Improve Your Smile with a Picnic | Ottawa Dentist

There is nothing better than a day in the sun. And now that it’s summertime, loads of us plan on getting together with friends and family to enjoy the warm weather. So, we pack up a lunch and head out into the sun with our loved ones. What you add to that picnic basket will not only dictate a fantastic time, but it can also have an effect on your dental health. So, before you pack up your afternoon nosh, let’s take a look at things you can add to look after your smile.

A common staple to a picnic is a sandwich, and there are loads of options you can go with. Cold cuts are a great source of proteins protects tooth enamel, calcium-rich cheeses strengthen your teeth and jawbones and veggies like leafy greens containing high water content and fiber stimulates saliva production to wash away bacteria.

When it comes to snacks, we tend to reach for the junk food items, but there are lots of snack options that pairs well with an outdoor meal. Fruit, trail mix, veggies to dip are just a few of the greatest ways to get our vitamins and minerals to improve our dental health. So, indulge in your favorite foods – after all, it is a picnic – but have healthier options on hand as well to balance things out.

Because the weather is warm, it is important to make sure that you are staying hydrated. The best way to do that is drinking plenty of water. Sure, sugary drinks are tasty, but the sugar intake is dehydrating your system, so having water will not only keep you cool, but will keep your saliva production going as well. Smile – and enjoy your boost of vitamin D.

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.

Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

Should You Follow the Trends? | Ottawa Dentist

Everyone does their best to try and stay healthy as much as we can. Our lives are busy, and it feels like the world never stops for a second. And when a new trend develops, especially when it comes to our health, we will contemplate giving it a go. One of the latest trends coming down the pipe is flavored water. You know the ones – it seems like everyone is on a water-drinking kick these days and brands like La Croix are heading the revolution. But are these drinks really better for us? Depends on how you look at it… We know that drinking water is essential to keeping our bodies hydrated and working properly. It isn’t the most delicious option available, but we need to drink it. So, drinking these fizzy cans of delightful tasting water is perfect! Not quite. Yes, it is better than say, a regular soda. No sugar to develop into cavities. In fact, there is no sweetener involved at all. But it is still fizzy. And it’s the fizz that is at the root of the problem. The carbonation and flavoring are acidic, which will begin to break down your tooth enamel. And as that enamel breaks down, your teeth are susceptible to cavities. Now, there is no need to fret too much – the fact that you are minimizing your sugar intake and drinking more water is going to be great for your overall health. Just don’t make carbonated water the substitute for the real thing. Drink in moderation and you should be A-OK. If you would like more information about carbonated beverages, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com. Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.