Spring Break
Dental hygeine essential for overall health
Janina Wesolowski
Issue date: 10/31/07 Section: Arts & Lifestyle
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The stereotype of college students when it comes to dental check-ups is that of the poor, uninsured student who only goes to the dentist in emergencies.
UW-Whitewater senior Stephanie Skaarnes admits to going to the dentist approximately once a year instead of every six months.
Skaarnes is one of many people who have had dreams about losing teeth or breaking teeth.
"I woke up and immediately felt around in my mouth to make sure my teeth were all there," Skaarnes said.
In her dream, she took a bite of an apple and with every bite, more of her teeth fell out. She could stick her tongue into the valleys where her teeth had been. When asked why she had such dreams, the most common factor was going to bed with a tooth ache.
The office of Dr. Thomas Rowley, a dentist in Whitewater, has a college student client base of about 40 percent.
In most cases students come in with emergencies like severe tooth aches or for trouble with wisdom teeth. Approximately 20 percent of the college student client base comes in less than every six months.
Elizabeth Baptie, a junior, is atypical of the 40 percent Dr. Rowley's office handles. Baptie has had dental issues for several years, and as of late, has seen her dental hygienist once a week.
Baptie's dental problems started with her gums and now impact her teeth, circulatory system and heart.
"If people don't get their teeth and dental hygiene maintained, it … can then lead to other health concerns," Baptie said.
Scientists have debated the possibility of a link between periodontitis, a loss or weakening of the bone around teeth which can cause teeth to loosen or fall out, and coronary heart disease and type II diabetes.
To prevent tooth decay, there are a number of steps that can be taken.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing teeth twice a day using toothpaste enriched with fluoride to help prevent enamel decay. On average, toothbrushes should be replaced every three or four months. People should also floss daily to remove food and plaque from between teeth and gums.
Foods high in sugar and acid like soda, coffee and fruit juices weaken the enamel, or protective layer of the tooth. Balanced diets, regular professional cleanings and oral exams will also help keep teeth healthy and strong. The ADA also recommends brushing the tongue to eliminate bacteria and freshen breath.
UW-Whitewater senior Stephanie Skaarnes admits to going to the dentist approximately once a year instead of every six months.
Skaarnes is one of many people who have had dreams about losing teeth or breaking teeth.
"I woke up and immediately felt around in my mouth to make sure my teeth were all there," Skaarnes said.
In her dream, she took a bite of an apple and with every bite, more of her teeth fell out. She could stick her tongue into the valleys where her teeth had been. When asked why she had such dreams, the most common factor was going to bed with a tooth ache.
The office of Dr. Thomas Rowley, a dentist in Whitewater, has a college student client base of about 40 percent.
In most cases students come in with emergencies like severe tooth aches or for trouble with wisdom teeth. Approximately 20 percent of the college student client base comes in less than every six months.
Elizabeth Baptie, a junior, is atypical of the 40 percent Dr. Rowley's office handles. Baptie has had dental issues for several years, and as of late, has seen her dental hygienist once a week.
Baptie's dental problems started with her gums and now impact her teeth, circulatory system and heart.
"If people don't get their teeth and dental hygiene maintained, it … can then lead to other health concerns," Baptie said.
Scientists have debated the possibility of a link between periodontitis, a loss or weakening of the bone around teeth which can cause teeth to loosen or fall out, and coronary heart disease and type II diabetes.
To prevent tooth decay, there are a number of steps that can be taken.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing teeth twice a day using toothpaste enriched with fluoride to help prevent enamel decay. On average, toothbrushes should be replaced every three or four months. People should also floss daily to remove food and plaque from between teeth and gums.
Foods high in sugar and acid like soda, coffee and fruit juices weaken the enamel, or protective layer of the tooth. Balanced diets, regular professional cleanings and oral exams will also help keep teeth healthy and strong. The ADA also recommends brushing the tongue to eliminate bacteria and freshen breath.
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