Dorm Dental Dangers – Why a toothache should never be part of the curriculum.
Ontario’s college and university campuses are filling up with about two million students, some living on their own for the first time. It’s always fun and exciting to start a new year of school, but there’s never been more reason for undergrads to stick with a healthy dental care routine.
Daily brushing and flossing and regular check-ups at the dentist are crucial because post-secondary school life is filled with temptations that can have a negative effect on mouths and teeth.
Junk Food: When cramming for tests or staying up late researching for a paper, convenience and fast foods can win out over nutritious snacks and nourishing meals and that can lead to poor dental and overall health and well-being.
Alcohol: From the carbonation in beer to the acid and sugar in mixed drinks and wine, alcoholic beverages are no friend to your teeth and can cause cavities, enamel erosion or tooth sensitivity.
Smoking and Vaping: We all know how bad smoking and chewing tobacco is for us and there are still no conclusive, long-term studies indicating e-cigarettes are a safe or healthier alternative to smoking.
HPV and STIs: Increasing research suggests the human papilloma virus (HPV) is the main cause of some mouth and throat cancers. Symptoms of other sexually transmitted infections (STI) can also include mouth sores and other forms of oral inflammation.
Ontario Dental Association President, Dr. LouAnn Visconti, says, “Your dentist can spot possible trouble long before you can see or feel it. Take advantage of the dental coverage included in tuition fees, or through your parent’s work benefits and keep regular appointments with the dentist. Keeping your mouth healthy means you can focus on your studies and social life instead!”
McNaughton Family Dental
68 McNaughton Ave.
Wallaceburg, Ontario
(519) 627-3588
