You might think this is strange coming from dentists, but we're going to give you some tips on how to eat sugar.

That's not to say we think sugar is good for your teeth. Or that your diet doesn't affect your dental health. But we're trying to be realistic. We know that most Canadians are not going to cut sugar from their diets entirely.

Nevertheless, there are many healthy choices you can make in how, what and when you eat. To help you make those choices, we offer the following food for thought:

A well balanced diet. Like the rest of your body, your teeth and gums need good nutrition. Without an adequate and balanced supply of vitamins and minerals, they become more susceptible to decay and gum disease.

Sticky sweets. What's important is not just the amount of sugar you consume, it's the length of time your teeth are exposed to it. Sticky sweets cling to your tooth surfaces and the longer they stay there, the more damage they do.

Mealtime sweets. Sweets eaten with meals are much less harmful than sweets eaten between meals. That's because your saliva production increases at mealtime, and that saliva flushes sugars away from the teeth.

Snacks. Sugary foods cause acids to be produced in your mouth for at least 20 minutes after you've eaten them. The more frequently you have sugary snacks, the more times you expose your teeth to and 'acid attack'. Remember, sweet drinks are also sugar snacks.

Tobacco. There is nothing sweet about this. We join with physicians in urging you not to smoke. Along with all the other health problems, smoking can help promote gums disease and oral cancer.*

The office will be closed July 1st, 2nd and 9th.

The office will also be closed from August 3rd to the 10th.

I'd like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the "Pulse" electric toothbrush made by Butler. The biggest advantage is the price, only $33.08 per unit. It will do the same stimulation required to remove plaque and prevent gingivitis on your gums as the more expensive "Interplak" or "Braun" models (around $75 per unit.)

I have tried the "Pulse" myself and it is amazing the amount of vibration you get on your gums without using hand pressure. It is easier on your wrist and arm than a conventional

toothbrush, and is very motivating!

It is a perfect gift for a birthday or for Fathers day!

Lisette

 We will be running a contest to rename the "Dental News" in the fall.

This is your chance to get a head start on your entries.

You can email, fax, phone us, mail or drop

your entries to the office.