Emax and Zirconia are two different kinds of ceramic materials used in the production of dental prosthetics. To choose between them, it’s important to know what the differences are between emax and zirconia crowns.
What Are Emax and Zirconia Made Of?
Emax is a Lithium Disilicate glass. It’s an all-ceramic material made from quartz, lithium dioxide, phosphor oxide, alumina, potassium oxide, and other components.
Zirconia is another name for Zirconium Dioxide. It’s a white, powdered metal oxide that is also ceramic.
Emax crowns and zirconia crowns are commonly produced from a solid block of each material. These are called monolithic crowns.
What Are the Differences Between Them?
The biggest difference between Emax and zirconia is that Emax crowns are more translucent and zirconia crowns are stronger.
Emax is known for having a naturally translucent appearance that allows light through just like natural teeth. Zirconia traditionally had a denser, more opaque look, but improvements in technology have significantly diminished this effect. Multi-layered zirconia crowns can achieve an impressive translucency while still being much stronger than Emax.
Zirconia crowns have a flexural strength of 800-1200 megapascals, while Emax crowns average between 380-500 megapascals.
Zirconia can also retain its strength even when it’s thinner. This means the dentist doesn’t need to remove as much of the patient’s original teeth to fit the crown on top. Zirconia crowns can be as thin as 0.5mm, while the minimum thickness for Emax is 1.5mm-2mm.
When to Use Which?
The answer to this question depends very much on the doctor’s opinion. Every mouth is unique and an experienced doctor will know all the details that must be taken into consideration.
Overall, if the decision is between the two, it’s more likely that zirconia will be chosen for the posterior teeth (back) and Emax for the anterior (front). This is because the back teeth usually require more strength and less aesthetic beauty, and the opposite is truth for the front.
Cosmetic zirconia has improved so much though, that many doctors find it perfectly suitable for both anterior and posterior restorations, with the strength benefits outweighing the minimal aesthetic difference.
Periodontal disease affects about 20%-50% of the world’s population. And more predominantly among the older population in high-income countries. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease. It affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth.
Sadly, this is a very common problem among adolescents and adults alike. Therefore, it must be treated with special care by a periodontist.
This article walks you through the prevalence of periodontal disease among different populations, symptoms, causes, and more.
Prevalence of Periodontal Disease in Adults in the United States
According to a recent CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) study, 47.2 % of U.S. adults have periodontitis, a more advanced form of periodontal disease. This means that 64.7 million Americans have periodontal disease. Half of those above 30 and above have severe periodontal disease. The same study states that prevalence rates increase to 70.1 percent among adults 65 years and older. These findings are based on the data collected as a part of the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
These findings suggest that more people have periodontal disease than previously thought. And there is a disparity among specific population groups. For example, at 56.4%, the disease is higher among men than women, 38.4%. In addition, the rate is highest among Mexican Americans at 66.7% when compared to other races. The other segments that see a high prevalence of periodontal disease include smokers, people living under the federal poverty level, and less education.
Is Periodontitis a Serious Disease?
Contrary to popular myth, periodontitis in adults is extremely common. It is a severe infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other health complications, including increasing one’s risk for oral cancer.
The bacteria causing periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream affecting other parts of the body. As the disease progresses, it can lead to rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory disease, heart disease, and diabetes.
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Firstly, periodontists rely on visual assessment to check the patient’s oral health. But, this visual method of diagnosing indicates only the presence of the disease. To assess the severity of periodontitis, you need to rely on more advanced diagnostic methods to determine Clinical Attachment Loss (CAL) or Radiographic Bone Loss (RBL). The periodontist then measures the pocket depth with a periodontal probe. A depth of 4mm indicates the presence of periodontal disease. Pockets deeper than 5 mm may indicate severe periodontitis and cannot be cleaned well.
New tests offer genetic and biological information to better determine the appropriate treatment regimen for each patient.
Can You Reverse Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is broken into four stages:
Gingivitis
Slight Periodontal Disease
Moderate Periodontal Disease
Advanced Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)
Of these, gingivitis is the only stage that can be reversed as the bacteria has not yet had time to attack the bones. However, once a patient reaches stage 2, the infection has already spread to the bones, possibly destroying them. At this stage, the disease is only manageable and not preventable.
Hence, it is vital to catch periodontal diseases early before they move on to peridontitis.
At What Age Do Most People Get Gum Disease?
The chance of periodontal disease increases as you grow older. That is why it is most commonly seen in older adults. For example, clinical attachment loss was significantly higher among adults of ages 60 to 69 years when compared with those aged 40-50 years.
Due to the slow nature of the disease, it can even develop early in life and can go undetected until the patient is older. Unfortunately, by this time, a great deal of damage would have happened.
Causes and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissues and bones surrounding the teeth. The early stage is called gingivitis. During this period the gums become red and swollen, a clear sign of bacterial infection. In the more severe cases, the gums pull away from the tooth. In chronic periodontitis i.e, the advanced stage, you may witness a loss of gum tissue and bones, resulting in the teeth falling off. The disease, however, progresses pretty slowly.
Causes
Periodontal disease is quite common but preventable. The prevalence of periodontitis can be attributed to poor oral health and hygiene. Generally, oral diseases like periodontal disease start with the development of plaque.
Sugars and starch in your food, together with the bacteria in your mouth, form a film called plaque.
The plaque hardens into tartar under your gumline. It is filled with bacteria and is difficult to move at this point. You need a dental cleaning to get rid of it.
Plaque causes gum disease or otherwise called gingivitis which is the inflammation of the gums. Good dental care and treatment can reverse the disease at this stage.
Ongoing gum inflammation leads to periodontitis, a form of severe periodontal disease. This causes pockets to form your teeth and gums. These eventually fill with plaque, tartar, and bacteria. If not treated, they can lead to loss of tissue and bone, with your teeth falling off.
Symptoms
The first thing to remember is that healthy gums generally are pink and fit snug around your teeth. So even though the signs of periodontal disease are pretty subtle, it is not entirely without any warning.
The symptoms of periodontal disease include:
Gum Inflammation
Red and Tender Gums
Pus Between Teeth and Gums
Spaces Developing Between Teeth
Bleeding Gums (Especially While Brushing and Flossing)
Halitosis (Chronic Bad Breath)
Change in Bite
Receding Gum Lines
Calculus (Plaque or Tartar Buildup)
Pain when Biting or Chewing
Loose Teeth or Loss of Teeth
Foul Taste in the Mouth
Inflammatory Response
Risk Factors
Research shows that gum disease is associated with other systemic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Several factors increase the risk of periodontal diseases. The risk factors can be both modifiable and non-modifiable.
MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS
Smoking & Tobacco Use – Smoking is of the leading factors for periodontal disease. Furthermore, it also affects oral microbial flora. Smokers are three times more likely to have severe periodontal disease than non-smokers. They also have more chances of tooth loss, alveolar bone loss, and poor outcomes of all forms of treatments. Moreover, nicotine can directly or indirectly cause periodontal tissue breakdown. Smokers with periodontal disease can develop cancerous lesions in the future.
Poor Oral Hygiene – Poor dental health aids bacterial deposition and build-up of dental plaque, leading to inflammation in periodontal tissues. Due to this, there is a high prevalence and increased severity of periodontal disease.
Hormonal Changes in Females – The increased progesterone during mensuration and ovulation disrupts the repair of collagen fiber and causes the blood vessels to dilate. Similarly, pregnant women also show signs of gingivitis. Finally, estrogen deficiency also reduces bone density leading to bone loss.
Diabetes Mellitus – Diabetes mellitus can play a significant role in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. It is also associated with periodontal ligament destruction leading to loss of teeth.
Medications – Medicines like tricyclic antidepressants, atropine, antihistamine, and beta-blockers can reduce saliva flow. This leaves the patient vulnerable to periodontal disease.
Stress – Stress reduces the flow of salivary secretions, which leads to increased dental plaque formation. People under stress can have poor oral hygiene. Furthermore, depressed individuals can have a higher cortisol concentration in the gingival crevicular fluid. And hence may respond poorly to treatment.
NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS
Age – Older adults have increases chances of periodontal disease than other age groups.
Heredity – Genetics, along with environmental and demographical determinants, increase the threat of periodontal disease among different racial and ethnic populations.
Can You Stop Periodontitis?
Severe periodontal disease is called Periodontitis. At this point, it starts damaging the bone and is not reversible. However, your periodontist can treat and stop the progression of the disease. Gingivitis and mild cases require non-surgical treatment by a general dentist. However, moderate and severe periodontitis requires a surgical intervention to save as many teeth as possible.
With proper treatment and good oral health practices, periodontitis is manageable.
Brush twice a day, for at least 2 minutes every time.
Floss once a day.
Stop smoking and tobacco use.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Limit acidic and sugary foods.
Regular dental cleanings and exams can help spot the disease early.
Conclusion
According to World Health Organization (WHO), developing countries have a high prevalence of calculus and bleeding gums among adolescents. 35% to 70% of those in developing countries have calculus deposits, while 4% to 34% in the developed nations.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently working with organizations such as the American Academy of Periodontology and the American Dental Association to improve the surveillance of periodontal disease in the adult U.S. population. In addition to that, state and local authorities should implement oral health policies to reduce the burden of disease and improve the quality of life of people.
Furthermore, the American Academy of Periodontology recommends a comprehensive periodontal evaluation every year. Your dentist can perform it at your bi-annual check-up.
Hydrogen Peroxide will act as a teeth bleacher. It whitens your teeth and gives you an attractive smile. It is a highly reactive chemical that is made from both oxygen and hydrogen. It is a key ingredient for most of the teeth whitening products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
A tooth contains natural molecules in enamel and the dentin. These molecules reflect the light and are responsible for their color. The chemical peroxide has a greater whitening power for your teeth. It will create a reaction and has whitening factors because the chemical will pass through your tooth and break down complex molecules. Normal concentrations are around 3% and can go as high as 10%.
Even though Hydrogen Peroxide is used to help you achieve that pearly white smile, there are certain precautions that you must take while using Hydrogen Peroxide.
Is There Any Risk When Using Hydrogen Peroxide?
There is a risk of hydrogen peroxide will be overused. It can damage the enamel on your teeth and the tissue inside your mouth. Because of its highly reactive chemical, it may cause gums and mouth irritation. Thus, limit your use to only 2 times a week.
Other Precautions That You Must Observe:
Please bear in mind that hydrogen peroxide is not for swallowing since it can react faultily to your natural acids that help digest food properly. It can cause burns to your esophagus.
This chemical is unable to change the shade of fillings, gold teeth, ceramic teeth, porcelain teeth, or other restorative materials. This is due to the hydrogen content that cannot penetrate the surface layers of these materials. However, it can affect more porous dental work such as cement and dental amalgams.
It is important that you keep hydrogen peroxide away from children. If your children have swallowed a small amount of hydrogen peroxide, it is advised that you should let your child drink water or milk.
The average lifespan of a dental crown is between 5 and 15 years. How long a crown lasts mostly depends on how well it’s placed, how well it’s taken care of and how it’s used.
A well-cared-for crown could last indefinitely, but it’s rare for a crown that has been well-fitted to crack or malfunction sooner than five years. This is why most dental insurance providers cover crown replacements after 5 years.
If the crown is misplaced or needs to be adjusted, this will usually be noticed by the patient and should be fixed by the doctor promptly. Once the adjustment period is over, it’s up to the patient to take good care of their new crown to make sure it lasts as long as possible.
What factors affect crown longevity?
Overall the most important factors that determine how long a dental crown will last are: oral hygiene, chewing and biting habits, crown material, and frequency of dental check-ups.
Oral hygiene tips for healthy teeth (and crowns):
Brushing all your teeth thoroughly, at least twice a day.
Flossing between every tooth, every day.
Using mouthwash, every day.
Chewing and Biting Tips:
Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth.
Refrain from eating foods or drinks that are too hot or too cold.
Avoid chewing hard materials like ice or pencils.
Never use your teeth as a tool, such as opening a plastic container with your teeth.
Never leave pieces of food (such as popcorn or meat) stuck between your teeth or your gums. They are a common cause of infection.
Recommended frequency of dental checkups:
One or more follow-up visits to your dentist in the first several weeks after your crown is placed. These check-ups are to make sure that your mouth is healing property from the procedure.
A cleaning appointment with your dentist once every 6 months, at least. You can schedule more frequent appointments if you have a history of oral disease or want to make sure your mouth health is being regularly checked by a professional.
Crown Material
Some crown materials are sturdier than others.
All-metal crowns, such as gold crowns, are the strongest type of dental prosthetics there are. All-metal crowns are impossibly hard to chip, but nowadays most people prefer more aesthetic alternatives.
Zirconia crowns are very strong as well. Zirconia is a metal oxide material derived from Zirconium metal. Crowns made from zirconia have an appearance that is similar to real teeth and are very strong compared to other ceramic dental prosthetic materials.
Emax crowns are another type of ceramic crown. They have an even closer resemblance to real teeth, but are a little less resistant to chipping. This does not mean that they will chip easily, but they have less of a chance of lasting longer than 15 years.
For all the obvious differences between men and women, you might not think that oral health would be one of them. Or, at least, the differences wouldn’t be all that big. After all, anatomically speaking men and women are the same—both have teeth, gums, a tongue and jaws. But what this blog will demonstrate is: the many differences in oral heath, and how they can be quite different.
For example, some of the things this blog will explore are:
Whether it’s men or women who are better at looking after their oral health.
The effects of gum disease on pregnant women.
If men and women experience bad breath for the same medical reasons.
This blog will also explore which sex is affected more by sleep apnea (and for those who aren’t sure what sleep apnea is, we cover that too) and temporomandibular joint disorder (We also explain what that is for those who don’t know).
Myths and facts of the differences in oral health between the sexes
Whether the contrasts are rooted in biology, behavior or hobbies and activities: here’s some information to get you thinking about how you can take the best care of your mouth, and by extension your body. This blog is by no means exhaustive, but for those who are curious: keep reading to learn the differences in the oral health between men and women.
Myth: Men and women have different mouth structures, which affect their oral health
As we mentioned, there’s no anatomical difference between men and women’s mouths. They each have teeth, a tongue, gums and jaws. Both have baby (milk) teeth and then adult teeth, and both sexes are susceptible to gum disease as well as oral cancer.
Where the difference between the sexes actually lies
The difference lies in what’s going on in the rest of the body. Women, for example, undergo more hormonal changes through their lives than men. And it’s these hormonal changes which can negatively affect the health of their teeth if proper at-home care isn’t maintained, and care from a dentist isn’t given.
For example, 60-75% of all women experience gingivitis during pregnancy, which in turn can lead to gum disease and associated problems including temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)*.
Unfortunately, dental issues aren’t the only medical concerns that can be caused by sore, bleeding gums. Gum disease in pregnancy is also a risk factor for low-birth weight babies. This is why women should pay extra attention to their oral health routines during times of hormonal fluctuations (menstrual, pregnancy and menopause).
Men, on the other hand, are at a higher risk for oral and throat cancer, oral Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea**.
Fact: men and women’s preferred physical activities can impact their oral health
While individual hobbies and interests vary, regardless of sex, it’s a statistical fact that men—on average—play more contact sports than women. Contact sports leads to tooth injury as well as soft mouth tissue damage and other periodontal issues.
Any person engaging in contact sports or activities should discuss protective equipment such as custom-made mouth guards, with his or her dentist. A custom-made mouth guard from your dentist is far better for your oral health because, unlike an over-the-counter mouth guard, a custom-made mouth guard is fitted to your teeth and gums. Also, when you go for your regular checkup you can take your mouth guard to make sure it’s still in good condition to protect your teeth.
There is also some evidence to suggest that mouth guard may play a role in minimizing the effects of concussion. While they can obviously not prevent concussion all together, it’s believed that having a well-fitting mouth guard in place can support your jaws and reduce the result of an impact.
Myth: men are more proactive about their oral health than women.
A study in the American Journal of Periodontology showed that women are almost twice as likely to have visited the dentist in the past year as men. Women also have a better attitude towards the importance of dental care, and therefore are more committed to daily oral hygiene practices.
Men tend to visit the dentist only when there is an urgent matter at hand. Married men are actually more likely to visit the dentist compared to single men, in part because the women in their lives make their appointments for them.
It’s true! Especially Moms. When they make appointments for themselves or the kids, they often book a time for their husband to get one too.
Fact: women and men both experience bad breath, but for different reasons.
Bad breath can be a sign of poor dental care or an underlying medical issue, and it affects both men and women. However, the reasons between the two sexes can vary. Men, for instance, are on average more likely to be smokers, which affect breath freshness, and they are also more likely to be on medications used to treat heart and blood pressure issues.
As previously mentioned, women are more prone to gum disease, which is also a risk factor for halitosis (the medical term for bad breath).
Reasons you may have stinky breath that have nothing to do with your sex include having a sinus infection, tonsil stones or eating pungent foods such as garlic.
Learn the differences in oral health between men and women
When you know better, you do better. Because, as the saying goes, knowledge is power, and knowing the warning signs your body exhibits can help you stay healthy for longer. This is especially true when it comes to knowing the risk factors—behavioral and biological—that can affect your dental health. Don’t wait until you’re in pain or to suffer a serious injury: regular checkups to your dentist can help you maintain optimal oral health.
Prevention is better than a cure
Knowing that women are more susceptible to gum disease can help them to stay on top of their oral health, and make sure that if they see blood after brushing and flossing that they speak with their dentist.
Visiting the dentist regularly can prevents serious problems from occurring. And it can let your dentist help you identify warning signs if you aren’t doing everything at home that you could (or should) be doing.
To find out more information, or to request a consultation call us today. If you’re in the NW Calgary area, call or visit Dentrix Dental Care at 403-288-5500 for our Market Mall location; or 403-289-9908 for our North Hill location.
* A quick note on temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD)
The temporomandibular joint connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint becomes damaged or otherwise injured it can lead to a disorder known as TMD. Causes of TMD include:
Injury to the jaw
Injury to the teeth
Misalignment of teeth
Misalignment of jaw
Teeth grinding
Poor posture
Stress
Arthritis
TMD is one of the most difficulty things to diagnose. Firstly, most people have never heard of it, and so struggle to associate earache, a headache, or neck and back pain with the health of their jaw.
Some of the signs and symptoms of TMD are:
Jaw joint pain
Ear pain/earache
Jaw clicking or popping
Popping sounds in ears
Stiff or sore jaw muscles
Locking of the jaw
The treatment for TMD depends on which signs and symptoms you are exhibiting. One treatment which has had quite a bit of success is Botox, as it provides relief by relaxing the muscles around the jaw joints.
If you are exhibiting any of the above-mentioned symptoms, please don’t hesitate to call your local dentists in Calgary for a checkup.
**A quick note on sleep apnea
Sleep apnea affects 3 in 10 men and 1 in 5 women, and occurs when air stops flowing to for lungs for more than 10 seconds. What happens when you stop breathing, even for 10 seconds, is your body wakes you to start the breathing again. You don’t consciously wake up but your brain kick starts your body into breathing again. This can happen between 50 to 100 times per hour. So, it’s no surprise that people with sleep apnea wake up tired and lethargic.
According to a study from 2014, people with sleep apnea are responsible for more car crashes than drunk drivers. Less concerning statistics include: people with sleep apnea find it difficult to concentrate and retain information.
If you feel something sharp with your tongue or finger and you've recently had an oral procedure, it may be a bone spur in your gums. While the presence of a bone spur can be upsetting, does it require that you schedule a visit with your dental professional? We're here to walk you through what a bone spur is, what causes it, and when it requires treatment.
A Sharp Situation
Dental bone spurs (also known as bone spicules) are small bone pieces that become dislodged from the surrounding tissue but are still trapped in your gums.
After a tooth extraction or other dental procedure, this bone fragment may feel like a sharp bone sticking out of your gums or an uncomfortable object creating pressure. The piece of bone protruding out is part of your body's natural process of removing stray bone from the affected site.
Bone spurs in your gums may be associated with:
Dental procedures (including a bone spur after tooth extraction)
Traumatic injury
Decay, infection, or disease
Potential Complications
Understandably, the presence of an unfamiliar object in your gums would be alarming, but rest assured that your dental professional is well-equipped to help diagnose and treat this condition. The bone spur may erupt from your gums harmlessly on its own but may require treatment to prevent associated oral problems.
Complications associated with a bone spur in your gums may include:
Pain, discomfort, or irritation
Redness and swelling of your gums
Need for removal of the bone spur
Infection
Treatment Options
It can be easy to mistake a bone spur for a fragment of your tooth or other tissue dislodged during an oral procedure. Your best bet is to follow up with your dental professional for their expert insight and recommendation.
With a quick oral exam or radiographic imagine like an X-ray, they should be able to determine if your problem is indeed a bone spur and if it is problematic enough to require treatment. If it does, they will likely recommend extraction of the bone spur to reduce your discomfort and avoid infection. Otherwise, they may monitor the natural eruption of the unwanted material from your gums to ensure it doesn't contribute to other concerns.
To avoid worsening the problem, you should:
Avoid attempting to remove the bone spur on your own, as this could damage your gums or the surrounding tissue or lead to infection.
Continue to practice your normal oral care routine, brushing gently and being careful not to aggravate your sensitive gums affected areas.
Rinse with antiseptic mouthrinse to dislodge any food matter, maintain your gum health, and fight infection.
Consider the use of over-the-counter pain medications to reduce swelling and discomfort. Be sure to use them as instructed on the packaging.
Schedule regular visits with your dental professional at least every six months to stay on top of your oral health.
Keep in mind that even though bone spurs can cause stress, your dental professional is ready to provide treatment or reassurance. You've made a healthy decision to read up on this unique condition, what causes it, and what you can do while waiting for a dental appointment.
"It's like pulling teeth!" You've probably heard this common phrase when something was exceptionally challenging for someone to do. That's because, historically, pulling teeth has been viewed as a difficult and painful operation. But thanks to improvements in anesthetics, tools, and procedures, tooth extraction can be surprisingly – not that bad at all. But what should you expect from the healing process after your procedure? We'll break down what you need to know in the weeks following tooth removal to ensure you have a successful recovery you can smile about.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth and can be performed for various reasons, like:
Damaged TeethIf you have a damaged or broken tooth that your dental professional deems is beyond repair, they will likely recommend its removal.
Tooth DecayLikewise, if your tooth has decayed to the point that it can no longer be treated with a filling, root canal, or crown, it may be best for your oral health to have it pulled.
Periodontal DiseaseWhen bacteria builds up and forms plaque underneath the gums, it can cause gum disease. Its severe form is called periodontal disease, and it can erode your gum tissue and bone. This can cause your teeth to loosen and potentially require their extraction.
Crowded TeethIf you have a smaller jaw that doesn't fit all of your teeth, if you have extra teeth, or if you have a tooth growing into or on top of the tooth next to it – your dental professional may extract a tooth to eliminate overcrowding.
Learn more about tooth extraction.
How Long Does Pain Last After Tooth Extraction?
You can expect some bleeding for up to 24 hours after your extraction, and you mustn't do anything to disturb the blood clot that forms in the socket where your tooth used to be.
For most people, the pain tends to decrease after the third day. After about a week to ten days, granulation tissue forms, which protects the extraction site until bone can form there. You'll likely have a follow-up appointment after two weeks for your dental professional to assess your healing and to ensure you're on your way to a successful recovery.
If you're having a wisdom tooth extracted, the healing time may take longer. It could last several weeks, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
The First 48 Hours After Tooth Extraction
The first two days after a tooth extraction is when the most aftercare and attention is needed. Here are some tips to make the most of this time:
Leave the gauze your dentist placed in your mouth for a few hours to allow the blood clot to form. Then you can change it as often as needed.
Rest for at least 24 hours after the extraction.
Raise your head slightly when lying down.
Avoid rinsing your mouth right away, as it can dislodge the clot that's forming, affecting your healing time.
Avoid drinking with a straw and spitting.
Avoid hot liquids and or alcohol.
If possible, avoid blowing your nose and sneezing.
Don't smoke or use any tobacco products for at least three days following the procedure.
Take pain relievers as prescribed. They can also reduce inflammation.
Reduce or minimize swelling with an ice pack on your cheek for 10-20 minutes at a time.
Day 3 And Beyond
Once your blood clot has formed, take these simple precautions to prevent other issues until your gum has healed completely:
Rinse your mouth with a saline rinse or warm salt water to kill bacteria.
Continue regular brushing and using water flossers or interdental brushes, but avoid cleaning the teeth next to the extracted tooth.
Eat soft, healthy foods and snacks that don't require a lot of chewing, like soups, yogurts, and similar foods. Avoid foods like nuts, hard candy, steak, and chewing on ice.
What Are Some Recovery Concerns?
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact your dental professional:
If pain after your tooth extraction increases rather than decreases.
If gum swelling after your tooth extraction gets worse with time.
If your blood does not clot and your bleeding does not improve (a condition called dry socket).
If you experience a high fever, nausea, or vomiting.
If you have severe pain that spreads to the ear.
Or if you have drainage from the wound that tastes or smells foul.
Learn about dry socket prevention.
According to a study published in The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, caries and periodontal disease were the most common causes of extraction in their study population. Thankfully these conditions are preventable by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day, and don't forget to brush your tongue. Consider using other helpful products like an antimicrobial mouthrinse and tongue scrapers. And be sure to see your dental professional for regular appointments. By visiting your dental professional regularly, you are better positioned to catch adverse effects on your teeth early so you can prevent avoidable extractions.
Recovery time and healing differ for everyone, but now you should be better prepared for what you can expect after your procedure. Ask your dental professional if you have any questions – they're certain to give you the best aftercare advice for your specific needs. With an experienced dental professional and some good self-care after your procedure, the next time you hear "It's like pulling a tooth!" you may respond, "So it's not that bad?" In fact, it may just make you smile.
Periodontal grafts are one of the ways to deal with receding gums. Receding gums leave the tooth and the roots of the tooth exposed. This can lead to bacteria growth that eventually can cause gum disease. The graft covers the exposed tooth and root and helps prevent bacteria from growing.
Grafts take time to heal. It is important to give good care after a graft to insure healthy gums. That includes watching what you eat. There are foods that help the recovery from gum grafts and there are foods to avoid.
Diet Can Damage Gums
The foods you eat can damage the gums in different ways. Some food is abrasive to the gums. Some food sticks to the teeth and gums and is difficult to clean. Some food is acidic or high in sugars, which can promote bacterial growth that can damage the graft site. There are also foods that contain nutrients that can help with the recovery from gum grafts. Think about avoiding these foods.
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Foods You Chew – For the first day after periodontal grafts, it is best to follow a liquid diet. Chewing food can damage the graft site.
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Hard Foods – Hard foods such as pretzels and raw vegetables can cause abrasions around the graft site. It is better to stick with soft food to prevent this damage.
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Sticky Foods – Candy, peanut butter and other foods can stick to the teeth and gums. They are difficult to clean and trying to remove them can cause trouble for the periodontal graft.
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Sugary Foods – Bacteria live sugar and eating foods high and sugar will lead to more bacteria that can damage the graft.
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Acidic Foods – Acidic foods can damage the graft site and may cause more swelling of the gums.
There is a long list of foods to avoid following periodontal grafts. It is easier to concentrate on eating foods that are good for the recovery. Foods high in vitamin A and Vitamin K can help with recovery.
Water is something that can wash away debris from the teeth and gums without causing any damage. If you are getting a periodontal graft, make sure to discuss your diet for after the surgery.
If you make it a habit to brush your teeth at least two times a day, then kudos to you. However, bad brushing habits can negate the positive benefits that would normally come along with regularly performing oral hygiene. A local dentist says that typically only a few minor adjustments need to be made to elevate your toothbrushing’s effectiveness in a safe manner. As you continue reading, learn about 5 bad habits to correct so you can enjoy the absolute best in dental health!
#1 – You Brush Too Hard
While it may seem logical to apply more pressure when brushing your teeth to ensure their cleanliness, it can actually be detrimental in a couple of ways. For starters, the enamel (the hard, outer layer of the teeth) is not infallible. Thus, vigorous toothbrushing can damage it, which is significant given that the human body can’t regenerate the calculus material that forms the enamel.
Another issue associated with aggressive toothbrushing is gum irritation. This can result in bleeding, discomfort and gum tissue damage. Thankfully, these tips will help to prevent any of these problems from arising:
Use careful pressure when brushing.
To thoroughly clean your teeth, brush for around two minutes.
Hold the toothbrush properly when brushing (flat for chewing and outside surfaces, vertical for inner surfaces)
#2 – You Use Hard Bristles
A hard-bristled toothbrush can possibly be problematic. Just like vigorous toothbrushing, it can lead to enamel and gum damage due to the combination of the abrasives that are usually contained in toothpaste and the firm bristles.
A remedy, then, is to purchase a toothbrush with soft bristles. By following how the dentist says to brush your teeth, you can rest assured that your ivories will be well-protected.
#3 – You Keep Your Toothbrush Past Its Expiration Date
Just like anything else in life, there is a limit to how long a toothbrush can be used. Dentists typically recommend replacing a toothbrush every 60-90 days to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that could compromise your oral health.
However, if you’ve suffered from a sickness like a common cold or the flu, it’s best to replace the toothbrush immediately to prevent any re-contamination that could make you sick in the future.
#4 – You Brush Too Soon After Eating a Meal
There’s no denying the fact that it’s important to brush your teeth after consuming food or beverages other than water. That’s because the leftover particles, if not removed, can contribute to tooth and gum decay.
It’s still important to know, though, when it’s safe to brush your teeth. As a general “rule of thumb,” you should wait around 30 minutes to brush your teeth after a meal. This allows time for your saliva to neutralize the acids released from what you’ve consumed, and to prevent any unwanted enamel damage.
#5 – You Don’t Clean Your Tongue
When it comes to the structure of your mouth, to use a sports analogy, the tongue could be considered a “free agent.” It can roam wherever it wants, making contact with your teeth and all the different areas of your mouth. Because of its mobility, the tongue, if not cleaned properly, can contribute to the demise of your oral health by carrying debris to other parts of your mouth.
To prevent this from happening, be sure to clean your tongue with your toothbrush after you’re done with your teeth. You may also consider using a tongue scraper, which is an apparatus that’s designed to glide over your tongue to free up anything trapped between the bumpy papillae.
Now that you’re aware of some of the potential pitfalls when cleaning your teeth, you can make the necessary improvements. For further help with maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile, contact your local dentist to schedule a visit today!
Are you aware of all the serious health risks that exist when you have poor oral health?
When you lack proper oral hygiene, you run the risk of suffering from tooth decay, gum disease, periodontitis and more.
If left untreated, these dental health complications can progress to more serious, life threatening conditions.
Did you know that you can also develop brain-related complications when you neglect your oral health care?
That’s right: studies found a link between poor oral health and poor brain health.
What that means for you?
Your oral health can affect your brain health. And this is perhaps one of the most dangerous outcomes that can result from bad dental hygiene.
Not sure if you have poor oral health?
Here are some examples of poor oral hygiene:
Bad brushing habits
Neglecting to floss
Grinding your teeth
Eating foods high in sugar
Smoking or chewing tobacco
And much more…
Teeth brushing tip: for good oral health, you should brush your teeth 2-3 times per day and floss daily.
our Teeth and Your Brain Are More Connected Than You Think
Did you know your teeth are directly connected to your brain?
In fact, there are multiple nerves in the oral cavity that attach to your brain. For instance, the trigeminal nerve is a cranial nerve that connects to your teeth, gums, jaw and more.
As a result, an untreated tooth infection can quickly become a brain infection. This happens when the tooth infection spreads to the bloodstream, which carries bacteria straight to the brain.
At this point, the bacterial infection attacks neurons found in the brain, which puts you at risk of memory loss and other life altering complications.
In severe cases, a brain abscess can form. This a rare condition in which pus invades the brain.
Symptoms of a Brain Infection From Teeth:
Fever
Lethargy
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Trouble remembering
Increased confusion
Reduced mobility
Vision changes
And more…
Special note: if you think you might be experiencing a brain infection from poor oral health, visit your trusted dentist right away.
Dementia And Poor Oral Health
The Most Common Brain Disease Caused By Poor Dental Hygiene
Dementia is a very common condition that causes memory loss. It is also one of the most common brain diseases caused by poor dental hygiene.
At times, the memory loss caused by dementia can be so extreme that it impacts daily functioning.
Though dementia usually occurs in old age, it can happen much sooner if there are oral health complications involved.
Read on to learn more about the link between neglected oral health and dementia.
How Poor Dental Health Causes Dementia:
Gum Disease And Dementia — Did you know you are more likely to develop dementia if you suffer from gum disease? In fact, studies found a connection between gum disease and cognitive decline as well as a direct link between periodontal disease and dementia. Some studies even suggest that gum disease can be a catalyst for Alzheimer’s. If you have the early stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis, as your dentist how you can keep the disease under control.
Tooth Infection And Memory Loss — Did you know an untreated cavity can lead to dementia? A tooth infection can result in memory loss when the infection spreads to the brain. When your cavity reaches the tooth’s root, the infection threatens nerves and blood vessels, which directly connect to the brain. Stop the infection from spreading by maintaining proper oral hygiene and be sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis.
Tooth Loss And Dementia — Did you know a mouth full of teeth is less likely to develop dementia later on in life? Studies show that severe tooth loss and dementia are connected. While the reason for the connection remains unproven, there is certainly a link. If you have lost a lot of teeth over the years, you might be at a higher risk of getting this brain disease.
What You Can Do To Keep Your Teeth Healthy & Thriving
Protect Your Brain Health By Preventing Poor Dental Health
Do you want to minimize your risk of developing brain diseases like memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s?
You can prevent poor brain health by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Here are the top three things you should do to keep your teeth healthy and thriving:
