My BEST Dentists Journal
How to prevent cavities with simple oral hygiene habits
Several dental problems lead to different issues that become more troublesome later. It is always better to avoid any of these problems early before it becomes more severe. Cavity development on teeth is one such dental problem that causes more pain to the individual.
Its treatment process is also very painful and costly. Immediate treatment is very important when the cavity is detected. However, if you follow some of the simple oral hygiene habits, it can be easier to control further damage to the teeth.
What is the dental cavity?
A dental cavity is the permanent tooth decay in the region on the teeth which is caused by the small hole initially. Generally, the decay starts from the smaller areas and if it is left untreated then it can cause a problem for a longer duration.
Some simple oral hygiene habits to avoid teeth cavity problems:
1. Proper brushing
It is not just the brushing that can help to avoid the teeth cavity, it is also important to brush properly. Firstly, make sure that although you are in a hurry, you must take at least 10 minutes to brush properly.
While brushing, you must do the activity in a very gentle manner and you do the circular motion while brushing. Also, try to reach every corner of the teeth in a gentle way while brushing, it can avoid cavity development there.
2. Brushing twice a day
It is a wisdom line that you must have been hearing since childhood. It is very true that it is ideal to brush twice in a day. Here, brushing at night before going to sleep is of utmost importance.
It will help to remove the smaller food particles and sugar layer from the teeth which are mainly responsible for the plaque development causing cavities in the teeth. It will keep the bacteria that cause the cavity away from the teeth.
3. Flossing twice a day
Flossing is important to remove the bacteria and plaque from the teeth where the brush cannot reach. It also makes it possible for removing the food debris that causes the problem like bad breath. While flossing also makes sure that it is done along the gum line where the possibility of the plaque development is more.
4. Avoiding constant eating sugary food item
Sugar is one of the main reasons that lead to bacteria development on the teeth. It further causes cavity development on the teeth which then erodes the teeth. Eating once and then properly mouth-washing can remove the sugar from the teeth.
However, if you keep eating after some interval then teeth will be exposed more to the sugar. It will lead to an increase in the bacteria causing cavity development on teeth.
5. Use the toothpaste with nice fluoride contain
When it comes to toothpaste, make sure that your toothpaste is good in fluoride. Fluoride is one of the agents to control the bacteria development on the teeth which can avoid the problems like a cavity.
So, these are some of the simple oral hygiene ways to avoid cavity development. You can simply avoid further dental problems by just following these simple techniques.
(12/06/2023)by Sabka Dentist
More Information: N
Views: 8
Dysphagia Treatment That May Ease Swallowing
Occasionally experiencing swallowing difficulty due to a "lump in your throat” is normal. But if difficulty swallowing is an ongoing issue, it may be a sign of dysphagia, a swallowing disorder. Dysphagia is more common in the elderly due to weak throat muscles. Luckily, there are several dysphagia treatment options available depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Dysphagia Causes
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), dysphagia happens when there is a problem with the structures, muscles, and neural control of the swallowing process. Weak muscles in the tongue or cheek, stroke, another nervous system disorder, surgery, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), tumors, and diabetes can all be causes of dysphagia. In some cases, dysphagia and dentistry have a link, as poorly-fitting dentures or severely decayed teeth can also cause swallowing problems.
Because the causes of dysphagia are vast, finding treatment starts with identifying the category it falls into. According to the Mayo Clinic, there two primary categories are:
Esophageal dysphagia: This is feeling the sensation of food getting stuck to the base of your throat or in your chest after you’ve started the swallowing process. This is where GERD, tumors, a narrowed esophagus, or built up tissue in the throat may cause dysphagia.
Oropharyngeal dysphagia: This happens when your throat muscles are weak, making it difficult to start the swallowing process. Did you know that the complete swallowing process takes about 50 pairs of muscles and several nerves? In most cases, this type of dysphagia is due to neurological disorders or damage from conditions like stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis.
If you think you’re experiencing dysphagia or are having difficulty swallowing, contact your dental or medical professional so that they can evaluate your symptoms and find the root cause.
Dysphagia Treatment Options
Treatment for dysphagia varies based on the severity and cause of your condition. Your dental professional, medical professional, or speech-language pathologist may perform tests to evaluate your swallowing process and find out just where the difficulty is coming from.
A Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing with Sensory Testing (FEESST) uses an endoscope to view your mouth and throat as it responds to stimuli like food and liquids.
A Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFS) involves taking a filmed X-Ray of your swallowing process by having you consume food and liquids. These recorded images help pinpoint where your swallowing problems are coming from and what changes you swallow safely and effectively.
Once your medical professional identifies where your dysphagia is coming from, you can start developing a treatment plan. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), treatment options for dysphagia often help you live and cope with this condition or rehabilitate your swallowing muscles to help build strength.
In cases where dysphagia can’t be solved, eating and swallowing techniques can help you cope with this condition so that it’s less of a burden on your life. Treatments might include tucking your chin or turning your head a certain way to help food travel down the esophagus more efficiently or changing the consistency of the food you eat to help you swallow it with ease.
Rehabilitative approaches to dysphagia treatment aim to improve your swallowing ability, leading to a lasting improvement. Treatments might include exercises that build muscle strength in the face and esophagus or learning a swallowing technique that ensures the airway is blocked off, preventing food from traveling down the trachea into the lungs. Your medical professional may also recommend changing the way you eat. That might include taking smaller bites, chewing more thoroughly, eating softer food, or pureeing food.
Medical and Surgical Treatments
Rehabilitation therapy might be all some patients need to successfully treat swallowing issues but sometimes – namely with esophageal dysphagia –patients may require medical or surgical treatment. Medical treatment can include taking antacids or other medications to control GERD symptoms. If dysphagia is due to salivary control problems or thickened saliva, a medical professional may prescribe medications to manage saliva.
If the swallowing issue is due to a narrow esophagus or a tight muscle in the esophagus, a medical professional may recommend a surgical procedure called myotomy. In this procedure, a surgeon cuts the lower esophageal sphincter muscles, allowing food to travel more easily from the esophagus to the stomach.
Dental Care and Dysphagia
Swallowing problems can sometimes be related to dental issues, such as difficulty swallowing with dentures or trouble swallowing after dental work. Although practicing good oral care won't directly relieve dysphagia, it's crucial to preventing and minimizing swallowing issues. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily in between teeth with a water flosser or other interdental cleaning device.
Remember that swallowing is a complex process, and feeling a lump in your throat might be caused by something more serious than a reaction to a sad movie. If you’re experiencing any swallowing issues, reach out to your dental professional to identify possible causes and treatment options –and to get back to a healthier mouth and body.
(12/06/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/dysphagia-treatment-ease-swallowing#
Views: 10
Medications and what they can mean for your mouth
Whether you’re taking prescription drugs or herbal supplements, medication can take a toll on your teeth.
Here are some of the most common side effects.
Dry mouth
A decrease in saliva increases your risk of oral infections and tooth decay.
Medicinal culprits:
Antidepressants
Antihistamines
Asthma inhalers
Diuretics
Anti-anxiety drugs
Anticonvulsants
Decongestants
Muscle relaxants
Narcotic painkillers
Cavities
Sugar, syrups and other sweeteners in medication can put your teeth at risk. Always read the labels when selecting over-the-counter medicines, and don’t forget to rinse or brush after your dose.
Medicinal culprits:
Cough syrups
Cough drops
Chewable or gummy vitamins
Antacid tablets
Liquid medications
Overgrowth of gum tissue
Gingival enlargement causes painful, inflamed gums that grow over the teeth.
Medicinal culprits:
Anti-seizure medications
Immunosuppressant drugs given after organ transplants
Calcium channel blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, migraines and Raynaud’s syndrome)
Mouth ulcers
These painful sores generally appear on the inside of the cheeks.
Medicinal culprits:
Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Beta blockers (used to prevent heart attacks and treat hypertension)
Nicorandil (used to treat chest pain)
Penicillin
Chemotherapy drugs
Enamel stains
Your pearly whites may appear significantly less white as a result of these medications.
Medicinal culprits:
Antihistamines
Antipsychotic drugs
Drugs for high blood pressure
Tetracycline and doxycycline (antibiotics)
Antiseptic mouth rinses that contain chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride
Thrush
Yeast infections of the mouth appear as white fungus on the tongue and throat.
Medicinal culprits:
Antibiotics
Birth control pills
Corticosteroids
Loss of bone tissue
By leaching minerals from your bone, some medications can increase your chance of losing teeth.
Medicinal culprits:
Bisphosphonates (used to treat cancer and prevent osteoporosis)
Antacids that contain aluminum
Steroids
Anti-seizure medications
Antidepressants
Hormone blockers (used to treat hormone-linked cancers and endometriosis)
Abnormal bleeding
Blood-thinning medications can cause problems during oral surgery, periodontal treatment or even flossing.
Medicinal culprits:
Aspirin
Antacids that contain aluminum
Anti-stroke drugs
Heart disease medications
What do I do if medications are affecting my oral health?
Talk to your physician about your side effects, and always give your dentist a complete list of medications you’re taking, both prescription and over-the-counter. Your dentist will be able to help you minimize these side effects and prevent damage to your oral health.
(12/05/2023)by Delta Dental
More Information: N
Views: 19
Rotten Teeth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A rotten tooth can cause a lot of pain, and if your rotten teeth are visible, you might even feel embarrassed. Fortunately, plenty of options exist for fixing rotten teeth. If you are experiencing tooth decay, make an appointment to see your dentist immediately for an examination and treatment. While you wait for your appointment, learn more about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention for rotten teeth.
What Causes Rotten Teeth?
"Rotten" is simply another way to describe teeth that are badly decayed. Tooth decay often occurs from eating sugary or starchy foods and not following a good oral care routine. If your teeth are not regularly cleaned, bacteria create a layer of sticky plaque that builds up on your tooth and gums. These bacteria feed on the sugars and starches in the foods you eat to release acids that erode your tooth enamel. When the enamel wears away, that same bacteria and plaque can attack the softer dentin inside the tooth and eventually the pulp at the tooth's center. In the final stage of tooth decay, an excruciating infection develops in the pulp that can even move into other areas of the body.
What Are the Early Signs of Rotting Teeth?
A cavity can appear on your teeth with no signs or symptoms, so it's essential to see your dentist regularly to check on your oral health and catch tooth decay in the earliest stages. However, as the decay worsens, you might recognize some of these rotten tooth symptoms:
Toothache or pain when biting
Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods
Brown, black, yellow, or white spots on the tooth
Bad breath or unpleasant taste in your mouth
Gum swelling
If you recognize any of these rotten tooth symptoms, schedule an emergency appointment with your dentist. Don't delay! The earlier you treat tooth decay, the better chances you can save your tooth.
How Do You Fix Rotten Teeth?
What do you do about rotten teeth? Rotten teeth treatment depends on the stage of tooth decay. If you're dealing with a few cavities, your dentist can stop further damage with some fillings. However, if the infection has reached the pulp, you might require a root canal to restore the tooth. When the cavity becomes so large, it weakens the tooth structure; the dentist can create a crown to protect the rest of the tooth.
Sometimes your dentist cannot save badly rotten teeth and must extract them. Your dentist can replace the rotten tooth with an implant or dental bridge. Or, if you need an entire set of upper or lower teeth, dentures are also an option.
Your dentist can discuss the pros and cons of each treatment plan before you move forward but don't wait too long. An untreated tooth infection can quickly become a tooth abscess. This infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and bone and even trigger sepsis, which leads to severe conditions like tissue damage, organ failure, and even death.
How Do You Prevent Rotten Teeth?
The good news is you can easily prevent all of this with proper oral hygiene. Remember these basic steps:
Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste.
Clean between your teeth daily with an interdental device such as floss or a water flosser.
See your dentist regularly for oral exams to catch tooth decay early.
With these few steps, you can erase all worries about your teeth rotting out. However, if you already feel rotten teeth pain or see the signs of rotting teeth, visit your dentist today. Your dental professional can address your tooth decay and take the necessary steps to save your smile and protect your overall health.
(12/05/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/rotten-teeth-symptoms-and-treatment
Views: 14
Ten Signs Your Teeth Need to Be Examined
It is recommended that you visit the dentist routinely for regular dental examinations and professional cleanings. Sometimes, however, oral health problems can occur in between appointments. When this is the case, you should never wait until your next regularly scheduled examination, but should, instead, seek attention from your dentist right away. If you experience any of the following symptoms (or notice other unexplained oral health changes), then we strongly encourage you to schedule an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible.
10 Signs You Need to See a Dentist Right Away
1. You Have a Toothache
Pain is the body’s way of letting your brain know that something is wrong. If you have a persistent toothache, then this is an indication of an oral health problem. Toothaches can be the result of a variety of issues such as tooth decay, receding gums, an infection, a fracture, or many other issues.
2. You Can’t Get Rid of Your Bad Breath
Bad breath is normal when you first wake up in the morning or after eating pungent foods such as garlic or onions. Bad breath, however, is not normal if it persists. If you feel like you have tried everything (brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash), but your bad breath will not go away, then it is important to see your dentist or doctor.
Persistent bad breath can be caused by a variety of issues such as dry mouth, periodontal (gum) disease, an infected tooth, a sinus infection, or even bacterial infections of the stomach or respiratory system. Most of these are serious concerns that need to be medically addressed right away.
3. Your Teeth Are Sensitive
If you suddenly start to experience sensitivity to temperature changes or sugary foods, you should schedule a dental examination. Tooth sensitivity can be the result of receding gums (which sometimes occurs due to gum disease). Sensitivity can also be the result of tooth decay and cavities that should be treated as soon as possible.
4. Your Gums Are Bleeding, Swollen, or Painful
Gum tissues that are red, inflamed, bleeding, or painful are symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease, a serious bacterial infection of the gums. In addition to causing issues in the mouth, left untreated, gum disease can result in several, serious systemic illnesses that affect the overall health of your entire body.
5. Your Tooth Is Chipped or Cracked
If you chip or crack a tooth, we encourage you to schedule an appointment right away. Minor chips and breaks can create sharp edges on your teeth that can seriously damage the soft tissues inside your mouth. More severely broken teeth can expose the inside of the teeth to harmful bacteria, leading to an infection of the tooth’s pulp and the need for treatment with a root canal therapy and dental crown.
If addressed right away, however, secondary problems associated with broken teeth can be avoided altogether by treating the tooth with dental bonding (in the case of minor chips) or a dental inlay, onlay, or crown (in the case of a more serious fracture).
6. You Have a Loose Permanent Tooth
Healthy permanent teeth should never feel loose. Whether you’ve incurred an injury or impact to the face/jaw or have a tooth that is loose for no discernable reason, you should visit the dentist as soon as possible. This could indicate serious damage, decay, or disease that is causing the tooth to loosen. This is a symptom that indicates an issue that needs to be diagnosed and addressed right away to preserve your tooth and your well-being.
7. Your Tooth Feels Numb
While pain is a telltale indicator of a problem, a lack of feeling can also mean that something is wrong. Healthy nerves shouldn’t be in pain, but they should always be able to feel. A tooth or area of the mouth that is numb and has no feeling in it could be an indication of a serious infection or other problem that is occurring inside the mouth.
8. There Is Pus in Your Mouth
It’s not a pretty subject, but pus is a sign of a serious bacterial infection, and bacterial infections can be seriously scary if they are not addressed right away. Whether your gums are oozing pus, you notice pus coming from a tooth, or there is pus pooling somewhere in your mouth, you need to seek medical attention as soon as possible for an examination, antibiotics, and further treatment.
9. Your Jaw Hurts or Won’t Open
Having a jaw that won’t open (lockjaw), a jaw that pops, clicks, or grinds when you open and close your mouth, or a jaw that just plain hurts are all signs of a health problem called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). While most symptoms of TMD are not emergencies, it can and should be treated by a dentist because the symptoms of TMD can be debilitating.
10. You Have a Sore That Won’t Heal
Sores that won’t heal (in your mouth or elsewhere) can be a sign of cancer or precancerous lesions. These should be checked out by a dentist or your doctor as soon as possible.
Routine dental exams and oral hygiene appointments are intended to help prevent serious oral health problems from developing and to detect and treat them before they become serious enough to cause noticeable symptoms. This proactive approach to dental care not only helps to prevent oral health problems from developing, but it is also usually much less expensive than the cost of treating serious oral health problems after they have progressed.
(12/04/2023)by Smile Hilliard
More Information: https://www.smilehilliard.com/blog/top-10-signs-your-teeth-need-to-be-examined/
Views: 23
Five Reasons Why Your Mouth Is Unhealthy
Oral hygiene isn’t something we consider too often. Aside from brushing our teeth and attending our biannual dentist checkups, we leave our teeth to look after themselves. However, that doesn’t mean that our mouth is in the best shape it can be. There are many reasons why you might have unhealthy oral hygiene. We’ll cover some common issues and warning signs.
Warning Signs
Waiting until symptoms become serious is a mistake. If you go to your dentists twice a year, they should pick up on most problems before they cause any pain. However, some things can happen quickly. If you notice any of the following symptoms, book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Ulcers, cold sores, or other tender areas in the mouth that don’t heal within a few weeks
Bleeding or swollen gums when brushing and flossing
Chronic bad breath
Sudden onset of sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
Toothache or pain
Receding gums
Pain when eating, chewing, or biting
Jaw clicking
Cracked or broken teeth
Dry mouth
5 Causes of Dental and Oral Diseases
So, what are the five reasons your mouth is unhealthy?
1. Smoking
Nicotine is notoriously bad for the health of your teeth. Smoke causes discolouration and poor gum health. Gums recede and struggle to heal as less oxygen gets into the bloodstream.
2. Bad Habits
It’s not enough to just brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing technique and flossing all come into the equation. Two minutes of brushing thoroughly twice a day is the best way to ensure you keep your teeth in top condition.
Moreover, sugary drinks, coffee, tea, or red wine can harm your teeth. Try to drink through a straw and rinse your mouth out with water afterwards.
3. Family History
Genetics plays a part in oral hygiene. Family background can influence your mouth structure, how susceptible you are to certain diseases, and also certain habits. It isn’t much you can do about your genetics. To mitigate gum disease or tooth decay risks, speak to your dentist about the steps you can adopt and ensure you’re extra vigilant about brushing and flossing.
4. Medical Conditions
Diabetes and other medical conditions are often responsible for specific mouth issues. People with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop oral problems and gum diseases than others. High blood sugar levels in the bloodstream lead to more sugar in the saliva, which is the perfect condition for bacteria to build up. Bacteria causes tooth decay and gum disease.
Furthermore, certain medicines can dry your mouth out and further the risk of oral disease. These include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, high blood pressure medications, and muscle relaxants.
5. Hormone Changes
Hormone changes might also impact the health of your mouth, particularly if you’re pregnant. Hormone changes can further the risk of gum disease and pregnancy tumours. Both are significant and need treatment straight away to avoid harming the baby. Pregnant women are also at risk of developing dry mouth (xerostomia), leading to plaque, gum inflammation, and tooth decay.
Moreover, pregnancy can cause behavioural attitudes that might hurt your oral hygiene. For example, food cravings may lead to more consumption of sugary foods. Morning sickness can make it hard to brush your teeth. Plus, the acid from frequent vomiting may be harmful.
Similarly, hormone changes during menopause might increase the risk of gum disease and burning mouth syndrome (BMS).
Types of Dental and Oral Diseases
There are different types of dental diseases. You’ll likely experience one of them within your lifetime, even if you’re extra vigilant about your oral hygiene. Types of oral diseases include:
Cavities
Gum disease (gingivitis)
Periodontitis
Cracked or broken teeth
Sensitive teeth
Oral cancer
Diagnosing Oral Diseases
If you approach your dentist with symptoms you’re concerned about, they will conduct an oral exam. They will inspect your teeth, mouth, throat, tongue, cheeks, jaw, and neck. They may also take an x-ray of your mouth or gum probe.
Treating Oral Problems
Even if you’re on top of your oral care, you’ll still need to attend regular checkups with your dentist. They will be able to point out any warning signs you haven’t noticed, offer treatments, and give advice about the general care of your mouth.
(12/04/2023)by Toorak Dental Studio
More Information: https://toorakdentalstudio.com.au/5-reasons-why-your-mouth-is-unhealthy/
Views: 26
Bad Habits To Avoid For Healthy Teeth And Gums
As humans, we are regularly developing habits throughout our lifetime, and they aren’t always good ones. Bad habits are quite common, and a lot of them are formed unintentionally. Many times we develop habits that aren’t good for us without being aware of it, but bad oral habits can cause problems, pain, and cost a lot of money to correct.
Being proactive is the best approach if you want to keep your teeth for your lifetime, so make it your mission to practice excellent oral hygiene, routine dental visits, and good oral habits. Here are eight habits to avoid if you want a healthier smile.
1. Biting Your NailsIf you are always biting your nails, your oral health will pay the price. Not only are you spreading harmful bacteria that hang out under your nails, biting non-edible items like fingernails can crack, fracture, or chip your teeth, and even hurt your jaw over time.
Instead: Apply some bitter-tasting nail polishes and work on lowering your stress levels. Awareness and calming your anxiety can keep your nails (and teeth) looking their best!
2. Brushing HarshlyScouring your chompers with harsh strokes can leave them hurting instead of clean and healthy. Rough handling can wear down tooth enamel and irritate the gums, which can end up receding the gums, exposing the layer of dentin below.
Instead: Brush at least twice a day for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and massage the teeth gently. It will clean the teeth surfaces without damaging them in the process.
3. Clenching and GrindingIf you are constantly clenching your jaw and grinding your teeth (awake or asleep), it can damage your teeth and jaw. This habit is called bruxism, and it often arises from unrelieved stress. It wears down enamel leaving teeth and makes them vulnerable to decay. You may also find yourself with painful jaw or joint pain, or even fractured or chipped teeth.
Instead: Practice relaxation techniques to relieve jaw stress and wear a custom night guard while you sleep.
4. Chronic SnackingWhether you continually snack or sip sweetened beverages throughout the day, both can hurt your teeth. And it’s not just bathing your teeth in sugary pools that can lead to cavities. Snacking on chips and carbohydrate-filled goodies feed your mouth’s harmful oral bacteria, resulting in plaque buildup and tartar that can harm your gums.
Instead: Quench your thirst and protect your teeth with good, clean water. In fact, hydrating with water will also prevent dry mouth by giving your saliva the solution it needs to clear out oral debris and bacteria during the day.
5. Heavy DrinkingRegularly drinking alcohol increases plaque levels in your mouth that ultimately leads to tooth loss. Since alcohol acts as a diuretic, it can reduce saliva flow (which can result in dry mouth).
Instead: Limit your alcohol intake and drink plenty of water in between to hydrate.
6. Ice ChewingChomping on ice cubes might feel good on a hot day, but your teeth are not designed for it (especially when it is habitual and leads to cracks and chips). Both your teeth and ice are crystals, so the effect of rubbing them together can cause tooth damage, even potentially damaging dental fillings.
Instead: Consume your beverages through a straw to keep you from accidentally munching on ice. Be sure not to chew on the straw! Also, try chilling your drinks in the refrigerator beforehand.
7. Kick the Tobacco HabitA tobacco habit not only stains your teeth but inflames your salivary glands so they can’t perform correctly. As if that wasn’t bad enough, smoking leads to bad breath, gum disease, increased loss of jaw bone density, and oral cancer.
Instead: Find a smoking cessation support program that works for you. Your lungs, teeth and gums will thank you!
8. Teeth Are For ChewingYour teeth are not tools! Do not use them to tear off tags, open a bag of chips or hold your pen.
Instead: Stick to biting and chewing your food with your teeth, and use the correct tools to handle everything else.
When it comes to your habits, we encourage you to take extra care of your smile so it will take good care of you! You will reap the benefits of healthier teeth, longer-lasting dental work and a more beautiful smile!
(12/03/2023)by Family Smiles Dental
More Information: https://www.familysmilesdentalcare.com/blog/bad-habits-to-avoid-if-you-want-healthy-teeth-and-gums/
Views: 25
The Dangers Of Plaque Buildup And How To Protect Yourself
If you’ve seen any toothbrush or toothpaste advertisement, then you’ve heard that plaque accumulation can be detrimental to your oral health. Where does plaque come from, though, and what makes it so bad for your teeth and gums? As you continue reading, your family dentist in Putnam provides some insight and further explains what you can do to protect yourself.
What is Plaque?
The main threat to your oral health is bacteria growth. The microorganisms are always present in your mouth, vigilantly looking for any leftover food or beverage debris to feed on. When the bacteria are fed, they quickly multiply, while releasing caustic fluids that can contribute to tooth and gum decay.
Over time, if allowed to fester, several types of bacteria can join together to form plaque, which is a sticky and clear substance that clings to the teeth and gums. The more time it’s given to develop, the more havoc it can cause.
How Plaque Buildup Affects Your Teeth and Gums
If plaque development is ignored, it can eventually lead to the following problems:
Cavity development
An infected pulp
Gum disease
Gum recession
Tooth loss
Additionally, failing to remove plaque can encourage such health issues as hypertension, heart disease, stroke and several forms of cancer. However, by taking preventive measures, you can better guard against these problems.
Preventing Plaque Accumulation
One of the main ways to prevent plaque accumulation is to practice consistent oral hygiene. This should include brushing for a minimum of two minutes, twice daily. In addition, it’s important to floss every time you brush to remove the hard-to-reach debris that can hide between your teeth.
The foods and beverages you consume also play a major role in fortifying your oral health. Because sugar is the food of choice of bacteria, limiting your consumption of sugary sodas, juices, alcohol, desserts, candy and other sweet treats, will help to stave-off the growth of new bacteria.
A final way to avoid the ills of plaque development is to maintain six-month visits with a dentist for cleanings and examinations. The former will ensure that any existing plaque and tartar can be eliminated before they can cause havoc. Then, the careful checkup will identify any issues so that a plan of action can be created to restore your oral health.
With the end of the year approaching and time running out to maximize this year’s benefits, now is the perfect time to pay your dentist in Putnam a visit. Not only will it protect you from the problems related to plaque buildup, but it will also save you money!
(12/02/2023)by Quiet Corner Dental
More Information: N
Views: 33
Properly Caring For Your Toothbrush
You would never doubt the importance of regularly brushing your teeth (right?!), but how much attention do you give to your toothbrush itself?
Your toothbrush is actually your first line of defense against cavities, gum disease, and other serious dental problems. By properly cleaning, storing, and replacing your toothbrush, you can encourage long lasting oral hygiene and protect your radiant smile.
How To Clean Your Toothbrush
Though your toothbrush is responsible for removing bacteria from your teeth, it isn’t shielded from accumulating germs of its own. Make sure you take the following steps to keep your toothbrush clean:
Rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing
Set your toothbrush vertically after brushing to help it drain and dry
Never pack away or cover a wet toothbrush since the moisture will cause the growth of microorganisms
As long as you follow these simple steps, your toothbrush will not become a breeding ground for fungus, bacteria, and germs that can make you sick or threaten your oral health.
How To Replace Your Toothbrush
Your toothbrush won’t last forever. Your dentist in Oconomowoc recommends a toothbrush change every three months, since this is when toothbrush bristles start to break down and become inefficient. Even normal wear and tear makes it harder for your toothbrush to remove plaque from your mouth.
It’s also important to replace your toothbrush after an illness. A cold, the flu, a mouth infection, or a sore throat are all reasons to swap your toothbrushes. This reduces your risk of infection and prevents the spread of sickness.
Other Important Toothbrush Tips
Make sure you look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance when purchasing a new toothbrush. The ADA Seal of Acceptance indicates that a toothbrush meets the criteria set forth by the American Dental Association for toothbrush safety and efficacy. The Oral-B Indicator ContourClean Toothbrush, PRO-SYS Tapered Toothbrush, and REACH Advanced Design Toothbrush are all ADA-approved.
(12/02/2023)by Summit Dental Excellence
More Information: N
Views: 34
Tooth Nerve Pain: Causes, Pain Relief, and Home Remedies
Tooth nerve pain can go from a small ache to a sudden sharp jolt—and experience that’s unbearable to some. Often a result of an exposed tooth root, tooth nerve pain can be brought on by particular foods, drinks, and even while brushing and flossing. Here’s what you need to know to help stop the discomfort, prevent further tooth sensitivity, and when to see your dental professional.
What Causes Tooth Nerve Pain?
The nerves in the teeth are located in the pulp—the bundle of nerves and blood vessels at the center of the tooth. Nerve pain in teeth falls into two categories:
Pulpal Sensitivity: If you have nerve pain that is focused on one individual tooth, the problem is likely affecting the tooth pulp. Causes of the damaged nerve pain in teeth that affect the pulp include a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth, tooth decay or infection, a recent tooth filling, and pressure from clenching or grinding your teeth.
Dentinal Sensitivity: Dentinal sensitivity refers to nerve pain in the teeth that is more widespread. This type of nerve pain in teeth occurs when the tooth enamel (the outermost layer of the tooth) is damaged or eroded away resulting in exposed dentin tubules or channels. These tubules connect to the nerves in the pulp. External stimuli such as heat, cold, and acid, stimulate these tubules resulting in sensitivity. Causes of dentinal sensitivity include use of teeth whitening products, receding gums, and untreated cavities. In addition, brushing the teeth too hard and recent gum surgery that exposes the tooth roots can cause nerve pain in teeth.
Tooth Nerve Pain Relief and Treatments
Depending on the cause of your tooth pain, there are several possible dental procedures that can solve the problem. Two of the most common procedures for tooth pain are fillings and root canals.
Fillings: If you have tooth nerve pain caused by a simple cavity, a filling is the most common dental repair. When you have a tooth filled, your dental professional numbs the area, removes the decayed material, and replaces it with a filling.
Root Canals: A root canal is performed if the nerve pain is due to a tooth that is severely infected or decayed. During a root canal, a dentist removes the damaged nerve and the pulp from inside the tooth, cleans the area, and seals it. The nerves inside teeth are not essential for healthy tooth function, and a root canal will cure some types of tooth nerve pain.
In some instances, the tooth decay may have progressed too far and an extraction may need to be performed. To prevent toothaches caused by decay and reduce your risk of tooth loss, it’s best to follow a thorough oral care routine of twice daily brushing and flossing at least once a day. If you experience tooth pain, be sure to visit your dental professional right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Remedies for Tooth Nerve Pain
The area near your tooth may be sensitive before or after your dental procedure, but it’s important to follow a regular oral hygiene routine to prevent additional tooth decay or disease. Try using oral care products designed for sensitive mouths, including Crest Pro-Health Sensitive + Enamel Shield Toothpaste, Oral-B Glide Deep Clean Floss, and Oral-B Glide Comfort Plus for sensitive gums.
If your tooth pain is a result of a teeth whitening procedurę consider trying a whitening method that does not cause sensitivity like Crest Whitening Emulsions. The breakthrough formula features highly active peroxide droplets in a water-resistant hydrating base to protect teeth from sensitivity. Plus, it swipes on in seconds and delivers a brighter smile, fast.
To maintain a healthy smile, it’s also important to focus on the tooth’s enamel. As enamel demineralizes, your smile can become more vulnerable to sensitivity and tooth decay. Crest Pro-Health Densify Daily Protection Toothpaste rebuilds surface tooth density every time you brush to extend the life of your teeth by remineralizing enamel.
(12/01/2023)by Crest
More Information: https://crest.com/en-us/oral-care-tips/toothache/tooth-nerve-pain-causes-pain-relief-home-remedies
Views: 34
Ten Causes of Yellow Teeth and Solutions for Them
Though not as urgent as other dental conditions, yellow teeth can cost you your confidence and willingness to smile every day. Luckily, improving the color of your teeth can be as simple as changing what you eat and drink while polishing your oral care routine. You may even benefit from whitening treatment by your dentist. Here are ten common causes of this undesirable tinge:
1. Genetics
Sometimes, tooth color runs in the family. If one of your parents' teeth are yellow, it's likely that yours are a similar hue. Reddish brown, reddish yellow, grey and reddish grey are the four natural shades of otherwise white teeth, and this depth of colour varies across a spectrum from light to dark.
2. Dentin
Teeth look yellow when the enamel is thin and the dentin underneath shows through it. Dentin is a deep yellow to brownish material inside your teeth under the enamel, and it's often responsible for the yellow you see when you look in the mirror. Thick enamel covers up the dentin, but keep in mind it doesn't always block the stains that build up on the surface, another cause of yellow explained further down.
3. Wear
Teeth ultimately turn yellow as you get older, when enamel wears away from chewing and exposure to acids from food and drink. Most teeth turn yellow as this enamel thins with age, but some take on a greyish shade when mixed with a lasting food stain.
4. Smoking
Nicotine from smoking doesn't just develop an unhealthy addiction; it leaves yellowish or brownish surface stains on your teeth, too (one more reason to kick the habit).
5. Foods
A wide range of foods stain teeth. Tomatoes in pasta sauce, curry spices and berries all contain pigments that cling to tooth enamel and stain this surface. Even a healthy salad with balsamic vinegar dressing can leave an unsightly color on your teeth.
6. Drinks
Coffee and tea are two of the most common causes of yellow teeth, but red and white wine are also to blame. Other culprits include dark and light sodas and sports drinks with artificial flavoring.
7. Antibiotics
Tetracycline antibiotics stain teeth when they're developing in the gums.
According to a research study published in the Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, tetracycline antibiotics are used in the treatment of some common infectious diseases in children and adults. It is most recommended that pregnant and lactating women should not take tetracycline antibiotics, as they bring about discoloration of teeth in primary dentition of the developing foetus in the womb of the mother. Tetracycline and oxytetracycline cause a yellow discoloration, whereas chlortetracycline produces a grey-brown discoloration. Evidence suggests that, of all the Tetracyclines, oxytetracycline causes the least tooth discoloration. Therefore in case of intake of tetracycline antibiotics you may require an in-office bleaching treatment for your stained teeth.
8. Fluorosis
Fluoride is good for teeth, but excess fluoride can cause yellow or brownish yellow spots called fluorosis. Fluoridated water, fluoride toothpaste and prescribed fluoride tablets and treatments are your biggest sources of fluoride. Ask your dentist if you're concerned you or your child is taking too much through these means.
9. Accidents
Impact of an accident or physical trauma can crack tooth enamel and damage the tooth's interior, leading to discoloration that may indicate bleeding that needs professional attention.
10. Grinding
Tooth grinding is an unconscious habit some people have when they're stressed, especially while asleep. Also known as bruxism, it's quite harmful to tooth enamel, weakening it to the point of cracking and yellowing.
Avoiding Yellow Teeth
Brushing, professional cleaning, whitening treatments and veneers should be your go-to solutions for yellow teeth. Thoroughly brushing your teeth twice a day to prevent yellow surface stains is a must. Floss your teeth once a day, as well.
To tackle deeper intrinsic stains, visit your dental hygienist, who can gently clean away this unsightly bacteria and tartar and polish your teeth while you are in the dental chair. When it comes to stains on the enamel, however, prevention is better than the cure.
Don't smoke, and limit your consumption of foods and drinks that cause yellowing themselves. Ultimately, rinse out your mouth with water after eating or drinking them. With so many options available for whitening discolored teeth, there's no reason to feel embarrassed about their color. If you can't fix the problem at home, your dentist would be happy to provide further guidance.
(12/01/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/adult-oral-care/ten-causes-of-yellow-teeth-and-how-to-avoid-them
Views: 39
Causes and Consequences of Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is something that many people dread. In fact, teeth falling out is a common nightmare, and the feeling of horror while you sleep can last long after you wake up.
Fears of losing your teeth can send you straight to a family dentist in Houston, TX. Dentists can monitor your oral health, including the health of your teeth and gums, to prevent tooth loss and maintain clean, pearly white teeth.
Here is some information for the public about tooth loss, including the common causes of lost teeth and the consequences of losing them. You’d be surprised to learn that losing teeth can actually have secondary effects on your health.
Good Oral Care
The elderly are the most common victims of tooth loss. However, people of all ages are prone to tooth loss. This can happen for several reasons, but the most common culprit is poor oral care. If you’ve ever visited a family dental care office, then you probably know what constitutes an appropriate level of oral care. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, use an approved oral rinse, avoid overeating sugary or acidic foods, and visit a family dental care office at least once a year for regular checkups. Children should visit the dentist twice a year.
Tooth Loss in Children
There are two types of tooth loss that occur in children: loss of deciduous teeth—commonly referred to as your baby teeth—and loss of permanent teeth. Injury and neglecting to practice good oral care are the top causes of tooth loss in children. Tooth decay can cause teeth to fall out.
Sugary diets can cause children’s teeth to decay. A family dental care office can provide adults with recommendations for supervising their children’s diets and oral care routines.
Tooth Loss in Adults
The most common causes of tooth loss in adults are gingivitis and dental plaque. Injuries also can knock teeth out, but this is less common.
Gingivitis, or gum disease, can deteriorate the gums and jawbones that support your teeth. Teeth may loosen if the tissue and bone under teeth are compromised. When this happens, you may have to have your teeth extracted at a family dental care office.
People who suffer from diabetes or heart disease, and smokers and tobacco chewers are more likely to lose teeth.
In the elderly, dry mouth, plaque buildup, gum recession, and old cavity fillings are the most common causes of tooth loss.
Consequences
Losing a tooth can lead to more than embarrassment. It can lead to trouble eating or speaking, pain, changes in your facial features, and an increased risk of bone deterioration.
If you have lost a tooth, visit a dentist right away. You can learn how to protect your remaining teeth, learn about implants and other treatments to replace teeth, and more.
(11/30/2023)by Made Ya Smile Dental
More Information: N
Views: 30
Five Uncommon Signs Of Tooth Decay
Most people are aware of the common signs of tooth decay, such as toothache and cavities. However, there are a few lesser-known signs that you should be on the lookout for. In this blog post, we will discuss five uncommon signs of tooth decay and provide tips for prevention. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please make an appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental as soon as possible!
What is Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the process by which tooth enamel is broken down and eroded. This can be caused by a number of different factors, including poor oral hygiene, acidic beverages, and certain medical conditions. Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, can lead to a number of serious problems, such as cavities, tooth loss, and infections.
Causes
There are a number of different things that can cause cavities. Some of the most common include:
Poor oral hygiene: If you do not brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. This can lead to gum disease, which can eventually cause a cavity to form.
Acidic beverages: Drinks like soda and energy drinks are very acidic. Over time, this acid can wear away at your tooth enamel, leading to decay.
Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase your risk of tooth decay.
5 Uncommon Signs of Tooth Decay
Most people know the telltale signs of a cavity: a dark spot on your tooth, a hole in your tooth, or pain when you bite down. But there are other, more subtle signs that you might have a cavity. Here are five unusual signs of tooth decay.
1. Bad Breath
If you have bad breath that doesn’t seem to go away, it could be a sign of tooth decay. The bacteria that cause tooth decay produce foul-smelling compounds that can cause your breath to smell bad.
2. White Spots on Teeth
White spots on your teeth are another early sign of tooth decay. These spots are caused by the loss of minerals from your tooth enamel.
3. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, it could be a sign that your tooth enamel is thinning. This can be a sign of early tooth decay.
4. Pain when Chewing
If you experience pain when chewing, it could be a sign that tooth decay has reached the inner layers of your tooth. This can be a very serious problem and should be addressed by a dentist as soon as possible.
5. Swelling or Redness in the Gums
If your gums are swollen or red, it could be a sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease. This is often caused by plaque buildup on the teeth.
Risks of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a serious problem that can lead to a number of complications. If left untreated, it can cause cavities, tooth loss, and infections. Tooth decay can also lead to gum disease and other problems.
Cavities and Your Overall Health
Tooth decay is not just a dental health problem. It can also lead to serious health problems. Studies have shown that there is a link between tooth infections and a number of different health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Treatment
If you think you might have a cavity, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Treatment will depend on the severity of the problem. In some cases, a simple filling will be all that is needed. More serious cases may require a root canal or other dental work.
Tips for Prevention
There are a number of things you can do to prevent tooth decay. Mayo Clinic explains that some of the best ways to prevent decay include:
Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and ideally after every meal, using fluoride-containing toothpaste. To clean between your teeth, floss or use an interdental cleaner.
Rinse your mouth. If your dentist feels you have a high risk of developing cavities, he or she may recommend that you use a mouth rinse with fluoride.
Visit your dentist regularly. Get professional teeth cleanings and regular oral exams, which can help prevent problems or spot them early. Your dentist can recommend a schedule that’s best for you.
Consider dental sealants. A sealant is a protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of back teeth. It seals off grooves and crannies that tend to collect food, protecting tooth enamel from plaque and acid. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends sealants for all school-age children. Sealants may last for several years before they need to be replaced, but they need to be checked regularly.
Drink some tap water. Most public water supplies have added fluoride, which can help reduce tooth decay significantly. If you drink only bottled water that doesn’t contain fluoride, you’ll miss out on fluoride benefits.
Avoid frequent snacking and sipping. Whenever you eat or drink beverages other than water, you help your mouth bacteria create acids that can destroy tooth enamel. If you snack or drink throughout the day, your teeth are under constant attack.
Eat tooth-healthy foods. Some foods and beverages are better for your teeth than others. Avoid foods that get stuck in grooves and pits of your teeth for long periods, or brush soon after eating them. However, foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables increase saliva flow, and unsweetened coffee, tea and sugar-free gum help wash away food particles.
Consider fluoride treatments. Your dentist may recommend periodic fluoride treatments, especially if you aren’t getting enough fluoride through fluoridated drinking water and other sources. He or she may also recommend custom trays that fit over your teeth for application of prescription fluoride if your risk of tooth decay is very high.
Ask about antibacterial treatments. If you’re especially vulnerable to tooth decay — for example, because of a medical condition — your dentist may recommend special antibacterial mouth rinses or other treatments to help cut down on harmful bacteria in your mouth.
Combined treatments. Chewing xylitol-based gum along with prescription fluoride and an antibacterial rinse can help reduce the risk of cavities.
(11/30/2023)by Stoned Brook Family Dental
More Information: https://www.auroradentist.com/5-uncommon-signs-of-tooth-decay/
Views: 29
How To Keep Dental Implants Clean
Dental implants are not susceptible to the decay that afflicts natural teeth, but still require adequate cleaning to remove plaque that can stick to them and infect the surrounding tissue. Periodontal disease can destabilize the jawbone, and consequently the implant.
Cleaning single dental implants
Although a dental hygienist can clean the implant's abutment and the crown, the patient must also perform daily maintenance. Signs of improper home care include:
Bleeding
Red and swollen gums
Pain when chewing
Bad breath
Bad taste in the mouth
Taking a small amount of extra care when cleaning a single dental implant can shield surrounding teeth from bacteria and increase its longevity.
Brushing
Brushing twice per day is necessary for patients with and without implants. Patients with dental implants must gently brush the crown, using a soft nylon brush to avoid scratching its surface. Oral bacteria can migrate into the jaw through scratches on the crown.
Using mild toothpaste
Unlike natural teeth, implant crowns have an acrylic surface that abrasive substances such as baking soda can wear away. Worn surfaces create access points for bacteria that can infect the jaw and the tissue around the implant. Brushing with a mild toothpaste eliminates this concern.
Water flossing
Water flossers have parts that can direct water flow deep inside the space between the crown and the gums where bacteria accumulate. A pulsating hydraulic force of room temperature water washes away plaque and debris and is gentle enough to apply every day.
Alternative flossing
Soft interdental brushes can achieve the same level of cleaning that water flossing provides. Standard string floss is inadvisable for use near dental implants because it can shred and enter the gum tissue causing infection. Specially designed floss consisting of shred-resistant stiff ends and a pliable middle can safely clean the area where the crown's edge meets the gumline.
Gum stimulating
Patients can gently massage the gums with stimulators to send nutrient-rich blood to the implant region. A gum stimulator is also an excellent cleaning device consisting of a long metal or plastic arm supporting a small triangular-shaped rubber or silicone tip that reaches beyond the gumline near the implant crown to scrape away plaque. It can enter the tight space between the crown and other teeth to loosen trapped debris.
Cleaning implants that support bridges and dentures
Whether a patient has a single implant or multiple implants, the cleaning methods are the same, with some variation. Additional tools in a home care arsenal can benefit patients with implant-supported bridges and dentures.
Interdental brushing
Patients can use small, narrow brushes with soft bristles to clean implant-supported bridges or dentures near the gumline where standard toothbrushes cannot easily reach. Subtle changes in design depend on which part of the mouth is cleaned.
Mouth rinsing
A mouth rinse can penetrate spaces that other home care tools can not reach. Antibacterial rinses can dislodge debris while killing germs that can cause periodontitis.
(11/29/2023)by Long Grove Dental
More Information: https://www.longgrovedental.com/blog/how-to-keep-dental-implants-clean-cip107/
Views: 34
Gum Infection: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Just about every area of your body is susceptible to infection, including your mouth. And if you have an infection, it’s important to get medical care promptly. In the case of your mouth, infected gums can not only be very painful, they can also be a sign of a more serious condition such as advanced gum disease, otherwise known as periodontitis.
Gum Disease Characteristics
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum (periodontal) disease. If left untreated, it can very quickly develop into an advanced form of periodontal disease, known as periodontitis which can lead to tooth loss.
Periodontal disease affects the area of your mouth just below the gum line, in the v-shaped crevice between your tooth and gums, known as the sulcus. This impacts the attachment of your tooth and causes the nearby tissue to break down. Once the tissue is damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket that can trap bacteria and lead to gum infections. Since gums provide fundamental support for our teeth, it’s vital to keep them in good health.
Gum Infection Symptoms
Although serious gum infections aren’t extremely common, they can lead to major issues if not treated in a timely manner. While most of us want to keep our teeth and gums healthy, they can be prone to gum infections if not cared for properly. Identifying the risk factors and warning signs that can lead to infected gums is an important way to help prevent further gum disease and all the side effects that come with it.
Signs of infected gums include:
Gums that are swollen, tender or bleeding
Receding gums
Pus coming from the gums
Chronic bad breath
Loose teeth
A noticeable change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
If you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, visit your dental professional right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Periodontal Disease Diagnosis
To check whether periodontal disease is affecting the health of your smile, your dental professional may carry out a series of tests. These include questions about risk factors and oral health. In addition, the depth of the gingival pockets is measured, the occurrence of gum bleeding is determined, and the mobility of the teeth is examined. Panoramic x-rays show whether there is bone loss. If this is the case, then it is measured to what extent.
When it comes to gum disease, good oral hygiene is of paramount importance. No treatment, including dental procedures and antibiotics, will bring long-term results if the patient does not implement an oral care routine of twice daily brushing and flossing at least once a day.
Gum Infection Treatments
As soon as you notice a gum infection, you should consult with a dental professional. Once gum disease is diagnosed, you will have numerous treatment options that will vary based on the severity of the infection. Here are some common methods to treat gum infections:
Antibiotic Therapy: Just as you’d expect with any type of bacterial infection, antibiotics are often used to treat gum infections. Your dentist may elect to use an antibiotic pill or injection directly into the gum infection site.
Root Planing and Scaling Treatment: This advanced gum disease therapy cleans deeply between your teeth—all the way to the roots.
Gingivectomy: A gingivectomy is a form of periodontal disease surgery that involves the removal of gum tissue.
Flap Surgery: If your gum disease is severe, flap surgery may be necessary involving bone or tissue grafts.
How to Prevent Gum Infections
Maintaining healthy gums and avoiding gum disease can be easy if you make good oral hygiene a priority every day. By brushing and flossing daily, you can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease and inflammation, in addition to tooth decay and other oral health problems. Poor oral hygiene is your worst enemy, so start a diligent routine and stick to it, and your smile will benefit from these healthy habits.
Brush twice a day
Brush your teeth with a stannous fluoride toothpaste such as any of the Crest Gum Detoxify toothpastes twice a day for 2 minutes each session. These anti-gingivitis toothpastes gently neutralize the bacteria trapped around the gum line leading to clinically proven healthier gums.
Floss your teeth daily
Use a product like Oral-B Glide Deep Clean floss or Oral-B Glide Scope Outlast floss picks to clean between each and every tooth to remove food particles that cause plaque and tartar buildup, and can eventually lead to gum disease. To further wash away any leftover plaque and food debris, consider adding an oral irrigator like the Oral-B Water Flosser Advanced to your routine. Its unique Oxyjet Technology uses water enriched with microbubbles of air to help eliminate plaque bacteria for healthier gums.
Use an anti-gingivitis mouthwash
You may also want to use a mouthwash that kills the bacteria that causes plaque. There are a variety available and some have more than one benefit, like whitening and fighting bad breath, for a healthier mouth all around.
Visit a dental professional at least twice a year for a professional cleaning
This will remove tartar buildup that you can’t take care of at home. Tartar buildup can lead to more plaque buildup on and around the tartar in hard to clean areas which can wreak havoc on your smile.
Since prevention is the best way to avoid gum infection, it’s important to make caring for your teeth and gums a top priority. Maintain good oral hygiene by following these important guidelines to keep your teeth and gums healthy and help prevent gum infection.
(11/29/2023)by Crest
More Information: https://crest.com/en-us/oral-care-tips/gum-health/gum-infection-symptoms-treatment-prevention
Views: 32
Causes of a sore on the side of the tongue
A sore on the side of the tongue can develop for various reasons, including canker sores, cold sores, or a minor injury. Less commonly, a sore on the tongue may be a sign of cancer.
In some cases, severe, recurring, or persistent mouth sores can be a symptom of an underlying condition.
This article discusses possible symptoms of sores on the side of the tongue. It also looks at the common causes, treatments, and remedies for tongue sores, as well as when to speak to a doctor.
Signs and symptoms
Sores on the side of the tongue can look and feel different depending on what is causing them. They may be:
small and red
larger, with a white or gray center and red edges
open and bleeding
Sores on the side of the tongue can also occur alongside other symptoms, such as swelling or difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Minor conditions are responsible for most mouth sores, but sores on the side of the tongue can be a sign of an underlying condition that may require medical attention.
Canker sores
Canker sores, or mouth ulcers, are small harmless sores that can appear on the tongue. The symptoms of canker sores include:
small sores that begin as a red bump and then develop a white or gray center with flat red edges
pain and soreness
symptoms that worsen when a person eats salty, spicy, or acidic foods
Canker sores tend to heal on their own in 7–10 days. They are not contagious.
Doctors do not know exactly what causes canker sores, but the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) note that the following factors can trigger them:
minor injuries, such as biting the tongue, rubbing from braces or dentures, and food burns while eating
food intolerances or allergies
stress or tiredness
an iron or vitamin B12 deficiency
certain medications, such as beta-blockers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
stopping smoking
Hormonal changes, such as those that take place during pregnancy, and genetics can also make canker sores more likely for some people. Those with chronic conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and celiac disease, may also experience them.
Treatment
There is no permanent cure for canker sores. Often, they heal on their own without medical treatment. However, there are ways to relieve the symptoms.
People can obtain over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), from a pharmacist. There are also topical products for canker sores that people apply inside the mouth to numb the pain.
Frequent canker sores may indicate an underlying condition, such as a vitamin deficiency, which may require medical attention.
Cold sores
Cold sores are fluid-filled blisters that occur due to an infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They typically appear around the mouth but sometimes develop on the tongue.
The symptoms of cold sores include:
a tingling or burning sensation before the cold sore develops
painful, fluid-filled blisters that rupture, leak fluid, and then scab over
sores that heal and then reappear, sometimes in response to stress or an illness
Some people also experience fever during cold sore flare-ups.
Cold sores take about 1 week to heal fully. During that time, they are contagious because the fluid inside them contains HSV. For this reason, it is important to avoid picking the sores and take steps to prevent HSV from transmitting others.
Treatment
There is no cure for cold sores, but for most people, neither the sores nor the virus causes serious problems. During cold sore flare-ups, people can use OTC pain medications to ease pain and swelling.
People with severe cold sores or a compromised immune system can obtain antiviral medication from a doctor. These medications shorten the duration of cold sores, but they do not entirely prevent them.
Oral lichen planus
Lichen planus is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect the skin and the inside of the mouth. Oral lichen planus often only occurs inside the mouth, most often on the inside of the cheeks and the sides of the tongue.
The symptoms of lichen planus include:
painful ulcers
white or lace-like patches that itch
inflamed and peeling gums
raised red or purple areas on the body, which doctors call plaques
yellowish-brown plaques on the palms and soles
Several factors can contribute to lichen planus, including genetics, an injury inside the mouth, viral infections such as hepatitis C, and emotional or physical stress. The condition can clear within a few years, but for oral lichen planus, it often takes longer.
Treatment
Doctors can prescribe steroid medications to relieve the symptoms of lichen planus. Alternatively, they may recommend other medications and ointments.
Severe cases may require a combination of medications and different therapies, such as UV light therapy.
(11/28/2023)by Medical News Today
More Information: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sore-on-side-of-tongue
Views: 21
Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?
Gums that bleed while flossing can be due to a number of issues; however, if it is a common occurrence, it may likely be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. To be sure, bleeding gums while flossing and performing daily oral hygiene routines could be caused by factors other than gum disease. These include a vitamin deficiency, a reaction to certain medications, ill-fitting dentures, or even the fact that you may have just started flossing and your gums simply aren’t acclimated to the process just yet. But gum disease is an extremely common indicator, even among individuals who take the best possible care of their oral health.
Gum disease is caused by a collection of bacteria in the soft tissues of the mouth that develops into a sticky film called plaque. If the plaque is not removed by ordinary brushing and flossing, it can transition into a harder substance known as tartar or “calculus,” which can lead to gum recession, the separation of the gum tissue from the teeth, and other symptoms. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and often leads to symptoms such as gums that are swollen, inflamed, or that bleed while brushing or flossing.
It can be frustrating to experience bleeding gums when you feel like you do everything possible to maintain a healthy mouth, but here’s something to keep in mind: good brushing and flossing routines can remove a fair amount of plaque, but plaque and tartar can reside in areas that may not be reachable on your own.
That’s why routine visits to the dentist for exams and professional cleanings (which are typically recommended as a twice-yearly procedure for most individuals) are so important. Dental cleanings can get to plaque and bacteria in deeper, more hidden areas, making these treatments a powerful weapon in the battle against periodontal disease.
In some cases, gum disease is present so deeply within the gums that more extensive treatment is necessary to remove the bacteria and restore gum health. The most important thing is to keep brushing and flossing daily, attend your routine dental appointments as recommended, and come in for a dental exam as soon as you notice there might be a problem.
Remember, untreated gum disease can progress into more serious (and dangerous) stages of the condition, and even lead to general health risks linked to oral health conditions.
(11/28/2023)by Smile For Life Dental
More Information: https://www.drdeanlodding.com/oral-health/why-do-my-gums-bleed-when-i-floss/
Views: 28
Exostosis Mouth: A Complicated Term For Benign Bony Growths
If you're experiencing abnormal bone growth in your mouth, you have what's called an exostosis. The term sounds a little frightening, but don't worry – in most cases, these growths aren't a cause for any concern at all. There are rare circumstances when exostoses have interfered with oral function or denture placement and have required surgery, but that is not the norm. Most often, by practicing good oral hygiene, your mouth can be as healthy as if you had no exostoses at all. But make no bones about it, we'll give you all the info you need on the types, causes, and potential issues with exostoses to ensure your oral health keeps you smiling.
What Are the Types and Causes of Exostoses in the Mouth?
The type of exostosis you have depends on its location in your mouth. The most commonly occurring bone growths are found in the mouth's roof (torus palatinus) and beneath the tongue (torus mandibularus). Buccal exostoses are hard bony protrusions on the outside of your gums and are less common. Torus palatinus is often a singular growth, whereas torus mandibularus and buccal exostoses tend to be bilateral, meaning they happen on both sides of the mouth.
There is no known cause (etiology) of bone growing out of gums, the mouth's roof, or under the tongue. According to an article published in the Journal of International Oral Health, some causes could include genetic factors, environmental factors, excessive chewing (masticatory hyperfunction), teeth grinding (bruxism), and continued jawbone growth. Growths usually appear in the late teens or early adulthood and tend to increase in size over time. It's common for people to have exostoses in their mouths for years before they even notice they are there.
How Your Dental Professional Will Diagnose an Exostosis
Most often, your dental professional will diagnose you with an exostosis during a regular checkup. If they notice thickened or protruding bone during their structural assessment, they will likely take a photo or measure the structure to document any growth that occurs over time.
Health Concerns for Exostoses in your Mouth
Exostoses are considered a variation of normal, and most often, they pose no health concern at all. Occasionally they can develop some adverse effects, especially if they become large enough that they interfere with the functioning of your mouth. For instance, a torus mandibularus can make it difficult to speak properly if it grows to a certain size. Another potential issue is that the tissue covering bone growths is very thin and could get scratched or injured from sharp food resulting in ulcer formation. Also, if you have missing teeth and are considering dentures, all types of exostosis can potentially interfere with the placement of your artificial teeth. Some people may want a growth removed due to aesthetic concerns.
Treatment for Exostosis in your Mouth
If your exostosis is one of the rare growths in which treatment is recommended, it can be removed in a dental professional's office – usually by an oral surgeon. Using local anesthesia (numbing the specific area around a surgical operation), the surgeon will make an incision and lift the soft tissue away to expose the overgrowth. The surgeon will then trim the bone using a high-speed dental tool (or with new developments in technology, possibly a dental laser, according to Dentistry Today). They will then suture the tissue back in place.
How to Practice Good Oral Hygiene With an Exostosis
As always, practice good oral hygiene by brushing at least twice a day. Floss or clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or water flossers at least once a day, and use antimicrobial mouthrinses and tongue scrapers. Be sure to see your dental professional for regular cleanings – not only to keep your teeth pearly white and bacteria-free but also to have them check on the health and size of any hard bony lumps on your gums. Be diligent in checking for and removing any food particles that may get stuck between your growth and your gums, and ask your dentist if they have any specific recommendations for your needs.
While your exostosis may have seemed at first like a cause for alarm, hopefully, you now know that they tend to be completely harmless. If you're unsure whether or not growth under the tissue in your mouth is bone, then it's worth having a professional take a look right away to ensure it's not something more problematic. But chances are, with an excellent oral hygiene routine and regular checkups, you're going to be all smiles.
Issues and Treatment for Exostosis Mouth
Although these growths are benign, occasionally they can cause problems, especially if they become large enough to interfere with functions of the mouth. TM, if very large, can inhibit proper speaking, and all types of exostosis can interfere with denture placement. Additionally, the mucosa covering them is very thin and prone to scratches and injuries from sharp food, sometimes resulting in ulcer formation from the trauma.
In the rare instance where treatment is recommended, the exostosis can be removed in a dental specialist's office, usually by an oral surgeon. Under local anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision and lift the soft tissue away to expose the overgrowth of bone. Typically, the bone is trimmed using a high speed dental hand piece, and the tissue is sutured back in place. Advances in dental lasers and their ability to penetrate hard tissues have shown promise for a more efficient and less invasive option, reports Dentistry Today.
Exostosis mouth is very rarely a concern for the dentist or patient. Treatment is only necessary when the nodules interfere with the normal functions of the mouth or become an aesthetic concern for the patient. Do you have bony bumps in your mouth? To keep the rest of your mouth healthy, brush twice daily with a toothpaste that repairs early teeth and gum damage. Also schedule regular dental visits. Your dentist and dental hygienist can detect oral problems early and suggest the best treatments for you.
(11/27/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/exostosis-mouth-a-complicated-term-for-benign-bony-growths
Views: 31
Lip Biting: Why It's Bad And How To Stop
There are a lot of different reasons people bite their lips. It's happened to everyone at least once, when they least expect it (ruining a perfectly good bite of food!). For some people, though, it seems to happen all the time, accidentally, while they're talking or eating. Others do it in their sleep. And for some lip biters, it's a habit, induced by stress or because their lips are dry and flaky. The first step to solving your lip biting problem is finding out which of these categories you fall into, and then find a plan of action for saving your lips!
The Accidental Lip Biter
If you're an accidental lip biter, but it seems to happen to you all the time, you probably need to chat with your dentist. It's possible that your bite is misaligned, called a malocclusion, or maybe you need treatment for TMD, temporomandibular joint disorder. The point is — your dentist needs to evaluate the situation so you can stop getting a fat lip every time you're out to sushi with friends.
The Habitual Lip Biter
You might find yourself biting your lip without realizing it, possibly as a nervous habit. You wouldn't be alone. Chronic lip biting is a common anxiety symptom and can even be an example of a body-focused repetitive behavior, or BFRB. Once you identify your biting as a nervous habit, you can start to consciously adjust your behavior, and even reach out to friends and family for support.
Why is lip biting bad?
Other than the pain that can come from biting your lip, there are other concerns for your oral health and overall wellbeing, too. Chronic lip biting can cause swelling, rawness and sores. Repeatedly biting the same area can even cause fibromas to develop. Additionally, you could end up with jaw pain and headaches.
Tips to kick the lip biting habit
It's important to protect your lips from damage and that can be especially tricky when you're the culprit. Whether you're chomping down by accident or biting out of anxiety, there are lots of solutions available to help you get on track to healthier lips, and a healthier you!
Exfoliate dry lips To keep yourself from chewing on rough, dry lips, be sure to exfoliate your lips 2-3 times a week before bed and then apply a thick, rich moisturizer to deeply hydrate overnight.
Moisturize constantly Keep your lips nourished to prevent the urge to chew or bite them. If necessary, find a lip balm that doesn't taste great so that if you do bite your lip without thinking, you're immediately deterred by the taste.
Practice mindfulness When you're dealing with something like lip biting, the problem is often that you're already doing it before you realize it. The practice of mindfulness allows you to be present in your body, in the moment. Take notice of what you're feeling, what's around you, what you smell and see. Take a deep breath. Can you identify any triggers that might have led you to start biting your lip? Give yourself a few more moments of breathing and awareness before resuming whatever you were doing. Hopefully, this will relax you and relieve some of the stress that may have triggered the lip biting. The more you practice mindfulness, the more this habit will begin to replace the lip biting!
Try progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) PMR is a technique often used to control anxiety and stress. It's based on the practice of tensing certain muscles at a time and then releasing them, allowing those muscle to experience a deep relaxation. By focusing the mind on a series of muscle groups, and shifting your anxious state into one of relaxation, it can help ease the physical anxiety symptoms you were experiencing, like lip biting.
Explore behavioral therapy as an option Sometimes the best route to changing subconscious behaviors is understanding the root causes and triggers and learning skills to help you moving forward. A licensed therapist will be able to guide you through this process.
(11/27/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/lip-biting-is-bad-and-how-to-stop
Views: 31
When Is An Extraction Absolutely Necessary?
Good oral health is essential to your overall well-being. A lack of proper oral hygiene can result in gum disease, tooth decay, and even more severe health complications. Sometimes a tooth extraction may be necessary to maintain optimal oral health.
The experts at Hometown Family Dental Centers — with convenient locations in Fayetteville, Raeford, and Vass, North Carolina — provide sedation dentistry to put you at ease in the dentist’s chair while you undergo any of our full range of dental services to ensure your oral health. Our friendly staff always makes sure you're comfortable and relaxed during your procedure.
Are you experiencing pain or infection in your tooth? While our dentists always strive to save your natural tooth when possible, a tooth extraction might be required in some cases. Understanding when tooth extractions are absolutely necessary can help you make more informed decisions about your oral care.
Reasons for tooth extractions
There are a few reasons your dentist might recommend extracting a tooth.
Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth are a third set of molars, which emerge in your late teens or early 20s. They can be a source of discomfort, pain, and swelling if there’s not enough space in your jaw for them to come in correctly.
Wisdom teeth can also push neighboring teeth out of alignment. We might recommend extracting wisdom teeth if they’re causing pain or if they’re likely to cause problems in the future.
Severe infection
An untreated cavity can penetrate deep into the tooth pulp or root, leading to an infection that may spread to surrounding tissues. Sometimes this infection can be treated with a root canal. But if the decay is too advanced or if there’s an abscess, we may have to extract the tooth.
Advanced gum disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a chronic bacterial infection affecting the gums and even the bones supporting your teeth. Advanced gum disease can cause tooth loss and other oral health problems. In severe cases, tooth extraction may be the only option to prevent the spread of infection.
Alignment problems
Orthodontic treatment often starts with evaluating the teeth to determine the best course of action. In some cases, the jaw may not have enough space for all of your teeth to fit together for a proper bite, so tooth extraction might be necessary to create space for braces or aligners.
Tooth extraction procedure
The tooth extraction procedure is relatively straightforward. After numbing the area surrounding the tooth with a local anesthetic, your dentist uses a tool to loosen and remove the tooth and root.
Depending on the location of the tooth and its size, the dentist may need to use forceps or surgical tools to remove the tooth. Afterward, gauze is placed over the extraction site to stop any bleeding. In some cases, stitches may be necessary to close the wound.
Aftercare
After tooth extraction, taking good care of the area is essential to prevent complications. You should rest and avoid physical activity for the first 24 hours. Apply ice to your cheek to reduce swelling.
Eat soft foods, and avoid drinking through a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot. Brush and floss your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed, but avoid aspirin, which can increase the bleeding risk.
Everyone's dental situation is different, and electing for a tooth extraction is a decision that’s best made with your dentist. Although tooth extractions may sound daunting, they're often necessary and can be handled without complication.
With proper preparation and understanding of the process, you can ensure a safe, successful procedure to restore your oral health.
(11/26/2023)by Hometowm Family Dental Centers
More Information: https://www.hometownfamilydentalnc.com/blog/when-is-an-extraction-absolutely-necessary
Views: 23
Health Issues That Could Arise From Poor Oral Health
Did you ever skip brushing your teeth because you were just too tired to stand there and mindlessly scrub at your gums for two minutes? While skipping out on one or two cleanings is not ideal, it is not something that can cause serious damage, but poor oral health can lead to many health issues and can increase the risk for much deadlier diseases. Having excellent oral health is much more than just making sure your pearly whites are nice and bright. If you really think about it, your mouth is a prime entrance into your body and having poor oral health can produce destructive outcomes for you whole functioning body. Today, we will be discussing what type of health issues that could arise from maintaining poor oral health.
There can be many different instances where your body is ending you signs that something could be wring, however, we have to make sure we heed these warning signs and schedule an appointment for a professional opinion. Such signs as bleeding gums, aching teeth and even a bad breath smell can all be indicators that something is not quite right. Better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to your health and practice good hygiene for your teeth and gums!
Poor oral health can lead to many diseases and health issues, below are the most common problems that can arise from not maintaining proper health and self-care practices.
Cardiovascular disease. This can happen as a result of poor oral health and can put you at a greater risk for heart disease. This is a perfect example of what could happen if bacteria enters your bloodstream. If your gums happen to be inflamed due to the same bacteria that causes periodontal disease, this bacteria can enter your bloodstream and create plaque to form and harden around your arteries.
Diabetes may not be a direct cause of poor oral health, but diabetics are more susceptible to infection and gum disease. Periodontal disease can spike blood sugar levels thus creating difficulty controlling elevated levels of blood sugar.
Cancer. Not only can you develop oral cancer by poor oral health and extracurricular activities such as smoking and chewing tobacco, but other cancers such as kidney, blood, and pancreatic cancers have been linked to poor oral health.
Kidney disease can occur as a result of poor oral health due to the fact that their immune systems are weaker.
Dementia can be linked to poor oral health as a result from the gum disease, gingivitis. This can happen when the bacteria spreads from the mouth to the nerve channels through the bloodstream.
Respiratory infections can form as a result of more bacteria leaking through the bloodstream or even by breathing bacteria (accidently) into the lungs. Once there, bacteria can cause infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and even chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
While you may be tired after a long day, remember, brushing your teeth for a few minutes now could save you from a worse fate later.
(11/25/2023)by Impeccable Smiles
More Information: N
Views: 33
How to Preserve Your Teeth as You Age
Everyone knows that human bodies weaken over time, and teeth are no exception. Often taken for granted, teeth are very important for overall health and can become weak if they aren’t cared for properly. Continue reading to learn five ways to help you preserve your teeth as you age.
5 Tips to Preserve Your Teeth
Practice proper oral hygiene – Properly brushing and flossing between your teeth twice each day will help you fight tooth decay and periodontal disease which can lead to tooth loss.
Stay on top of professional treatment – Routine cleanings and oral health examinations will help maintain your oral health and catch any negative conditions that you may develop. Early intervention is the key to preserve your teeth and oral health, and you should also make a point of having any dental crowns or fillings replaced as needed.
Limit your consumption of acidic liquids – Heavy consumption of acidic drinks such as soda, alcohol, and juice contribute to tooth erosion and decay. Do your best to drink more water than flavored liquids, and rinse your mouth with water after you do drink soda or fruit juice.
Protect your teeth when you sleep – Many people suffer from deteriorating teeth as they age because of uncontrollable tooth grinding when they sleep. Your dentist will be able to notice if you have this problem quite easily and will suggest that you wear a special mouthguard while you sleep to protect your teeth.
Lead a healthy lifestyle – Routine exercise and following a healthy diet is important for overall health and can help you preserve your teeth by reducing your chances of developing diabetes, heart disease, or other conditions that can seriously harm gum health. Make a point of eating plenty of calcium-rich foods such as low-fat dairy products or cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli to keep your teeth and bones strong.
(11/25/2023)by David DavenportViews: 28
Is Having Sensitive Teeth Bad?
Do your teeth hurt when you sip cold water or hot coffee? What about when there’s any pressure applied to your teeth? Do they feel sensitive?
Tooth sensitivity is pretty common, especially for people aged 20 to 40 (though it can affect people of all ages). If you have symptoms of pain ranging from a mild twinge to aching when your teeth are exposed to different temperatures or pressures, you can do something about it. And it’s time to answer that lingering question you may have — is having sensitive teeth a bad thing?
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
How do you identify tooth sensitivity? “Sensitivity in teeth occurs when the nerve of the tooth is exposed to stimuli,” said Dr. Nehi Ogbevoen, DDS and board-certified orthodontist at Beverly Hills Orthodontics in Los Angeles, CA. As mentioned above, tooth sensitivity is pain ranging from mild to severe. “Sensitive teeth are one of the most common concerns among patients visiting the dentist,” Dr Ogbevoen said.
How Does It Happen?
There can be several different causes of sensitive teeth. “This can be due to the wearing down or thinning of the tooth enamel [from dietary acid or brushing too hard, for example] or gum recession exposing underlying layers of teeth,” Dr. Ogbevoen explained. Bleaching teeth, gum disease, and a cracked tooth can all create sensitivity, too.
“When the protective layers of the teeth have been compromised, stimuli such as heat, cold, and even sugar can trigger a sensation of pain to the nerve of the tooth,” Dr. Ogbevoen explained.
Is Having Sensitive Teeth Bad?
So you’re probably wondering, “Is this sensitivity a bad thing?” Not necessarily! “Sensitivity does not necessarily mean you have unhealthy teeth,” Dr. Ogbevoen said. “However, if the sensitivity is affecting daily activities such as eating, drinking, or talking, it is best to visit your dental health professional.”A dentist can recommend treatments or procedures that can be done to help sensitivity.
How Can You Treat Sensitive Teeth?
Step one: visit your dentist. It’s best to seek advice and an examination from a dental professional, Dr. Ogbevoen explained. “A thorough examination will identify any cracks, holes, or cavities in your teeth and gum recession.” He went on to say that your dentist will most likely recommend a sensitivity toothpaste, like Sensodyne, to provide sensitivity relief.
(11/24/2023)by Sensodyne
More Information: https://www.sensodyne.com/en-us/oral-health-tips/is-having-sensitive-teeth-bad/
Views: 31
Do Your Teeth Hurt in Cold Weather?
Do you ever find that your teeth feel sensitive when you head outside during the winter and breathe through your mouth? If so, don’t worry — you’re not just imagining it. The dental pain triggered by extreme temperatures can have several causes such as tooth decay, exposed dentin, upset tooth nerves due to grinding teeth, or a worn out dental filling.1 Learn more about tooth sensitivity and how cold weather can contribute to the pain.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity, and What Causes It?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when enamel, or the protective layer around your teeth begins to wear away.1 Enamel covers dentin, which contains tubules that connect to the nerves and cells inside the tooth.1 When dentin is exposed, the tubules allow hot or cold to reach the nerves in the tooth.1 Other causes of tooth sensitivity include gum disease, tooth whitening and brushing too hard.2
How Does Cold Weather Affect Sensitive Teeth?
If you’ve ever felt pain after biting into something cold, it’s likely caused by tooth sensitivity. Exposure to cold air can also cause you to feel the sensitivity in your teeth.2 Sudden changes in mouth temperature can also result in cracked teeth, which can cause pain and sensitivity.3 Small cracks (craze lines) in the enamel are common in adults and do not typically require treatment, but cracks that are more severe should be treated by a dental professional as soon as possible.3
Winter is also the time when respiratory illnesses like the common cold are most prevalent.4 Colds can produce too much mucus, which blocks the opening of the sinuses and lead to sinusitis.5 Toothache and face tenderness are common symptoms of acute sinusitis, along with other typical symptoms like fever, nasal stuffiness and coughing.5 If you suspect that sinusitis is causing your tooth pain, contact your health care provider.5
How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity Caused by Cold Weather
Thankfully, there are ways to avoid tooth sensitivity when the weather drops. Brushing properly with a soft toothbrush and regular flossing to help keep your gums healthy are two super easy ways to keep your oral health in good shape.2 Try to remember to change your toothbrush out every two to three months so you’re not using a worn-out toothbrush.2
Although cold weather calls for warm drinks like hot cocoa, it’s important to keep the sugary drinks to a minimum when dealing with tooth sensitivity. Try to have sugary foods or acidic drinks less often or reserve them for mealtimes.2
Using Desensitizing Toothpaste to Help Tooth Sensitivity to Cold Weather
If you don’t have cavities or tooth damage but still have sensitivity, a simple trick to get relief is to brush twice daily with a toothpaste specialized for sensitive teeth. which can help relieve tooth sensitivity. Thanks to its unique formulation with stannous fluoride, Sensodyne works to create a protective shield over your teeth’s most sensitive areas, providing sensitivity protection with twice daily brushing.
(11/24/2023)by Sensodyne
More Information: https://www.sensodyne.com/en-us/oral-health-tips/why-teeth-hurt-cold-outside/
Views: 31
Gentle Ways to Clean Your Mouth After Eating or Drinking
You may have heard conflicting information from different dentists about whether you should brush your teeth after eating. And while getting the extra food residue out of the way is important, it's also true that your teeth can be quite vulnerable to damage if you brush less than 30 minutes after a meal.The bacteria that dine on sugars and starches start to work almost immediately, producing acids that can soften your enamel. So the time just after you eat or drink, especially something sugary or starchy or acidic, is the most vulnerable time for your teeth. Here are some gentler ways you can clean your teeth and mouth after eating or drinking.
1. Rinse With Water
Just plain water can actually help a lot more than you'd expect. For example, a couple of quick swishes after you finish eating can provide these benefits:
Removing food residue from your tooth surfaces so there's less for bacteria to eat
Rinsing away any acids from your food or beverage that could soften your enamel
Rinsing away some of the bacteria (although not a lot)
After eating or drinking, you should always rinse with water immediately. If you don't have anything else on hand, just swishing water around in your mouth a few times is much better than nothing. Just remember to use plain water, not water with lemon in it.
2. Use PH Neutralizing Mouthwash
Even if what you ate wasn't particularly acidic, the bacteria in your mouth will start to turn the sugars and starches into acid within a few minutes of the time you start eating. A mouthwash with a high (alkaline) PH helps to nullify these acids somewhat.If you have plaque or tartar in your mouth, the mouthwash won't be able to reach everywhere since the bacteria hide under the plaque. But it will still help reduce the severity of the acid attack on your enamel. And the PH neutralization also helps to reduce the overpopulation of bad bacteria, since they love acids and good bacteria tend to prefer an alkaline PH.
3. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
You may not have previously considered gum to be a method of cleaning your mouth. But as long as the gum is sugar-free, it may actually help. One way it can help is because the action of chewing the gum helps to increase saliva flow and to move saliva around the mouth.Saliva helps to not only wash away any food residue, but also neutralize PH levels (since healthy saliva is typically around a neutral PH). It also brings minerals to the surface of the enamel that's been attacked by acids.You can increase the cavity-fighting potential of your gum by choosing one that contains xylitol. Because it's similar enough to sugar that bad bacteria may try to eat it but not similar enough to actually let them digest it, xylitol can help block the production of acids after eating.
4. Use Water Flosser
A water flosser is considered a gentler way to clean your teeth than brushing and string flossing. That's why people whose gums are so sensitive that flossing is a painful and bloody affair often use it. Because it uses a stream of water rather than mechanical brushing, a water flosser won't physically scrape the softened enamel away.You can also use something like a neutralizing mouthwash in your water flosser to improve the cleaning potential. Check the manufacturer recommendations first, though; some water flossers don't do well with solutions such as saltwater. Remember, a water flosser isn't a substitute for your regularly scheduled daily brushing and flossing, though.These are some ways you can clean your mouth out directly after eating without running the risk of damaging your enamel. For more information about how to keep your teeth as clean as possible without over brushing, talk to your dentist.
(11/23/2023)by New England Dental Health Services
More Information: https://www.newenglanddentalct.com/gentle-ways-to-clean-your-mouth-after-eating-or-drinking
Views: 26
How to Remove Tartar from Teeth
Taking care of your teeth should always be a priority. Without good oral hygiene and checkups with a dental professional, you may be at risk for conditions such as gum disease.1 Getting tartar removed from your teeth is one way to stop gum disease from forming.1
How can you remove tartar from your teeth and prevent it from forming? Continue reading to learn more about tartar and how it can be removed.
What Is Tartar and How Can it Affect You?
Empty heading
Your mouth is full of different kinds of bacteria. When bacteria stay on the teeth for too long, they form a film called plaque.1 If not thoroughly removed, acid from plaque bacteria can break down the enamel of your teeth, leading to cavities.2 Plaque that is not thoroughly removed with brushing and cleaning in between teeth (flossing) will eventually harden to become tartar, also known as calculus, which makes it more challenging to keep your teeth clean.1,2
When plaque and tartar collect above your gum line, the tissue of your gums may become inflamed and bleed easily. This is an indicator of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease that can be easily reversed through daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings from a dental professional.3 However, if tartar is not removed or left untreated, gingivitis may advance to periodontitis, which can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth.3 If periodontitis is not treated, the bones, gums and tissues that support your teeth may be destroyed, and you may lose your teeth.3
You’ll know when gum disease has started to affect your oral health if you experience any of the following symptoms:3
Red or swollen gums
Painful chewing
Overly sensitive teeth
Bad breath that won’t go away
Gums that are tender or bleeding
These symptoms may be a sign of a serious problem and can negatively affect the long-term health of your teeth and gums. Taking the steps to remove tartar from your teeth and prevent it from developing in the first place can go a long way toward the health of your mouth.
How to Remove Tartar from Your Teeth
Empty heading
Only a dental health professional can safely remove tartar and stop the periodontal process.1 While some cultures may tout the benefits of oil pulling on improving oral health, the ADA cannot recommend it as a dental hygiene practice due to lack of supporting scientific evidence.4
Once plaque has turned into tartar, it should be treated by a dentist, dental hygienist or periodontist who will remove it through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing.3 During this process, tartar is removed from above and below the gum line or on the root of the tooth.3 In some cases, a laser may be used to clear away hard-to-remove tartar.3
How to Prevent Tartar
You can prevent the buildup of plaque and keep it from hardening into to tartar by regularly visiting your dentist and practicing good dental hygiene at home.2 prevention is the key to oral health and your hygienist will show you the proper way to brush and floss.
some tips for preventing tartar and avoiding gum disease include: 2,3,5
Floss gently at least once a day.
Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush that isn’t too large for your mouth. The Sensodyne Sensitive Care Toothbrush is a great soft-bristled option that provides an optimal cleaning.
Use a fluoride toothpaste like Sensodyne Sensitivity & Gum Mint Toothpaste.Sensodyne Sensitivity & Gum can help relieve sensitivity and improve gum health through effective plaque control.
See your dental professional at least every 6 months for a thorough cleaning and oral exam.
Avoid sticky, sugary foods and snacking between meals.
Don’t smoke.
Understanding how tartar forms and how it can harm your teeth may lead you to take better care of your teeth. As with many dental issues, prevention is the key to a healthy mouth, teeth and gums.
(11/23/2023)by Sensodyne
More Information: https://www.sensodyne.com/en-us/oral-health-tips/gum-health/remove-tartar-from-teeth/
Views: 48
Bad Oral Habits Lead To Oral Health Issues
Oral health is a major concern for most people. However, some fail to give due importance to their oral health. This can result in serious dental problems that can also affect overall health. Listed below are some habits that can damage your oral health:
Tongue Piercing
A tongue piercing can stick through the tissue on the roof of the mouth and damage your tooth crowns. It can irritate the soft tissue and chip your tooth enamel, leading to serious oral health issues.
Additionally, this type of jewelry can wear down the teeth and its constant motion can also irritate the gums. Pain, bleeding, or other signs of infection may occur if the oral piercing isn’t removed in a timely fashion.
Cleaning the tongue with a toothbrush and mouth rinse twice a day can help reduce the risk of infection. Avoid eating sticky or chewy foods that can get stuck around the metal post and cause irritation.
Teeth Grinding
One of the most common oral habits is teeth grinding, also called bruxism. It is related to stress and typically occurs while you are asleep. If not addressed right away, it can lead to severe complications such as broken and chipped teeth or chronic headaches and migraines. Moreover, it can ruin the alignment of your teeth and make them appear shorter.
If your partner notices that you snore loudly at night or your breathing pattern is interrupted while you sleep, it might be a sign of sleep apnea that can also cause teeth grinding. It is imperative to visit a sleep center immediately if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
Nail Biting
Many people bite their nails without even realizing it. While nail biting may seem like a harmless habit, there are actually several negative oral health effects that come from repetitively biting your nails. For one, you can chip and damage your front teeth from chewing on your nails.
You also put yourself at risk for infections such as paronychia or gum disease that can result from bacteria entering your mouth via the nail bed. If you notice that you frequently have hangnails or wounds on your fingers, you could be biting your nails subconsciously. Try to break this habit for good by substituting the behavior with something less detrimental, like chewing gum instead!
(11/22/2023)by Trio Dental Care
More Information: https://www.triodentalcare.com/blog/bad-oral-habits-lead-to-oral-health-issues/
Views: 43
Seven Things You Wish You Knew About Your Teeth Much Earlier
1. Your oral hygiene is linked to your overall health
When the mouth is directly connected to several vital organs, how there can’t be a link between oral hygiene and overall health? Several studies have proved that poor oral hygiene can cause several diseases such as:
Alzheimer’s disease
Cancer
Cardiovascular diseases
Diabetes complications
Inflammation
Kidney diseases
Respiratory diseases
With good dental hygiene, one can reduce the risk of all serious diseases and enhance overall health. Sometimes, a good quality toothbrush and toothpaste are all it takes to nip a majority of the serious diseases in the bud.
2. What you eat, shapes your teeth
Just like your diet plays a massive role in your overall health, what you eat has a huge effect on your teeth. A healthy diet makes your teeth stronger and enhances their life, while an unhealthy diet weakens your teeth and creates caries and cavities. Let’s start with the former. Calcium-rich food such as milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs, black beans, and green and leafy vegetables such as cabbage, kale, and spinach are excellent for your teeth.
In contrast, acidic and sugary foods can create plaque and tartar and harm your tooth and gum line in the long run. Snacking between meals is one of the biggest causes of dental cavities and decay. Alcohol and tobacco are also harmful to your teeth and so are tea and coffee when taken in large quantities. For stronger and everlasting teeth, take a nutrition-rich balanced diet and avoid snacking on acidic and sugary foods.
3. Select the right toothbrush and toothpaste
When it comes to exceptional dental hygiene, the right toothbrush and toothpaste play a huge role from the word go. The toothbrush you choose should have soft bristles and the toothpaste should have the recommended amount of fluoride, which is tremendously beneficial for your teeth as it enhances remineralization and reduces demineralization, bacterial growth, and acid production. Expert dentists recommend toothpaste with 1,350 to 1,500ppm fluoride.
Now, coming to your toothbrush, apart from ensuring that it has soft bristles you must replace it regularly. A good rule of thumb is to replace your toothbrush after every three months. However, if you brush more than twice a day then you should replace your toothbrush once the bristles have frayed and worn out. Usually, it’s between nine weeks and twelve weeks.
4. Know the right way to brush and floss
Brushing and flossing the right way is both an art and a science. It’s an art because you may have a unique style. Every morning when you hold the toothbrush, you are no less than an artist. You can do magic with it and give an alluring shine to your teeth. But there is a science to effective brushing. Some techniques are extremely effective and get maximum results with minimum effort.
Tilting the toothbrush to a 45-degree angle and moving it gently back and forth is extremely beneficial to the teeth. Brushing in a small circular motion is also helpful. Make sure that you don’t brush aggressively as over-brushing is more dangerous than under-brushing. Likewise, flossing has its techniques. Using a gentle rubbing motion between the teeth is the best way to floss. Take the utmost care not to snap the flossing thread when it touches the gum line.
5. Visit your dentist twice a year
As per American Dental Association, an average person should go for a dental checkup and cleaning at least twice a year. For an average person, the prestigious professional organization means that a young healthy person, who takes good care of their teeth and has no history of tooth problems, illness, or unhealthy habits such as drinking and smoking. This is the best preventive and protective measure.
For elderly people and people with dental problems and habits, the frequency of regular dental checkups is higher. Even though a majority of people know this, some follow while others don’t. Even if you brush your teeth twice or thrice daily and floss every night before going to bed, you must visit your dentist twice a year.
6. There are good bacteria and there are bad
Various studies have found that an average human mouth is a host to 250 to 300 types of bacteria. Among them, a majority can cause diseases when they enter the respiratory tract or the bloodstream. But some of them are good bacteria, also known as probiotics, which keep you healthy by facilitating digestion as well as fighting dental problems and gum diseases.
Now that you know that your mouth is home to both good and bad bacteria, it’s time to know how to increase the former and reduce the latter. You can increase the good bacteria by taking probiotics and foods such as yogurt. When it comes to bad bacteria, the pH level of your mouth plays a huge role. When the pH level drops, bad bacteria proliferate. Likewise, frequent snacking can reduce the pH level and cause bad bacteria to thrive. When the mouth becomes dry, bad bacteria get a conducive environment to multiply.
7. Some dental complications aren’t normal
Dental complications come in different sizes and severity. While some may be common and can go on their own without needing any treatment, others may be serious and need emergency care. Such complications, which qualify for dental emergencies, range from dental injuries, broken teeth, cavities that have invaded the dentin, bleeding gums, tooth abscesses, and infections.
(11/22/2023)by Tru Care Dentistry
More Information: https://www.trucaredentistry.com/blog/7-things-you-wish-you-knew-about-your-teeth-much-earlier/
Views: 47
Pimple Vs. Cold Sore: How To Spot The Difference
You may have outgrown those formative years, rife with pimples and gawky school photos, but unfortunately, the rare pimple can still strike at the most inopportune time. But is that red bump you see really a pimple — or is it a cold sore? When it's near or right on your mouth, it can be mistaken for either. Learn how to tell the difference between a pimple vs. cold sore, what the best treatments are and when you should consult your doctor.
Pimple vs. Cold Sore: Causes and Symptoms
Pimples can appear as a bump or blemish that's white, black or cyst-like, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). They occur when any of the three natural contaminants to your skin — oil, dead skin cells or bacteria — clog a skin pore, resulting in inflammation and irritation. There are a variety of pimples: whiteheads, blackheads, larger pimples commonly called "papules" and even cysts, which can be more painful. The AAD explains that pimples occur more frequently during puberty, between the ages of 12 and 17.
In contrast, the Mayo Clinic notes that cold sores can appear in patches and often look like red blisters that are crusty or oozing. If it's a first-time outbreak, a cold sore can also come with headaches, sore throats and even muscles aches. Though the term "cold sore" might make you think that these blemishes are the result of a fever or cold, they are in fact caused by a virus. Cold sores are contagious flare-ups resulting from the herpes simplex virus, explains the Mayo Clinic. They're also extremely common. The World Health Organization estimates that 67% of the global population under the age of 50 have type 1 of this virus.
Treating Pimples and Cold Sores
Benzoyl peroxide is the most common and accepted over-the-counter medication for treating pimples, according to the AAD. The solution works to kill bacteria and wash away oil and dead cells caught in your pores. However, before you try it, you should always read the product's medication label and only use it as directed.
Unfortunately, cold sores have no one-stop treatment. As the Mayo Clinic explains, there is no cure for the herpes virus, but there are ways of lessening and preventing flare-ups. When you feel one coming on, treating it with an antiviral medication may help to speed up healing and reduce the blisters' recurrence. Ask your doctor for advice on what medication might work for you.
When to See a Doctor
Both pimples and cold sores may require you to visit a doctor at some point. For a pimple, start with an over-the-counter treatment. If it doesn't work, the AAD recommends consulting your doctor for a stronger treatment plan. You should also make sure to always wash your face twice daily to help keep your pores clean.
For cold sores, be wary if:
Your cold sore has lingered for more than two weeks.
Your cold sores frequently recur.
You have a weaker immune system.
The virus irritates your eyes.
The Mayo Clinic advises seeing your doctor promptly if you encounter any of these symptoms. To prevent spreading the virus, don't share any utensils with others, and avoid kissing during flare-ups.
Knowing the differences between a pimple vs. cold sore can help you determine the cause of that red bump and navigate the right pathway to clear skin. If you develop an oral sore with painful or lasting symptoms, be sure to visit your doctor or dentist.
(11/21/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/pimple-vs-cold-sore-how-to-spot-the-difference
Views: 37
Anxiety Could Explain the Bad Taste in Your Mouth
Anxiety can cause a lot of unusual symptoms. But one of the strangest is the way that anxiety affects taste. Anxiety may genuinely cause a bad taste in your mouth, as though you've eaten something gross. It's one of the weirder symptoms of anxiety and while it's not dangerous, it is potentially distressing or irritating.
The good news is that a bad taste from anxiety is easy to understand, and generally fairly easy to reduce. In this article, we'll look at the most likely causes of bad taste, and the simple things you can do to reduce it.
Bad Taste = Anxiety?
Most people find it hard to believe that anxiety can affect your taste buds, but anxiety really does make a big difference for how your mouth adjusts to flavors. Bad taste is almost never the only anxiety symptom, however.
Diseases That Anxiety Makes Worse
It should be noted that in some cases, the bad taste in your mouth may be the result of a disease - like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - that is simply worse during periods of high anxiety. GERD isn't necessarily dangerous, but we know that anxiety can make the symptoms worse.
Talking to your doctor is always a good idea if you're nervous about your health. You may want to visit a dentist as well, just for a check-up, especially if you haven’t been recently.
Causes of Bad Taste From Anxiety
Bad taste in one's mouth seems like such an unusual anxiety symptom. That's because it's difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. It definitely affects many people with anxiety, but the reason for the bad taste may be linked to any or all of the following (or something else that’s not on the list):
Taste Changes The most likely reason is that stress causes your taste buds to change. How they change differs from person to person, but there is evidence that under periods of intense stress, a person's sense of taste is altered with it.
Mouth Breathing Anxiety also leads to rapid breathing - usually through the mouth. This type of rapid breathing may cause your tongue to dry up and ultimately taste a bit drier and less pleasant, which could be the cause of the unusual taste.
Over-thinking Similarly, when you have severe anxiety - especially panic attacks - it's not uncommon to be more sensitive to issues that are already pleasant. For example, you may have already had a bad taste in your mouth, but it wasn’t really bothering you or you weren’t even aware of it. During a panic attack, you may be more sensitive to things like taste, making you become more conscious and concerned about the bad taste that was already there.
It's also possible there are other issues at play here as well. We mentioned GERD, earlier, and acid reflux can create a bad taste that may be altered by anxiety. It's also possible that you're creating more mucus, which can have an unpleasant flavor. Salivary changes may create a bad taste as well, and it's possible for stress to allow bad smelling bacteria to flourish. It's difficult to know the exact cause, and it's possible that it could be any or all of those issues.
How to Address the Bad Taste
The good news is that improving the taste in your mouth is easy. If you often find that you have a bad taste in your mouth during times of anxiety, then finding something that tastes better is the solution. See if there is a breath mint you like, or a tic tac (although avoid peppermint if you think you may have GERD). There may be some gum available or water you can drink. These will all reduce the bad taste.
Ultimately, however, the long term and preventative solution is to make sure you're addressing your underlying anxiety - which is really the root of the problem.
(11/21/2023)by Calm Clinic
More Information: https://www.calmclinic.com/anxiety/symptoms/bad-taste
Views: 36
How Does Dental Erosion Happen?
Do you see your teeth thinning or changing color over time? This could be dental erosion, which is when the minerals in your teeth slowly wear away over time. Your teeth are incredibly hard and strong because of their mineral content, but they can become thin and weak over time depending on the food you eat, what you drink, and how good your oral hygiene in. To avoid tooth erosion, avoid these foods and drinks and use these oral hygiene tips!
Dental Erosion
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body, but even it can be broken down, overtime, by acids and bacteria in your mouth. Plaque that works to eat away at the enamel of your teeth can erode this tougher-than-bone material weakening the tooth structure and dimming the brightness of your smile.
Dental erosion not only affects the cosmetics of your smile, but also how your teeth function. Severe enamel erosion exposes the dentin underneath which can trigger pain and uncomfortable sensitivity.
Signs of Dental Erosion
The first indication of dental erosion will manifest as grooves in the teeth or a rougher-looking tooth surface with biting edges. Teeth often will appear discolored. Other symptoms are teeth sensitivity to heat, cold, acidic drinks and foods.
Common Causes of Dental Erosion
Diet is one of the biggest contributors to dental erosion. Foods and drinks with high acidity can threaten the enamel of your teeth and trigger demineralization. Saliva works to balance out the acids that food introduce into your mouth, but if you are constantly assailing your teeth with acidic foods and drinks, the mouth doesn’t have time for repair. Brushing after acidic foods and liquids have come in contact with your teeth is essential, BUT you need to time this brushing correctly. Wait for at least one hour after eating or drinking anything acidic before brushing your teeth to allow your teeth time to build up their mineral content again.
Another tip, chew sugar-free gum after eating. This will help produce more saliva to help cancel out the acids which form in your mouth after eating.
Risks for Dental Erosion
Certain medical conditions, diseases and medications can lead to dental erosion. People who suffer from bulimia often suffer from dental erosion due to the stomach acids that are regularly impacting their teeth. People with acid-reflux issues also have more mouth acids than most.
Avoid Foods with High Acidic Content
It’s not new news that sodas and carbonated drinks can cause dental erosion and we aren’t just talking about the high sugar content of these foods. Even carbonated waters can erode teeth because of the acids involved that make the soda a soda.Any drink with carbonation—including sparkling water—has a higher acid level, reports the American Dental Association.
High acidic foods like lemons, oranges, limes contain natural acids that can be harmful to your teeth. When it comes down to it, water is still the best drink for teeth. Milk is also a great choice because it helps to neutralize the acids in your mouth.
How Can You Fix a Tooth that Has Suffered from Dental Erosion?
Some dental erosion is slight enough that no treatment is necessary other than taking active steps to prevent it from worsening. With regular dental examinations and cleanings you can keep your teeth in tip-top shape.
If you have severe dental erosion, a dental bonding procedure or well-placed dental veneer can do wonders for your smile and the strength of the weakened tooth.
(11/20/2023)by Mountain Aire Dentistry
More Information: https://www.broomfielddentists.com/how-does-dental-erosion-happen/
Views: 45
Abfraction Lesion: Causes And Treatment
If you've started to notice dents in your teeth where the tooth and the gums come together, you could have abfraction lesions forming. There is no need to worry, though. Your dentist can diagnose the problem and help you find the right treatment plan. Before you go to the dentist, here is what you should know about abfraction lesions.
What Are Abfraction Lesions?
Abfraction lesions are losses of tooth structure. The lesions occur gradually, The lesions occur gradually, with an indentation forming on the front of the tooth near the gumline that gets deeper with time. Abfractions are not cavities but are instead known as non-carious cervical lesions or NCCL. However, because they expose the softer portions of the teeth, like dentin, they can cause tooth sensitivity and mimic the symptoms of a cavity. Discovering the cause is an essential first step to treatment and management.
What Causes Abfraction Lesions?
Abfraction lesions have been attributed to excessive force placed on the teeth during chewing or teeth grinding. However, according to a review in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dentistry, there are many factors, including chemical, biological, and behavioral factors, that may contribute to the development of abfractions.
For example, erosion and abrasions can also contribute to the formation of dental abfraction lesions. Tooth erosion occurs from exposure to acids, such as acid reflux or acidic foods and drinks. Tooth abrasion may be caused by improper brushing technique or the use of abrasive toothpastes. This combination causes gum recession and exposes the softer, less mineralized parts of the teeth called the cementum and dentin. Acidic and abrasive factors initiate the abfractions, but often stress from biting can deepen the lesion over time.
How Do You Treat Abfraction Lesions?
Proper abfraction treatment is based on the severity of the lesion and the reported sensitivity and aesthetic concerns. A dentist will usually fill the lesion when it extends below the gums, becomes decayed or challenging to clean, or exposes the tooth's pulp or nerve. Filling the lesion reduces sensitivity and restores the tooth structure. Your dentist may use composite or tooth-colored fillings to cover the notches and improve your smile's appearance.
If teeth grinding causes your abfractions, your dentist may fit you with a mouthguard to protect your teeth while you sleep. Orthodontics can also help prevent further abfraction lesions by realigning your bite and taking pressure off of certain areas of your mouth that may be prone to the damage. Although it won't cure abfractions, try a desensitizing toothpaste if your abfraction is minor. They help relieve the pain associated with tooth sensitivity and work for fast relief.
Your dentist and dental hygienist know how to recognize and modify risk factors for abfractions. If you have tooth sensitivity and you've noticed a lesion starting to form, there is no reason to worry. Talk with your dentist, and they will work with you to decide the best treatment plan for your smile.
(11/20/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/abfraction-lesion-causes-and-treatment
Views: 46
What Is Odontalgia?
Are you experiencing an intense shooting pain in your teeth or face making it hard to talk, eat, or even breathe normally? If so, you may be experiencing odontalgia. Odontalgia is the medical term for toothache and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. It’s typically caused by a problem with one or more of the teeth, including infection, trauma, or decay. It can also be caused by an issue with the jaw, such as a malocclusion (misalignment of teeth).
Whatever the reason for odontalgia, it’s important to seek dental treatment right away. A qualified dentist can diagnose the reason for your odontalgia and provide appropriate care. Whether you need a filling, a root canal, periodontal treatment services, or another type of dental care, a dentist can help relieve your odontalgia and restore your oral health.
The team at Columbia Smiles, led by Dr. Michael Hsu, is dedicated to providing gentle, comprehensive dental care that helps patients find relief from odontalgia. Call us today at 410.834.0594 to schedule an appointment.
An Overview Of Odontalgia
Toothaches of any kind can be categorized as odontalgia, but they can vary in intensity and duration. It’s important to recognize the signs of odontalgia so that you can seek help right away. Common symptoms include:
Sharp, shooting pains
Dull ache or throbbing sensation
Pain that worsens when pressure is applied
Pain that radiates to other areas, such as the head or face
Difficulty eating or drinking fluids
Swelling of the gums around the painful tooth
Fever or chills
Unpleasant taste in the mouth
If you’re experiencing any of these odontalgia symptoms, contact a dentist right away to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Common Causes Of Odontalgia
The most common cause of odontalgia is tooth decay, or cavities. When bacteria accumulate on the enamel of your teeth, they can create holes in the surface and eventually reach the root, leading to odontalgia. Other causes include:
Infection or abscessed tooth
Deep filling
Loose dental crown or fractured tooth
Broken filling
Sinus infection
Injury to the head, face, or jaw
Referred pain from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or other areas of the mouth
Grinding your teeth at night
Gum disease
Hot or cold foods and beverages
Finding Relief From Odontalgia
At Columbia Smiles, we understand the pain odontalgia can cause. Depending on what’s causing your tooth pain, your dentist may recommend a variety of services, including:
Cleanings and checkups – Regularly scheduled cleanings and checkups can help identify odontalgia-causing problems early on, so they can be treated before becoming severe.
Fillings – If tooth decay is the cause of your odontalgia, a filling may be used to fill in the decayed area and prevent further damage.
Root canal – If odontalgia is caused by an infection or abscessed tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the affected pulp and prevent further decay.
Crowns – Damaged teeth that are causing odontalgia may require a dental crown to protect them from further harm.
Periodontal treatment – If odontalgia is due to gum disease, periodontal treatment may be needed to restore the health of your gums.
Surgery – In some cases, odontalgia may require surgery to repair jaw or face injuries.
No matter what the cause of odontalgia is, treatment is available to help.
(11/19/2023)by Columbia Smiles
More Information: https://www.columbia-smiles.com/dental-blog/what-is-odontalgia/
Views: 39
Try Out These Easy Home Remedies For Gum Problems
If the pain is unbearable, of course, you will have to visit a dentist, but if you are suffering from mild pain then you can easily treat it at home. Here are 5 natural remedies that may provide quick relief from tooth and gum pain:
Tooth and gum pain is a common health issue that can be caused due to several reasons. It can either be simply by brushing too hard or due to tooth decay. No matter what the reason is, a toothache can be quite annoying and can even make it difficult to eat, talk or concentrate on any other work.
If the pain is unbearable, of course, you will have to visit a dentist, but if you are suffering from mild pain then you can easily treat it at home. Here are 5 natural remedies that may provide quick relief from tooth and gum pain:
Salt Water Gargle
Saltwater rinse is the most beneficial home remedy in curing gums inflamed by gingivitis. Salt has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that ease swelling and fight bacteria-causing infections. Regular salt water gargling can help heal inflamed gums, reduce pain, combat bad breath and remove food deposits
How To Do
In a glass of lukewarm water add ½ teaspoon of salt and mix well. Swirl the solution in the mouth for a few seconds and spit out the solution. To get respite from gum pain repeat this 2 to 3 times a day
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera gel works well in treating gum disease owing to its strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It greatly helps in reducing the symptoms associated with gum disease when applied topically or used as a natural mouth floss.
How To Do
In a bowl add 2-3 tsp. of aloe Vera gel whisk well add little water to get the right consistency. Apply the gel onto the inflamed gums, let it stay for 10 minutes, and rinse off with water. You can also use this as a mouth rinse by adding enough water. Repeat this process twice daily to alleviate pain.
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil known for its astringent property helps in warding off bacteria from the dental cavity and averts the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. While it also exhibits inhibiting effects on the bacteria causing gum disease, prevents plaque formation, makes your teeth healthier, and strengthens gum.
How To Do
In a cup of water add 2- 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil and mix well, swirl this solution for up to 50 seconds and spit out. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day for the best result.
Turmeric Honey Gel
This natural herb is well-known for its strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties which are valuable in preventing plaque and gingivitis. The active ingredient curcumin in turmeric is a potent antioxidant that helps to heal the bleeding and reddening of the gums. While honey helps in combatting oral bacteria linked with plaque formation.
How To Do
Rinse the mouth thoroughly, make a paste of turmeric powder by mixing it with honey, apply the gel on gums, let it stay for 15 minutes and swirl the water around the mouth and spit it out. Repeat this process twice daily for an instant result.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil imbued with vast reserves of lauric acid exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Regular oil pulling using coconut oil remarkably lessens the plaque formation and improves the symptoms associated with gingivitis.
How To Do
Take about 2 tsp of coconut oil into your mouth, swish the oil well around the mouth for about 20 minutes and spit the oil out. Rinse your mouth well with water and brush your teeth.
(11/18/2023)by The Statesman
More Information: N
Views: 54
Short-Term Tooth Pain: When To Be Worried
You are enjoying your day, going about work as usual, when suddenly you feel a jolt of sharp pain running up your tooth. Or perhaps you spontaneously get a toothache even though you haven’t been chewing on anything. Maybe your gums feel sore just randomly during the day.
What is the cause of this sudden outburst of pain? Is it something to be worried about? Our friendly team at My Dentist Upland can help you get to the bottom of this mystery discomfort. Sometimes, it isn’t a big deal, and you can continue investing in good oral hygiene to get rid of the discomfort. But in other cases, this sudden pain may be a sign of something more serious.
Let’s take a look at some of these reasons for tooth pain, and their associated symptoms, so you know when you need to make an appointment with your dental care professionals.
Tooth Cavity
One of the most common reasons for sudden tooth pain or sensitivity could be because of tooth decay. This is usually called a “cavity”. This happens when a part of your tooth decays due to a buildup of bacteria, tartar, or plaque, and you should get it taken care of before you develop an infection.
If you are feeling sudden pain in this area, this means the decay is starting to become infected, so it’s important to visit your dentist ASAP to get the cavity filled.
Grinding Your Teeth or Clenching Your Jaws
Do you deal with a lot of stress in your daily life? Most people do, but the ways in which we deal with stress can be very different. For example, some people grind their teeth or clench their jaws down even without realizing it. This constant strain on your teeth can cause tooth sensitivity and dull pain, as well as headaches.
According to Healthine, there are many reasons why you may grind your teeth. It may not always have to do with stress and anxiety, but those are big contributing factors. No matter the reason, this can cause sudden pain in your teeth as they become weak to the sustained pressure. You should visit a dentist right away.
Receding Gums
If the pain is centered around your gums, rather than your teeth, this could be a sign that you are dealing with some issues with your gums. First, it’s important to know that receding gum tissue wears over time, and can weaken with age. Gums tend to recede naturally, but rapid recession is cause for concern. Gum recession can lead to the roots of your teeth being exposed, making you more prone to infections. If you are feeling really sensitive, have the dentist take a look at your gums as well as your teeth.
Gum Infection
Another reason to focus on your gums during sudden tooth pain is due to the fact that you may have a form of gum disease. This is known as gingivitis, and can later develop into something more serious known as periodontal disease. According to the CDC, gum disease affects almost half of American adults over 30. Although it is fairly common, it is still something very serious that needs to be looked at by a gum specialist right away.
Dental Procedures or Products
Of course, it could be possible that a previous procedure or product is causing your teeth to hurt. For example, if you recently got a filling, the drill work may make your teeth more sensitive. This type of sensitivity is temporary and should go away within a couple of weeks.
Some over-the-counter dental products, especially teeth whitening strips or bleaching products, can also cause sensitivity. Usually, this is due to an adverse reaction to a chemical in the product and you should stop using it until you can identify the source of the problem.
(11/18/2023)by My Dentist Upland
More Information: https://mydentistupland.com/blog/short-term-tooth-pain-when-to-be-worried/
Views: 47
The Best Ways To Prevent Tooth Extraction By Looking After Your Oral Health
Are you worried about having to get a tooth extraction? Tooth extractions can be painful and expensive, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to keep your teeth healthy and prevent extraction from being necessary. In this article, we will discuss 10 ways that you can look after your oral health to help prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
1) Brush Regularly: The most important thing that you can do to take care of your teeth is to brush them twice a day. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth, which reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease. It’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and to brush carefully, making sure that you reach all areas of your teeth.
2) Floss Daily: In addition to brushing, it is also important to floss daily. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, which can help to prevent cavities and gum disease.
3) Use a Mouthwash: Using an antiseptic mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing can help to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth, which can help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
4) Cut Back on Sugary Foods: Eating too much sugar can lead to tooth decay, so it’s important to limit your consumption. Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, including soda and fruit juice.
5) Quit Smoking: Smoking is bad for your oral health as well as your overall health. Smokers are more likely to have cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. If you smoke, quitting is the best way to protect your teeth and gums.
6) Visit Your Dentist Regularly: It’s important to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. During a dental exam, your dentist can spot any problems with your teeth or gums before they become serious. This can help to prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
7) Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports, it’s important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury. A mouthguard can also help to reduce the risk of damage from grinding or clenching your teeth at night.
8) Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Using toothpaste that contains fluoride can help to strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
9) Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Chewing on hard objects like pencils, fingernails, or ice cubes can damage your teeth. This can lead to cracks and chips that may require a tooth extraction.
10) Cut Back on Alcohol: Excessive drinking can lead to dry mouth, which increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. It’s best to limit your alcohol consumption if possible.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and avoid the need for a tooth extraction. Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly are all important steps to take to keep your teeth in good condition. If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth, talk to your dentist about other ways that you can prevent the need for a tooth extraction.
(11/17/2023)by Mid Bay Dental
More Information: https://www.midbaydental.com/10-ways-to-prevent-tooth-extraction-by-looking-after-your-oral-health/
Views: 46
Ulcerative Colitis Mouth Sores
Are you one of the three million adults diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the United States? A correct diagnosis will help you find the best treatment and relief from your symptoms. If you have ulcerative colitis — a form of IBD — you might notice mouth sores on your cheeks and gums. Find out more about ulcerative colitis and how it impacts your oral health.
What Is IBD?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to two conditions — ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease. Both are characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Ulcerative colitis occurs specifically in the colon and rectum, while Crohn's Disease can impact any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus. The cause of IBD is currently unknown, but the inflammation originates from a defective immune system that responds incorrectly to environmental triggers. Genetics also plays a role, as someone with a family history of IBD is more likely to develop the condition.
Prolonged inflammation can damage the GI tract and result in various symptoms. The most common include:
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Bloody stools
Weight loss
Fatigue
What Are Ulcerative Colitis Mouth Sores?
Ulcerative colitis can also affect the oral mucosa, the soft tissue inside your mouth on your gums and cheeks. Two types of ulcerative colitis mouth ulcers exist:
Aphthous ulcerations. Also known as canker sores, these lesions appear as round white or yellow spots and can cause pain or bad breath. You are more likely to experience canker sores during ulcerative colitis flare-ups when inflammation is higher. They can take a week or more to heal.
Pyodermatitis-pyostomatitis vegetans. This rare condition mostly affects those with IBD. It appears on the body as pustules in the skin folds, such as the armpits or groin, but it can also occur in the mouth. Pyostomatitis vegetans consists of red patches with multiple yellow or white pustules, which can erupt to form ulcers. These lesions can affect all areas of the mouth and throat but rarely involve the tongue or mouth floor.
How Do You Treat Ulcerative Colitis Mouth Sores?
Systemic treatment for your ulcerative colitis to reduce inflammation usually resolves any mouth sores. This treatment most likely involves drug therapy, including anti-inflammatory drugs, immune system suppressors, biologics, and other medications specific to your symptoms. Your physician will help you find the right drug to manage your IBD.
If you notice any new oral symptoms — such as mouth sores — or if the pain makes it difficult to eat or talk, contact your dentist. They might prescribe a topical cream or antiseptic mouthwash to help speed up the healing and reduce pain. Nutritional supplements might also help prevent any deficiencies from malabsorption that can lead to mouth sores.
When you have IBD, ulcerative colitis mouth sores might seem like one more thing to worry about. Thankfully, the overall treatment of your condition can help you find relief. Don't hesitate to talk to your dentist if your ulcers cause problems. They can help you care for your oral health so that you can focus on the rest.
(11/17/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/ulcerative-colitis-mouth-sores
Views: 42
Eight Good Toothbrushing Habits
Did you know that your smile is one of the first things other people notice about you? Healthy, beautiful teeth are essential to making a good first impression. And while there are many ways to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, it’s important to start with the basics of oral health care–brushing your teeth.
Your toothbrushing habits can make or break your smile. We all know we are supposed to brush our teeth every day, however, it’s not just important that we brush our teeth daily– the details of that habit are imperative to its effectiveness.
So, are you brushing your teeth in the most effective way? Here are 8 tips to get the most out of tooth brushing:
1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush is a sure way to damage your gums and teeth. These toothbrushes have tightly-packed bristles that don’t bend easily, causing the erosion of dental enamel and irritation of gum tissue.
Soft-bristled toothbrushes are less dense, so the bristles bend while moving back and forth along your teeth and gums. Though this may not feel as effective as a hard-bristled toothbrush, it’s much better at cleaning your mouth without doing any damage.
2. Invest in an electric toothbrush.
Electric toothbrushes are a great option for children and adults, and they are especially great for people with limited mobilities due to arthritis, carpal tunnel, or developmental disabilities. An electric toothbrush takes some of the pressure off of you by doing most of the work. You simply hold the toothbrush against each tooth for about 10 seconds, and let it do the scrubbing!
Various studies, like this one, have also shown that electric toothbrushes reduce plaque and the risk of gingivitis more than manual toothbrushes.
3. Use the 2x2 rule.
The American Dental Association recommends that everyone brush for two minutes, twice a day. Most people brush their teeth in the morning to get rid of “morning breath”, but brushing at night (right before bed) is even more important.
In the evening, our teeth have plaque build-up along the surfaces of our teeth and gum line. Without removing it before going to bed, that plaque can turn into tartar, which leads to cavities and gum disease. Brushing at night also helps prevent surface stains from setting in so your smile stays bright.
4. Use fluoride toothpaste.
Fluoride, a naturally-occurring mineral, remains one of the most important ingredients in toothpaste to prevent cavities and gum disease. Fluoride remineralizes tooth enamel, encourages the production of fluorapatite, and exerts antibacterial properties. Though fluoride cannot reverse cavities, it can slow down their progression.
5. Be gentle.
Be careful of how much pressure you’re using when brushing. Even if you use a soft-bristled toothbrush, pressing down too hard while brushing your teeth can also damage your enamel and gum tissue, leading to dental sensitivity, cavities, and gum recession.
To determine if you are using too much pressure, try brushing with your non-dominant hand and feel the difference! Then, switch back to use the proper combination of pressure and technique.
6. Brush your tongue.
The tongue harbors bacteria just like the teeth and gums do, so it’s very important to clean your tongue while brushing. Rinsing with water alone will not remove the bacteria or the biofilm. So, after you’ve brushed your teeth, one of the best toothbrushing habits is to brush your tongue front to back and side to side, then rinse with water. You can also use a tongue scraper, but both methods are effective.
7. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
There are several reasons why you should replace your toothbrush often:
Bacteria build-up: As a toothbrush removes bacteria from your teeth, gums, and tongue, it accumulates bacteria in the bristles. The longer you use a toothbrush, the more bacteria it accumulates.
Worn-out bristles: At about the 3-4 month mark, the bristles on your toothbrush will likely lose their stiffness, and consequently, their effectiveness.
Sickness: If you’ve been sick, especially with a viral or bacterial infection, it’s best to switch out your toothbrush once the sickness has passed.
Accidental sharing: If someone accidentally uses your toothbrush, buy a new one to avoid the transfer of cavity- or disease-causing bacteria.
8. Follow up with flossing.
Unfortunately, toothbrushes can’t clean between your teeth. Flossing is an essential part of any oral hygiene routine and should never be neglected. Use traditional floss, floss picks, or a water flosser to remove plaque from between your teeth. This is one of the best ways to avoid cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and a multitude of other oral health issues.
(11/16/2023)by Family Dental Care
More Information: https://www.familydentalcarefl.com/blog/2022/5/8/8-good-toothbrushing-habits/
Views: 43
Is Sleeping With Your Mouth Open Bad For Your Teeth?
It's normal to have a dry mouth sometimes, but if your mouth often feels dry when you wake up, you may be breathing through your mouth during the night. Since mouth breathing is linked to various dental problems, this unconscious habit may hamper your oral health.
Common Causes of Sleeping With Your Mouth Open
People with chronic nasal congestion may breathe through their mouths, especially while they're sleeping. Allergies, such as hay fever, are the most common cause of chronic congestion in kids, reports the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI). Of course, allergies can affect adults, too.
As the Mayo Clinic explains, a deviated septum may also block airflow through the nose. The septum is the thin wall of tissue that separates your nostrils. When this wall is off-center, one or both nostrils can be blocked, which makes it hard to breathe through the nose and results in mouth breathing.
Many other conditions can cause chronic stuffiness and mouth breathing, as Nationwide Children's Hospital notes. Some of these conditions include inflamed nasal tissues or tumors inside the nose.
Finally, sleep apnea can also cause mouth breathing, as the American Sleep Apnea Association explains. People with this condition stop breathing many times during the night, and when their oxygen levels drop, they may gulp in air. These frequent apnea episodes can encourage a mouth-breathing habit.
Dental Problems Associated With Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing can leave your mouth feeling uncomfortably dry, but it can also cause more serious dental complications.
One of these possible complications is tooth decay, as a study published in BioMed Research International (BRI) explains. During this study, researchers observed a group of people who breathed through their mouth and a group of people who breathed through their nose. The group that breathed through their mouth accumulated more plaque on their teeth. They were also much more likely to have large colonies of Streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria that's associated with tooth decay.
Chronic mouth breathing may also affect the gums, as the BRI study reports. When you breathe through your mouth, air flows across your oral tissues. The surfaces of these tissues can get dried out, which may lead to inflammation or irritation of the gum tissue.
Mouth breathing may also affect the alignment of your teeth. A study published in ACTA Otorhinolaryngologica Italica reported a correlation between mouth breathing in children and malocclusion. As the National Institutes of Health describes, malocclusion is the misalignment of the upper and lower teeth. Because of mouth breathing, children may develop openbite, crossbite or overjet, where the upper teeth extend out noticeably over the lower ones.
Treatments for Mouth Breathing
Mouth breathing treatment will vary depending on the underlying reason why you're sleeping with your mouth open. If allergies are the culprit, the ACAAI notes that avoiding exposure to allergens is crucial. Taking antihistamines may be a treatment option, though you should consult your doctor first. Alternately, if a tumor or other issue is the cause, your doctor may recommend medications or surgery, as Nationwide Children's Hospital notes. To find out why you're sleeping with your mouth open, and to learn more about appropriate treatment options, talk to your doctor or dentist.
Treating mouth breathing is especially important for children. Early intervention can help prevent malocclusion from developing, as the ACTA Otorhinolaryngologica Italica study notes. If malocclusion has already developed, dentists may recommend orthodontic treatment, such as braces, to realign the teeth.
Regular dental cleanings may help control some of the problems caused by mouth breathing, according to the BRI study. Getting a professional cleaning at least once every six months may help to keep plaque accumulation under control. In between dental appointments, remember to brush twice a day and floss once a day.
Sleeping with your mouth open can leave your mouth feeling dry and uncomfortable, and worse, it can put you at risk of tooth decay and other dental problems. If you think you may sleep with your mouth open, talk to your doctor or dentist.
(11/16/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/is-sleeping-with-your-mouth-open-bad-for-your-teeth
Views: 46
Things You Should Do Every Year for Optimal Oral Hygiene
Here are a handful of activities you can do at home to ensure a clean, healthy, long-lasting smile.
Taking care of your teeth isn’t a “once in a while” event. Proper oral care and hygiene require daily maintenance. While we do recommend coming in for annual checkups and cleanings, there are a handful of important practices you should keep in mind for optimal oral health at home.
It’s vital to establish a good homecare routine in order to fight off plaque buildup and keep your gums healthy. Here are a handful of activities you can do at home to ensure a clean, healthy, long-lasting smile.
Watch What You Eat
As with most aspects of oral health, food plays a major role in dental hygiene. If food didn’t get stuck in between our teeth, we wouldn’t have to worry as much about plaque buildup. Unfortunately, we all have to eat, right? Consider cutting back on starchy foods like crackers, bread, chips and pasta, as these carbohydrates easily stick to teeth and provide a meal for cavity-causing bacteria.
Eating crunchy vegetables and crisp fruits help clean and strengthen your teeth. Vegetables like broccoli and carrots and crisp fruits like apples and pears not only contain natural sugars, but also have great natural fiber that, when chewed, helps naturally cleanse the teeth.
More Water, Less Sugar and Acidic Liquids
Similar to harmful foods, drinking heavily acidic and sugary liquids can wear down the enamel of your teeth, which can lead to tooth decay and disease. Limit the amount of acidic juice, diet drinks, carbonated water, tea, and coffee that you consume. In addition, limit the number of sodas you drink, as these are the main culprit of cavities due to their high sugar levels (many popular soda cans have at least 10-15 teaspoons of sugar!).
Drinking more water, particularly water containing fluoride, dilutes acid and washes away sugar residue. Water also helps prevent dry mouth(lack of saliva), which can lead to tooth decay as well.
Brush & Floss Daily
Needless to say, brushing twice a day for two minutes and daily flossing are absolutely critical to maintaining oral health. Use a soft bristled toothbrush or electric toothbrush (we recommend Sonicare). Be sure to replace the brush or brush head every three months for maximum effectiveness. . In addition to frequency, it’s important to also remember technique. You should brush your teeth in slow, gentle circular strokes along the gumline making sure not to fall into the incorrect back-and-forth zig-zag or sawing motion.
Don’t let hard-to-reach areas hold you back from flossing! Even pre-made dental flossing sticks can have a huge impact on your oral health. Get in between each tooth (and behind back teeth) to stimulate your gums, remove plaque and decrease any existing potential inflammation areas.
Avoid Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Tobacco is extremely harmful for many reasons, especially when it comes to your oral health. Smoking cigarettes, vaping, or chewing tobacco is detrimental to your immune system, which lowers your body’s ability to fight disease and heal any affected tissue. These practices highly increase your risk of oral cancer. Smoking also causes staining of your teeth and tongue and bad breath. We highly recommend quitting cigarettes, vaping and chewing tobacco to improve your oral and overall health.
Alcohol is harmful to your oral health for a couple of reasons. In addition to its sugar content, which allows bacteria to thrive in unhealthy conditions, drinking alcohol also dehydrates you. When your mouth is dry, your saliva flow is stifled, which opens the door for bacteria to stick to enamel, leading to tooth decay. If you’re going to partake, be sure to drink water as much as possible in between beverages to neutralize the mouth and wash away any lingering bacteria.
Use Fluoride & Rinse with Mouthwash
Fluoride is a mineral that’s known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel and fight against bacteria and acid that lead to cavities and tooth decay. Drinking fluoride-rich water and using toothpaste containing fluoride are great ways to replenish the levels of calcium and phosphorus that contribute to the strength of your teeth.
Similarly, using mouthwash (especially those that contain fluoride) helps prevent periodontal (gum) disease and ward off potential cavities by displacing lingering bacteria that lead to plaque buildup.
As you can see, there are quite a few critical components of improving and maintaining your oral health at home. While we’ve reviewed activities that you can do yourself throughout the year, there’s still the major important element: see your dentist regularly (at least twice per year) for a cleaning and checkup. When you come in for an appointment, our doctors and hygienist perform a thorough analysis to determine the presence of gum disease or tooth decay. It’s important to catch these early and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. We highly recommend adhering to a regular cadence of appointments to maintain optimal oral health.
If you’re ready to improve your smile or have questions about anything, please feel free to contact us or schedule some time to speak with one of our dental team members. Our team is standing by to answer your questions and to make sure you receive the best care in the most comfortable environment possible.
(11/15/2023)by Dental Arts
More Information: https://dentalartsnola.com/2021/10/13/5-things-you-should-do-every-year-for-optimal-oral-hygiene/
Views: 49
What You Need to Know About Vegan Oral Care
You chose a vegan lifestyle as a commitment to your health, the world, and all the creatures who call it home. But do your oral care products share that same commitment? You might assume all toothpaste is naturally vegan, but that's actually not the case. Learn more about what makes oral care products vegan and how to make the switch to vegan-friendly oral hygiene.
What Makes Toothpaste Vegan?
Toothpaste — or floss or mouthwash or any oral hygiene product — is vegan if it does not use or contain products derived from animals. This includes any product that comes from a part of an animal's body, even if it does not require the animal's death. For example, vegans do not eat honey because it's made from bees. Many vegans take this one step further and do not use any products tested on animals. These products are labeled "cruelty-free."
How Do You Find a Vegan Toothpaste?
If you've ever glanced at the ingredients list on your toothpaste, it might have left you scratching your head. What is "calcium carbonate," and is it vegan-friendly? To play it safe, you should choose oral care products that call out "vegan" and "cruelty-free" on the packaging. This might require a little extra research, but vegan toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss are available at most retailers today.
However, if you want to know more about the products you currently use, here are some common animal by-products found in toothpaste, floss, and toothbrushes:
Glycerin. Also listed as glycerine or glycerol, this sticky liquid helps keep the toothpaste moist. Glycerin can be derived from both animals and plants, and it's almost impossible to know the source unless the product is clearly labeled as "vegan."
Bee products. Propolis, bee pollen, and beeswax are all common ingredients used in natural oral care products. Both propolis (plant resin collected by bees) and bee pollen are used in toothpaste to promote a healthy-feeling mouth, while beeswax commonly coats floss to increase comfort when cleaning between your teeth.
Boar bristles. Though less common, manufacturers can sometimes use hair from wild or captive hogs to make natural toothbrushes.
Flavorings and colors. Finally, sometimes vague mentions of "natural flavoring" or added colors can come from animal products. If you want to be sure, you can contact the manufacturer to find the source of these ingredients.
For more information, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) provides a full list of common animal-derived ingredients used in household products.
How to Make the Switch to Vegan Oral Care
Now that you know how to choose a vegan mouthwash or toothpaste, you should consider these other factors before switching to vegan oral care.
Look for a vegan toothpaste or mouthwash that includes fluoride. Many vegan oral care products prioritize other ingredients and can sometimes leave out this naturally occurring mineral. But fluoride helps strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth against cavities, so look for it while scanning those ingredient lists.
Make sure you're eating essential nutrients for oral health. It can sometimes be harder to consume vitamins and nutrients like Calcium, B-12, Vitamin D, and Vitamin A while eating a vegan diet. These all play an important role in oral health, so look to incorporate more plant-based sources of these nutrients in your daily meals.
Keep up a proper oral hygiene routine. Even when using vegan products, remember to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental device, and make regular visits to your dentist to monitor the health of your mouth.
With a little extra research and effort, you can easily find products and brands that align with your values. Armed with the right information and some important considerations, you can establish a vegan oral care routine that leaves you, your smile, and your world happy and healthy.
(11/15/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/vegan-oral-care-what-is-it#
Views: 44
Can You Die From A Tooth Infection?
Is it possible to die from a tooth infection? Hypothetically speaking, is there a timeframe for how long until a tooth infection kills you or puts you in the hospital? The answer might not be as simple as you think, but severe tooth infections can definitely be life-threatening.
Depending on how technical or knit-picky you want to get about the science behind it, yes, you can die from a tooth infection. Although by the time an infection reaches that severe of a level, it’s not just isolated inside of your tooth. It starts in your tooth but by the point it becomes fatal, there’s a lot more going on. All that being said, don’t ignore that cavity or a tooth abscess your dentist points out on your X-ray.
Can A Tooth Infection Kill You?
How is it that a tooth infection can actually kill you? Well, when you consider that bacteria from severe periodontal disease can spread straight into your bloodstream, lungs, or brain, the concept isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds.
An infected tooth can kill you by allowing bacteria to spread elsewhere in your body. Especially your brain and bloodstream.
Let’s say for a moment that you have an abscessed tooth. These teeth have cysts around the root that are filled with bad bacteria. Slowly but surely, this cyst or tooth abscess will start to invade the bone structures and soft tissues next to the tooth. It could easily spread into your bloodstream, nasal sinuses, nerves, face, and yes, your brain.
Gum infections aren’t all that different. Even though there’s no tooth abscess there, you do have severe inflammation, bleeding, and colonies of bacteria living below the surface of your gum tissues.
Here are several life-threatening situations that can tie back to a toothache and why you shouldn’t skip out on that recommended dental work:
1. Sepsis:
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition where your body is overwhelmed with some type of bacterial infection. It can cause both tissue damage and organ failure, destroying otherwise healthy tissues inside your body. If your tooth abscess drains into an area like your sinus cavity or bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis, and sepsis can often be fatal.
2. Ludwig’s Angina:
Ludwig’s angina is a type of infection that occurs in the floor of your mouth, involving areas like your neck and jaw. It’s a type of “cellulitis.” This dangerous infection is most often caused by oral infections (like infected teeth) or a traumatic injury to the jaw. It’s frequently seen in children. Typically it needs to be treated by draining the abscess and a round of antibiotics, but it can occasionally be fatal.
3. Necrotizing Fasciitis:
This rare infection is fast-spreading and is caused by bacteria. It results in the decay of the fascia inside of soft tissues. And yes, it’s fatal. Symptoms include pain, swelling, fever, ulcers and blisters, and fatigue, among others.
4. Endocarditis:
Endocarditis is where the heart becomes inflamed because of a bacterial infection or some type of fungi. And yes, it’s deadly. Can you get endocarditis from a tooth infection? Yes. In fact, health experts recommend that people who are at risk for infective endocarditis be especially good about their oral hygiene habits to prevent tooth abscesses or gum infections from spreading into their bloodstream.
5. Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis:
When you get a blood clot inside of the “cavernous sinuses” (like the hollow nasal sinuses above your teeth but below your brain and eye socket) it can be deadly. Since your tooth roots lie just alongside of some of your sinus cavities, you have to be especially careful about not allowing abscessed teeth to spread infection into those areas.
6. Osteomyelitis:
Osteomyelitis is a type of bone infection. It spreads into the bone from the bloodstream or from an infection right next to the bony structure, like an abscessed tooth. It causes painful swelling inside your bone marrow. People with diabetes, young children, and the elderly are most at risk.
7. Brain Abscess:
Can you get a brain abscess from a tooth infection? Yes. When you do, it’s called an odontogenic brain abscess. This deadly condition may be due to undiagnosed cavities or other dental infections. Death or a permanent handicap are common side effects of brain abscesses.
How Long Until A Tooth Infection Kills You?
A severe dental infection should never be treated lightly. Trying to figure out how long until a tooth infection kills you doesn’t mean you can buy time by putting off dental treatment. There are cases where symptoms may come on suddenly, or a patient may go months with a dental infection before developing life-threatening ailments. Like other deadly infections and diseases, problems may come on quicker than you expect. And by the point they become severe or life-threatening, your treatment options are more limited.
In reality, a person can die within days or weeks of a tooth infection spreading into their bloodstream. And since the severity of a dental infection isn’t easy to measure on your own without diagnostic X-rays, it’s extremely important to listen to your dentist’s recommendations when it comes to active dental disease. If you don’t trust your dentist or it seems like they’re recommending a treatment you don’t need, always, always, always get a second opinion. It just isn’t worth the risk of overlooking a potentially fatal tooth infection.
All of that being said, you’re most likely not going to die within a week of a small cavity being diagnosed. Why? Because tooth decay goes through various stages. Such as:
1. Enamel Decay
This is where the cavity is isolated in the outer layer of the tooth structure. A dental filling is usually all that’s needed.
2. Dentin Decay
Once the tooth decay has ruptured through the enamel, it enters into the softer dentin layer underneath. It can grow much more quickly at this point. Larger dental fillings are required. Or sometimes inlays, onlays, or crowns.
3. Pulp Decay
The tooth decay has reached the nerve tissue inside the tooth. At this point, root canal therapy is a must.
4. Dental Abscess Formation
A fluid-filled cyst develops around the tip of the tooth root. There may be a visible blister or pocket of pus on the gums. The cyst is visible inside the bone when an X-ray is taken. A root canal or extraction are imminent.
5. Serious Complications
Untreated abscessed teeth where the cyst spreads into the surrounding bone, sinuses, and blood vessels.
Symptoms of a Tooth Infection Spreading to the Body
In most cases, severe tooth infections are either related to an abscessed tooth or advanced periodontal disease. In both scenarios, redness and swelling of the mouth are extremely common. However, if the tooth infection has spread elsewhere in the face, you may notice a swollen cheek, jaw, eyes, throbbing pain or difficulty breathing due to an obstructed airway. Fatigue and fever are also common. In some cases, symptoms also include neck pain, nausea, and vomiting.
When a dental infection spreads elsewhere, it’s easy to mistake the issue for something more generalized as opposed to your tooth. Because of the close proximity of dental infections with the airway and brain, doctors may order a CT scan to determine the location of where the infected source originates.
Should You Go To The Hospital?
Most tooth infections need to be treated promptly by a dentist. But if it’s severe, you need to understand that there’s a risk of knowing how long until a tooth infection kills you. You should go straight to the hospital emergency room if you are experiencing facial swelling, difficulty breathing, a high fever, or such significant physical symptoms that it’s obvious there is a medical emergency going on. If you know that you or your child already has an abscessed tooth and they are suddenly lethargic or vomiting uncontrollably, emergency medical treatment is a must.
Who Is An Increased Risk For a Tooth Abscess?
Even though anyone can theoretically die from a tooth infection, there are certain individuals who are at a higher risk of fatal side-effects. Such as:
Young children
Individuals with diabetes
Elderly
People who are immunocompromised
If you have an immune disease or are more susceptible to illnesses, a severe dental infection can potentially be life-threatening if allowed to go untreated.
How To Treat Infected Teeth?
Most infected teeth can be treated through procedures such as:
Dental fillings
Crowns
Pulpotomies or pulp capping
Root canal therapy/endodontics
Surgical extractions
Antibiotics as part of your restorative/therapeutic procedure
Deep Cleanings (Periodontal therapy)
Dental infections cannot be treated with antibiotics alone. However, if your infected tooth is severe, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics in conjunction with other procedures to reduce the overall bacterial load inside your body leading up to the treatment. Antibiotics will also help with making your planned procedure more comfortable, as severe infection and swelling can interfere with how effective dental numbing medications (local anesthetic) are during your procedure.
How To Prevent Tooth Infections
The best way to prevent fatal tooth infections is to see your dentist routinely for checkups and cleanings and to treat infected teeth as soon as conditions are diagnosed. Do not wait for a tooth to start hurting before you have it treated. It is not uncommon for cavities to evolve into abscessed teeth without any painful symptoms being present. If a dental abscess is left untreated, it can spread into the head and neck causing serious complications. If you have second thoughts about your dentist’s recommendations for treatment, seek out a second opinion rather than “tough it out” before you see the infection for yourself.
(11/14/2023)by Dentistry Of Elgin
More Information: N
Views: 46
What’s Causing Your Gums To Look White?
Everyone loves a bright white smile, but what does it mean when the gums are white in Jacksonville, FL.? While people typically visit the dentist for their teeth, the health of the gums is just as important for good oral hygiene. If a person’s gums are looking white or puffy, it often means something is amiss with their oral health and it’s essential to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
What Causes White Gums?
Healthy gums are pink in color. From simple canker sores to anemia and serious inflammatory illnesses, there are several conditions that can cause a person’s gums to turn white in Jacksonville, FL.
Smoking, chewing tobacco, drinking, and basically anything that could cause irritating friction in the mouth, such as rough teeth, dentures, or uneven fillings and crowns, can lead to what is known as leukoplakia.
What Is Leukoplakia?
If white patches appear on the gums, tongue, the base of the mouth, and/or inside the cheeks, the medical term for those spots is leukoplakia. Leukoplakia cannot remove them with a toothbrush and though they are not usually painful, they may be sensitive to the touch or to certain foods, especially those that are hot or spicy.
Leukoplakia on the gums tends to be thicker than the gum tissue around them. They can also harden over time.
Tooth extraction or teeth whitening process can also cause a person’s gums to appear white. Other conditions that can cause white gums to include:
Anemia:
Anemia is usually caused by vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies. It can also be a sign of celiac or Crohn’s disease. A change in diet and vitamin supplements are typically used to manage these conditions.
Canker Sores:
Canker sores are painful lesions that develop on the gums or inside of the mouth. Common treatment includes saltwater rinses, oral ointments, or steroids.
Gingivitis:
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can cause irritated and swollen gums as well as recession. Regular dental hygiene care is the best way to deal with periodontal issues.
Oral Thrush:
Oral thrush typically affects babies, older adults, and diabetics. As it is caused by a yeast infection, an antifungal medication may be prescribed for treatment.
The Dangers Of Oral Cancer
The growing threat of cancer in people’s lives can threaten how they go through their lives. Whilst white gums do not mean a patient necessarily has cancer, this could be one indicator to keep an eye out for oral cancer. In the case it is cancer, it would appear as white patches throughout the mouth.
Because people have many different structures in the mouth, knowing what symptoms to look for can be difficult. Generally speaking, there are some symptoms that are present through the variations of oral cancer. Those symptoms are:
A lip or mouth sore that does not heal
Loose teeth
A growth or lump inside your mouth
Mouth pain
Ear pain
Tooth pain
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Tooth and/or jaw sensitivity
As mentioned earlier, oral cancer is one of many possibilities for white gums, they are not a guarantee. That being said, it is important to keep this in mind to protect the mouth against the issues related to oral cancer.
Preventing White Gums
To avoid the stress and worry of having white gums in Jacksonville, FL, finding effective ways to prevent them is key to healthy gums. Generally, keeping with good oral hygiene and avoiding certain foods will help.
Getting more specific though, brushing teeth is one key factor in avoiding white gums. Brushing regularly and properly is important, keeping the brush at a 45-degree angle and not pushing too hard is also very necessary for healthy gums and teeth.
Flossing teeth properly is also important. Getting well within the grooves of the teeth can help prevent infection and white gums. Keeping up with flossing a few times a day, two or three, is also important to maintaining good gum and tooth health.
Of course, avoiding tobacco products is also important. Tobacco products are one of the biggest causes of white gums, mouth infections, and oral cancer. Breaking habits can be challenging but is critical for maintaining good health.
Lowering the intake of sugary and acidic foods will also help people’s gums. Living in the United States, there are so many foods that add sugars and acids which are horrible on the teeth and gums. That’s because these foods can destroy the gums and teeth which can cause all sorts of issues including white gums.
(11/14/2023)by Caven Dental Group
More Information: https://www.cavendental.com/blog/whats-causing-your-gums-to-look-white/
Views: 40
Seven Ways To Take Care Of Your Teeth When You Can´t Go To The Dentist
Taking care of your teeth is always important, but proper dental health is even more important now that dental cleanings may be cancelled due to the coronavirus. You likely (and hopefully) already have the tools needed for basic oral hygiene, like a toothbrush and floss, but maybe you don’t know why these tools are necessary or how to make the most out of them. We spoke to Dr. Ada Cooper, DMD, a dentist based in New York City and spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA), to get an expert’s tips for taking care of your teeth at home.
1. Get a quality toothbrush—and use it correctly
There are certain non-negotiables when it comes to at-home dental care. The first one is obvious: A toothbrush. “Whether it's manual or powered, your teeth really don't care. You just need to use it and use it correctly,” Cooper says. “When it comes to choosing a brush, be sure it’s 'soft.' 'Firm' or even ‘medium’ bristles can cause damage to your gums.”
Make sure you don’t scrub vigorously—you want to clean your teeth, but not at the expense of your gums and tooth enamel, which can weaken from too much pressure or friction from improper brushing. The ADA recommends you hold the brush at a 45-degree angle from your gums and gently sweep back and forth. This angle helps to get buildup out that’s trapped between your gums and your teeth. Make sure you get the tops and sides of each tooth, focusing on one quadrant of the mouth at a time until you’ve eventually covered the whole mouth. The recommended time you spend as a whole is two minutes, or 30 seconds per quadrant. You should do this at minimum twice a day—once in the morning either before or 30 minutes to an hour after breakfast (you may end up brushing enamel-weakening acid from the food around your mouth if you brush directly after eating) and at night, right before bed.
When you’re storing your toothbrush, don’t routinely put a cover on it, as this will trap moisture in and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Replace your toothbrush, or the head on an electric model, every three to four months to make sure your bristles are fresh and at the proper strength to do their job.
If you’re in the market for a new electric toothbrush, our favorite after testing is the Oral B Pro 3000, which features a two-minute timer that cues you every 30 seconds to change quadrants. It also has a visible pressure sensor that lights up red when you bear down too hard to keep you from damaging your teeth and gums.
Get the Oral B Pro 3000 on Amazon for $67.24
2. Use a toothpaste with fluoride
The ADA recommends using a toothpaste that includes fluoride, a mineral in your bones and teeth, as an ingredient. “Not all toothpastes contain fluoride, but you should always use one that does contain it,” Cooper says. “Fluoride is a natural cavity fighter that helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and fight tooth decay.” (Though there’s some controversy over the safety of excess fluoride use, the current science supports that it does more good than harm in dental products like toothpaste and mouthwash, as long as the products are used as directed and not ingested.)
Depending on certain needs or wants, you may also look for other active ingredients. For example, you may want a toothpaste that whitens your teeth and removes stains, for which common ingredients include baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. The best way to learn about subcategories of toothpaste that may work for you is to speak to your dentist about your concerns. When you’re shopping for a toothpaste, Cooper says you should look for the ADA seal of acceptance, which serves as a sign that the toothpaste contains the appropriate ingredients to do what it claims.
3. Don’t skimp on flossing
If you’ve ever been called out by your dentist for not flossing enough, you’re not alone. But skipping this step on the regular is detrimental to your dental health. “Brushing and flossing accomplish two different things and that’s why they’re both essential,” Cooper says, though she points out the order in which you do them isn’t important. “Flossing before brushing, brushing before flossing, it doesn’t matter to your teeth as long as you do both.”
Brushing removes the plaque and food buildup on your teeth, but flossing—or using another interdental cleaning tool like a water flosser—removes the buildup between your teeth, where your brush can’t go.
If you don’t mind string floss, stock up on some with the Oral B Glide Dental Floss, which claims to be “shred-resistant,” and more than 2,000 reviewers agree that it’s great.
Some people prefer to floss with picks, which have pre-strung floss that’s less fussy and messy to use. A pack of DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks contains 150 fluoride-coated picks that claim to be break-resistant “even when used on the tightest of teeth.”
For those who really dislike flossing, consider a water flosser like this one from Waterpik, which uses a thin jet of water in place of floss string to clean between teeth. Our reviewer was impressed with its sleek design and how easy it was to use even on the first try.
Get the Oral B Glide Dental Floss (6 pack) on Amazon for $10.50
Get the DenTek Triple Clean Floss Picks on Amazon for $3.64
Get the Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser on Amazon for $69.99
4. Keep your diet in mind
You know that gorging on candy is bad for your teeth, but what and how you eat, and the effect it has on your oral hygiene, is more nuanced than that. “For good dental health, you should carefully choose your meals and your snacks,” Cooper says. “Eat a variety of foods from each of the major five food groups.” Eating a balanced diet affects your teeth because your body is better equipped to resist infections that could lead to gum disease. And, more directly, if you eat too many sugary or carb-loaded foods, you risk breaking down your tooth enamel.
Cooper also recommends that if you’re going to eat snacks throughout the day, you don’t graze over them. “Continuously snacking throughout the day can actually increase the likelihood that you’ll develop cavities,” Cooper says. This is because the bacteria in your mouth breaks down carbohydrates found in snacks like candy or starches into acid that then causes cavities. The longer the carbs sit in your mouth, the more acid will be created. Brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after every snack or meal is unnecessary, but washing your food down with water as you eat and especially after you’re done is enough to aid in unwanted cavities. You may also chew sugar-free gum after eating (more on that below).
5. Understand the benefits and limitations of mouthwash
Cooper cautions that mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing or flossing, but it can prevent tooth decay, reduce plaque, and prevent the early stages of gum disease. Bonus: It’s a great way to freshen your breath.
As for who should use mouthwash, Cooper says that if you have a healthy mouth, it can be a great adjunct product. If you're 65 or older and/or struggle with teeth health, though, mouthwash may camouflage important symptoms without actually treating them. For example, an infection in the mouth like periodontitis may cause your breath to smell stronger than normal, but you may not notice this if you frequently use mouthwash that masks the symptom. The best thing you can do is talk to your dentist if you’re interested in incorporating mouthwash into your routine.
If you get the green light to use a mouthwash, you can again look for the ADA seal of acceptance when shopping for one. “There are two different types of mouthwashes, therapeutic and cosmetic,” Cooper says. “Therapeutic mouthwashes kill bacteria and contain active ingredients that your doctor may feel are appropriate for you. Cosmetic washes mostly temporarily reduce bad breath and can leave your mouth with a pleasant taste, but they don’t really decrease your risk of cavities.” Some therapeutic mouthwashes must be prescribed by a doctor, which highlights again the importance of speaking to your dentist if you're trying to tackle a particular problem with mouthwash.
6. Use a tongue scraper if you want
Another common dental product is a tongue scraper, which adds a step to your oral health routine—these devices are O-shaped plastic or U-shaped metal tools that remove debris from the surface of your tongue. However, “there’s no clinical evidence that brushing or scraping your tongue will prevent bad breath or improve chronic bad breath and, in fact, bacteria can grow back just as fast as you remove it,” Cooper says. “But having said that, if you like the way your mouth feels after you clean your tongue, keep it up, by all means.”
7. Chew sugarless gum—if your dentist is on board
Lastly, Cooper says some patients ask about the benefits and risks of chewing sugarless gum. “Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum between and following meals can help prevent tooth decay,” she says. It helps increase saliva, which washes away food and other debris. “Saliva neutralizes acid that’s produced by bacteria in the mouth and it can increase the production of calcium and phosphate, which can help strengthen the tooth enamel,” Cooper says.
That said, if you have bridges, crowns, or braces, chewing gum likely isn’t a great option for you as it can get stuck in or break down the restorations, so you should speak to your dentist before you pick up a pack of Trident.
(11/13/2023)by Reviewed
More Information: N
Views: 54
What Are Dental Crowns And Tooth Bridges?
Dental crowns and bridges are quite common operations that are performed in the dental clinic. Their major goal is to restore a tooth or teeth to full chewing function. Crowns and bridges are both fixed prosthetic devices, but they also differ in many aspects. Unlike detachable devices such as dentures, which have to be removed and cleaned regularly, crowns and bridges are fixed onto existing teeth or implants and can only be removed by a dentist.
What is a Dental Crown?
A crown, often known as a cap, is a type of dental treatment that replaces the tooth's outer layer of enamel with a new material. A tooth crown is curved and sized similarly to a natural tooth, and it makes normal contact with the opposing tooth, allowing food to be properly eaten. When it comes to function, a crown should feel like a regular tooth. It can also look like a perfectly natural tooth, depending on the material used for the crown. Consult with the best dentist in Kolkata to get help regarding dental care.
How do crowns work?
A crown is used to completely cover or "cap" a broken or damaged tooth. A tooth crown can be used to improve a tooth's look, shape, or alignment in addition to reinforcing it. It is also used to offer a tooth-like shape and structure to a dental implant crown. Crowns can be made up of different materials like porcelain or ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, metal and gold. Nowadays, gold is rarely used for crowns because they are very expensive and secondly they don’t look natural.
While porcelain or ceramic crowns are more preferred as they are both sturdy and aesthetic i.e., the colo
r can be matched to the natural tooth.
A crown may be recommended by a dentist to:
Replace a huge filling if there is not enough tooth left.
Prevent a weak tooth from breaking.
Restore a shattered tooth.
Offer a tooth-like shape and structure to an implant.
Cover a stained or poorly formed tooth.
Cover a root canal treatment.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A bridge is a fixed dental prosthesis because it is bonded to the teeth, replaces one or more missing teeth but not all of them, and employs a false tooth or teeth instead. When there are healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth, a bridge is utilised to replace one or more missing teeth.
The bridge completely encases the neighbouring teeth, known as retainers, much like a crown completely encases a single tooth.
For a single missing tooth, a bridge would consist of three units: one for a missing tooth, and one for each adjacent tooth. The same materials that were mentioned above for crowns can also be used to make bridges.
How do bridges work?
If someone has one or more missing teeth, a bridge may be suggested, otherwise with time, the remaining adjacent teeth progressively rotate or shift into the empty areas left by the missing teeth, resulting in a poor bite. Gum disease loosening of teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may result from the imbalance caused by missing teeth.
Bridges are typically used to replace a lost tooth or teeth. They fill the gap left by missing teeth. Bridges are attached to the natural teeth or implants that surround the gap. These teeth, known as abutments, function as bridge anchors. A pontic, or substitute tooth, is affixed to the crowns that cover the abutments. Bridges, like crowns, come in different materials. Based on the location of the lost tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations, and cost, the dentist can help select which to use. Bridges made of porcelain or ceramic can be customised to match the color of the natural teeth.
How are crowns and bridges made?
Before the fabrication of a crown or bridge, the dentist first reduces the size of the tooth or teeth to ensure a proper fit. An impression is then taken to create an accurate mould for the restoration. If porcelain is chosen, the dentist determines the appropriate shade to match the existing teeth. Using this impression, a dental lab creates the crown or bridge with the specified material. While the permanent restoration is being made, a temporary crown or bridge is placed to cover the prepared tooth. Finally, the temporary restoration is removed, and the permanent crown or bridge is cemented onto the prepared tooth or teeth. Get the best dental care services at the best dental hospital in Kolkata with our specialised crowns and bridge treatments.
How long do crowns and bridges last?
Even though crowns and bridges are designed to last a lifetime, they occasionally get loose or fall out. To protect the longevity of your crown or bridge, maintaining good oral hygiene is the most crucial measure you can take. If the bones or teeth supporting a bridge in place are harmed by dental disease, the bridge may become unsupportable. Brush twice daily and floss once every day to maintain healthy gums and teeth. Regular checks and cleanings with your dentist and hygienist are also recommended.
Dental crowns and bridges are fixed prostheses used to restore teeth to full chewing function. Crowns are caps that replace the outer layer of enamel and can improve the appearance, shape, or alignment of a tooth. They can also be used to attach a bridge or cover a dental implant. Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining crowns to a false tooth. Both crowns and bridges come in different materials and are made by taking an impression and creating a permanent restoration. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential for the longevity of crowns and bridges.
(11/13/2023)by Manipal Hospitals
More Information: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/saltlake/blog/what-are-dental-crowns-and-tooth-bridges/
Views: 61
The Sublingual Papilla and Your Salivary Structures
It's important to understand how saliva and your salivary structures work to maintain good oral habits and health. If you've ever been confused about words like “sublingual papilla” or “Wharton's duct,” you are not alone. Here's what you need to know about your sublingual papilla, salivary structures, and salivary stones.
What Is Your Sublingual Papilla?
Your sublingual papilla is a small protruding piece of tissue at the base of the tongue. The term "sublingual" refers to the area beneath the tongue, making its location a little easier to remember. This small piece of tissue also serves as a marker for the place where saliva empties into your mouth via your Wharton's duct (also called the submandibular duct).
Understanding Your Salivary Structures
Salivary glands create saliva that moistens your mouth to help you chew, speak, and digest. Saliva also helps clean bacteria off your teeth and protect them from decay. The salivary glands excrete saliva through tubes in your mouth called ducts, specifically your Wharton's duct.
The sublingual glands are responsible for depositing about 5 percent of your saliva. These glands are located on the floor of the mouth underneath the sublingual folds on either side of the sublingual papilla. Your other major salivary glands include the parotid and submandibular glands. Together, they release the majority of your saliva. However, there are hundreds of tiny salivary glands throughout the lining of your mouth and throat.
What Is Sialolithiasis (Salivary Stones)?
A common problem affecting the sublingual area on the floor of your mouth is sialolithiasis. This condition refers to salivary stones that form when substances in your saliva harden into a crystallized structure. This crystallization can cause swelling and pain, especially when the surge of saliva released when you eat becomes partially blocked.
The Merck Manual notes that 80 percent of salivary stones occur in Wharton's duct and the connecting submandibular glands. However, they can be found in other glands, too. Wharton's duct is particularly long and narrow, allowing for saliva buildup.
How Do You Treat Salivary Stones?
Your dental professional will sometimes detect and diagnose salivary stones during a routine dental examination, especially if you haven't experienced noticeable symptoms that have prompted you to see a dentist or physician sooner. A dentist will usually detect the presence of a stone by touch or visual inspection, especially if it is apparent near the sublingual papilla.
Treatment involves removing the salivary stone, but the exact procedure depends on the size, location, and number of stones. Sometimes, a dental professional can push the stone out by massaging the area with heat. A sialoendoscopy, a minimally invasive procedure using cameras and small instruments to diagnose and retrieve stones, may also be helpful. Shock wave treatments are also an option to break larger stones into small pieces. More complicated cases, such as if the stones become infected or recur, may require surgery. In some cases, a small incision in the papilla — also known as a papillotomy — may help your medical professional remove the stone.
Luckily, there are measures you can take at home to help dislodge a salivary stone. Try drinking lots of water and using sugar-free lozenges to help stimulate saliva flow and loosen the stone from the duct. As always, maintaining a good oral care routine with twice-daily brushing and once-daily interdental cleaning will help prevent the formation of salivary stones. It's also best to avoid smoking or using other tobacco products.
Understanding your mouth and the ways saliva circulates through it is essential to your overall oral health. Now that you know a bit more about your sublingual papilla and other salivary strictures, you are more prepared to take action a problem occurs. If you notice anything unusual on the floor of your mouth near your sublingual papilla, or you experience pain or swelling when eating, call your dental professional. You may have a simple salivary stone, which can be easily removed.
(11/12/2023)by Colgate
More Information: N
Views: 50
What Causes a Scab on the Lip?
Suddenly discovering a scab on your lip can be distressing. Besides causing you discomfort or pain, it might make you feel uncomfortable because it's so visible. So what causes a scab on your lip, and what should you do if it just won’t heal? Find out more about lip scabs so you can go back to smiling painlessly in no time!
What Causes a Scab on the Lip?
Scabs can often result from cuts or wounds on your lips that are now starting to heal. They may also appear when lips are cracked because of dryness.
Cold sores may also lead to scabs around the lips. Cold sores – caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 – are tiny fluid-filled blisters that appear on and around your lips, often in groups or patches. After the blisters break, you’ll see scabs form. These scabs can last several days.
Occasionally, the scab on your lip is not a cold sore and can be a sign of something more serious. The Mayo Clinic notes that if you see a flat, raised, whitish patch on your lip, it could be a sign of lip cancer.
How to Help the Scab on Your Lip Heal
Although scabs can be uncomfortable, it’s important not to pick them off or pick at them at all. The scab forming is a sign that your body’s immune system has started to protect the wound from getting infected, so letting the scab heal on its own is essential.
That said, there are things to do to make the healing process quicker or give yourself some relief. If the scabs are the result of cold sores, antiviral medicines can help them heal faster. Your doctor may also recommend ointments that numb the blisters, dry them out, or soften the crusts of the sores. Sunblock lip balm can protect your lips from the sun, a trigger for cold sores. Cold sores usually go away on their own in a few weeks.
If the scabs are caused by any trauma, like dryness or because of biting your lips, you can try applying lip balm, beeswax, or petroleum jelly for some relief.
What to Do if Your Scab Won’t Heal
According to MedlinePlus, you will know if your scab is infected if you see redness, yellow or green pus, or excessive clear fluid around it. Increased pain could be another sign that the area is infected. In this case, you should consult with your dentist or doctor immediately to get the right treatment.
If your scab isn’t healing on its own, it’s essential to see your doctor to ensure it’s not a sign of lip cancer. Early detection means that the cancer may be curable.
In most cases, the scab on your lip will heal on its own, but if it’s been a few days and you’re wondering why the scab won’t heal, it’s definitely worth checking with your doctor or dentist. Seeking additional treatment can go a long way in making you feel comfortable and confident.
(11/11/2023)by Colgate
More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/what-causes-a-scab-on-the-lip#
Views: 54
Have a Filling That You Have a Cavity In Between your Teeth?
Interproximal cavities, more popularly known as the cavities in between your teeth, are actually pretty common. They start to form when there is a breakdown of the outer, calcified enamel of the tooth that is caused by bacteria in your mouth.
Cavities are easily preventable, even if you seem to be finding them with every dentist visit. The more information you have on interproximal cavities the better!
Did you know?
35% of your teeth’s surface are in between other teeth. If you decide to skip flossing one day, then only two-thirds of your teeth are getting cleaned! Think of it this way–not flossing is like washing your hands but not scrubbing in between your fingers. Gross!
Dental cavities are one of the most prevalent diseases amongst the general population. But, the good news with this is that they are easily preventable.
Once a cavity is treated, the tooth will stop decaying. So don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable, because the earlier you treat the decaying tooth, the less damage will occur. And the less treatment you will have to receive!
Symptoms of Interproximal Cavities
Many of the symptoms occur when the cavity has penetrated into the dentin, known as the second hard layer of tissue beneath the enamel. Symptoms of these cavities include:
Sensitivity to cold
Sensitivity to sweets or sugar
Trouble chewing on the tooth with the cavity
How can I prevent cavities?
Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. While doing this alone is great, it is still important to make sure your technique is up to par. Use circular motions on the fronts and chewing surfaces of your teeth and small, up-and-down motions on the backs. Remember to pay some attention to the back molars too!
Floss every day. This is another really important technique you’re going to want to master for optimal results. Start by winding 18” of floss around the middle finger of each hand. Use your thumb and index fingers to pinch the string while leaving 1-2” length in between. Use thumbs to direct floss in between teeth while using a zig-zag motion. It is important to remember not to snap the floss in between your teeth. Contour floss around the side of each tooth.
X-Rays
When receiving your yearly x-rays from My Dentist, we’re looking for the earliest signs of tooth decay. We can tell when you’re about to develop a cavity by observing the dark areas developing around the outermost layer of your tooth, known as the enamel.
If there seems to be a suspicious amount of decay, a mouth rinse or dental paste with extra fluoride may be prescribed to you.
Holy Molar! You already have a cavity
We’ve all been there and there’s no point in beating yourself up for it. The best way to bounce back from having a cavity is to focus on taking better care of your oral hygiene, which will help prevent future cavities.
(11/11/2023)by My Dentist West Minster
More Information: https://mydentistwestminster.com/have-a-filling-that-you-have-a-cavity-in-between-your-teeth/
Views: 60
How To Fight Gingivitis In Three Easy Steps
Do you notice bleeding when you brush your teeth, have frequent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth? Are your gums red, swollen and tender? According to the Indian Dental Association, if you suffer from gingivitis, some of the warning signs are swelling, bleeding gums, bright red or purple appearance to gums, gums that are tender when touched, mouth sores, swollen gums and shiny appearance to gums. Gingivitis begins when bacterial plaque accumulates around the gumline, causing inflammation in your gum tissue. But don't worry; it's treatable. If you want to know how to fight gingivitis, it's as easy as one-two-three: brushing, flossing and professional cleanings.
Proper Toothbrushing
Your toothbrushing habits may be beyond reproach, but there is always room for improvement. Your first step in fighting gingivitis starts here. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush, small enough to get into the hard-to-reach places. To brush properly, place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gumline, and use short, gentle back-and-forth strokes on each tooth for at least two minutes of brushing. Brush your teeth in a pattern so that you don't miss any areas. Brush the outer surfaces of your upper teeth and then move to the outer surfaces of your lower teeth. Next, clean the inner surfaces of your upper teeth and then the same in your lower teeth. Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth last, and eliminate any remaining bacteria by brushing your tongue.
Throw away old and worn toothbrushes, which can harbour bacteria. Frayed bristles won't clean sufficiently, either. Ask your dentist which toothpaste is right for you as well; there are products to meet every dental need. While most toothpastes have their own whitening and cavity prevention formulas, but your dentist can recommend you a toothpaste that cares for teeth prone to the irritation associated with gum disease or tooth sensitivity.
Proper Flossing
The Indian Dental Association explains that proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot reach- under the gum-line and between the teeth. Daily flossing is recommended because plaque build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. It stimulates gums, polishes tooth surfaces, reduces gum bleeding and prevents gum disease. This is why flossing is a key factor in preventing gingivitis.
Floss once a day, ideally before bedtime when you've already had a full day of meals. Wrap a long enough piece of floss (about 18 inches) around the middle finger of each hand. Hold the floss tautly between your thumbs and index fingers and slide it between each tooth making a C-shape around each tooth using a push and pull and then an up-and-down motion. Bring the floss over the gum tissue in between the teeth and do the same routine on the other side. You'll need to curve the floss around each tooth to allow it to go beneath the gumline and then once you have flossed both sides of the teeth then move the floss down so a clean area can be used to floss the next two teeth.
Take care not to force the floss, and use clean sections as your progress through your mouth, so you don't move bacteria from tooth to tooth. Be thorough by removing the floss from between your teeth slowly, in a back-and-forth motion. Ask your dentist for recommendations if you have trouble; there are waxed and un-waxed varieties, as well as floss holders if you struggle to wind and grip the floss yourself.
Professional Dental Cleanings
When plaque is not thoroughly cleaned off your teeth by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar build-up occurs and plaque adheres to the tartar which leads to an increase in bacterial toxins and can cause gingivitis to progress into more serious forms of gum disease, like periodontitis.
Professional cleanings are the best ways to remove tartar from your teeth. And if your gingivitis has not progressed, a professional cleaning will help reverse it. This can involve scaling, which requires scraping away this hardened plaque (tartar); and root planing, used to smooth over the root to promote healing once the plaque and tartar are removed. For many people, a preventive cleaning twice a year is enough, but your dentist can help you decide the schedule that works best for you.
The sooner you get started, the better. Knowing how to fight gingivitis will give you a healthy mouth now, with no worries of gum disease in the future. Keep up the good fight!
(11/10/2023)by Colgate
More Information: N
Views: 62
Seven Rules to Make Your Dental Check-Up Easier
The purpose of a dental check-up goes further than merely getting your teeth cleaned. It is also an opportunity for a dentist to evaluate the patient's mouth and come up with a treatment plan for any issues that may not be known by the patient. Regular visits to the dentist's clinic are an integral part of preventative dental care.
Making check-ups easier
Here are seven simple things that can be done to make a patient's visit to the dentist a lot easier:
1. Make a list of concerns and questions before the dental check-up
Patients often have a hard time remembering all the questions they have during dental visits, so it is best to write them down before appointments. Patients should talk to their dentists about any issues they are experiencing like bleeding gums, tooth pain or sensitivity, sores inside the mouth, habits like teeth grinding, or difficulty brushing and flossing due to a damaged tooth.
2. Provide updates to medical history
Patients should also provide any updates to their medical history during dental check-ups. Many health issues can affect a person's oral health like diabetes, and dentists are better equipped to treat their patients when they are fully aware of the health conditions the person is dealing with. The more informed the dentist is, the more likely they will be to recommend the right treatments.
3. Provide lists of medications, supplements, and vitamins being taken
Certain medications have side effects like dry mouth, increased blood pressure, or depression which can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Other medications have a thinning effect on the patient's blood, and that can lead to increased bleeding after dental treatments are performed. When a dentist is aware of the medications a patient takes, proper steps can be made to ensure its side effects does not lead to complications during treatments.
4. Consider low-cost alternatives
This option is particularly important for those working with a budget. Finances being tight can lead to dental anxiety since the patient finds that they continuously are worried about being able to afford the necessary treatments. When working with a budget, it is best to communicate that directly with the dentist so that cheaper treatments can be explored.
5. Ask for oral hygiene tips
Dentistry is always changing, and some things that were once recommended by dentists are now considered unhealthy. Patients should talk to their dentist about the proper way to take care of their teeth and gums. Part of a dentist's job is to educate patients about their oral health so take advantage of this.
6. Arrive early
Showing up for dental appointments on time gives the patient an opportunity to relax and calm down before treatments. That leads to a more pleasant experience since the person does not feel rushed. Patients should make it a habit of arriving at least five minutes before dental appointments.
7. Consider sedation dentistry
Those who have a hard time staying relaxed at the dentist's clinic should consider sedation dentistry. This choice involves the use of sedatives to keep patients relaxed during appointments.
(11/10/2023)by Chamblee Dental Care
More Information: https://chambleedental.com/blog/7-rules-to-make-your-dental-check-up-easier/
Views: 51
My BEST Dentists Journal Headlines