read over and over? We'd love to hear what you have to say.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Omega-3 May Combat Mouth Bacteria, Boost Oral Health

Our team read an article about the dental health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin. A study from the University of Kentucky reveals that all types of food-borne omega-3 fats (like tuna, walnuts and spinach) cut the numbers of oral disease bacteria by half or more.

The study found that "the dental health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids of marine and plant origin have been found to have strong anti-bacterial activity against a range of oral pathogens and "may include anti-bacterial effects, extending the benefits beyond inflammation." Drs. Ebersole and Huang said that they planned to conduct further studies needed to prove that omega-3s acids work in people’s mouths. While this is encouraging news, Drs. Trushar Patel and Tammy Zeineddin want to remind you that self–examination is another simple way of looking after yourself. If you are unsure about self-examining your mouth, please give us a call and schedule an appointment at 19th Street Dental!

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Drs. Trushar Patel and Tammy Zeineddin will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

Our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!