Choosing a toothbrushWritten by Tony Forster
Continued from page 1
between 3 and 4 minutes at least twice a day, that's in morning and before going to bed. You could use an egg timer to measure your brushing time or perhaps you'd prefer to brush your teeth whilst listening to radio as most modern songs are about 3 minutes long.
Your toothbrush...
Looking at range of brushes on offer is it little wonder that we are somewhat perplexed when making right decision? All brushes comprise same components, an average brush has approximately 2,500 bristles grouped into tufts. The tufts are folded over a metal staple and forced into pre cored holes in head and fixed in place. The handle is normally made of plastic and rubber for comfort and shaped to fit hand at right angle and with comfort. That's basics of your toothbrush so here's what to look for...
The best bristles to consider are those with rounded ends and of medium texture, head of brush should be small enough to reach your back teeth easily, completely and in comfort. The handle must be long enough to reach all areas of your mouth without difficulty and for those who have difficulty holding small items there is now a range of wide or thick handled brushes or electric toothbrushes to consider.
When to replace your brush?
Dentists recommend that your toothbrushes should be replaced in following circumstances - After every 3 months of use
- After a cold or illness
- When bristles lose their shape
Electric toothbrushes
Once a novelty item in bathroom electric toothbrushes are becoming increasingly popular, recent studies suggest there are some advantages for people in using an electric toothbrush, these include improved cleaning, better removal of staining and plaque and they are particularly good for people who have limited manual dexterity.
Children often prefer an electric toothbrush due to smaller head making easier to reach all areas of mouth, they also like novelty value of buzzing and with manufacturers making electric toothbrushes specifically designed for children it is likely that next generation will see an electric toothbrush as norm.
Tony Forster has a keen interest in dental care and bad breath treatment and has
compiled many useful resources at www.eliminate-bad-breath.info
The content of this article is for information purposes only, it is advisable to consult
your medical or dental practitioner before implementing any program or change to
your current regime.
| | Childhood ObesityWritten by Karen Zastudil
Continued from page 1
With childhood obesity reaching epidemic proportions in United States, many states are mandating measurement of BMI in preschoolers and school children, hoping to get a grip on situation. The consequences of obesity are having a dramatic effect of quality of peoples lives. Many overweight and obese children suffer a loss of self esteem, and are embarrassed or humiliated by their peers. These children also face serious health risks such as development of type-2 diabetes, hypertension and gallbladder problems, which can leave serious long-term damage. Just as a note, "twenty-five years ago, type 2 diabetes - which is caused by obesity and inactivity - was considered a disease that afflicted only adults. Today, type 2 diabetes is most common form of diabetes in children .... one out of four overweight children is developing diabetes." Type 2 diabetes is leading cause of blindness, kidney failure and amputations. You CAN do something to stop this dreaded disease! Dealing with weight problems as a family is a good idea. Don't single out overweight child. Don't announce plans to change way your family eats. The best way to bring about positive change is to introduce it gradually with as little fuss as possible. When grocery shopping, leave your children at home if possible, and forget chips and fatty snacks. Load up on fruits, vegetables, popcorn and pretzels instead. One of best ways to help your overweight child to slim down is by using principal of substitution. When your child starts digging around looking for something to eat, if he is really hungry he will improvise. If not, he will do without. In doing this, you will be able to exert some measure of control over what your child is eating without ever saying a word. Getting family involved in physical activities not only brings family closer together, it is an important factor in losing weight and reducing stress. Make time to go for a hike, ride bikes, swim, or ski. You'll be glad you did.
Karen Zastudil is a retired financial analyst with a BA in Economics and Marketing - as the parent, Karen is an advocate for others who are interested in parenting and womens issues. Karen shares her wisdom and her resources at http://www.womenatthesummit.com
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