“Little boys know everything about dinosaurs and cars until they discover girls, and then they forget it all.” I heard this quote once, and I can tell you that the former half of that statement isn’t far off. However, after working at a natural history museum for the past two years, I would say that I’ve met almost as many girls fascinated by dinosaurs as boys. Let’s face it: dinosaurs are cool! Whether it’s “The Land Before Time,” “We’re Back” or for younger generations “The Good Dinosaur,” the prehistoric beasts simply captivate children. So why does it stop when we get older?
Even with a long list of dentifrices, rinses, antibiotics and drugs to combat gingivitis and periodontitis, the battle continues. If you are in despair for what to prescribe next, don’t worry; there may be an answer from our botany-oriented colleagues. There is a growing wave of research being done that turns to nature to help fight our war against inflammation in the oral cavity. Many of these research projects focus on the main culprit of oral inflammation – the dreaded lipopolysaccharide (LPS). LPS is the byproduct of many periodontal pathogens, and it wreaks havoc on the supporting tissues comprising the periodontium. Researchers believe that if natural agents can mediate the inflammatory reaction of the host cells, then destruction of the gingiva and alveolar bone can be slowed or halted.
Think you know your food? Here are some dental facts related to a few everyday foods. Read on and let us know what dental-y food facts you’ve read in the comments section.