Archive for February, 2012

Strange Toothache Remedies from the Past

Tuesday, February 14th, 2012

We are lucky that dentistry has evolved over the centuries.  When we have a tooth problem we can go to the dentist and receive treatment that really works.  That wasn’t the case in earlier times.

It was commonly believed that toothaches were caused by a tooth worm and there were many unusual remedies and cures.  Here are a few you may not want to try:

  • Place tobacco in your armpit
  • Kill a mouse and hold it on the aching tooth
  • Lick a toad’s belly
  • Catch a frog under a full moon and spit in its mouth
  • Take a tooth from a corpse and wear it around your neck
  • Boil earthworms in oil and pour into the ear on the side of the toothache.

If you would prefer more technologically advanced dental care and a preventive approach, give us a call.

(626) 285-0285 Alhambra, CA

Posted in Dental Trivia, Toothache | No Comments »

Can a Lollipop Prevent Cavities?

Wednesday, February 1st, 2012

A recent study demonstrated that lollipops containing sweet licorice root extract dramatically decreased the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

A group of children ages 2-5 were given the sugar free, orange flavored lollipops for 10 minutes twice a day over a period of three weeks.  Saliva tests showed that the cavity causing bacteria were greatly reduced and continued to be for 22 weeks after.

While more research needs to be done, this is promising news.  Dental decay is one of the most common childhood diseases, affecting about 50% of children between 5 and 17 years old.  Being able to apply a preventive measure in a way that kids will easily comply with has the potential for creating a positive shift in the dental health of children.  It also opens the door for possible solutions for cavity prone adults and the disabled.

Until then – brushing, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups are still the best way to keep our children’s smiles healthy.

(626) 285-0285  Alhambra, CA

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Dental Health News, cavities | No Comments »