Zombies have the worst gum disease and bad breath. But you can keep them and their problems at bay.
On "The Walking Dead," there is a whole new set of zombies this season. And, as we all know, the walking dead are the champions of repulsive oral health. After all, they've had a lifetime to perfect awful dental habits. Look at their gums. Yellow dental plaque is covering their once-white teeth, while their gum lines are jagged and dirty.
First off, the zombies have a horrible diet. What we eat plays a large role in the health of our teeth and gums, since bacteria in the mouth convert sugars from the foods we eat into acids, which wear away dental enamel. The more sugary the foods, the more likely you are to experience tooth decay and cavities.
So, in order to prevent scary, zombie-like smiles, here is a list of mouth-healthy foods and drinks:
- Opt for apples, celery and other vegetables. Crunchy foods can actually dislodge stray particles between teeth, while their high water content helps wash down the sugary effects. These foods also stimulate saliva production, which rinses the mouth of acid and bacteria.
- Cheeses are a particularly beneficial option to keep your teeth looking fresh and vital. Certain cheeses, like aged cheddar, Monterey Jack, Swiss, Gouda and American varieties, have been shown to coat the teeth, re-hardening surface enamel and combating acid erosion.
- Steer clear of hard candies, brains, human flesh and soft drinks. These all have been known to end poorly for your teeth and gums.
Secondly, zombies are the poster people for gingivitis, the inflammation of the gums, and periodontitis, an advanced-stage gum disease. Their gums have eroded, a sight that would appall dentists. The lower the gumline, the bigger the pockets that harbor anaerobic bacteria and dental plaque. Additionally, food pieces compound with our bodies' natural bacteria to create bad breath.
Zombies are mindless of good dental health practices. Zombie or not, you can avoid gum disease and bad breath by flossing once a day and brushing twice per day. It has been shown that if you floss before brushing, you stand a higher chance of developing it as a habit.
Focusing specifically on the gums, you can brush in small, circular motions to shed bacteria. This is will leave your gums feeling fresh and healthy.
Regular visits to your dentist are crucial for a healthy smile. It is recommended that you make an appointment about every six months. Dental professionals can examine individual teeth and the region where the gum meets the teeth in order to keep your mouth as shiny as possible. If you have any concerns, such as a receding gum line or need for a cavity treatment, your dentist will be glad to help.
Keep your mouth away from "The Walking Dead" levels; otherwise, you might find yourself endlessly wandering for friends to hang out with as well. For a dental appointment, contact Oyster Point Dentistry.
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