diligence

for 20 minutes, which increases the amount of decay-causing bacteria. So if you have a soda, for instance, and take one drink every 15 minutes from 2 to 4:30 p.m., it is more harmful than drinking it during a 40-minute lunch. You have to look at the ingredients of your beverages, not just sugar content. Sugar-free does not mean destruction-free in the mouth. Citric acids in waters and carbon dioxide in diet soda are ingredients that decrease the pH, creating an environment that breaks down the tooth structure.

We all know that sugary foods such as candy are bad for dental health. Are there foods that promote dental health?

Use good common sense nutrition with a balance of low acidity foods that are high in fiber, plant-based foods, low-fat diet and moderate intake of proteins.

What is Waterlase Technology and how is it used?

Just about all small and moderate cavities can be cleaned, prepared and filled utilizing waterlaser dentistry (Waterlase) and without the use of a local anesthetic, which means no shots. Topical anesthetics are sometimes used during Waterlase treatments. The technology also can be used in the treatments of periodontal disease, endodontics (root canal therapy), oral surgery and aphthous ulcers (canker sores) and cold sores that always come up when you least expect them to. Waterlase allows dentists to simplify the management of these procedures that were commonly more invasive and uncomfortable. For example, many periodontal disease treatments with Waterlase require much less gum removal and heal faster when the laser is used in conjunction with other methods.