Toothy Truths: Did you know? The tooth is the only part of the human body that isn’t equipped to repair or replace itself.

What do you think of when you hear about chia seeds? If you are thinking about those popular Chia Pets from the 1980s, you aren’t alone. But chia seeds have been reborn as a super food, popping up in smoothies, salads and other healthy – and tooth-friendly – treats! And even though today’s health food is from the same family as those used on the terra-cotta planters –please don’t eat your Chia Pet seeds. They are not for consumption and the chia seeds you find in your health food store are sold under much stricter standards.

While to the average American, eating chia seeds seems like a new concept, the ancient Aztecs, Mayans and Incas included them in their diets. So what did they know that we are now just learning?

Health Benefits

• Support digestion, boost energy, stabilize blood sugar and reduce cholesterol
• Significant amount of soluble fiber
• Excellent source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids
• Full of antioxidants
• A 28-gram serving has 4.4 grams of protein
• Source of calcium

How to Eat Chia Seeds

If you are ready to start adding chia seeds to your diet, we can help. They can be sprinkled on yogurt, salads or even toast. Concerned about getting the tiny seeds stuck in your teeth? Our experts at Dr. Robert Mitchell’s office have some suggestions for eating chia seeds that are good for your body AND teeth and gums.

One of the best ways to avoid getting chia seeds stuck in your teeth is to buy it them in ground – or milled — form. The milled seeds can be added to just about anything, from your favorite smoothie to sauces and soups. Whole chia seeds will take on a gelatin-like consistency when added to water. This makes a great egg substitute for vegan recipes.

Pick up chia seeds at your favorite health food store and try this super food. A diet of whole, fresh and nutritious foods is sure to lead to a healthier smile!

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April can bring many things: Rain, flowers and warmer weather. But it can also bring about discussions of a more serious topic: Oral cancer awareness. Here at Dr. Robert Mitchell’s Dallas dental practice, we are working this month – and every month – to raise awareness.

During the month of April, dental professionals around the world work to raise awareness of this illness — the sixth most common cancer.

The Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with some form of oral cancer in 2013. About 8,000 people will die of oral cancer.

While scientists do not know the exact cause of oral cancer, research shows heavy use of tobacco products and alcohol consumption, HPV (human papilloma virus) and excessive sun exposure could increase your risk.

Because oral cancer is usually not diagnosed in its early stages, less than half of all oral cancer patients are cured. In fact, of all major cancers, oral cancer has the worst five-year survival rate at about 57 percent.
But there is some good news: If detected during the early stages, the survival rate jumps to 80 percent or more.

At Dr. Robert Mitchell’s dental office, we strive to educate our Dallas patients of the risks associated with this illness. We offer oral cancer screenings to our patients. During this exam, Dr. Mitchell feels for lumps or irregular tissues, changes in your neck, head, cheeks and oral cavity. He will also thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, looking for any sores or discolored tissues. If oral cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.

Early detection is key and regular dental check-ups can literally save your life. If you haven’t visited us recently, be sure to schedule an appointment today.

For more information on oral cancer screenings, call Dr. Robert Mitchell’s office!

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