In a perfect world, dentists would prefer that their patients avoid sugar, enamel-staining drinks such as red wine, and anything acidic like coffee or orange juice. But, most know that’s not realistic.
“I will never tell my patients not to eat or drink something,” says Dr. Robert Martino. “We're human and we all have our vices. Instead, I tell them if they choose to do those things, then they have to counteract those behaviors with good things.”
For example, he says if you're going to drink a Coke or use sugar in your coffee, make sure you're brushing more. “Also be sure you're drinking more water, which will help reduce the acidity levels in your mouth.”
While water is the perfect beverage for healthy teeth, and health overall, what you add to that water can have detrimental effects on your enamel. “I have patients who drink large containers of water and sip it all day long, but if they squeeze lemons into it, the acidity can cause erosion. It's also going to make their mouth acidic, which is going to be more conducive to cavities.” Again, if you do have lemon in your water, follow it with plain water.
Adds Dr. Allison Sceppaguercio, who works with Dr. Martino, “One thing that's important to note is that cavity proneness is about the frequency and the length of exposure that your mouth has to sugar. So, if you're going to eat a chocolate bar, sitting and eating it all at once is better than having a piece now and then having another piece in 20 minutes and then another later on. Try to eliminate that grazing throughout the day.”
Also, of course, be sure to visit a dentist regularly, brush and floss, and use fluoride products.
Dr. Martino, who started out as a Naval dentist, took over the practice in Clark more than 25 years ago. Both he and Dr. Sceppaguercio enjoy interacting with their patients and developing long-lasting relationships. “We have a great team here and as a result, our patients are very happy,” he says.
The staff also likes to spend time together outside of the office. “We will often frequent Oh' Brian's On the Green,” says Dr. Sceppaguercio, who lives in Verona. “It's right around the corner and they have great burgers.”
Dr. Martino and his wife Jean, who have lived in Westfield for almost 23 years and raised their two children there, also like to frequent local restaurants. “We like Darby Road and Grano in Scotch Plains, and Farinolio in Westfield,” he says.
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