April 2005 - Tower - Page 2
Notes From the
Bette C. Jones, RN
|
Periodontal diseases
are
infections that affect the tissues and
bone that support teeth. This causes
enlarged pockets where bacteria grow
and left untreated, periodontal diseases
may eventually lead to bone loss.
People at high risk:
- People who smoke or chew
tobacco.
- Have systemic diseases such as
diabetes. Such diseases lower
body resistance.
- Many medications such as
steroids, anti-epilepsy, cancer
therapy drugs, blood pressure
drugs and oral contraceptives.
These drugs decrease saliva in
the mouth. Review medications
with your dentist.
- Bridges that do not fit properly,
crooked, crowded teeth, or
fillings that have become
defective. These problems hold
plaque and increase the risk of
developing disease.
- Puberty, pregnancy and oral
contraceptives change the body's
hormone levels. This can cause
gum tissue to become more
sensitive to toxins and enzymes.
- Genetics: A family history of
tooth loss.
Symptoms of periodontal disease:
- Gums that bleed easily
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums that have pulled away from your
teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pus between the teeth or gums
- Loose or separating teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit
together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
Prevention:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a
fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth once a day with
dental floss or another interdental
cleaner to remove plaque and debris
from areas your toothbrush can't reach.
- Eat a balanced diet for good general
health and limit snacks
- Visit your dentist regularly. Professional
cleanings are the only way to remove
tartar, which traps bacteria along the gum
line.
Remember the time to begin a health routine is
during childhood. Monitor the habits of your
children and grandchildren. Tooth loss is
preventable!
NOTE OF THANKS: Anne Elder and Martha
Dodson are doing a fantastic job on the bulletin
boards. Anne does the board across from the
fountain and Martha changes the shut-in board
according to the season. A job well done and
greatly appreciated!
Historically Speaking
Louise Fox, Historian
According to The Book of Discipline,
"Heritage Sunday shall be observed on the Sunday
following April 23, the date of the birth of The
United Methodist Church."
On the last Sunday in April, the 24th, we
will observe Heritage Sunday. For this
occasion, I am having a booklet
published: Pastors of First United
Methodist Church, Newport News, The
First Eighty-Six Years.
The booklet will be on
sale for $8, and all of that
money will go toward our
church's Building Fund.