Thursday, November 15, 2007

Health Tips for November 15

Health Tip: Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Good dental hygiene can protect your teeth and gums from decay and other serious problems. Left untreated, dental and gum diseases can lead to tooth loss, infection, and damage to bones and nerves.

The American Dental Association offers these guidelines for proper hygiene:

* At least twice a day (and after meals when you can), brush with a fluoride toothpaste.
* Use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
* Floss at least once each day. If possible, floss after every meal to remove food particles from between teeth.
* Get a new toothbrush at least once every three months, or whenever the brush's bristles become frayed and worn.
* Limit sugary meals, drinks and snacks.
* Visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup.

Health Tip: Carrying Twins?

A woman who is pregnant with more than one baby probably needs even more prenatal care than the average pregnant woman, since her babies are at greater-than-average risk of complications.

Here are possible complications of multiple pregnancies, courtesy of the American Pregnancy Association:

* Going into labor early.
* Preeclampsia.
* Pregnancy-induced hypertension (high blood pressure).
* Gestational diabetes.
* Restricted growth inside the uterus.
* Miscarriage.

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