Your tongue is a small muscular organ, and a healthy tongue can range in color. It is not uncommon for a tongue to turn red, yellow, purple, or another hue due to certain underlying health conditions. While it is not unusual for your tongue to vary in color, any significant changes can signify that something may be wrong.
Read on to learn about the different colors your tongue can appear and what a healthy tongue should look like.
What Your Tongue Says About Your Overall Health
A healthy tongue should be pink in color with small nodules called papillae over the surface. Certain medical disorders may cause your tongue to change in appearance, and a color-changing tongue could be your first indication of a severe underlying issue. If your tongue ever changes significantly in appearance, develops patches or lesions that don't go away, or swells and becomes painful, it is recommended to visit your dentist or doctor right away to determine the cause.
Colors of an Unhealthy Tongue
Here is a quick guide to knowing what the color of your tongue is saying about your overall health:
Red - A red tongue can be caused by many things, such as inflammation, infection, a blood disease, an underlying heart condition, or vitamin B12 deficiency. Scarlet fever, eczema, and Kawasaki disease may also cause your tongue to turn red.
Purple - Heart problems and poor overall blood circulation may lead to your tongue turning purple. A purple tongue is also commonly seen in Kawasaki disease.
Blue - A blue tongue can indicate a lack of oxygen caused by respiratory issues, kidney disease, or a blood disorder.
Yellow - The tongue may have a yellow appearance, or a yellow coating can develop due to a buildup of bacteria from poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, alcohol use, heavy consumption of coffee or black tea, dry mouth, inflammation of the stomach lining, or weakened immune system.
Gray - Digestive issues may cause your tongue to turn gray. Peptic ulcers or eczema may also be to blame.
White - A tongue with a thick and lumpy white coating could mean you have oral thrush, a fungal infection of your mouth's mucous membranes. A tongue that looks only slightly white can be a clear indication of dehydration.
Brown - Certain foods or activities, such as drinking a lot of coffee or smoking, can cause your tongue to turn brown.
Black - A tongue that appears black and hairy with swollen bumps can be due to certain antibiotics, poor oral hygiene, and smoking. Additionally, Pepto-Bismol can temporarily darken the appearance of your tongue.
Checking Your Tongue For Other Abnormalities
Other abnormalities in your tongue's appearance should warrant a call to your dentist or physician. When checking the appearance of your tongue, be sure to also look for the following:
White Patches
Leukoplakia can occur if the tongue has been irritated, and is commonly seen in those who smoke or use tobacco. If you do not consume tobacco products and are experiencing white spots on the tongue, contact your dentist immediately to rule out oral cancer.
Overly Red
An overly red tongue can be a symptom of a vitamin deficiency, including a lack of folic acid or B12. A simple solution for an excessively red tongue could be adding a vitamin supplement to your morning routine.
Bumpy Patches
Suffering from a high fever can leave your tongue with irregular red and bumpy patches on the surface. After your fever has subsided, your tongue should return to a healthy shade of pink.
Sore and Tender
From food allergies to developing a canker sore, a tender tongue is typically nothing to worry over. However, if your tongue has been painful and causing you discomfort for an extended period, speak with your dentist.
Hairy Appearance
A protein buildup can cause small bumps to become elongated on your tongue, resulting in what appears as strands of hair on the tongue. If you notice your tongue appearing hairy, investing in a tongue brush or a tongue scraper will help to restore your tongue to a healthy state.
Maintaining a Healthy Tongue (and a Healthy Smile!)
Like your teeth, the tongue is a visible part of your smile, so if it doesn't look healthy, it may make you feel self-conscious. You can improve the appearance of your tongue by gently brushing twice a day while cleaning your teeth and gums. Sticking out your tongue to check its color after brushing your teeth daily can be a reassuring habit. That way, if the color of your tongue changes, you will notice it right away.
A healthy tongue color does not guarantee your dental health is in excellent condition, so don't forget to schedule regular dental exams.
Congenitally missing teeth or hypodontia is a condition where some of the adult teeth do not develop. Although it can also affect the primary teeth, this is quite rare, unless there is an underlying genetic disorder.
What teeth are usually affected?
Third molars (wisdom teeth) are the most commonly missing but are not included in the definition of hypodontia. This is because it is considered a variation of normal to have missing wisdom teeth. The other most commonly missing teeth are lower second premolars and the upper lateral incisors.
Genetic disorders causing missing teeth:
Ectodermal dysplasia- This is a term that includes many genetic disorders that affect the hair, nails, skin, glands, and teeth of those born with it. Teeth may be missing, malformed (cone-shaped) and more prone to decay. Those with ectodermal dysplasia have a normal life expectancy, and most do not have developmental delays. Dentists may be one of the first health professionals to suspect ectodermal dysplasia due to the differences in tooth development.
How will I know if I have missing teeth?
Your dental professional will be able to tell if you have any missing teeth. Usually, they will need an x-ray to confirm this. Gaps between your teeth, losing a baby tooth with no adult tooth taking its place or having a baby tooth longer than normal are all signs of having congenitally missing teeth.
I don't have an adult tooth yet, how long will my baby tooth last?
In the case of having no adult tooth to replace a baby tooth, sometimes the baby tooth remains in the mouth longer than it is meant to. There are cases where they can last well into adulthood, depending on the condition of the tooth and how long the roots are. At some point, the baby tooth may need to be extracted, and it is a good idea to have a treatment plan ready for how to fill the space.
Treatment options:
Implants- Usually the best option since they act the most like natural teeth and have the best patient satisfaction and comfort. This treatment may need to be delayed until adulthood and after orthodontic treatment, if it is necessary. Implants are relatively easy to care for and keep healthy with good daily oral hygiene.
Bridge- A bridge can be used to fill a space left by a missing tooth. It involves two crowns on either side of the space with an artificial tooth in between. This is a permanent and non-removable solution but requires thorough cleaning under the bridge to maintain tissue and tooth health.
Orthodontics- Sometimes gaps can be closed with orthodontics and do not require having the space filled. Orthodontics may also need to be done in addition to other treatment options.
Dentures- Partial dentures may be an option to replace missing teeth. Sometimes they are used as short-term solutions until a more permanent treatment such as implants can be done. Implant retained dentures may also be an option. These are more secure dentures that are held in place by implants.
Missing teeth can affect many things including the ability to eat, speak and smile properly. You can work with your dental professional to come up with an individualized treatment plan that will work best for you.
You eat well, work out, de-stress and sleep well. Seems like you have your health sorted. But do you really take care of your oral health? Mind you, brushing two times a day is not enough! Even if you are maintaining proper oral hygiene, there are chances you might be dealing with some kind of dental condition. Here are some common dental problems you might be facing, and which requires an immediate visit to the dentist’s clinic.
Bad breath
Also known as halitosis, bad breath can be quite embarrassing. Experts suggest that bad breath is caused by other dental conditions. Cavities, gum problems, dry mouth and bacteria are to blame for halitosis. Mouthwash can only cover up the foul odour but will not get to the root of the problem. If you have persistent bad breath, you should visit a dentist for an effective treatment.
Tooth decay or cavities
Tiny holes in and around the surface of your tooth are called cavities. This dental problem is quite common in children. Cavities are caused by the settling of plaque on the surface of the teeth. Plaque is caused by consuming food that is high in starch or sugar content. The bacteria in your mouth feed on this starch and sugar which leads to the deterioration of protective coat(enamel) of your teeth. Dental problems like cavities require fillings which can be performed by a dentist only.
Gum disease
As mentioned before, plaque can bring about bacterial infection. These bacteria can eat away the gum tissue and the ligaments that are responsible for holding the teeth together. This results in sensitivity, inflammation of gums and even bleeding. Keep in mind that if you keep ignoring the symptoms, your gum problems will become harder to treat. People with poor dental hygiene and diabetes are prone to developing gum infections.
Dry mouth
Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition wherein the saliva glands cannot produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. It may be caused by stress, aging, medicine or smoking. Our saliva has antimicrobial property that helps keep plaque, cavities and tooth decay at bay. The common symptoms of dry mouth are chapped lips, bad breath, mouth sores, gum irritation or burning feeling in the mouth. It is advised to keep drinking more water to keep your mouth hydrated.
Root infection
Root infection occurs when the bottom part of a tooth (root) becomes infected. If left untreated, your pulp tissue and nerves can become damaged. Root infection occurs due to a deep crack, cavity or fracture. They can be very painful and may also cause facial swelling. If you suspect a root infection, do not delay, consult a dentist today. A timely root canal treatment can release you from your misery.
Tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a very common problem and affects most of the population. In this condition, a person experiences pain or discomfort in their teeth from having sweets, ice cream, cold drinks or even hot drinks. People with sensitive teeth also feel discomfort while brushing or flossing their teeth. A dentist can help you deal with this issue by providing the right treatment.
It is recommended that you consult an oral care expert once in every 6 months to check if you are facing dental problems. This will ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy.
What is the cusp of Carabelli? For the matter, what exactly is a cusp when it comes to teeth? Many people are aware that this feature is more common in some populations than others and are interested in finding out if they have a cusp of Carabelli. We’re here to help you through the technical information and find out if your teeth have this unique trait.
What to Know About This Extra Cusp on Molars
So, what exactly is the cusp of Carabelli? Who is it named after?
Put simply, the cusp of Carabelli is just an extra bump on one or two of your teeth. According to the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, these possibly form from overactivity of the dental lamina, one part of tooth development.
A cusp is an elevated feature of a tooth found on your posterior (back) teeth and canines. Cusps help with chewing certain types of food by providing more surface area. This structure aids grinding while eating to break down food better.
While maxillary (upper) molars typically have four cusps on the top to help with chewing, some people have a fifth cusp on the side of the first one. This additional cusp is known as the cusp of Carabelli. Georg Carabelli first described this anomaly in Austria, 1842, while serving as court dentist of Emperor Franz.
If you're interested in finding out if you have a cusp of Carabelli, pull out a mirror, have a friend look, or ask your dentist next visit. If you have them, you can find them in the top row of teeth. They would be on the third molars from the back of your mouth in adults (or second if you've had your wisdom teeth removed!).
Dental Dimension
For most, the cusp of Carabelli is just a fun topic to bring up at a gathering to see who has them and who doesn't. Others may be concerned about their dental health.
This feature varies by ethnic population, but it is unlikely to cause health concerns regardless of your background. While many are concerned about removing their Cusps of Carabelli, they're unlikely to lead to health problems or need removal. The main concern to be aware of is the potential for decay along the grooves of the cusp.
If you're concerned about your cusp of Carabelli, here are some easy tips:
Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes
Give special care to the area around this tooth to ensure no food or plaque gets trapped in its grooves.
Use a mouth rinse to help remove plaque or debris stuck in your teeth.
If there's any unusual discomfort or decay around your cusp of Carabelli, it's a good idea to have your dentist take a look.
The cusp of Carabelli is an interesting feature that's fascinated both scientists and casual observers for over one-hundred years. You're now prepared to see if you or your friends have them and to practice proper care if you do.
Are you aware that your mouth is home to over 700 different bacterial strains? However, not all of them are harmful. This does not mean that you have to sleep on your dental care obligations because a few slippery mistakes might cost you your teeth and gums. Oral bacterial problems will arise when you neglect your dental care.
How oral bacteria problems arise
You might be wondering how these oral bacterial problems arise. For starters, bacteria are living things, meaning they eat, grow, move, discharge waste and reproduce - Just like any other living thing. By feeding on products that encourage their growth such as sugary products, you are giving these bacteria an environment to thrive in - your mouth.
Sugary foods and starches leave when cereals and bread are introduced to produce acids. These acids cause dental plaque, which makes your teeth and gums a more suitable environment for the bacteria.
The most common oral bacteria
There are two most common oral bacteria types that are present in your mouth. They are the cause of most dental problems:
Streptococcus mutans
If you are a sweet-tooth loving person, then your mouth, if not well cared for, could be the breeding place for these bacteria. And, sugary products should not be your only worry. The same applies to foods high in start too. These two types of foods are what this bacteria feeds on for survival. The end result is the acid that it produces as waste, one that is not very friendly with your enamel.
Unfortunately, if you choose to sweep your dental care rules under the rug, and you consume starch and sugars, then streptococcus mutans could make your mouth it's comfort zone. If your teeth are decaying, this could be one of the reasons why.
Porphyromonas gingivalis
This bacteria causes periodontitis, a bacterial infection of the mouth. Periodontitis arises when you neglect taking care of your mouth through brushing your teeth, flossing and visiting your dentist regularly.
When the plaque on your teeth and gums continues accumulating, tooth decay will not be the only thing to worried about. The accumulation of plaque is what leads to periodontitis. It causes severe inflammation on the gum tissues. This leads to redness of the gums, bleeding and can make the gums very sensitive.
Periodontitis also affects the alveolar bone. If taken lightly and left untreated, will lead to tooth loss.
How to avoid oral bacterial problems
To be on the safe side, you need to adopt good oral care. Brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss at least once. In addition to this, visit your dentist on a regular basis. In case you have already suffered from oral bacterial problems, see your dentist and practice good oral care.
Additionally, watch your diet as it contributes to oral bacterial problems. Avoid starchy and sugary foods if you can. In case your sweet-tooth gets the best of you or you cannot avoid starchy foods like cereals and bread, brush your teeth afterward.
Suffering from daily facial discomfort and tense jaw pain is your body's way of signaling something is not correct. Persistent jaw pain and discomfort that affects your daily life could be an indication that you're one of the millions of people suffering from TMJ disorder. While TMJ should always be officially diagnosed by a dentist, performing this simple test at home can help you determine if it's likely TMJ that's causing your suffering.
How to Check on Your Temporomandibular Joint at Home
A TMJ disorder can occur if any part of the TMJ system of muscles, tissues, ligaments, and bones dislocates or becomes inflamed. You can do a simple self-diagnosis by using this test, suggested by James Friction, DDS, a professor in the division of TMJ disorders and orofacial pain at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
The Test.
While opening your jaw slightly, place a finger over the joint in front of your ear, and then open wide until you can feel the joint move. If you feel the joint click or if it's tender when you press gently, you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Other Warning Signs and Symptoms of TMJ Disorder
When everyday activities like eating or talking become uncomfortable because of jaw pain, you'll do anything to find some relief. Your jaw pain may be due to a combination of factors, including genetics, arthritis, or jaw injury, and jaw pain doesn't necessarily mean you have a TMJ disorder.
Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:
Pain or tenderness of your jaw, cheeks, ears, and neck
Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
Aching pain in and around your ear
Headaches or migraines
Difficulty chewing
Pain while chewing
Aching facial pain
Locking of the jaw
Difficulty opening and closing your mouth
Clicking or grating sound when you use your jaw muscles
A tired feeling in the face
Change of facial expressions
A change in how your lower and upper teeth fit together
Confirming Your Diagnosis With Your Dentist
If you suspect you have TMJ disorder, talk to your primary care physician or your dentist. Either provider can effectively check for symptoms and help you develop a treatment plan. You may consider visiting a TMJ disorder specialist local to you if the problem persists after treatment.
To diagnose and determine the actual cause of your discomfort, we will perform the following:
Take x-rays of your jaw.
Gently explore areas around your jaw to pinpoint the source of pain.
Evaluate the motion of your jaw.
Examine your bite and check its alignment to see how your teeth come together.
Listen for sounds that indicate TMJ problems, such as clicking.
Find Permanent Relief From Jaw Pain
In most cases, the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorders are temporary and can be relieved with self-managed care and non-surgical treatments. Since the TMJ joint is made of tissue and muscle, like any other in the body, the treatments are similar to how you would treat any other inflamed muscle or joint - with rest and relaxation.
Here are a few easy, at-home treatments to find relief from jaw pain:
Rest the joint by eating soft foods that require minimal chewing.
Avoid chewing gum or any other chewy foods.
Apply ice at the beginning of the day and heat packs later to decrease muscle inflammation.
Try a different pillow to allow for proper neck support while you sleep.
Practice jaw exercises to stretch and relax the muscles.
Over-the-counter pain medications or anti-inflammatories to provide short-term relief.
Practice stress reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga to relax.
If you're experiencing jaw pain or stiffness that's affecting your daily life, contact to your dentist to start feeling relief from your constant discomfort.
At your last oral exam, your dentist threw around terms like "mesial" and "malocclusion," and it sounded like they were speaking a foreign language. Dental visits can be confusing even without the industry jargon, so expanding your dental vocabulary will allow you to stay informed about your oral health and closely follow your dentist's instructions. Learning about your teeth' surface areas — such as the mesial part of the tooth — provides an excellent place to begin your tooth anatomy knowledge.
What Is the Mesial Side of the Tooth?
The mesial side of the tooth describes the surface area that's closest to the middle of your mouth's arch. This "in-between surface" usually touches the adjacent tooth and resides closest to the front and center of your smile. Each tooth has four other surfaces — just like a cube — each with its own directional name. These include:
Occlusal - The chewing surface of the tooth.
Distal - The backside of the tooth, another "in-between surface" that faces away from the front and center of your mouth.
Buccal - The cheek-side of the tooth, also referred to as the facial surface for the front teeth.
Lingual - The surface of the tooth that faces the tongue.
Why Do You Need to Know Tooth Anatomy?
Giving each tooth surface a specific name allows dental professionals to communicate efficiently and easily specify which areas need attention. If you understand the different parts of the tooth, you can learn how to better care for your mouth. For example, when your dentist is concerned about mesial decay, you know to spend extra time cleaning between your teeth.
Your dental professional will treat your entire tooth and is concerned with your overall oral health. Though the primary infection might be located in a specific spot, tooth decay could impact multiple tooth surfaces. For example, mesial tooth decay might also affect the occlusal or chewing surface. If your dental professional takes time to educate you on these terms and the associated conditions, they invite you into the conversation and empower you to take charge of your oral health.
What Is Mesial Tooth Decay?
When a cavity occurs on the mesial part of your tooth, it's called mesial tooth decay. Because the mesial surface of one tooth often touches the adjacent tooth's distal surface, you can find these areas more difficult to clean. This in-between area, also known as an interproximal surface, needs extra attention. Besides brushing twice a day for two minutes, you should also clean between your teeth daily using floss, a water flosser, or another interdental cleaning device.
If decay is not addressed, it can eventually lead to bone loss. Sometimes the bone loss is also identified using directional terms. If your dental professional finds mesial bone loss in your mouth, then you have lost bone on the side of your tooth that faces the front and center point of your mouth.
Your teeth depend on proper care to stay healthy and strong. If your dental professional uses a term or phrase that you do not understand, politely ask them to clarify. Most dental professionals want to partner with you to maintain your oral health — and that starts with a mutual understanding of your tooth anatomy and the problems it might face.
From dryness to cold sores, even the least serious lip issues can be an annoyance. Below, we’ll walk through three of the most common lip problems and explain how to fix them so you can enjoy happy, healthy lips, all year round.
1. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that causes a rash or inflammation due to direct contact or the body’s allergic reaction to a substance. There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis.
Irritant Dermatitis
Irritant dermatitis is the more common type of contact dermatitis and occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritating substance such as the following:
Acids
Alkaline substances like detergent or soap
Solvent
Fabric softener
Other irritating chemicals
Depending on the strength of the irritant, your skin may react after one contact with the substance or it make take a longer period of repeated contact for a reaction to occur. Irritant dermatitis can affect skin all over your body and can be caused by common substances like hair dye, rubber gloves, and shampoo. If you’re experiencing irritant dermatitis on your lips, think about what substances that may have touched your lips recently—are you using a new lipstick or detergent to launder the towels you use to dry your face? One of these materials might be the cause of your newly-developed lip issue.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
The difference between this type of contact dermatitis and irritant dermatitis is reflected in its name: allergic contact dermatitis is caused by skin contact with a substance that causes you to have an allergic reaction. There are a number of common allergens that can cause this skin condition, but here are a few to look out for when it comes to contact dermatitis on the lips:
Rubber or latex gloves
Adhesives, such as those used to adhere false eyelashes
Materials and dyes used in fabric and clothing
Balsam of Peru, which is present in products and cosmetics like flavored tobacco, medicated lozenges, and medicated dental treatments, as well as food and drinks including beer, chocolate, ice cream, and wine
Nickel and other metals, which can be present in lipstick holders and powder compacts
Preservatives in prescription and over-the-counter medications
Fragrances, which can be present in moisturizers, soaps, and cosmetics
With allergic contact dermatitis, the allergic reaction typically doesn't happen at the first exposure, but an allergy may develop after regular exposure.
While contact dermatitis is not life-threatening, it can be very annoying. There are a few home remedies and lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce irritation. The most obvious solution is avoiding the irritant. If a new toothpaste or lip gloss is causing your lips to be itchy and enflamed, take a break and see if the rash goes away. You can also try applying a cool, wet compress to your lips, such as a wet washcloth. Apply the washcloth to your lips for 15 to 30 minutes and repeat as necessary. If you need something a little stronger to conquer more severe itching, taking an over-the-counter oral corticosteroid or antihistamine may provide some relief. If the inflammation and itching continues, talk to your doctor or dermatologist.
2. Cold Sores
Also called oral herpes and fever blisters, cold sores are another common lip issue. There can be sore outbreaks in two areas. The first type typically causes cold sores on the mouth (or oral herpes) and the second type tends to affect the genital area, known as herpes sores.
Cold sores are small fluid-filled blisters that may appear on or around your lips, typically clustered in patches. When a blister breaks, it forms a scab that can last a few days. Even if the sores are not visible, HSV is still contagious—cold sores can spread by close person-to-person contact like kissing.
Cold sore symptoms tend to pass through three distinct stages: tingling and itching, the appearance of blisters, and oozing and crusting. The blisters may last for several days and the scabs that form after the blisters break can take up to three weeks to heal.
Although cold sores tend to heal on their own within two to four weeks, you can use an over-the-counter cold sore ointment docosanol like Abreva cold sore cream to speed up the healing process. To help get relief from cold sore discomfort, you can apply lip balms and creams to keep your lips hydrated, apply a cold compress to ease redness or a warm compress to ease pain, or you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you’re experiencing pain from the cold sore.
3. Chapped Lips
Whether it’s from spending too much time outside on a cold windy day or simply dealing with dry winter air, chapped lips are a common condition that we’ve probably all experienced at one time or another. The easiest way to prevent chapped and dry lips is to make lifestyle changes to protect yourself. This includes keeping the air in your home humid during the dry months, applying lip balm or lipstick before going outside in cold and dry weather, and avoiding exposing your lips to the sun without proper SPF protection.
If you do find yourself with chapped lips, you can treat them with lip products that contain beeswax and petroleum. It can also be helpful to drink extra fluids, especially during the dry winter months, to keep your body extra hydrated.
Most of us fail to pay as much attention to our oral health care routine, as we do to any other part of our body. When we fall for any disease which makes it difficult for us to carry out our routine functions, we run after specialist doctors to treat us. However, we do not pay the same attention to our dental problems and usually procrastinate when it comes to visiting a dentist and asking him to check our teeth.
Needless to say, this is a very wrong habit, which costs most people in the long run. Surely, you must have heard people regret about their decision to visit their dentist later than they ought to have. On being questioned about their daily oral health care routine, most people turn up blank. Some of them even admit to not remembering anything about their brushing routine that very morning.
Perhaps, it might be time for you to reconsider what you do after waking up.
Why is there any need to bother about what you do to your teeth daily?
The exact indifference that you feel each morning, while brushing your teeth, only because ‘you have to’, comes to reflect in the shape and form of your teeth, which undergo extensive damage during the time when you are supposed to take care of them but you simply don’t. You get up and get out of your bed, walk towards the mirror, pick up your toothbrush, which you are accustomed to, simply by habit and pour a paste over it to brush your teeth. This is the daily oral care routine that most people recount, when questioned by their dentist. Does your routine sound something similar?
Ask anyone and they will give you an affirmative response when asked whether they feel conscious about their teeth. They admit to taking note of people’s smile and their teeth, the first thing when they see them and also express strong concern about the uneven shape of their teeth. Why then, do we fail to make dental care our top priority, when it is in fact, among the first few things that we do in our morning routine?Always remember that the way you take care of your teeth, reflects directly in the form of the color of your teeth, your breath and dental comfort. If any one of these happens to be out of place, you would be sure to face the brunt of a bad oral health care routine.
What should your dental care routine look like?
Let us walk you through an ideal dental care routine, which will give you a good perspective about the way you should be handling your teeth on a routine basis. This will basically help you in maintain a beautiful and healthy set of teeth.
Using your brush for good reason!
No surprises here because brushing is the one thing that you should never skip from your oral care routine.
What is the best way to brush your teeth?
Divide your mouth into four quadrants and spend an equal time brushing each one of them.
Devote a minimum of 2 minutes to brushing your teeth properly.
Your brush should be pointed towards the gums, held at a 45 degree angle
Do not just brush the front side of your teeth but go back and under the teeth as well.
Use short strokes of brush, back and forth across the surfaces of the teeth to clean them.
Hold brush vertically and move it in circular motions to allow complete removal of plaque and remaining food particles.
As per the recommendation of the American Dental Association, one should brush twice in a day to maintain optimum tooth health.
Always pick a brush with a small head that can reach the crevices of the molars.
Get rid of the left over food particles with a floss!
Just as important as brushing, flossing should be a part of your daily routine too because getting rid of those stubborn and pesky food particles can be a real challenge.
What is the best way to use a floss?
Make sure that you floss your teeth once in a day, at least.
Don’t limit it to the front teeth but take it to the back teeth as well. Don’t leave them behind, quite literally because you won’t want them to become the breeding ground for all those bacteria and germs.
Always wrap the floss around your fingers and then lower the floss on to your teeth. Ieally, your floss should be 45 cm long.
Flossing is an excellent way to get rid of any food particles which may remain on your teeth even after brushing.
Always pick a floss which has the appropriate thickness and is approved by the American Dental Association.
If you face any problem in using a floss, pick an alternative to it.
Follow the correct process to floss your teeth and remember to do it for each tooth.
Rinse your mouth for a complete cleaning experience!
Always rinse your mouth after you have brushed and flossed your teeth and not before that.
Simply sip a small volume of mouthwash and swish it around your mouth.
Remember to keep your lips closed while rinsing your mouth.
Avoid picking up a very acidic mouth wash as it might wear down the enamel on your teeth.
Continue swishing the mouth wash for at least one minute, before spitting it out.
Clean the tongue!
Now, this is certainly something that most of us do not even consider including in our oral care routine. For some reason, most of us manage to relate dental care with teeth alone, while it should also include our tongue, for it is just as involved in the process of eating, chewing food and talking, as are our teeth. Here are a few ways to clean the tongue.
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste and swirl your brush in circular motions to clean as much part of the tongue as you can, without gagging. Continue doing so for about a minute before spitting out the residue and washing your mouth.
Use a floss to scrape the tongue from the middle and then dispose of the floss.
You can also use a tongue scraper to get the job done.
Remember to clean your mouth with water after this process.
As your dentist to guide you about the tongue cleaning process.
This is it. It is as simple as this, when it comes to following a religious dental care routine. You need not worry about the time that it would take, since this whole process can be culminated in under 10 minutes, which means that you will not have to spend a lot of time getting it done, or miss your gym or get late for work because of it.
When you can follow a strict routine for your diet, exercise and even spare time for recreational activities, then why not devote some time to essential oral care, which actually matters. The sad truth that prevails nowadays is that people tend to underestimate the presence of a complete set of teeth in their mouth and observe laxity in taking care of their teeth.
Always remember that this ignorance might cost you and your teeth a lot, in the long run.
What should you know about your teeth for cleaning them daily?
Surprisingly, most of us have a habit of either following along the lines of age old conventions or else, researching so extensively about a matter that it begins boggling our mind. Let us take you through some of the lesser known facts about your teeth and cleaning them on a routine, which will change the way you go around cleaning them daily.
How long should you wait before cleaning your teeth?
You should always wait for at least one hour after eating your food, before you clean your teeth. The enamel on your teeth tends to soften when you consume liquid foods during a meal. Consequently, if you brush your teeth immediately after consuming such meals, you risk eroding your enamel layer unknowingly. If you wait for at least one hour after your meal, the saliva in your mouth will be able to neutralize the acidic content of your mouth and return the state of the enamel to its original condition. This will help in avoiding the erosion which would have been caused to your teeth otherwise.
What type of brush should you use?
Use a brush with soft bristles because stiff bristles can put a lot of stress on your gums and make them bleed. Since tooth brushes are also available in a variety of shapes and sizes, choose one that easily reaches the back of your mouth, without making you cry. If you can find a tooth brush with a tongue scrapper on its back, choose the brush without any doubt.
How good is an electric toothbrush for your teeth?
If possible, make use of an electric toothbrush instead of a manual one. Electric toothbrushes tend to move faster and achieve better results in shorter span of time. This does not mean that you can reduce your brushing time but this will simply increase the efficiency of the cleaning process. Choose a brush which is approved by the American Dental Association.
What type of toothpaste should you go for?
Always check behind the label of the toothpaste to see if its approved by the ADA (American Dental Association). This ensures that your chosen toothpaste contains the right amount of fluoride in it and is intended for the purpose mentioned on it.
Maintain your toothbrush as much as your teeth!
As much as it is important to brush your teeth with a toothbrush, it is also important to ensure that your toothbrush itself is clean enough. For this, always ensure that your toothbrush is washed with water before and after use, and that not residue of the toothpaste remains on it after use. Always store your brush in a proper cup holder and ensure that it remains in an upright position. This should be followed even during your travel vacations. Never store a toothbrush inside a holder or case, longer than necessary.
How often should you replace your toothbrush?
Make sure that you replace your toothbrush after every 3 to 4 months and do not continue to use it any longer than that period. If required, change it even before that in case the toothbrush appears to be worn out or appears to be damaged.
Is it good to chew a gum?
In spite of what you might have heard your parents say, you can chew a sugar free gum after a meal without any worry. This will generate more saliva and help in balancing the levels of acidity in your mouth. Chewing gum also has the twin effect of removing plaque from your teeth, which in turn eliminates decay and erosion.
How far are sugar foods good for your teeth?
Sugary food items can have a negative impact on your teeth. Try to control their intake in the form of liquids and solids throughout the day. This will help your teeth steer clear of cavities and erosion, which can become a huge problem for your teeth, if left untreated.
How far are acidic foods good for you?
Be careful to avoid food items which have a very high acidic content in them. These food items can erode the enamel on your teeth and pave way for bacteria and germs to attack your teeth. Remember that the more an acidic food items comes in contact with your teeth, the higher will be the level of erosion on their surface.
How does smoking impact your teeth?
A note of caution to those who habit of smoking. It is not only bad for your breath and your teeth but increases the chances of conceiving mouth cancer, which is a huge problem for you. Quit smoking and save your teeth from the harmful staining that they undergo due to your habit and save yourself from falling for something as hazardous as mouth cancer.
How good are your bad habits?
Regular habits such as biting your nails can have a negative impact on your dental health. Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth, which feels really nice but has a serious long term repercussion. Avoid chewing ice cubes, which can send strong shots of pain down the nerves of your teeth and impact them seriously. As much as it might feel convenient, avoid using your teeth for ripping off the tape or to open a plastic packet. Use a pair of scissors instead.
Observing complete hygiene for your teeth
If you are really intent on keeping your teeth clean, you should follow the above mentioned tips with absolute certainty. Just consider what would happen if your stomach had a problem and you kept ignoring it. Would it not cause pain and discomfort to you, not to observe a fast and consume medicines or visit a doctor alone?
In a similar manner, you should make it a point to visit your dentist at regular intervals, and ask him to assess your teeth for any signs of damage and decay, from time to time. This is why, most people suggest that everyone should schedule an appointment with their dentist, at least every six months. This will help your dentist perform regular check - ups and cleaning processes, to ensure that your teeth remain fit and clean.
Whenever you notice anything abnormal with your teeth, make sure that you bring it to your dentists notice at the earliest, so that he may check your mouth and understand what problem it is undergoing. Always consume a healthy and balanced diet, and avoid as many sugars in your diet as you can, which will lower the risk of decay and damage to your teeth.
How can you know if your oral care routine is working?
There has to be an incentive for doing anything and everything and with dental care, you get a clean and beautiful set of teeth to look at, when you observe good care for them. Although, we cannot get to know if there is something wrong with our teeth internally, we can always look for signs and symptoms outside, to check if there is something wrong with our teeth.
The most common signs of damage and decay in teeth are, bad breath, yellow teeth, pain and discomfort in teeth, bleeding gums, inflammation in gums, stinging pain in teeth and much more. When you feel any of these symptoms in your teeth consistently, feel assured that it might be time for you to visit your dentist.
Without any question, dental health is important. Usually, people do not know that poor dental health could lead to dangerous diseases like Alzheimer’s and heart disease. Not only these two diseases, but several others can occur if you do not take care of your dental health.
Therefore it is essential to stop those activities that could lead to bad oral health. Today’s article is about five common dental health problems that are dangerous and could lead to many other diseases.
1.- Toothache – Dental Health Issue:
Toothache is also known as tooth pain. It can be caused due to tooth loss, injury, tooth infection, or decay. If you want to get rid of toothache, then first take it seriously. Apply a cold compress and do not forget to rinse with salt water if you feel severe toothache. You can also use guava mouthwash to get rid of toothache fast.
During toothache, if you feel temperature, it might be a sign of a dangerous disease like an abscess. In this kind of case, consult with your dentist immediately.
2.- Cavities – Dental Health Problem:
The dental cavity is not a simple dental problem. It might lead to several dangerous diseases. A cavity is a hole in the tooth and can be avoided easily with proper brushing. Any person can get a dental cavity.
If you keep on doing brush three times a day and adopt flossing, then chances are it might not get worse. The permanent solution of cavities is dental fillings. For this, you should visit your dental doctor.
3.- Tooth Sensitivity – Dental Problem:
Tooth sensitivity can be caused due to cracked tooth, cavity, chipped tooth, or wrong fillings. Another big reason for the sensitivity is when the enamel layer is worn out. Many best dentists in Irvine recommend root canal treatment for this kind of dental problem. However, saltwater is a home remedy to cure a sensitive tooth quickly.
4.- Gum Problems:
Sticky bacteria that is also known as plaque (forms on teeth) leads to gum problems. If your gums bleed often, then you need to take it seriously. A gum problem could cause your tooth to lose and cause bone loss. To avoid this problem you should rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash regularly. If the pain gets worse, then visit your dental health specialist immediately.
5.- Chipped Tooth
A Chipped tooth (broken tooth) could be caused due to an injury. It is another common dental problem found in many adults. If the broken tooth is of small size, your local dentist can repair it with fillings.
But if the chip is large, then a dental crown is the only solution. You must visit a dentist near your area for chipped tooth treatment.
Dental Health Tips
Above are the five common dental problems that occur in adults. If you are facing these kinds of problems for a long time, must visit your dentist for the best treatment.
Can Dental Problems Cause Weight Loss?
Yes, it might cause weight loss if the problem is severe. This happens only because of the chewing problems and oral discomfort you are facing during bad dental health.
Can Dental Problems Cause Headaches?
Yes, a severe toothache or permanent dental health issue can cause headaches. It happens when your teeth are not in the right alignment. Because of the misalignment, the jaw muscles have to work harder, and over time it could lead to TMJ or severe headaches.
