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<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
    <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/?sAtom=1" rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" />
    <author>
        <name>smilestore dental cosmetics</name>
    </author>
    <title>Blog/Atom feed</title>
    <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/?sRss=1</id>
    <updated>2026-08-14T23:24:06+02:00</updated>
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Warum Zähne und Immunsystem untrennbar verbunden sind</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/warum-zaehne-und-immunsystem-untrennbar-verbunden-sind</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/warum-zaehne-und-immunsystem-untrennbar-verbunden-sind"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Wie Entzündungen im Mund deine Abwehrkräfte beeinflussen &amp; welche Rolle Parodontitis für deine Gesundheit spielt.
                                        ]]>
            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 Zähne werden häufig noch immer als etwas rein „Mechanisches“ gesehen, das vor allem zum Kauen dient und aus ästhetischen Gründen wichtig ist. Doch tatsächlich sind Zähne, Zahnfleisch und der gesamte Mundraum eng mit dem Immunsystem und damit mit unseren Abwehrkräften verbunden. Entzündungen im Mund können die Allgemeingesundheit nachhaltig beeinflussen, während ein geschwächtes Immunsystem die Mundgesundheit massiv verschlechtern kann. Dieser Beitrag zeigt, wie eng dieses Zusammenspiel ist, welche Krankheitsbilder besonders relevant sind und was du im Alltag tun kannst, um sowohl deine Zähne als auch dein Immunsystem bestmöglich zu unterstützen. 
 1. Warum Zähne und Immunsystem untrennbar verbunden sind 
 Der Mund ist eines der wichtigsten Einfallstore für Bakterien, Viren und andere Krankheitserreger. Mit jedem Atemzug, jedem Schluck und jedem Bissen gelangen Mikroorganismen an Zähne, Zahnfleisch und Schleimhäute. Das Immunsystem muss hier besonders aufmerksam sein, damit potenziell schädliche Keime nicht in den Körper eindringen und dort Schaden anrichten. Wenn die lokale Abwehr im Mund überfordert ist, kann sich dieser Zustand rasch auf die gesamte Allgemeingesundheit auswirken. 
 Zähne und Zahnfleisch sind daher nicht nur ein ästhetischer Faktor, sondern ein zentraler Teil der körpereigenen Schutzbarriere. Ist das Zahnfleisch entzündet oder liegen Wurzeloberflächen frei, haben Bakterien deutlich leichteres Spiel. Das Immunsystem reagiert mit Entzündungen, um die Erreger zu bekämpfen. Halten diese Entzündungen über längere Zeit an, werden die Abwehrkräfte dauerhaft aktiviert – mit Folgen für Herz, Gefäße, Stoffwechsel und viele weitere Organsysteme. 
 2. Grundlagen: Wie das Immunsystem arbeitet 
 Um die Verbindung zwischen Zähnen und Immunsystem wirklich zu verstehen, lohnt sich ein kurzer Blick auf die Funktionsweise unserer körpereigenen Abwehr. Die Abwehrkräfte bestehen aus einem Netzwerk aus Zellen, Geweben und Botenstoffen, die ständig überprüfen, ob fremde Eindringlinge oder veränderte Zellen vorhanden sind. Die angeborene Abwehr reagiert dabei schnell und eher unspezifisch, während die erworbene Abwehr gezielt gegen bestimmte Erreger vorgeht und ein Gedächtnis ausbildet. 
 Entzündung ist in diesem System zunächst nichts Negatives, sondern ein sinnvoller Schutzmechanismus. Wenn das Zahnfleisch gerötet ist, schmerzt oder blutet, bedeutet das in der Regel, dass das Immunsystem aktiv gegen bakterielle Plaque arbeitet. Kritisch wird es, wenn dieser Zustand chronisch wird und nicht mehr abklingt. Dann wirken die Botenstoffe der Entzündung nicht nur lokal im Mund, sondern gelangen über die Blutbahn in den gesamten Körper und beeinflussen langfristig die Allgemeingesundheit. 
 3. Der Mund als Eingangstor: Mikrobiom, Bakterien und Schleimhäute 
 Im Mundraum befindet sich ein komplexes Ökosystem aus Milliarden von Bakterien, Pilzen und anderen Mikroorganismen. Dieses orale Mikrobiom ist nicht grundsätzlich schädlich – im Gegenteil, viele dieser Bakterien sind harmlos oder sogar nützlich und helfen, ein Gleichgewicht zu erhalten. Gerät dieses Gleichgewicht allerdings aus der Balance, vermehren sich krankmachende Keime und können das Zahnfleisch und den Zahnhalteapparat angreifen. 
 Speichel spielt bei den Abwehrkräften im Mund eine Schlüsselrolle. Er spült Nahrungsreste weg, neutralisiert Säuren und enthält Enzyme sowie Antikörper, die Bakterien in Schach halten. Ein dauerhaft trockener Mund, etwa durch Medikamente, Stress oder bestimmte Erkrankungen, nimmt dem Körper einen wichtigen Schutzmechanismus. In der Folge entstehen schneller Zahnbelag, Karies und Zahnfleischentzündungen, die wiederum das Immunsystem und die Allgemeingesundheit belasten. 
 4. Zahnfleischentzündung und Parodontitis als Dauerstress fürs Immunsystem 
 Die häufigste entzündliche Erkrankung im Mund ist die Zahnfleischentzündung, auch Gingivitis genannt. Sie entsteht, wenn sich Zahnbelag am Zahnfleischrand ansammelt und dort Bakterien Toxine freisetzen. Das Zahnfleisch reagiert mit Rötung, Schwellung und Blutung – besonders beim Zähneputzen oder beim Kauen. In diesem Stadium sind das Zahnfleisch und die Abwehrkräfte überreizt, die Schädigung ist aber noch meist vollständig reversibel. 
 Bleibt eine Gingivitis unbehandelt, kann sie in eine Parodontitis übergehen. Dabei ist nicht nur das oberflächliche Zahnfleisch, sondern der gesamte Zahnhalteapparat betroffen, inklusive Knochen. Es bilden sich Zahnfleischtaschen, in denen sich aggressive Bakterien ansiedeln. Das Immunsystem versucht, diese Keime abzuwehren, setzt dabei jedoch auch körpereigene Strukturen wie Knochen und Bindegewebe unter Beschuss. Die Folge können Zahnlockerungen und Zahnverlust sein – und gleichzeitig wird der Körper durch die chronische Entzündung dauerhaft belastet, was die Allgemeingesundheit deutlich beeinträchtigen kann. 
 5. Systemische Auswirkungen: Wenn Entzündungen im Mund den ganzen Körper beeinflussen 
 Parodontitis ist längst nicht mehr nur ein zahnmedizinisches Problem, sondern wird heute als systemische Erkrankung mit lokalen Manifestationen verstanden. Bakterien und entzündliche Botenstoffe aus den Zahnfleischtaschen können über kleinste Blutgefäße in die Blutbahn eindringen. Dort fördern sie Entzündungen in den Gefäßwänden und tragen so zur Entstehung oder Verschlechterung von Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen bei. Menschen mit schwerer Parodontitis haben nachweislich ein erhöhtes Risiko für Herzinfarkte und Schlaganfälle. 
 Auch der Zusammenhang mit Diabetes ist gut untersucht. Eine ausgeprägte Parodontitis macht es schwerer, den Blutzucker einzustellen, weil die chronische Entzündung die Abwehrkräfte permanent beschäftigt und Stoffwechselprozesse beeinflusst. Umgekehrt erhöht ein schlecht eingestellter Diabetes das Risiko für schwere Parodontitisverläufe, da Wundheilung und lokale Immunantwort im Mund beeinträchtigt sind. Ebenso werden Zusammenhänge mit rheumatischen Erkrankungen, Atemwegserkrankungen und sogar mit Schwangerschaftskomplikationen diskutiert. All diese Aspekte zeigen deutlich, dass die Mundgesundheit ein zentraler Baustein der Allgemeingesundheit ist. 
 6. Zähne, Immunsystem und häufige Allgemeinerkrankungen 
 Ein geschwächtes Immunsystem zeigt sich oft zuerst im Mundraum. Patienten mit chronischen Erkrankungen, wie zum Beispiel Diabetes, Autoimmunleiden oder Tumorerkrankungen, berichten häufig über verstärkte Zahnfleischprobleme, wiederkehrende Entzündungen oder Pilzinfektionen. Die Schleimhäute reagieren empfindlich, Wunden heilen schlechter und kleine Reizungen können rasch zu ausgeprägten Beschwerden führen. Dies ist ein deutliches Signal dafür, dass die Abwehrkräfte an ihre Grenzen stoßen. 
 Besonders eindrucksvoll ist dies bei Patienten zu beobachten, die eine Chemotherapie erhalten oder andere immunsuppressive Medikamente einnehmen. In solchen Situationen ist der Mundraum anfälliger für Infektionen, weshalb eine engmaschige zahnärztliche Betreuung vor, während und nach der Behandlung essenziell ist. Auch ältere Menschen sind stärker gefährdet, da bei ihnen häufig mehrere Risikofaktoren zusammenkommen: reduzierte Speichelproduktion, eingeschränkte Beweglichkeit beim Putzen und eine bereits geschwächte Allgemeingesundheit. Eine gute Zusammenarbeit zwischen Hausarzt, Fachärzten und Zahnärzten kann hier entscheidend dazu beitragen, Komplikationen zu vermeiden. 
 7. Ernährung, Zähne und Immunsystem 
 Ernährung spielt sowohl für die Mundgesundheit als auch für die Abwehrkräfte eine Schlüsselrolle. Vitamine wie C und D, Mineralstoffe wie Kalzium und Zink sowie hochwertiges Eiweiß sind notwendig, um Zähne, Knochen und Schleimhäute stabil zu halten und die Immunzellen funktionsfähig zu machen. Eine ausgewogene, überwiegend pflanzenbasierte Kost mit viel frischem Gemüse, Obst, Vollkornprodukten und hochwertigen Fetten kann Entzündungsprozesse im Körper reduzieren. 
 Auf der anderen Seite fördert ein hoher Konsum von Zucker, Weißmehlprodukten und stark verarbeiteten Lebensmitteln sowohl Karies als auch Zahnfleischentzündungen. Bakterien im Mund wandeln Zucker in Säuren um, die den Zahnschmelz angreifen, und dicke Plaqueschichten begünstigen entzündliche Reaktionen am Zahnfleischrand. Hinzu kommt, dass eine solche Ernährung häufig zu Übergewicht und Stoffwechselstörungen führt, die ihrerseits die Allgemeingesundheit und die Funktion des Immunsystems schwächen. Wer seine Ernährung langfristig umstellt, tut daher nicht nur den Zähnen, sondern dem gesamten Körper einen Gefallen. 
 8. Mundhygiene als Immunpflege: Was du täglich tun kannst 
 Eine konsequente Mundhygiene ist eine der einfachsten und wirksamsten Maßnahmen, um Zähne, Zahnfleisch und damit auch die Abwehrkräfte zu schützen. Entscheidend ist nicht nur, wie oft, sondern vor allem wie gründlich geputzt wird. Zwei Mal täglich sollten alle Zahnflächen sorgfältig gereinigt werden, idealerweise mit einer geeigneten Hand- oder elektrischen Zahnbürste und einer fluoridhaltigen Zahnpasta. Wichtig ist es, auch den Zahnfleischrand behutsam zu säubern, ohne das Gewebe zusätzlich zu reizen. 
 Ein Bereich, der von vielen Menschen unterschätzt wird, sind die Zahnzwischenräume. Hier sammelt sich besonders leicht Plaque an, die mit der normalen Zahnbürste kaum erreichbar ist. Interdentalbürsten oder Zahnseide helfen, diese Nischen zu reinigen und damit die Keimlast zu reduzieren. Ergänzend können bei erhöhtem Risiko – etwa bei bestehenden Vorerkrankungen oder bereits diagnostizierter Parodontitis – spezielle antibakterielle Mundspüllösungen oder medizinische Gele sinnvoll sein. Regelmäßige professionelle Zahnreinigungen beim Zahnarzt unterstützen diese Bemühungen und tragen dazu bei, die Allgemeingesundheit langfristig zu stabilisieren. 
 9. Lebensstilfaktoren: Was Zähnen und Abwehrkräften zusätzlich hilft 
 Neben der Mundhygiene haben Lebensstilfaktoren einen erheblichen Einfluss auf Zähne, Zahnfleisch und Immunsystem. Rauchen verschlechtert die Durchblutung des Zahnfleischs, verändert das orale Mikrobiom und schwächt die lokale Immunabwehr. Dadurch verlaufen Zahnfleischentzündungen und Parodontitis häufig schwerer und bleiben gleichzeitig länger unbemerkt, weil typische Warnzeichen wie Zahnfleischbluten abgeschwächt sein können. Auch häufiger und übermäßiger Alkoholkonsum schädigt Schleimhäute und kann die Allgemeingesundheit erheblich beeinträchtigen. 
 Ein weiterer, oft unterschätzter Faktor ist Stress. Dauerhafter psychischer Druck führt dazu, dass Stresshormone ansteigen, die Entzündungsbereitschaft des Körpers erhöhen und die Abwehrkräfte aus dem Gleichgewicht bringen. Viele Menschen reagieren zudem mit Knirschen oder Pressen der Zähne, was zu Abrieb, Rissen und Kiefergelenksproblemen führt. Ausreichend Schlaf, regelmäßige körperliche Aktivität und bewusste Entspannungstechniken wie Yoga, Meditation oder Spaziergänge in der Natur können hier einen wichtigen Ausgleich schaffen. 
 10. Mythen und Fakten rund um Zähne und Immunsystem 
 In der Praxis begegnen Zahnärzten immer wieder hartnäckige Irrtümer, die zu gefährlicher Sorglosigkeit führen. Viele Menschen glauben zum Beispiel, dass leichtes Zahnfleischbluten beim Putzen normal sei und keinen Grund zur Sorge darstelle. Tatsächlich ist jede Blutung ein Zeichen dafür, dass das Zahnfleisch entzündet ist und das Immunsystem bereits aktiv gegen bakterielle Beläge kämpft. Wer dieses Warnsignal ignoriert, riskiert, dass aus einer zunächst oberflächlichen Gingivitis eine tiefgreifende Parodontitis wird. 
 Ebenfalls weit verbreitet ist die Vorstellung, Parodontitis sei eine reine Alterserscheinung. In Wahrheit können auch jüngere Erwachsene betroffen sein, insbesondere wenn sie rauchen, auf eine gute Mundhygiene verzichten oder eine genetische Veranlagung mitbringen. Und schließlich hält sich der Irrglaube, dass Zähne nur wenig mit der restlichen Gesundheit zu tun hätten. Die wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse der letzten Jahre zeigen jedoch eindrucksvoll, dass ein entzündeter Zahnhalteapparat die Allgemeingesundheit nachhaltig beeinträchtigen kann und dass starke Zähne und gesunde Abwehrkräfte untrennbar zusammengehören. 
 11. Wann zum Zahnarzt? Warnsignale rechtzeitig ernst nehmen 
 Wer seine Zähne und sein Immunsystem schützen möchte, sollte nicht warten, bis starke Schmerzen auftreten. Wiederkehrendes Zahnfleischbluten, Rötungen, Schwellungen, Mundgeruch oder ein unangenehmer Geschmack im Mund sind deutliche Hinweise darauf, dass etwas nicht stimmt. Auch empfindliche Zahnhälse, Zahnwanderungen oder das Gefühl, dass Zähne „länger“ werden, können Anzeichen für einen fortschreitenden Knochenabbau sein. 
 Besonders aufmerksam sollten Menschen mit Vorerkrankungen wie Diabetes, Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen, rheumatischen Beschwerden oder während einer Schwangerschaft sein. Für sie ist eine stabile Mundgesundheit besonders wichtig, um zusätzliche Belastungen der Abwehrkräfte zu reduzieren und die Allgemeingesundheit zu schützen. Regelmäßige Vorsorgeuntersuchungen beim Zahnarzt – idealerweise ein- bis zweimal pro Jahr – ermöglichen es, Probleme frühzeitig zu erkennen und gezielt zu behandeln. 
 12. Fazit: Gesunde Zähne – starkes Immunsystem 
 Zähne und Immunsystem bilden ein enges, gegenseitig abhängiges System. Der Mund ist ein bedeutendes Eingangstor für Krankheitserreger, und chronische Entzündungen in diesem Bereich können weitreichende Folgen für Herz, Stoffwechsel und viele andere Organe haben. Gleichzeitig zeigt uns der Zustand von Zähnen und Zahnfleisch oft frühzeitig, wie es um unsere Abwehrkräfte bestellt ist. 
 Wer konsequent auf Mundhygiene achtet, eine entzündungsarme Ernährung wählt, auf Rauchen verzichtet, Stress reduziert und regelmäßige Zahnarztbesuche wahrnimmt, stärkt nicht nur sein Lächeln, sondern seine gesamte Allgemeingesundheit. Die tägliche Pflege der Zähne ist damit weit mehr als eine kosmetische Routine – sie ist ein aktiver Beitrag zu einem starken Immunsystem, mehr Lebensqualität und langfristigem Wohlbefinden. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2025-12-11T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Behind the Wires: The Underestimated Challenges of Cleaning Teeth with Braces</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/behind-the-wires-the-underestimated-challenges-of-cleaning-teeth-with-braces</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/behind-the-wires-the-underestimated-challenges-of-cleaning-teeth-with-braces"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            &quot;Why is it often so difficult to maintain perfect oral hygiene for braces wearers? And how can you properly care for fixed brackets or aligners to ensure the best possible results? We provide helpful tips!&quot; 
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 A radiant smile – few things say as much about a person as an open, friendly expression accompanied by perfectly aligned teeth. But the road to achieving this smile is often grueling. Anyone who has ever worn braces – whether fixed or removable aligners – knows that this journey involves more than just orthodontic appointments and regular adjustments. One often underestimated aspect is the daily struggle with oral hygiene. Because behind the wires and plastic trays lurk challenges that many fail to anticipate. 
 Braces are tiny marvels of engineering. They apply targeted pressure to move teeth and correct misalignments—a fascinating process that, however, comes with its own set of difficulties, especially when it comes to oral hygiene. Just when brushing feels like second nature, braces suddenly change the game. Toothbrushes encounter physical barriers, interdental spaces become harder to reach, and food gets stuck in places you didn’t even know existed. The biggest issue? These tiny, hidden food particles and built-up plaque aren’t always visible. The consequences only show up later – often as unpleasant surprises. 
 One common problem is cavities caused by bacteria that can accumulate between brackets and wires. These areas are often not cleaned thoroughly, turning them into a playground for microorganisms. The result: tooth decay and discoloration, often only revealed once the braces are removed. Then there are those awkward white spots, known as decalcification marks. These appear when acids erode the enamel, leaving behind unsightly patches that can be difficult to fix—a cosmetic annoyance that no one wants. 
 But ignoring proper oral care doesn’t just affect aesthetics; it has serious health consequences too. Hard-to-reach areas under wires or around aligners can lead to gum inflammation. What starts as minor redness or mild discomfort can develop into gingivitis. If this isn’t addressed in time, it could escalate into periodontitis – a severe infection of the tissues supporting the teeth. And let’s face it, no one wants to deal with loose teeth or receding gums after finally correcting their tooth alignment. 
 Aligner users often feel they have it easier at first glance, as the smooth plastic trays are simpler to clean. But appearances can be deceiving. Wearing aligners for hours on end creates a warm, moist environment – the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Without thorough daily cleaning, this can lead to bad odors, inflammation, or even fungal infections. Another issue for aligner users is that food debris and bacteria can get trapped under the aligners, causing harm even while the trays are being worn. 
 So, why is maintaining impeccable oral hygiene so challenging for people with braces? One reason is undoubtedly the extra time it requires. The five minutes that used to be enough for brushing your teeth are a thing of the past. Instead, brushing now demands patience, precision, and the use of additional tools like interdental brushes, flossers, or water flossers. For younger wearers, in particular, this can feel exhausting. Who wants to spend another 15 minutes in the bathroom after a long day at school or work? And thus, a vicious cycle begins: Neglect leads to short-term annoyances like bad breath, which can escalate into significant dental problems over time. 
 However, the good news is that the consequences of poor oral hygiene, such as cavities, gum inflammation, or unsightly white stains, are all preventable. The key lies in proper care and preventive measures. Yes, it takes more discipline and the awareness that the extra effort is worth it. Regular check-ups with the dentist or orthodontist can help catch and address issues before they worsen. But ultimately, everything comes down to one thing: a consistent daily routine. 
 The basic steps are surprisingly simple – even if they require persistence. A soft toothbrush, the right brushing technique, fluoride toothpaste, and additional cleaning aids can help keep both fixed braces and aligners clean. For aligner wearers, a bit of restraint with sugary snacks is also essential: if you snack on sweets throughout the day and then put the aligners back in, you’re essentially creating the perfect buffet for bacteria. 
 Wearing braces requires patience – as does maintaining the oral hygiene that goes with it. But the pride of the final result – a healthy, flawless smile – will make all the effort worthwhile. And once you’ve understood the problems that arise from poor cleaning habits, you’ll approach your nightly brushing routine with entirely new priorities. In the end, your smile will not only be beautiful but also healthy – the most rewarding prize for all that daily effort! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2025-01-30T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">The silicone toothbrush: a small revolution</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/the-silicone-toothbrush-a-small-revolution</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/the-silicone-toothbrush-a-small-revolution"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            The environmentally friendly alternative for hypoallergenic &amp; gentle tooth cleaning.
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 A small revolution has taken place in the world of dental care in recent years, which may seem inconspicuous at first glance, but can have a major impact on our oral hygiene. We are talking about the silicone toothbrush. Compared to conventional nylon brushes, this innovative technology promises numerous advantages that can not only protect our teeth, but also the environment. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the silicone toothbrush and why it could be the future of dental care. 
 Why silicone? 
 Silicone toothbrushes have their roots in medicine, where silicone is used in various applications due to its hypoallergenic and soft properties. This material has been proven in dentistry to be extremely gentle and kind to the gums. Compared to conventional nylon bristles, which can sometimes be too hard and damage the gums, silicone toothbrushes are softer and more flexible. This significantly reduces the risk of gum damage. 
 Gentle cleaning and effective plaque removal 
 The soft silicone bristles are ideal for removing plaque and food debris from the tooth surface without damaging the enamel. The flexible bristles adapt to the contours of the teeth and even reach hard-to-reach areas. This makes the silicone toothbrush an effective choice for thorough cleaning. Some models even have pulsating or oscillating functions that further enhance the cleaning effect. 
 Hygiene and environmental protection 
 Another major advantage of silicone toothbrushes is their hygiene. Unlike conventional toothbrushes, where bacteria can easily get stuck in the bristles, silicone toothbrushes are easy to clean and disinfect. Silicone is also less prone to mold growth, which is particularly beneficial in more humid environments such as bathrooms. 
 Environmental protection is another important aspect. Conventional toothbrushes are often made of plastic, which is difficult to recycle and therefore contributes to environmental problems. Silicone toothbrushes are durable and can be used over a longer period of time. They are often reusable and produce less waste. Some models have replaceable silicone heads, which further increases sustainability. 
 Choosing a silicone toothbrush 
 Before you switch to silicone, you should carefully examine the different models on the market. There are different designs and functions, including manual silicone toothbrushes and electric models. The choice depends on your personal preferences and needs. 
 Summary 
 Overall, the silicone toothbrush offers a promising alternative to conventional dental care. It is gentle on the gums, effective at removing plaque, hygienic and environmentally friendly. If you are looking to improve your oral hygiene and do something good for the environment at the same time, the silicone toothbrush could be the ideal solution for you. Try it out and experience the future of dental care! 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2024-01-25T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Oral hygiene for colds or flu-like infections</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/oral-hygiene-for-colds-or-flu-like-infections</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/oral-hygiene-for-colds-or-flu-like-infections"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            In autumn the season of colds begins again. We give tips for healthy oral hygiene when you have flu-like infections
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            </summary>
            <content type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                 A cold or flu-like infection can affect the entire body and often put us out of action for days. During this time, we sometimes neglect our daily routines, including dental care. But it is particularly important to pay attention to oral hygiene during an illness in order to avoid possible complications. 
 Tips for healthy oral hygiene 
 In this blog post we would like to give you some tips on how you can optimally care for your teeth and gums even during a cold or flu-like infection. 
  Maintain Regular Teeth Brushing   Although it may be difficult for you, you should maintain your dental care routine during a cold or flu-like infection. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day with a mild toothpaste that does not cause additional irritation to the throat. Be sure to clean your tongue as well, as bacteria can accumulate there. 
  Use a soft toothbrush   During illness, the gums may be more sensitive than usual. Therefore, use a soft toothbrush so as not to further irritate your gums. 
  Rinse your mouth regularly   Gargle with an antibacterial mouthwash several times a day to reduce bacteria in the mouth. This can help reduce the risk of sore gums and bad breath. 
  Keep your toothbrush clean   Make sure to rinse your toothbrush regularly and let it dry thoroughly after each use. Avoid sharing your toothbrush with other people to prevent the transmission of pathogens. You can also dip the brush head briefly into a cup of mouthwash and then let it dry as usual. 
  Avoid consuming acidic foods and drinks   During a cold or flu-like infection, many people tend to consume more acidic foods or drinks, to soothe their throat. However, these can attack tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Try using sugar-free candies or lozenges instead. After eating acidic foods, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth; this protects the tooth enamel. 
  Drink enough water   Keep yourself well hydrated during your illness by drinking enough water. This not only helps your general well-being, but also your oral health. 
  Dentist visits   You may have a dentist appointment during a cold or flu-like infection. Don&#039;t go to the appointment if you don&#039;t feel like it. However, make up for missed dental appointments as soon as possible after your recovery. Your dentist can identify and treat possible problems early. 
 Conclusion 
 A cold or flu-like infection can be a challenge for our bodies, but can also affect our oral health. That&#039;s why you should support your body in regeneration with good dental care. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2023-10-19T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text"> Megasonex – Emmident test report by Ute Fischer</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/kundenerfahrung/megasonex-emmident-test-report-by-ute-fischer</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/kundenerfahrung/megasonex-emmident-test-report-by-ute-fischer"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Ute Fischer - originally a user of an EmmiDent ultrasonic toothbrush, reports on her experience with the MEGASONEX ultrasonic toothbrush and gives tips on how to use it.
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                   &quot;   This post was written by our customer Ute Fischer.&amp;nbsp; 
 For many years I thought that my Emmi ultrasonic toothbrush was the optimal care system for my teeth. Actually, every year at my dentist check-up, I expected people to compliment me on my dental care. I was disappointed to note that terms like tartar and plaque were mentioned at all; Of course, this is also a reason for recommending professional teeth cleaning. Because it was always so unpleasant, I quickly decided to do a comparison test with the Megasonex ultrasonic toothbrush (Mega) toothbrush. For both, ultrasound breaks up the bacterial chains and their fragments are then easy to remove. 
 The first impression... 
 ...it&#039;s good: you don&#039;t need any special toothpaste, like with the Emmi Dent ultrasonic toothbrush. They are only available in pharmacies for just under five euros and always have to be ordered first. Attaching the brush head to the Mega is easier using a locking ring. With my previous one, the brush part is attached to two fine nipples, which get dirty over time and need to be cleaned regularly. The counterpart with the brush head, a kind of plastic shoe, also often wears out, so that the contact is interrupted and you have to move ahead of time - Usually three months - you have to buy a new brush attachment (around eight euros). The Mega&#039;s brush (around five euros) should be changed after two months. 
 Brushing your teeth with the Mega is a little different, but leaves a more intense feeling of effectiveness. With the Emmi, the brush head is held against the tooth without any movement. With the Mega, the brush head is moved over the tooth in small circular movements. This gives the impression of better cleaning even in the gaps. But that is subjective. At this point at the latest, the different speeds come into discussion. While the Emmi only emits ultrasound with a continuous tone, the Mega can be set to three speeds. Ultrasound is possible at 1.6 MHz alone, as with my Emmi, but also two additional sound vibrations with 18,000 movements and 9,000 movements per minute. These two sound vibrations create the objective cleaning feeling on the teeth. In fact, my teeth feel smoother after four days of use. There&#039;s nothing wrong with the color. I could use a special whitening paste with the Megasonex ultrasonic toothbrush, which Emmi doesn&#039;t. 
 Let&#039;s talk about design. 
 The Mega is slimmer, almost graceful, making it a little more hand-friendly and lighter (89/104 grams); but that too is subjective. Anyone who prefers to have a thicker handle in their hand or has rheumatic fingers is better off with the Emmi. The purchase price of both toothbrushes is between 100 and 160 euros, depending on which luxury or economy version you choose from Emmi. 
 The dentist check 
 I was eagerly awaiting October 6th to see my dentist for my annual check-up. No tartar. For the first time in many years. He didn&#039;t discover a shred of tartar. The annual agonizing recommendation for professional teeth cleaning was also not given this time. The term was not used at all. With this finding I peaked my husband&#039;s interest again for the first time, who canceled the first Megasonex test run quite quickly and continued to swear by Emmi. Like every year, he had tartar on his lower chewing row. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2023-10-07T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Diagnosis diabetes: how to take care of my teeth</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/diagnosis-diabetes-how-to-take-care-of-my-teeth</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/diagnosis-diabetes-how-to-take-care-of-my-teeth"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Anyone suffering from diabetes type 1 or type 2 should take good care of their teeth, because the increased blood glucose level can lead to unwanted problems in the mouth. We provide tips on how you can give your oral health a boost. 
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                 According to the current Diabetes Atlas of the DDZ (German Diabetes Center), there are approximately 7.6 million people with diabetes diagnosis in Germany. This corresponds to about 9% of the population and includes both people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. 
 Diabetes can have a negative impact on dental health, as high blood glucose levels can increase the risk of various dental problems. Poor blood glucose control can lead to a variety of oral complications. One of the main reasons is the increased risk of gum disease. People with diabetes have a higher risk of gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis. High blood glucose levels promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth and increase the inflammatory response of the gums. This can lead to bleeding gums, swelling and receding gums. Diabetes can also affect wound healing in the mouth. Even minor injuries or procedures in the mouth can take longer to heal. This can lead to delayed recovery from gum inflammation, oral ulcers, or after dental procedures. 
 People with diabetes often suffer from dry mouth. A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay, because saliva has an important protective function for the teeth and helps to neutralize acids. Without sufficient saliva flow, bacteria and acids can accumulate in the mouth and lead to tooth decay. High blood sugar levels can also increase the risk of tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids that can attack tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. People with diabetes often have higher levels of sugar in their saliva, which further increases the risk of tooth decay. 
 In addition, diabetes can prevent optimal blood flow in the body, including gum tissue. Poor blood flow can impair the body&#039;s ability to fight infections and heal wounds, including those in the mouth. 
 To maintain healthy teeth in diabetes, good blood glucose control is important. Regular dental examinations and professional dental cleanings are the basis of good prophylaxis, so that problems can be detected and treated early on. Good daily oral hygiene at home - with regular teeth brushing, flossing and mouth rinsing - is also important to remove plaque and bacteria. Here are some tips on how to care for your teeth properly: 
  Keep your blood sugar under control:  A well-controlled blood sugar level helps reduce the risk of dental problems. Follow your doctor&#039;s instructions for controlling your diabetes and keep your blood sugar levels stable. 
  Brush teeth twice a day:  Use a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste to thoroughly clean your teeth. Brush gently (without much pressure on the brush head) from red to white to remove plaque. Also be sure to clean the tongue, as bacteria can accumulate there more. 
  Use dental floss or interdental brushes:  Clean the interdental spaces daily with dental floss to remove plaque and food debris. This reduces the risk of gum disease. 
  Use colorless mouthwashes:  Rinse your mouth regularly with an antimicrobial mouthwash before brushing your teeth to remove bacteria and improve your oral health. Choose a mouthwash that does not have alcohol or color additives mixed in. The latter can discolor the teeth in the long run. 
  Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption:  Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of dental problems. Try to avoid or cut back on these habits. 
  Eat a balanced diet:  A healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep teeth and gums healthy and your blood sugar levels under control. 
  Look for signs of dental problems:  Look for symptoms such as bleeding gums, dry mouth, bad breath or loose teeth. If you notice such problems, see your dentist immediately. 
  Visit the dentist regularly:  Have yourself examined at least twice a year and have your teeth professionally cleaned. Your dentist can detect and treat dental problems early. It is important that you talk to him about your diabetes so that he can help you with proper dental care. 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2023-10-04T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Dedicated commitment to people in need</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/dedicated-commitment-to-people-in-need</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/dedicated-commitment-to-people-in-need"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Doing good for the little &quot;chompers&quot;: On &quot;Dental Health Day&quot; on Monday, September 25, the focus was on oral hygiene throughout Germany. &quot;smilestore&quot;, located in Essen Rüttenscheid, participated again in the campaign and supports the natural healing practice &quot;NOG&quot; without borde...
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                 &quot;We would like to support a different organization each year on the day of the tooth health, and this time we looked for one, which engages directly and also mobile, explains Kimberley Priebe, marketing and bleaching-expert of the &quot;smilestore&quot; and further: &quot;Since we come from Essen, we looked around in the neighborhood and the naturopathic practice &quot;NOG&quot; without borders.&quot; NOG is a non-profit association with seat in Essen. There, alternative practitioners and therapists from various health professions (including chiropractors, physiotherapists, podiatrists, psychological counselors) provide free holistic and naturopathic-based medical assistance and psychological counseling for people affected by poverty and social exclusion.&amp;nbsp; 
 Unpaid treatment for people in need 
 &quot;Since the organization consists entirely of volunteers and they are happy about any donation, it was clear that we choose this institution and support them with dental care products,&quot; adds Kay Link, owner of &quot;smilestore&quot;. The dental cosmetics studio has already provided an institution with care products last year (the LK reported). The project was so successful that Link and Priebe decided to repeat it, to the delight of NOG. &quot;When we arrived there and handed over our dental care products, we received such a warm welcome from Mrs. Wende and everyone else that we decided at short notice to continue supporting the practice in the future.&quot; 
 by Andrea Becker •  Stadtspiegel vom 25.09.2023  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2023-09-27T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">&quot;Healthy starts in your mouth&quot;</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/healthy-starts-in-your-mouth</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/healthy-starts-in-your-mouth"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Contribution in the Stadtspiegel Essen on the Day of Dental Health on September 25, 2022 on the topic &quot;Healthy starts in the mouth&quot; - in daycare centers and schools
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                  In Germany, 80 percent of twelve-year-olds are caries-free. This top international ranking is no coincidence. The most far-reaching prevention and health promotion offer for children and young people in the history of the Federal Republic made a decisive contribution to this: dental group prophylaxis. Dental Health Day on Sunday, September 25th focuses on this successful model under the slogan “Healthy starts in the mouth - in daycare and school”. The Essen-based “smilestore” is also taking part in the campaign and supporting the child protection association “Blauer Elefant” in the Essen city center.  
 Currently, around 4.6 million children and young people take part in group prophylaxis, often several times a year. The central content is the active teaching of child-friendly and effective oral hygiene, nutritional education, fluoridation measures to harden tooth enamel and preventive dental examinations in the facilities. 
 Group prophylaxis for a healthy lifestyle 
 Good dental health is not set in stone. With this background, the increase in early childhood tooth decay in Germany is, among other things, worrying. Nationwide, ten to 15 percent of children under three are affected. In order to reduce this preventable disease in all age groups, it is necessary to continuously motivate children and young people to adopt a healthy lifestyle as part of group prophylaxis. 
 Today, even the youngest children often stand next to each other at the child-sized sinks in the kindergarten washrooms and brush their teeth together with small toothbrushes and toothpaste. “We would like to contribute something and support the child protection association “Blauer Elefant” in downtown Essen with delicious toothpaste and tooth foams especially for kids,” explains Kimberley Priebe, teeth whitening expert and marketing manager from the “smilestore” in Rüttenscheid. Last year, the dental cosmetic studio, under the direction of Kay Link, supported the institution with dental care products. The project was so successful that Link and Priebe decided to repeat the campaign. 
 Get back to full speed 
 Unfortunately, the corona pandemic has had a very negative impact on the implementation of group prophylaxis. For a time, activities in many community facilities were completely stopped. In many daycare centers, for example, there was no group brushing - partly until today. Another reason for Link and his team to support the Child Protection Association with the necessary dental care products. 
 Dental Health Day is committed to ensuring that the group prophylactic measures carried out in daycare centers and schools resume full speed - and don&#039;t let up in the future either. 
 Information about the smilestore: 
 15 years ago, the passion for sparkling white teeth turned into reality: selling dental and oral care products in our own online shop. Kay Link quickly turned his small study into a warehouse, packing station and customer center all in one. So in 2013 he opened the smilestore toothpaste shop in Essen-Rüttenscheid. The idea for expansion came from his time as a trainer for teeth whitening for dentists all over Germany: the toothpaste shop was converted into a dental cosmetics studio. From now on, cosmetic teeth whitening could also be carried out on Girardetstrasse. With Kimberley Priebe, another teeth whitening expert with specialist knowledge was added. Kay Link&#039;s passion has remained with him over the past 15 years - to conjure up a beautiful and natural smile. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
  Source:&amp;nbsp; https://www.lokalkompass.de/essen/c-ratgeber/gesund-beginnt-im-mund_a1782955 &amp;nbsp;by&amp;nbsp;Andrea Becker&amp;nbsp;  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2022-09-26T08:00:00+02:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Dental Champions award in the pharmacy</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/dental-champions-award-in-the-pharmacy</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/dental-champions-award-in-the-pharmacy"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Information about the MEGASONEX award as “Dental Champions in the Pharmacy - Dental Care Devices”
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                 The publisher &quot; New Business Verlag GmbH &amp;amp; Co. KG &quot; awards the title &quot;Dental Champions&quot; in its publication &quot; Dental Marketing &quot; 
 Together with the market research companies DatamedIQ from Cologne and Insight Health based in Waldems-Esch, &#039;Dental Marketing&#039; has the fastest-growing products in stationary pharmacies and mail order among around 1,500 over-the-counter oral health and care products determined. The ranking is based on the sales growth rates at real pharmacy sales prices (rAVP) within the two twelve-month periods and shows the top products across a total of seven categories. 
 The category of dental care devices includes, in addition to manual and electric toothbrushes, items such as dental floss, toothpicks, interdental brushes and other accessories. Insight Health evaluated around 1,200 products. 
 Here you can find the relevant pages from the print edition of Digital Marketing (edition 4/2021, S. 22ff.) 
  VIEW PDF(246KB)  
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            </content>

                            <updated>2022-01-04T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Tooth enamel - it doesn&#039;t get any harder than this</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/tooth-enamel-it-doesn-t-get-any-harder-than-this</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/tooth-enamel-it-doesn-t-get-any-harder-than-this"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            The outer white layer of the tooth, the enamel, is the hardest material in the human body due to its very high mineral content. Tooth enamel is composed primarily of minerals, mostly hydroxyapatite.
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                 What is tooth enamel and what is it made of? 
 The hardest substance in our entire body is tooth enamel. Due to this extraordinary degree of hardness, processing the tooth enamel is only possible with diamond-studded dental tools. Tooth enamel is the outermost white layer around the teeth and consists largely of hydroxyapatite and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and sodium. The enamel forms a layer about 2.5 millimeters thick on the teeth. The tooth enamel layer does not contain any nerve tissue, which on one hand makes it particularly resistant, but on the other hand also prevents tooth enamel, once broken down, from being regenerated in a natural way. For this reason, it is particularly important to use the right dental care products to protect tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. 
 What is the purpose of tooth enamel? 
 The tooth enamel covers the dentin and protects it from wear, damage and bacteria as well as from decalcification caused by acidic foods and drinks. In contrast to tooth enamel, the dentin is traversed by nerves, so the enamel layer also protects the tooth from the sensation of pain. The more the tooth enamel is broken down, the more sensitive the tooth is to heat, cold or acid, for example. Due to its special hardness, it also gives the teeth the strength they need to chew even hard foods without damaging the teeth. 
 What causes tooth enamel to be destroyed? 
 Two factors play a crucial role in tooth enamel loss. Mechanical abrasion and chemical action, erosion. Mechanical abrasion occurs every day, for example when chewing, and is natural. However, there are some factors that cause more abrasion than the enamel can withstand. These include, among other things, regular grinding of teeth, toothbrushes that are too hard and highly abrasive toothpastes. At the same time, the regular confrontation of the tooth enamel with acid leads to a breakdown of the tooth substance. Tooth enamel is softened by acid, making it easier to wear away. For this reason, you should avoid brushing your teeth for at least half an hour after eating. Due to the increased exposure to acid, the tooth enamel becomes thinner and less resistant. In addition, bacteria gain entry. Abrasion and erosion also interact with each other. Due to abrasion, the tooth enamel thins and reacts more sensitively to acid. At the same time, acid softens the tooth enamel and promotes tooth enamel breakdown through abrasion. 
 Which foods and drinks can damage tooth enamel? 
 It&#039;s not just foods and drinks that contain a lot of sugar that are dangerous to tooth enamel. When it comes to tooth enamel, the pH value is particularly important, as the foods are divided into three groups. With a pH value between 2.5 and 3.5, foods in group 1 are considered to be particularly acidic and therefore harmful to tooth enamel. These include apples, fruit jam and orange juice. Group 2 foods also increase the risk of tooth enamel degradation with a pH value between 3.6 to 4.5. Group 2 includes, for example, cherries, tomatoes and cream cheese. Group 3, on the other hand, is considered almost neutral in terms of acid content and has neither a positive nor negative effect on tooth enamel. Foods in this group have a pH value of 4.6 to 5.5, such as pickles and cottage cheese. In addition, sugary foods and drinks can affect the tooth enamel through tooth decay bacteria. 
 Which foods have a positive effect on tooth enamel? 
 Foods that stimulate saliva production, such as various types of cheese, have positive effects on tooth enamel. With more saliva, acids can be neutralized more quickly and therefore cause less damage to tooth enamel. In addition, green and black tea are considered to inhibit the growth of bacteria. Dairy products can also have a positive effect by strengthening the teeth thanks to the calcium they contain and also neutralizing acids. In this way, fruit can be consumed in a much gentler way, for example in combination with yogurt. 
 How do you recognize tooth enamel degradation? 
 Tooth enamel degradation often only becomes noticeable when the tooth enamel has already been worn away to a certain extent. This is due to the fact that the tooth enamel is not penetrated by nerves and the degradation itself does not cause pain. The first signs are usually an increasing reaction of the teeth to hot and cold as well as sweet and sour foods. The yellowish color of the teeth provides an additional indication, as the tooth enamel weakens and the yellowish colour of the dentin becomes more visible. If severe pain occurs when chewing, frequent inflammation of the gums or bleeding gums when flossing, the tooth enamel is often already considered damaged. The tooth is no longer adequately protected from caries and wear. 
 How can tooth enamel loss be treated? 
 Since tooth enamel is dead tissue without nerves and blood vessels, it cannot be rebuilt by the body. There is already intensive research into artificial tooth enamel, but it is not yet mature enough to be integrated into everyday life. However, dentistry offers some approaches to slow or even stop tooth enamel loss. Tooth enamel that has already been damaged can be treated with fluoride jelly to stop demineralization and prevent reaction to acids. It is also recommended to use a toothpaste with hydroxyapatite, which is what tooth enamel mainly consists of. 
 How can you strengthen tooth enamel and prevent it from deteriorating? 
 The best way to combat tooth enamel loss is to prevent it early enough with various measures and to strengthen and protect the tooth enamel. Brushing your teeth regularly is important for oral hygiene, but there are a few points to keep in mind. The toothbrush used should not be too hard and highly abrasive toothpastes should be avoided. At the same time, it is important to use a gentle cleaning technique to avoid unnecessary abrasion when cleaning. The effect on tooth enamel should also be taken into account when it comes to diet and the consumption of excessively acidic foods and drinks, especially lemonades, should be reduced. A toothpaste containing fluoride can additionally strengthen the enamel with minerals, as can a mouthwash containing fluoride, which also protects the tooth from acid. In addition, a fluoride jelly or a toothpaste with hydroxyapatite can also counteract the breakdown of tooth enamel. 
 Another important factor is regular checks of the health of the teeth by the dentist. Professional teeth cleaning carried out regularly by the dentist also helps to maintain dental health. In addition, after cleaning, the teeth receive fluoridation to harden the tooth enamel and increase resistance to bacteria. If bacteria cannot adhere, the development of tooth decay is unlikely. 
 Conclusion 
 Especially since tooth enamel once lost cannot be restored naturally, it is all the more important to protect it from degradation through abrasion and erosion. To do this, you should avoid using toothbrushes that are too hard or highly abrasive whitening toothpastes. The consumption of particularly acidic foods and drinks should also be reduced. As the hardest substance in the body, tooth enamel protects the sensitive dentin. If the tooth enamel is damaged, the result can be pain in the teeth when they come into contact with heat, cold and acid, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2021-12-20T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Nutrition for good dental health</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/nutrition-for-good-dental-health</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/nutrition-for-good-dental-health"/>
            <summary type="html">
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                                            Not only proper dental care and regular visits to the dentist contribute to good dental health. You can also do something for dental health with your nutrition. 
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                 Dental health - and what nutrition has to do with it 
 Healthy teeth 
 Healthy teeth are not only important so that we can bite into an apple, but also so that our entire organism stays healthy. Once the teeth have been affected, the immune system is also weakened and bacteria and other infections have an easy time in our bodies. To prevent this, good dental hygiene is important. In addition to classic tooth brushing, our diet also plays a big role and can contribute to healthy teeth. 
 Trick or treat 
 Most people know that sugar is our biggest enemy when it comes to our dental health. It does not attack the teeth directly, but provides the ideal breeding ground for certain bacteria to multiply on our teeth. These bacteria then metabolize the sugar into acids, which ultimately attack our teeth. This promotes or encourages, among other things, diseases such as periodontitis. 
 But for many people, giving up sugar isn&#039;t that easy: it&#039;s found in a lot of processed foods, and not just in sweets. Also in savory foods such as various frozen meals, chips or in sauces. 
 Therefore, you should not only limit the sweets to protect your teeth, but also pay close attention to regular food containing sugar. A good alternative to sugar are so-called sugar substitutes, such as sorbitol or xylitol. These cannot be metabolized by the bacteria and therefore protect our teeth in the long term. A light cola is therefore significantly preferable to a conventional cola. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
   
 &amp;nbsp; 
 But natural acids can also damage tooth enamel directly, attack and damage our teeth. The bacteria are then no longer needed for this. The acid dissolves calcium and phosphate from the tooth enamel, making it unstable and thinner, and therefore more and more sensitive. 
 Highly acidic foods include, for example, lemonades, fruit juices, citrus fruits or vinegar in salad dressings. Of course, you shouldn&#039;t go without something like a healthy tangerine or orange: drinking a glass of water after consumption neutralizes the acid as much as possible. 
 A relatively unknown attacker on our teeth, however, is starch (carbohydrates), such as those found in chips or pretzel sticks. Just like sugar, the bacteria can convert it into acid, which in turn further attacks the tooth. Therefore, you should brush your teeth carefully after eating to remove the bacteria&#039;s food source. 
 Healthy chewing 
 Chewing produces saliva - a logical conclusion that we all know. Our saliva not only plays a role in the digestion of food, but also in our dental hygiene. Our saliva helps clean teeth, neutralize acids and remineralize tooth enamel. A useful addition to your normal tooth brushing routine is chewing gum. Chewing (sugar-free) gum between meals stimulates saliva production and roughly cleans the chewing surfaces. 
 When it comes to the meals themselves, it also makes sense to chew a lot and actively. You have to make a lot of effort, especially with raw food and whole grain products. 
 That doesn&#039;t mean, however, that it&#039;s best to nibble on something all day long: too much of a good thing is actually more harmful here, as it upsets the natural pH value and disrupts the balance. without losing important minerals. 
 Building blocks for healthy teeth 
 But what makes our teeth really strong and healthy? One of the most important building blocks for our teeth is calcium. It can be found in milk or cheese. But there are also high calcium contents in kale and broccoli. If you integrate such foods into your everyday life, your teeth will be strengthened. 
 In order to keep bacterial infestation as low as possible and to protect the teeth from acids, foods containing fluoride are suitable. Fluoride hardens tooth enamel and creates a barrier against acids. Foods high in fluoride include fluoridated table salt, fish or green tea. In addition to fluorine in food, special toothpastes to which this substance is added can also help maintain healthy teeth. 
 Vitamin A is not a direct, but an indirect building block for healthy teeth. It is found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, peppers or broccoli. This vitamin mainly strengthens our immune system and can indirectly help fight bacteria. But this vitamin is also important for the support of our teeth: it is the starting substance for the dentin (tooth bone). 
 If you want to be particularly gentle on your teeth, for example because the enamel is already damaged or your teeth are prone to erosion, you can combine acidic foods with calcium-containing foods. Instead of eating fruit alone, you can eat it with yogurt. In the evening you can switch to cheese (high calcium content)and to wine (high acid content). 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 &amp;nbsp;  
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Overview of foods that contribute to healthy teeth 
 
 Foods containing calcium 
 Dairy products (milk, cheese) 
 Legumes (chickpeas, tofu) 
 Grains 
 Vegetables (kale) 
 Nuts and seeds 
 Foods containing fluoride 
 Sea fish (sardines) 
 Green/Black Tea 
 Grains 
 Meat 
 Foods containing vitamin A 
 Liver 
 Sea fish (eel, tuna) 
 Vegetables (kale, carrots) 
 Eggs 
 Dairy products 
 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Tooth-healthy nutrition in everyday life 
 There are a few simple tips to ensure you eat as healthily as possible in your everyday, stress-free life. Small fruit or vegetable snacks between meals prevent you from craving sweets and also provide important vitamins and nutrients. Sandwiches with cheese, tofu or vegetables, for example, are also a good alternative to the often unhealthy canteen food: you not only keep track of the ingredients and can avoid unwanted sugar, but you also consume tooth-healthy substances such as calcium and vitamin A. Not to forget, of course, the sugar-free chewing gum. A small pack fits in every pocket, is always ready to hand and also helps to improve the oxygen supply to the brain at work. 
 Water should also always be readily available. It is perfect for rinsing your mouth every now and then and should generally be drunk in sufficient quantities. 
 If you want to be very particular about your dental hygiene, brush your teeth in the the morning and evening as well as at lunchtime in the office. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
 Conclusion 
 Sugar, acid and starch attack our teeth, while calcium, fluoride and vitamin A strengthen our teeth and give them the desired bite. Sugar-free chewing gum between meals supports dental health, as does drinking plenty of water. 
 Processed foods often have a high sugar content, while fresh, unprocessed foods (especially raw vegetables and whole grain products) strengthen our teeth. 
 A healthy and balanced diet is clearly the focus here and not only contributes to healthy teeth, but also to a generally healthy body. So if you don&#039;t have time to brush your teeth, reaching for chewing gum, water or a carrot can help. However, it cannot replace brushing - that is and remains the most important part of dental health. 
 &amp;nbsp; 
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            </content>

                            <updated>2021-11-01T00:00:00+01:00</updated>
                    </entry>

    
    
        <entry>
            <title type="text">Periodontitis - a gradual process</title>
            <id>https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/periodontitis-a-gradual-process</id>
            <link href="https://www.smile-store.de/shop/en/magazine/smilestore-magazine-dental-care-info/periodontitis-a-gradual-process"/>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[
                
                                            Healthy starts in the mouth - This year, on Dental Health Day, everything revolves around periodontitis - and rightly so, because every second adult in Germany suffers from the disease.
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                 Periodontitis - what&#039;s behind it? 
 Periodontitis (often also referred to as periodontal disease, but refers to one and the same disease) is not a disease that is discovered immediately, as it is painless, especially at the beginning. 
 Around 22 million bacteria live in our mouths, some of which are harmful to our teeth. Normally, our body takes care of harmful bacteria without us noticing. But what if these bacteria get out of hand? In this case, one speaks of periodontitis: it begins with inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which is caused by bacteria in the plaque. 
 These bacteria secrete toxins that attack both the teeth and gums. Due to the swelling of the gums and the inflammation itself, the connection between the tooth and the gums becomes loose, and so-called gum pockets form. There, in turn, bacteria find an ideal breeding ground to multiply. 
 The body&#039;s immune system responds to this inflammation in the teeth by activating bone-degrading cells, the so-called osteoclasts. These gradually destroy the periodontium (consisting of jawbone and dental cement) and the surrounding gums, causing the neck of the tooth to become more and more visible. Pain - and in the worst case, the loss of one or more teeth - is the result. 
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 Who can periodontitis affect? 
 This disease can affect anyone, although some people are more prone to it than others, for example because they have a weakened immune system or a genetic predisposition to it. The immune system is a big factor here: An intact and healthy immune system can normally defend itself very well against the bacteria in the mouth before they can cause any major damage. However, if the immune system is weakened, the bacteria have no resistance and can spread almost unhindered on the tooth. 
 In addition to a weakened immune system, there are other risk factors that can promote periodontitis, including poor or incorrect oral hygiene, tobacco consumption, pregnancy, teeth grinding or even a vitamin deficiency. 
 But periodontitis can&#039;t just develop in your own mouth - you can also become infected with it. Particularly when kissing and the associated exchange of saliva can transmit the bacteria that cause periodontitis, but also when using the same cutlery or toothbrush. 
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 How do I recognize periodontitis? 
 Due to the gradual process at the beginning, periodontitis is often not easy to identify. Bleeding gums can be the first sign, especially in the beginning, for example when brushing your teeth or when you bite into an apple. Another important indication of periodontitis is bad breath, which is caused by the bacteria. If both signs occur together, you should see a dentist for clarification. If the gums look reddish or darker than usual and are swollen, a visit to the doctor is urgently recommended. 
 If the periodontitis has already progressed further without being detected, other abnormalities may also occur, such as exposed tooth sockets or even loose teeth. Exposed tooth sockets are easy to identify because the teeth look longer than normal and they react painfully to cold and hot stimuli. 
 In severe periodontitis, the inflammation in the mouth can even lead to a systemic reaction, meaning the infection spreads to the entire body. Symptoms include fever or swelling in the face/neck area, but the risk of (chronic) secondary illnesses also increases. 
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 What are the consequences of (untreated) periodontitis? 
 Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease and is therefore, like all inflammations in the body, associated with a high risk of affecting the entire body. In addition to the above-mentioned symptoms such as fever or swelling, periodontitis promotes other secondary diseases. The reason for this is the open wound area on the diseased tooth/teeth, through which bacteria can get into the blood. The bacteria are also transported to distant areas of the body via the bloodstream. 
 The risk of developing certain secondary diseases increases 11-fold (rheumatoid arthritis). The areas that have an increased risk of disease include the brain, the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system. For pregnant women, the risk of miscarriage/premature birth also increases 2 to 8 times. 
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 How is periodontitis diagnosed and treated? 
 Diagnosis 
 If you go to the dentist with suspicion of periodontitis, the dentist will first carry out a thorough inspection of the gums and the entire oral cavity to get a first impression. The dentist can also use a small measuring probe to determine the gum pocket depth on each individual tooth. If the diagnosis of periodontitis has been made or if the doctor suspects the disease, a so-called periodontal screening index (PSI) is collected at regular intervals. This gives the doctor information about the condition of the teeth and the progress of the disease. Another important tool for diagnosis and treatment is X-rays to determine the extent to which bone loss has begun or progressed. 
 Therapy 
 In order to effectively treat periodontitis, the cause of the disease must first be eliminated. This means the bacteria must be removed to stop the inflammation and prevent it from spreading. It is usually sufficient if the tooth surfaces are cleaned using a suitable instrument under local anesthesia. This is done either with a hand instrument or an ultrasound device. This procedure is called “closed” curettage. 
 If the periodontitis has already progressed to such an extent that the gum pockets are particularly deep or the inflammation persists even after the first treatment, an &quot;open&quot; curettage is carried out. Here, of course again under local anesthesia, the gum edges are detached from the tooth and jawbone in order to be able to really see and remove all plaque. The advantage here is that diseased tissue can be removed directly. 
 The costs of such treatment previously had to be largely borne privately unless one had taken out appropriate additional dental insurance. Since July 1, 2021, however, the catalog of services offered by statutory insurance has been expanded, meaning that the full range of services for such treatment is now available to all insured persons. 
 The aim of the procedure in both cases is to restore the tooth surfaces so that the gums can attach to the tooth sockets again and bacteria can no longer penetrate. 
 Aftercare 
 After successful treatment, periodontitis is by no means cured, as this disease is almost always chronic. Now the so-called maintenance therapy begins to prevent further gum recession and tooth loss. Oral hygiene should always be a top priority to prevent the inflammation from recurring. Follow-up examinations take place every 3 to 12 months. 
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 How can I effectively prevent periodontitis? 
 The most obvious, but also simplest, method is proper oral hygiene. Proper and regular oral hygiene ensures that the bacteria in the mouth cannot spread in the first place. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, but also using dental floss and interdental brushes, which also remove plaque between the teeth. You should also have a professional teeth cleaning once or twice a year, which not only cleans your teeth thoroughly but also identifies any problem areas. Depending on the degree of pre-existing illness and insurance coverage, the health insurance provider will pay for a professional teeth cleaning in part or in full. 
 But a healthy diet that is tailored to the disease can also help to alleviate the symptoms or minimize the risk of the disease breaking out. These include avoiding sugar, eating less meat, drinking plenty of water and consuming fish once a week. The number of meals should also be reduced to 2 to 3 per day, i.e. no snacks. Vegetables and fruit, as well as spices such as turmeric, ginger or nutmeg, have an anti-inflammatory effect and can help with healing. 
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 Conclusion 
 Periodontitis is not a disease that should be taken lightly. If left untreated, it can lead to serious secondary damage, such as tooth loss, jawbone loss, cardiovascular disease or osteoporosis (bone loss) throughout the body. To prevent this, good and thorough oral hygiene is essential. Electric toothbrushes are particularly suitable for this as they clean thoroughly and are gentle on the gums. Dental floss, interdental brushes and mouthwashes are also part of a good oral care routine. If you combine this with a mindful diet, nothing stands in the way of healthy teeth! 
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                            <updated>2021-09-20T00:00:00+02:00</updated>
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