| In
1959, dentists performed 34 extractions for every 100 people; now
it’s half that rate. Getting dentures was considered a natural
step in aging. The number of people indentured to their artificial
bites goes down by the year. |
|
Thanks
to fluoride and other preventive methods, baby boomers are probably the
last generation that will have a lot of cavities in their permanent teeth.
View advertisment (1960s)
Many
drugs can cause cavities. Saliva is a natural bacteria destroyer, and
anti-depressants, antihypertensives, antihistamines, decongestants, and
muscle relaxants can all inhibit saliva production.
(Smoking
caterpillars also have to take care.)
Two out
of three people brush too hard, says Dr. Trucia Drommond of Chicago, causing
damage to gums and teeth. His prescription? Soft bristles, a loose grip
between thumb and forefinger, just a smidgen of toothpaste, and 2-5 minutes
of oh-so-gentle caressing instead of 1 minute of scrubbing.
View...
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