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Reasons Why Your Toothache Hurts More at Night

Lack of Oral Hygiene

Your teeth and gums are the main channels into the body, so if you neglect oral hygiene, it may have a huge impact on your overall health. Tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, oral abscesses, and even tooth loss are potential consequences of neglecting good oral hygiene. Therefore, it is necessary to brush your teeth before going to bed and pay attention to oral hygiene.

Less Distractions

At night, there are fewer distractions than during the day, making it likely that your toothache will hurt more when trying to go to sleep.Increased Blood Circulation

Increased Blood Circulation

If you have a toothache, it's normal to feel more discomfort while sleeping. This is because lying down causes blood to rush to your head and increase pressure on your teeth.Extra blood pressure puts extra strain on a painful tooth, increasing its inflammation. So to reduce pain and swelling associated with this, apply cold compresses or use an ice pack.

(12/20/2024)
by Health Buzz

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Why Does Wisdom Tooth Pain Come and Go?

Most people know that wisdom teeth pain can be quite severe. But many don’t understand that the pain in wisdom teeth can come and go seemingly for no reason. So why does this happen? And more importantly, what can you do to make the pain go away for good? In this post, we’ll explore those questions and offer some solutions.

Why does wisdom tooth pain come and go?

Your wisdom teeth can cause you a lot of pain. But why does this pain come and go? What could be causing it?

There are several reasons why your wisdom tooth pain might come and go:

1. It is not wisdom tooth pain that you are experiencing

One reason is that the pain might come from another part of your mouth. An infection may cause pain in your gums or a problem with one of your other teeth.

2. Wisdom tooth is growing

Another reason the wisdom tooth pain might come and go is that the tooth itself is still growing.

3. Eruption

Finally, the wisdom tooth may be simply erupting. This means the tooth pushes through your gum line and into your mouth. The eruption process can be very painful but usually lasts only a few days. After that, the pain should go away.

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, see a dentist. The dentist will be able to determine what is causing the pain and will be able to provide you with the proper treatment.

What can you do to remove the pain from your wisdom tooth?

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, there are several things that you can do to make the pain go away:

1. Take over-the-counter pain medication

One of the easiest ways to reduce wisdom tooth pain is to take over-the-counter pain medication. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are both effective at reducing pain. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

2. Apply a cold compress

Another way to reduce wisdom tooth pain is to apply a cold compress to the affected area. This will help to numb the area and reduce inflammation.

3. Rinse with salt water

Rinsing your mouth with salt water can also help to reduce wisdom tooth pain. The saltwater will help to reduce inflammation and will also kill bacteria that might be causing the pain.

4. See a dentist

If the pain is severe, you might need to see a dentist. The dentist can prescribe more vital medication or can provide other treatments that will help to reduce the pain.

5. Home remedies

Several home remedies can help with wisdom tooth pain:

Clove oil is an effective natural remedy for toothache pain.

Peppermint tea bags have also been found to help relieve wisdom tooth pain.

Another home remedy is to mix one tablespoon of baking soda with two tablespoons of water. This mixture can be used as a mouthwash or applied directly to the affected area with a cotton ball.

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, there are several things that you can do to make the pain go away. Be sure to see a dentist if the pain is severe or if it does not go away after trying these home remedies.

When to see a dentist about wisdom teeth?

If you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain, it is vital to see a dentist. The dentist will be able to determine what is causing the pain and will be able to provide you with the proper treatment. In some cases, the pain might be caused by an infection or a problem with one of your other teeth. If this is the case, the dentist will be able to prescribe antibiotics or other medication to help treat the issue.

The dentist can prescribe more vital medication or can provide other treatments that will help to reduce the pain.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth pain can come and go for a variety of reasons. In most cases, the pain is caused by the eruption of the wisdom tooth. The tooth can cause pain as it moves into position in your mouth. Other causes of wisdom tooth pain include infection, problems with another tooth, or gum disease.

You can do several things to numb the pain.

Suppose you can see a dentist for proper treatment. You can do several things to reduce the pain, including taking over-the-counter medication, applying a cold compress, rinsing with salt water, and using home remedies like clove oil or peppermint tea bags.

(12/20/2024)
by Planitation Smiles

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How Long Should I Brush My Teeth?

The importance of brushing for the full two minutes is an oft-repeated piece of advice that dentists give to patients, and parents give to children. But is there science to back this up? Why two minutes and not one or four? How long should you brush your teeth to maintain good oral health? The fact is, brushing your teeth correctly and thoroughly is essential for healthy teeth and gums, but it takes time ― at least two minutes.

What the Experts Say

Experts who advise on how long you should brush your teeth usually recommend a minimum of two minutes, twice daily. A study published in the British Dental Journal examined 66 sources of dental information from around the world and found that a significant portion of them (26) advised brushing for two minutes. The remaining sources offered a number of different recommendations, all longer than two minutes, with some recommending brushing for more than three minutes. The American Dental Association backs the two-minute rule, and runs a campaign called 2min2x to help parents get the message across to children.

What the Science Says

Research supports the recommendation to brush for at least two minutes. It seems obvious that the longer you brush your teeth, the more plaque you remove, and now a study published in The Journal of Dental Hygiene backs this up. The study analyzed the effect of brushing time on plaque removal across a range of time periods, from 30 seconds to three minutes. The researchers found that patients who brushed for 45 seconds removed 26 percent less plaque than patients who brushed for two minutes. The difference in plaque removal when comparing shorter and longer brushing times was even wider: according to the study, brushing for 30 seconds removes 55 percent less plaque than brushing for three minutes.

Why Brushing Your Teeth Takes Two Minutes

Two minutes may feel like an awfully long time when brushing your teeth, but only if you are not doing it thoroughly. Removing food debris, plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth is only one step in an effective, twice-daily oral-care routine.

As well as setting up home on your teeth, bacteria also coat your mouth's interior, including the inside of your cheeks, your gums and your tongue. To reduce your risk of bad breath and cavities, you should brush these areas too. Once per day, you'll need to spend just a little longer cleaning your teeth via flossing, because that's also a critical step toward good oral health.

How long should you brush your teeth? As long as it takes to do a good job. For some people, two minutes is long enough, for others, it may take longer. For that clean mouth feeling and the confidence that you are helping prevent tooth decay, the time spent is worth it.

(12/19/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.unitedconcordia.com/business-services/employers/blog/long-brush-teeth

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a serious infection of the gums that, left untreated, can cause irreparable damage to the gums and destroy the bone around affected teeth. According to Australia’s Oral Health Tracker, most Australians are affected by this largely preventable disease at some stage in their life. While you can reverse the first stage of gum disease, you cannot do the same for later stages. Therefore, you should always watch out for early signs and take appropriate action. Take care of your teeth at home through good oral hygiene and make regular visits to your dental proffesional to monitor the health of your gums.

Signs of gum disease at each stage

The early stages of gum disease can go unnoticed with only minor signs and symptoms, while the later stages of disease are far more obvious. Here are the three stages of gum disease and their signs:

• Gingivitis: The first and reversible stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, occurs when plaque buildup allows bacteria to irritate your gums. You might notice bleeding when you brush your teeth, swollen gums or redness, according to the Department of Health Services Victoria. Many people write these symptoms off as a sensitive mouth or the result of brushing too harshly, without realising that they might be on their way to a more serious oral health problem.

• Periodontitis (mild to moderate): The second and irreversible stage of gum disease is called periodontitis and occurs when gingivitis is not treated in susceptible people. Signs may include bleeding, swelling, bad breath, receding gums, and a bad taste in the mouth.

• Advanced periodontitis: The final and irreversible stage of gum disease, called advanced periodontitis, destroys the fibres and bone supporting your teeth to such an extent that your teeth may move, loosen or possibly require removal.

Gum disease prevention at home

When brushing your teeth, always brush your upper and lower teeth gently for at least two minutes. Tilt the brush at a 45° angle against the gum line, and roll or sweep the brush away. Gently brush the inside, outside and chewing surface of each tooth using short back-and-forth strokes (much like a vibration of the brush or small circles). And don’t forget your tongue. By gently brushing your tongue, you can remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Using an antibacterial toothpaste and/or mouthwash can help control plaque formation even further.

Do the above routine each morning and night. Finally, make sure you floss once a day to remove debris stuck between your teeth. After flossing, rinse your mouth well to get rid of food particles and bacteria.

Regular dental visits

While proper brushing and flossing go a long way towards keeping gum disease at bay, regular dental visits are important for removing plaque and tartar. And by removing plaque, you help prevent gingivitis.

Most dental professionals recommend a routine dental check-up every six to 12 months; however, these recommendations vary. Ask your dental professional how often you should visit, and always stay on the lookout for signs of gum disease. According to the Australian Dental Association, if you notice that your gums bleed when you bite into food or brush/floss your teeth, it’s time to see your dental professional for a periodontal check-up as soon as possible.

(12/19/2024)
by United Concordia Dental

More Information: N

Can a Badly Decayed Tooth Be Saved?

Healthy teeth play a crucial role in both our physical and mental health. Furthermore, teeth also influence our appearance, affect our smile, and are essential for eating and speaking without discomfort.

Despite knowing how crucial teeth are for our overall appearance and health, unfortunately, many people fail to address tooth decay until it’s too late. It is essential to consult a dentist if one or more teeth are decaying. The sooner you realize it, the better it is for your oral health.

Often deep tooth decay leads to tooth extraction. However, there are other treatments also available to replace your damaged tooth. So, is it possible to save a badly decayed tooth?

How does tooth decay occur?

Decayed Tooth is damage to your teeth, potentially resulting in cavities, dental abscesses, or tooth loss in some cases. Bacteria present in dental plaque cause tooth decay.

The bacteria in plaque convert the sugars present in your food into acids. These acids will begin to damage your teeth if you allow plaque to build up over time. Therefore, good oral health is pivotal in preventing your teeth from decaying.

Tooth decay occurs in various stages. Let us explore these stages and find out how you can stop tooth decay from spreading.

What are the different stages of tooth decay?

Dental plaque is a colourless, sticky film that covers the surface of your teeth, made up of bacteria, food particles and saliva. Plaque builds up gradually if your teeth are not regularly cleaned.

Tooth decay occurs in five different stages in general.

Stage 1: Initial demineralization (White spots)

The outer layer of your teeth is made of a tissue called enamel, mainly made up of minerals. The enamel loses these minerals when a tooth is exposed to acids produced by bacteria.

You may see a white spot on one of your teeth, indicating the initial stage of tooth decay.

Initial demineralization is reversed by treating the teeth with fluoride. Fluoride strengthens the enamel and makes it more resistant to the acids generated by plaque bacteria.

Stage 2: Enamel decay

Your enamel will break down further if you allow the tooth decay process to continue. The white spots on teeth will soon darken to a brownish colour. It can result in cavities as the enamel is weakened.

Dentists use fillings to treat cavities.

Stage 3: Dentin decay

Dentin is a tissue lying under the enamel. It is softer than enamel; therefore, tooth decay occurs faster on reaching dentin.

You may experience sensitivity when having hot or cold food or drinks once the dentin is affected by tooth decay.

Dentin decay is possible to treat with Fillings in the early stage, or the dentist may suggest placing crowns in more advanced cases.

Before placing the crowns, the decayed area is removed first, and if necessary, some healthy tooth tissue may also be removed to ensure that the crowns fit nicely into your mouth.

Stage 4: Pulp damage

The innermost layer of your teeth contains the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth healthy. The layer is known as the pulp.

When the pulp layer is damaged, it may swell, hurting you significantly. You will need a root canal treatment that removes damaged pulp, and the crown will be placed on the affected tooth.

Stage 5: Abscess

Bacteria can invade and cause infection if the tooth decay begins to advance into the pulp. Increased inflammation in the tooth can cause a pocket of pus to form at the bottom of your tooth, known as an abscess.

Tooth decay can cause severe pain that may even radiate into the jaw. If an abscess is formed in your tooth, your dentist will primarily perform a root canal treatment to seal the tooth after removing the infection. In severe cases, the affected tooth may also need to be removed.

Stage 3: Dentin decay

Dentin is a tissue lying under the enamel. It is softer than enamel; therefore, tooth decay occurs faster on reaching dentin.

You may experience sensitivity when having hot or cold food or drinks once the dentin is affected by tooth decay.

Dentin decay is possible to treat with Fillings in the early stage, or the dentist may suggest placing crowns in more advanced cases.

Before placing the crowns, the decayed area is removed first, and if necessary, some healthy tooth tissue may also be removed to ensure that the crowns fit nicely into your mouth.

Stage 4: Pulp damage

The innermost layer of your teeth contains the nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth healthy. The layer is known as the pulp.

When the pulp layer is damaged, it may swell, hurting you significantly. You will need a root canal treatment that removes damaged pulp, and the crown will be placed on the affected tooth.

Stage 5: Abscess

What you should do

If you experience pain or swelling, immediately visit your dentist and see what they say. If the dentist spots cavity or tooth decay, they will usually recommend you a filling as the best treatment option.

Sometimes tooth decay is unavoidable even after having great at-home oral hygiene; in such cases, dental checkups every six months can help identify and address decay at its initial stages.

(12/18/2024)
by Dr.Quadri.

More Information: https://drquadri.com/decayed-teeth-can-a-badly-decayed-tooth-be-saved/

Did You Know You Can Actually Reverse Cavities By Changing Your Diet?

You probably know – at least to some degree – that the foods you eat can affect the state of your gums and teeth. How often you eat them also plays a role. Have too many servings of sugary treats, for example, and you’re more likely to experience tooth decay. It’s not just sugar, of course. Tooth decay is caused by a lack of minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients that are necessary for healthy teeth and gums.

In short, eat poorly and you’re more likely to have poor teeth. From there, it’s a tiny leap in logic to understand that your teeth and gums are more likely to be healthy if you eat well.

Here’s the thing that’s a bit of a surprise for most, though: changing your diet for the better not only slows down decay – it can actually put a stop to it completely!

When you eat and drink well, you provide your teeth with the nutrition they need to avoid decay and limit tooth-destroying acids that too many “bad” foods create. What can you do specifically?

Monitor Sugar and Carbohydrate Intake

Why are sugars and carbohydrates harmful? Because when they combine with the plaque that’s already on our teeth, it creates acids that eat away at your enamel, resulting in cavities.

Because of this, it’s best to monitor sugar and carbohydrate intake by reading the nutritional contents of labels. Select foods that have low sugar levels whenever possible, and limit the number of carbs and starchy foods in your diet.

If carbs are a must, go for whole grains whenever possible. Eating whole grains will help keep your gums and teeth healthy while also providing you with a higher amount of fiber. These options include whole-grain cereals, bread, and more.

Whole grains or not, when you do eat or drink foods higher in sugar or carbohydrates, try to clean your mouth out within a half-hour or so if possible. Brushing your teeth is the best way to do this, but we know that’s not always an option. Alternatives include swigging some mouthwash, chewing sugarless gum, and…

Drink Lots of Water

While water doesn’t have specific nutritional value, it is absolutely the best thing you can drink to help prevent tooth decay and cavities. Why? Because unlike just about every other kind of drink, it does no harm.

That may sound like faint praise, but it really does matter. Water provides you with a way to wash out leftover food and harmful films that may be covering your teeth – including the always-dangerous acids – and it does this without leaving anything bad behind. No other drink can really say this.

Eat a Well-balanced Diet

It’s not enough just to minimize the harmful things you eat. You also need to eat larger amounts of nutritious foods – and more variety. Specifically, you should eat a varied mix from the five food groups: whole grains; fruits; vegetables; lean meats such as beef, fish, or chicken; and dairy products that are fat-free or low-fat.

Bring on the Calcium

Calcium in dairy foods is a great way to help prevent cavities. It also encourages the production of saliva.

Healthy, calcium-rich dairy options include cheese, milk, and yogurt. Beyond dairy products, there are other foods that contain calcium such as greens like broccoli, collard greens, spinach, and lentils, as well as salmon, kale, nuts, and beans.

Opt for High-Fiber

Consuming high-fiber foods will help keep the saliva flowing which aids in the prevention of cavities and tooth decay. This includes dates, figs, and raisins, apples, bananas, and oranges. Other high-fiber foods include peas, Brussel sprouts, and nuts.

Add Vitamins and Supplements to Your Diet

The sad truth is that most of us don’t get the recommended daily amounts of vitamins and minerals from our diets. Working to change what you eat will help this, but even then it’s not easy. Just try getting enough potassium without eating a dozen bananas a day!

Because of this, adding vitamin supplements to your routine can prove beneficial. Vitamins stimulate saliva production, which will help make your teeth much stronger.

Of course, altering your diet only goes so far. You still need to book time with your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups. The difference is that – if all goes well – they’ll have a lot less work to do!

(12/18/2024)
by South Florida Dental Care

More Information: N

A Few Facts to Know About Gum Disease Treatment

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that damages soft tissue in the mouth and the bone which supports a patient’s teeth. Oral bleeding is normal after certain procedures and if your toothbrush is too hard on your gums; but if you notice chronic bleeding when brushing or if there’s any unexplained bleeding, it could signify gum disease. Thankfully, Wetaskiwin dentists can treat your gums and prevent the disease from spreading.

Gingivitis is the first stage of this condition, and it is characterized by inflammation. This phase of infection is very common and usually goes unnoticed. If you experience tender or swollen gums or bleeding after brushing, it could be an indication that you’ve developed gingivitis. With a good oral hygiene routine, symptoms can go away.

The advanced stage of gum disease is known as periodontitis. This will cause a patient’s gum to detach from their teeth, creating a space or a“pocket” that harbours bacteria and infection, which affects the surrounding teeth, tissues, and ligaments. If left untreated, periodontitis can eventually lead to tooth decay. The infection can also spread to the bloodstream and affect a patient’s general health. Having a dental clinic that offers gum disease treatment in Wetaskiwin is important to ensure your oral health is restored. Wetaskiwin Family Dental is here to help you treat and prevent further infections.

What You Should Know About Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease can become a dangerous condition if it goes unaddressed. Fortunately, dentists in Wetaskiwin use up-to-date technology and treatments to treat gum disease, including:

1. scaling and planning

This is the first treatment dentists can perform to treat gum disease. Scaling removes the tartar that has accumulated on the tooth and gum line. Your dentist will then reattach your gum to the teeth.

2. Medication

Your dentist may prescribe you antibiotics to help reduce bacteria and help control the infection. The dentist may also recommend other ways to prevent the infection from growing until it can be treated properly with an advanced procedure.

3. Flap surgery

This surgery will eliminate the gum pockets created by the disease. A dentist will make an incision on the gums and reposition them back toward the bone. Once this is done, the bone may need to be contoured (or manipulated) so the gum tissue can attach and heal.

4. Bone graft

If your gum disease has advanced, it can affect your bones. Patients might need a bone graft to rebuild the bone structure affected by the infection.

5. Soft tissue graft

Gum disease can affect your mouth’s soft tissue and cause tissue loss. The dentist will need to get material from the roof of your mouth (also called your palate) and reattach it to the areas that have lost tissue to reinforce and prevent further loss. This will help reduce gum recession.

5. Tooth extraction

When an infection is too developed, the dentist may need to remove the tooth to restore oral health. The tooth can then be replaced with a restoration treatment.

Gum Disease Can Be Prevented

Maintaining a good hygiene routine and visiting a dentist near you for regular check-ups is the best way to prevent gum disease. Make sure you brush your teeth twice daily and floss at least once to prevent plaque accumulation. To remove any additional bacteria, finish your routine with mouthwash. A good hygiene routine at home is not enough, so ensure you schedule cleaning appointments twice a year. During the appointment, a dentist will check for any infection.

If you fear you have gum disease and are looking for gum disease treatment near you, contact Wetaskiwin Family Dental to book an appointment today.

(12/17/2024)
by Wetaskiwin Family Dental

More Information: https://www.wetaskiwinfamilydental.com/a-few-facts-to-know-about-gum-disease-treatment/

What Is Involved in the Process of Deep Cleaning of Teeth?

Did you know that 26% of adults in America have untreated dental decay? Annual deep cleaning of teeth is the key to preventing this type of teeth and gum disease. Unfortunately, many people are scared of going to the dentist. Just the words ‘deep cleaning’ is enough to send some patients off shivering.

Luckily, deep cleaning doesn’t need to be frightening. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything the procedure entails. That way you’ll know exactly what to expect next time you schedule a visit. Let’s get started!

What Is Deep Cleaning of Teeth?

Deep cleaning is different from a regular dental cleaning. This type of procedure goes below the gum line. It does this to clean hard-to-reach spots like the roots and pockets at the base of your tooth. A substance known as tartar can build-up around the exterior and roots of teeth. If left unchecked, then this tartar can cause serious bacterial infections.

As such, dentists use a technique known as periodontal scaling and root planing to remove this substance. If the tartar can’t be removed using manual scraping, then they’ll also use an ultrasonic removal device. This is the main distinction between deep cleaning and regular cleaning. The process of removing tartar can sometimes be quite demanding.

As such, it can last hours and might need to be broken up into multiple sessions. Ultimately, it depends on how bad the case is and how sensitive your teeth are. While a deep cleaning might sound tedious, it’s a vital part of fighting against dangerous infections. If left untreated it can warp into an even worse condition, like a root canal. So how do you know when a deep cleaning is needed?

When is Deep Cleaning Necessary?

The ADA recommends scheduling dentist appointments for intervals recommended by the dentist. There’s no one set answer for how often you should get a deep cleaning. That’s because every unique case requires a different approach. During these visits, your dentist will recommend whether or not you should get a deep cleaning.

One clear sign of needing deep cleaning is checking for gum disease. You can do this by measuring how far your gums pull away from your teeth. Any pocket that’s more than five millimeters deep will require immediate deep cleaning. Other symptoms of gum disease include things like:

Swelling gums

Bleeding gums

Bruising around the gums

Pus in the gums

Bad smelling breath

Gum disease occurs when bacteria get into pockets and roots of the teeth. Certain types of gum diseases will also require additional treatments. It’s also recommended to get a deep cleaning if it's been more than six months since your appointment with your dental hygienist.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Before the procedure, your dentist will go over your medical history and perform an x-ray. That way, they have a good idea of which areas to focus on. After this preliminary planning stage, the dentist will measure the depths of the gum sockets using a special tool.

This process is also used for probing to determine if the person has gingivitis or periodontitis. After this, the dentist will begin the scaling process. As we mentioned earlier, this is a scraping that removes tartar from the teeth. If needed, an ultrasonic tool is also used. After this, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste.

Then, an air polisher is applied to smooth out the teeth. The dentists may go through final flossing as well. Finally, a fluoride treatment might be used. This process helps remineralize the enamel on your teeth.

Does the Procedure Hurt?

Most of the time, any discomfort associated with the procedure is bearable. However, individuals with particularly deep pockets will be in a lot more pain than others. Similarly, people with sensitive teeth might be incredibly uncomfortable. As such, a dentist will administer a local anesthetic as it’s needed. This will just numb the area around your gum.

How Much Does the Procedure Cost?

The cost of deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on the severity of the case. More gum disease and inflammation will require more work to fully clean. As such, it will be more expensive. You’ll likely have two separate visits, or more if the damage is extensive.

Typically, dentists charge for each quadrant of the mouth that’s deep cleaned. The average cost is usually $100 per quadrant. But this can change depending on where you live. If you have dental insurance, then you should check your plan. Many insurance providers cover deep cleanings.

What to Expect After Deep Cleaning

Typically after the cleaning, you'll experience slight soreness of the gums. As such, you should avoid hot, crunchy, hard, acidic, and sticky foods. We also recommend brushing with toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

You might notice some bleeding when you first start brushing, but this shouldn't last long. If you can help it, try to avoid brushing the affected area. Also, you should wait one week to floss so you don't agitate the gums. If you notice swelling, then try washing with a saltwater solution.

Ready to Schedule Your Deep Cleaning? Contact Sparkle Dental

We hope this article helped you learn more about what happens when you schedule a deep cleaning of teeth. As you can see, there is little to worry about when it comes to this type of procedure. All you need is a dental practitioner that you can trust. So how do you find one? If you live in Mt. Vernon, Yonkers, or New Rochelle area of New York, then look no further than Sparkle Dental.

(12/17/2024)
by Sparkle Dental

More Information: N

Glossitis: What to Know About Inflammation of the Tongue

The tongue is a small, muscular organ in the mouth that helps with tasting and swallowing food, as well as articulating speech. On occasion, however, the tongue may develop glossitis, a condition that causes it to swell, become red in color, and develop a smooth appearance on its surface.

There are a variety of different things that can cause glossitis and different types that a person can develop—both of which we’ll be discussing today, along with symptoms to look out for and how it is diagnosed and treated. Read on to find out more about glossitis with these 12 facts.

1. Type: Acute Glossitis

There are several different types of glossitis, one of which is referred to as acute glossitis. According to Healthline, this type causes “inflammation of the tongue that appears suddenly and often has severe symptoms.”

In addition to swelling, other severe symptoms include pain and shortness of breath (known medically as dyspnea). Acute glossitis most commonly occurs due to an allergic reaction or from trauma to the tongue, such as burns or bites.

2. Type: Chronic Glossitis

With chronic glossitis, inflammation of the tongue occurs on a long-term basis, and “may begin as a symptom of another health condition,” says AARP.org. Interestingly, chronic glossitis is more common than acute glossitis.

One subtype of chronic glossitis is known as chronic superficial glossitis, because it’s not the tongue itself that becomes inflamed but rather the mucous membrane that covers it. This particular type is especially common among alcoholics, tobacco users, and those who have chronic stomach or intestinal diseases.

3. Type: Atrophic Glossitis

According to Prime Health Channel, atrophic glossitis (also known as Hunter glossitis) “derives its name from the fact that the tongue gets washed away of its original color to assume a beefy red color and is automatically smoothened.”

And by smoothened, the source means that the tongue loses many of its papillae, which are the small bumps that normally cover the surface of the tongue. This can give the tongue a “glossy appearance,” says Healthline.

4. Type: Idiopathic Glossitis

Idiopathic glossitis “…is characterized by the inflammation of the mucous membrane and the overall muscle of the tongue,” says Prime Health Channel. Unfortunately, however, the cause of this particular type of glossitis is unknown.

As with atrophic glossitis, those with idiopathic glossitis will develop a smoothened tongue, often losing “up to 50-percent or more of the papillae,” says AARP.org, giving it the same glossy appearance.

5. Cause: Allergic Reactions

One of the most common causes of glossitis—particularly acute glossitis—is an allergic reaction. These allergic reactions may be to “medications, food, and other potential irritants that may aggravate the papillae and the muscle tissues of the tongue,” says Healthline.

Certain medications used to treat high blood pressure—known as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors—are particularly common irritants, as are “mouthwash, breath fresheners, toothpastes, plastic in dentures, [and] dyes in candy…” indicates Prime Health Network.

6. Cause: Disease and Infections

Glossitis may also occur as a result of contracting a disease, particularly those that affect the body’s immune system, as they may “attack the tongue’s muscles and papillae,” says Healthline. Herpes simplex, “a virus that causes cold sores and blisters around the mouth,” is one such example.

Infections can also cause glossitis, including those caused by bacteria, yeast, or fungi (such as thrush, which produces “white patches on the tongue and inside of the mouth,” says WebMD). Poor oral hygiene and low saliva production (dry mouth) can also lead to infections, which increases a person’s chances of developing glossitis.

7. Cause: Vitamin Deficiencies

Another common cause of glossitis is vitamin deficiency. If you’re not getting enough iron, for instance, low myoglobin levels may result. This can lead to glossitis because “myoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that’s important for muscle health, including the tongue’s muscle tissue,” says Healthline.

Other vitamin deficiencies that can cause glossitis are vitamin B12, vitamin E, riboflavin, folate, and niacin. Regardless of which vitamin is the culprit, this type of glossitis is aptly referred to as glossitis vitamin deficiency.

8. Cause: Mouth Trauma or Injury

As mentioned earlier, trauma or injury in the mouth can lead to glossitis as well. Common examples include biting, cutting, chewing, or burning tissue of the tongue or elsewhere in the mouth. Additionally, inflammation may be caused dental appliances, such as braces or ill-fitting dentures.

And while it may look cool, piercing the tongue also increases the likelihood of developing glossitis, as it makes the muscular organ more susceptible to infections and wounds.

9. Symptoms

Although we’ve already mentioned several of the symptoms of glossitis, they are worth repeating. Pain or tenderness in the tongue is among the most common to be mindful of, as is swelling or inflammation.

In some cases, this swelling may become so severe that it affects a person’s ability to swallow, chew, or speak. If this occurs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The tongue may also change color, becoming pale or bright red, and take on a smooth appearance due to loss of papillae.

10. Diagnosis

When it comes to diagnosis, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says that your dentist or doctor will assess your condition by doing an exam to look for “finger-like bumps on the surface of the tongue (called papillae) that may be missing” and a “swollen tongue (or patches of swelling).”

Additionally, the individual conducting the exam may ask questions about your medical history and lifestyle in an effort to determine the cause of glossitis. Samples of blood and saliva may also be taken to help confirm the diagnosis.

11. Treatment: Medications

How glossitis is treated largely depends on what is causing the condition to occur. “If glossitis stems from a bacterial, fungal or yeast infection,” the Colgate-Palmolive Company says, “your medical or dental professional may prescribe a medication to alleviate the symptoms and heal the infection.”

In combination with antibiotics or other medications, topical corticosteroids may also be prescribed and are intended to help reduce symptoms of pain and redness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth.

12. Treatment: Home Care

In other cases of glossitis, home care procedures may be the best course of treatment. If the condition is caused by a virus, for instance, the Colgate-Palmolive Company says “…a doctor can recommend a routine plan to treat the symptoms at home. This plan involves keeping your tongue and whole mouth healthy by brushing twice daily and flossing.”

Or, if the glossitis is caused by a deficiency in certain vitamins, Prime Health Channel indicates it may be best treated by “preparing a diet chart and that is rich in the deficient nutrients.” And in cases where glossitis is due to an allergic reaction or irritant, it is important to identify the cause and eliminate or avoid it to prevent future reactions.

(12/16/2024)
by Active Beat

More Information: https://activebeat.com/your-health/glossitis-12-things-to-know-about-inflammation-of-the-tongue/

Foods That Prevent Tooth Decay And Cavities Naturally

How to Prevent Cavities and Tooth Decay

It's no fun passing up sugary treats like cookies and candies. But when it comes to tooth decay, food choices play an important role. Some foods can harm your teeth, while others contain essential nutrients to keep them healthy and strong. To help prevent tooth decay, keep the following food choices in mind.

Calcium

Calcium is a prime ingredient for preventing tooth decay, especially for growing children. Dairy is a great source, with choices such as milk, yogurt and cheese. And calcium isn't hiding in the fat, so skim milk and low-fat yogurt are just as good. Other options are leafy greens such as broccoli and bok choy, canned fish with bones, almonds, Brazil nuts and dried beans.

Fruit, Fiber and Veggies

Eating high-fiber foods keeps saliva flowing, which helps create mineral defenses against tooth decay. Good sources of fiber are dried fruits such as dates, raisins and figs, and fresh fruits, like bananas, apples and oranges. Other options include veggies, such as beans, Brussels sprouts and peas, along with peanuts, almonds and bran.

Whole Grains

Whole grains provide B vitamins and iron, which help keep gums healthy. Whole grains also have magnesium-an important ingredient for bones and teeth. In addition, whole grains are high in fiber. Look for foods such as bran, brown rice, and whole-grain cereals and pasta to be good sources of whole grains.

Avoid Foods that Cause Cavities

When looking to follow a healthy diet that's good for your teeth and the rest of your body, try sticking to the food pyramid. The pyramid is structured to give you a healthy serving of all the necessary food groups you need throughout the day.

Sugar Snacks

When you get the munchies, focus on choosing healthy foods, like the ones we mentioned earlier. Try to steer clear of sweets, because sugar partners with plaque to weaken enamel, leaving you vulnerable to tooth decay. In fact, each time you eat a sugary snack, your teeth are under siege for the next 20 minutes. Brushing with an Oral-B electric toothbrush after eating sugary snacks can help prevent plaque buildup and the onset of tooth decay.

(12/16/2024)
by Oral B

More Information: https://www.oralb.co.uk/en-gb/oral-health/conditions/cavities-tooth-decay/foods-that-prevent-tooth-decay-cavities-naturally

Fissured Tongue: Causes and Treatment

Fissured tongue causes a change in appearance of the tongue. Discover the causes of the disorder and what you can do if you have it.

A fissured tongue is a benign abnormality that occurs on the tongue surface. Although it may appear unsightly at first glance, it doesn’t really affect people’s lives.

The normal tongue is flat along most of its length. A fissured tongue has a deep groove in the middle and may also have small fissures on the surface. This gives it a wrinkled appearance.

This condition isn’t serious in itself, is usually painless, and isn’t contagious. According to the American Academy of Oral Medicine, fissured tongue occurs in 5% of the U.S. population. It tends to occur more frequently in young males.

As we’ll tell you today, its origin is usually associated with hereditary causes and the symptoms become more evident as a person ages. However, in some cases, it can be associated with certain diseases, so it’s advisable to seek an accurate diagnosis.

In this article, we’ll tell you the characteristics of fissured tongue, its causes, and how it’s treated. Read on and learn all about this oral condition.

What is fissured tongue?

Fissured tongue is a benign condition that affects the normal anatomy of the lingual organ. It’s also called scrotal tongue, because of its similarity to the appearance of the scrotum.

As the name implies, the surface of the tongue has multiple fissures or cracks. These may appear on the dorsum of the tongue or extend to the sides.

In general, there’s usually a median fissure in the center of the tongue and several cracks on the rest of the surface. The size and depth of these cracks vary from case to case, but usually range from 2 to 6 millimeters (up to 0.23 inches). The grooves may be connected to each other, making the tongue appear to be composed of separate lobes.

This condition usually doesn’t cause pain or discomfort. However, some people who have it often have tongue swelling, bad breath, and increased sensitivity to certain substances and flavors.

Signs of fissured tongue can occur as early as childhood; however, they become more evident and noticeable as the person ages.

Men are slightly more likely to suffer from fissured tongue than women. Older adults who, in turn, have dry mouths tend to have more obvious symptoms.

It’s important not to confuse this anomaly with migratory glossitis, or geographic tongue. This disorder is characterized by depapillated areas on the tongue surface. These are seen as rounded red spots with whitish edges, which change place over time. Although it’s important to differentiate between these disorders, there are cases of people with both abnormalities on their tongue.

Symptoms of fissured tongue

The main characteristic of fissured tongue is the wrinkled appearance of the lingual organ. A crack in the center of the tongue and several irregular grooves on the rest of its surface alter the flat appearance.

Cracks are usually asymptomatic, that is, they don’t cause pain or discomfort to the patient. However, there are occasions in which some of the following occur:

Pain

Bad breath or halitosis

Swelling or inflammation of the tongue

Discomfort or burning to certain stimuli and substances

If there is no proper oral hygiene, candidiasis may develop.

Complications

Beyond the possibility that some of the symptoms we have told you about may appear, patients with a fissured tongue may experience discomfort. The most common complication is the development of an infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans (oral candidiasis).

This infection can arise as a result of various situations, however, the most common is inadequate oral hygiene. The accumulation of bacteria inside the tongue fissures affects the balance of the normal flora of the mouth and favors the proliferation of fungi.

Candidiasis on the tongue causes white or red lesions, pain, burning, and inflammation. If not treated in a timely manner, it affects the normal functions of the mouth, such as eating, swallowing, and speaking.

To prevent the occurrence and aggravation of this fungal infection, it’s essential for patients with cracks on their tongues to maintain thorough oral hygiene. Special attention to cleaning the tongue is key.

This removes food debris and bacteria that accumulate in the fissures, and prevents infection. In addition, removing tongue debris also prevents the development of bad breath.

Common causes of fissured tongue

A precise cause of cracked or fissured tongue hasn’t yet been identified. On the one hand, it could be due to genetic or hereditary factors, or it could be associated with a different underlying condition.

Fissured tongue can be congenital and appear from birth or develop throughout a person’s life. As we have already told you, the symptoms tend to increase with age.

The hereditary and genetic factors are among the most relevant in explaining the onset of the disorder. Often, several members of the same family have these particular languages.

In addition, this condition is often a symptom of other conditions, such as Down syndrome or Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. In sone cases, the occurrence of this condition is associated with other health conditions:

Psoriasis

Diabetes mellitus

Vitamin B deficiency

Bruxism, stress and anxiety

Allergic reactions to some foods or medications

Using alcohol and tobacco: these substances cause dry mouth, which favors the appearance of cracks in the tongue.

Treatments for fissured tongue

Fissured tongue doesn’t require any specific treatment to reverse it. However, certain hygiene practices will be necessary to help keep this organ healthy and functional and prevent associated complications.

To do so, it’s important to visit the dentist frequently. In order to obtain an accurate diagnosis, it’s necessary to rule out other lesions and understand how to take care of fissured tongue.

Regular dental check-ups every six months allow the dentist to evaluate the state of the tongue and rule out the presence of other pathologies. If mycosis or other infections develop, the dentist can initiate the appropriate treatment.

It’s also a good idea to visit the dentist if the tongue starts to burn, itch, or hurt. These symptoms may be indicative of a complication.

On the other hand, in addition to check ups, there are some simple practices that can prevent complications associated with a fissured tongue. We’ll tell you about them.

Strict oral hygiene

Keeping the oral cavity clean is one of the best strategies to prevent fissured tongue complications. Food debris and bacteria can accumulate in the crevices of the tongue, causing bad breath, and promoting infections.

It’s important to brush with fluoride toothpaste and floss to remove plaque from the mouth. In addition, special attention should be paid to cleaning the tongue.

To do so, it’s best to use a tongue scraper, or tongue cleaner. This is an instrument that’s specially designed to thoroughly clean the irregular surface of the tongue.

Cleaning consists of moving the instrument back and forth several times over the entire tongue surface. This allows you to get rid of debris and bacteria trapped in its grooves or cracks.

Not having a tongue scraper is no reason not to keep your tongue healthy. Keeping a toothbrush for this purpose, or using the back of the toothbrush head are two options.

Tongue hygiene should be carried out at least once a day. However, in patients with fissured tongue, increasing the frequency may be of greater benefit.

Supplementing cleaning with oral rinses is a way to remove debris that can’t be reached with a scraper. At the same time, you will obtain fresh, clean breath.

Reduce the consumption of irritating foods

A burning or itching sensation on the tongue on contact with certain substances is another complication that can appear in people with tongue fissures or cracks. Avoiding highly acidic, salty, bitter, and spicy foods is one strategy to prevent irritation.

Proper and frequent tongue brushing, proper nutrition, and the absence of harmful habits help prevent infection and discomfort. Twice-yearly visits to the dentist complete the care routine, in order to ensure that fissured tongue doesn’t become a problem for the sufferer.

(12/14/2024)
by Step To Health

More Information: N

What To Look For When Choosing The Right Dentist For You

“I have an excellent doctor! You should go see her… cos she’s just lovely!”

Phrases like this make me cringe. How is it that so many people measure professional expertise with personality? Imagine picking the best brain surgeon to operate on your wife based on their great sense of humour!

Years ago, my husband went to a doctor. The doctor asked him a few questions and quickly summarised with “so what would you like today?”. So he simply listed his wishes – a new prescription for my cholesterol medicine, a referral to a sleep study because my wife thinks I might have sleep apnoea, and a medical certificate for today please! I listened in horror as my husband reported back later that the doctor promptly wrote all 3 requested documents and completed the consultation very satisfied that he had another happy customer. No, there was no discussion about the fact he was pre-diabetic and had gained significant weight over the past year. He didn’t even check what his last cholesterol results were. Although my husband was quite happy with himself for yet another task ticked off efficiently, I was less than impressed.

Choosing the right family dentist is a lot like choosing the right doctor for your family. Sure, there are times when all you need is a flu shot, medical certificate or a prescription. It’s tempting just to opt to see anyone who can provide that one thing you want at the drop of a hat – someone who can get you in quick and let you get on with your life as quickly as possible.

The dental professional equivalent of this is having a go-to dentist who only patches up the odd broken tooth or lost filling. Someone to serve the purpose – clean your teeth, or extract the badly infected tooth and send you away with no expectation to meet again until the next bad thing happens.

I firmly believe that the dentist-patient should begin with a good rapport, but that is only part of the whole package. To help you find the right dentist for you and your family, below are a few aspects to consider.

1. Someone who is in tune with preventing future problems is there with you in the long haul.

A dentist who is committed to long-term patient care is not that hard to pick. They will first listen to your initial concerns and offer solutions to fix the problem. However, she will also offer you valuable insight into why this happened, what other issues could be linked to your initial complaints. Most importantly, she will let you know where you are headed in terms of your future condition.

Let’s use an example: You tell the dentist that you broke a tooth. She can quickly offer to patch this up with a filling or secure it with a crown. Seems quick and simple.

But what if this dentist also took the time to ask you if you have a tendency to grind or clench? Perhaps she touches your neck and facial muscles to see if they have been overworked from the clenching? Do you wake up with headaches or neck pains often? Have you had many teeth or a filling break in a similar way? Next comes the discussion of today’s repair (of course, that’s what you wanted right?) along with the possibility that there could be an underlying cause that could mean anticipating and planning for similar issues with broken teeth in the near future.

The truly amazing doctors are inquisitive and perceptive – that is, they make observations and check the little things that you never realised were relevant to the big picture.

2. Someone who gives you all options but supports your decisions 100%.

As a child, I observed my parents accepting exactly what their doctors and dentists told them they must do. It was the doctors who made decisions about the patient’s treatment. So much so that even now, there is still a whole generation of patients who turn up 6 monthly and literally say, “Don’t tell me anything. Just do whatever you want, I’m in your hands”.

Things are different now thanks to the principle of “informed consent”. As the patient, you have to take responsibility for your own health, so it only makes sense if you also take on the responsibility of choosing the strategies to manage your health issues. But you can only do that if you have the information to help you make the choice that is right for you.

A clinician worthy of your trust is someone who helps you to understand the problems you are facing and gives you strategies to solve them in a way that you can live with.

For example, you may be missing some teeth and wish to get these replaced. The dentist tells you that you can choose a denture, a bridge or an implant and gives you the associated costs. You’d love to have an implant but it is too expensive for right now. Here’s where you could be going home feeling awful that you can’t afford the best and will have to live with a gap for years to come. If you find a dentist who reassures you, “That’s alright. If a denture is a thing you can budget for right now, I will help you get the best denture possible. And we will support you as best we can, keeping the other teeth healthy.” If you feel pressured that you will only be cared for if you choose the most complex solution, then keep looking. You deserve to find someone who not only gives you the information you need but wholeheartedly supports you to make the decisions that are right for you – even if it’s not the most expensive option on offer.

3. Someone who is at the forefront of the latest research and techniques.

Research and development of technology have evolved so rapidly in the last few decades. It’s a really exciting time to be alive!

A dentist should be equally excited to be practising their craft in this age. Even if you have had minimal issues with your oral condition in the past and you always get a good report after your clean and dental check-up, don’t be afraid to ask your dentist, “What’s new?”.

Someone actively keeping up with the latest findings and technology can hardly contain their joy at the possibility of new ways to help their patients achieve a stronger and healthier future. Now not all these developments are necessarily new things you personally will need, but it’s good to know that your dentist is equipped with the latest information. It’s also handy to keep in mind that a good clinician also has enough humility and confidence to acknowledge when there is a need to call on colleagues with a different set of special skills or fields of interest to best help their patients.

The relationship between doctor and patient is very personal and based on trust. I hope everyone can find a dentist who truly cares about and supports their long-term health. When you do, ask them if they would also care for your family and friends too.

(12/14/2024)
by Myers Street Dental Clinic

More Information: N

Can An Infected Tooth Cause Cold And Flu-Like Symptoms?

Did you know that a bad tooth can cause more than just dental pain? It turns out that an infected or decaying tooth may actually be linked to cold and flu-like symptoms. While it may seem strange, the connection between oral health and overall well-being is becoming more apparent.

In this article, we will explore how a bad tooth can potentially contribute to cold and flu symptoms and what you can do to prevent this from happening. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of dental health and its impact on our immune system.

Connection between Bad Teeth and Cold and Flu Symptoms

Yes, you read that right – a bad tooth can actually cause cold and flu-like symptoms. Let's explore the connection between bad teeth and cold and flu symptoms in more detail.

First and foremost, it's important to understand what we mean by a "bad tooth." A bad tooth refers to a tooth that is significantly decayed, infected, or damaged. This can occur due to poor oral hygiene, a high sugar diet, trauma to the tooth, or other dental issues.

So how exactly can a bad tooth cause cold and flu-like symptoms? The key lies in the proximity of the tooth to various structures in your mouth and head. When a tooth becomes infected or decayed, it can lead to the formation of an abscess – a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection.

This abscess can result in the spread of bacteria throughout the body, leading to systemic symptoms similar to those experienced during a cold or flu. Here are some common cold and flu-like symptoms that can be caused by a bad tooth:

Fever: An abscessed tooth can cause your body temperature to rise, resulting in a fever. If you're experiencing a fever along with other flu-like symptoms, it's worth considering a dental check-up.

Fatigue: Dental infections can put a strain on your immune system, causing you to feel tired and run down. If you're feeling unusually fatigued, it could be due to a dental issue.

Sinus congestion: The roots of your upper teeth are located close to your sinuses. If a tooth infection spreads to the sinuses, it can cause congestion, stuffiness, and a feeling of pressure in your face.

Facial pain: Infected or decayed teeth can cause facial pain, which can often be mistaken for sinus pain. If you're experiencing facial pain along with other cold or flu-like symptoms, it's important to rule out dental issues.

Swollen lymph nodes: Infections in the mouth can cause the lymph nodes in your neck and jaw to become swollen and tender. If you notice swollen or painful lymph nodes, it may be a sign of a dental problem.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek dental care as soon as possible. Your dentist will be able to assess the condition of your teeth and determine if a bad tooth is the cause of your cold and flu-like symptoms.

Luckily, treating a bad tooth can not only alleviate your symptoms but also prevent further complications. Depending on the severity of the dental issue, treatment options may include root canal therapy, extraction of the tooth, or other necessary procedures.

In addition to seeking professional dental care, practicing good oral hygiene is essential for preventing tooth decay and infections. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

In conclusion, a bad tooth can indeed cause cold and flu-like symptoms. Understanding the connection between dental issues and systemic symptoms can help you identify the underlying cause of your illness and seek appropriate dental treatment. So, if you've been experiencing cold and flu symptoms, don't forget to consider the health of your teeth!

Oral Infections and the Impact on Respiratory Health

Did you know that an infected tooth can potentially cause cold and flu-like symptoms? It may come as a surprise, but our oral health is intricately linked to our overall well-being, including our respiratory health. Let's explore how oral infections can affect our respiratory system and what we can do to prevent and treat these infections.

When a tooth becomes infected, it means that bacteria have invaded the tooth's pulp, causing inflammation and pain. However, the effects of an infected tooth don't stop at the mouth. The bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, including the sinuses, throat, and even the lungs, leading to respiratory issues.

One of the ways an infected tooth can impact respiratory health is by causing sinusitis. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull, and they are connected to the nasal passages. When the bacteria from an infected tooth reaches the sinuses, it can lead to an infection, resulting in symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and a runny nose – similar to what you might experience with a common cold or flu.

Furthermore, an infected tooth can also contribute to the development of bronchitis and pneumonia. As the bacteria travel down the respiratory tract, they can reach the lungs and cause infections. This can lead to symptoms such as cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even fever – all common signs of respiratory illnesses.

So, what can you do to prevent and treat oral infections to protect your respiratory health? Here are some tips:

Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and use an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria in your mouth.

Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help identify and treat any potential oral infections before they become more serious.

Treat dental issues promptly: If you have a decaying or damaged tooth, seek immediate dental treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can help boost your immune system and keep you healthy overall, reducing the risk of infections.

If you suspect that an infected tooth is causing cold and flu-like symptoms, it's crucial to seek dental and medical attention. Your dentist can assess the tooth and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may involve a root canal or tooth extraction. Additionally, your doctor can evaluate your respiratory health and provide any necessary medication to treat any associated infections.

In conclusion, oral infections can indeed have an impact on respiratory health. It's essential to prioritize oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly, and promptly address any dental issues to prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain good overall health. By taking care of your mouth, you can take significant steps towards safeguarding your respiratory system and enjoying a healthier, infection-free life.

Dental Health and the Immune System: A Link to Cold and Flu

When it comes to maintaining your overall health and well-being, often people forget about the important role oral health plays in the equation. Your mouth serves as the gateway to your body, and maintaining good dental health is crucial for a strong immune system.

One common dental issue that can have an impact on your immune system is a bad tooth. A bad tooth refers to a tooth that is decayed, infected, or damaged. If left untreated, a bad tooth can lead to a host of problems, including cold and flu-like symptoms.

Here are a few reasons why a bad tooth can cause symptoms similar to a cold or flu:

Infection: When a tooth becomes decayed or damaged, it creates an opening for bacteria to enter the tooth and cause an infection. This infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, leading to swelling, pain, and inflammation. These symptoms are similar to what you might experience during a cold or flu.

Sinus Involvement: Some bad teeth, particularly those in the upper jaw, can be closely related to the sinuses. When a tooth infection spreads to the sinuses, it can cause sinusitis, which presents symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. These symptoms may include congestion, facial pressure, headache, and a runny nose.

Weakened Immune System: Chronic infections, such as a long-standing bad tooth, can put strain on your immune system. Your immune system is responsible for defending your body against harmful bacteria and viruses. When it is constantly fighting an infection, it may become weakened, leaving you more susceptible to cold and flu viruses.

Spread of Bacteria: Bacteria from an infected tooth can enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. This can lead to systemic inflammation and further compromise your immune system. As a result, you may experience cold and flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, body aches, and a general feeling of malaise.

Now that you understand the link between dental health and your immune system, it's important to take action to prevent and treat bad teeth.

(12/13/2024)
by MedShun

More Information: https://medshun.com/article/can-a-bad-tooth-cause-cold-and-flu-symptoms

Do I Have a Cavity?: Six Warning Signs of Tooth Decay

Do you think you have a cavity? According to the CDC, over 90% of adults in the USA have had a cavity at some point in their lives.

Cavities are caused by plaque build-up on your teeth. Things that increase the likelihood of cavities are excess sugar, smoking, drinking alcohol, dry mouth, and improper brushing or flossing.

Most cavities can be easily treated. However, there are serious risks of tooth decay in untreated cases, including things like abscesses in the mouth or even gum disease.

Keep reading this guide to learn about the 6 warning signs of tooth decay.

1) Toothache

Toothaches are typically the biggest red flag when it comes to cavities. The pain caused by a toothache may consist of pressure when you eat or it may consist of sudden and painful ache.

Short answer? If you have a toothache make sure you seek treatment to find out the cause.

2) Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is also one of the most common signs of a cavity. Dental sensitivity typically occurs when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages.

Likewise, sweet and sugary food and drinks may also cause pain or aches in your teeth.

If you notice that your teeth have become sensitive to temperature or sweets, you may very well have a cavity or other dental issue.

3) Teeth Staining

Notice any teeth staining? Unfortunately, stains on the teeth may also signify a cavity.

These stains may show up as white spots, but can be gray, brown, or even black as the cavity worsens. You may also notice redness in your mouth from dental inflammation.

4) Hole in Your Tooth

A hole in your tooth will usually occur in the later stages of untreated cavities. Most of the time you will be able to feel any holes in your teeth with your tongue.

You also may be able to visually notice them when brushing or flossing your teeth.

If you notice a hole in your tooth, see your dentist ASAP.

5) Bad Breath or Taste in Mouth

Sometimes, tooth decay will cause you to have bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth. Bacteria that are lodged between the infected tooth is usually the culprit.

These symptoms can be unpleasant to yourself and others. While it does not mean that you 100% have a cavity, it’s important to rule out the possibility.

6) Facial Swelling

Facial swelling is a less commonly known symptom of tooth decay but is possible. A tooth abscess caused by a cavity is usually to blame in this case.

So, if you notice one side of your face seems puffy and swollen, it’s important to find out the underlying cause.

Signs of Tooth Decay

Those were the 6 warning signs of tooth decay. If you’re wondering, “Do I have a cavity?” it’s important to be aware of any of these tooth decay symptoms and book a dental appointment as soon as you can.

(12/13/2024)
by Dr. Parul Mehta, DDS

More Information: https://www.hi-techsmiles.com/do-i-have-a-cavity-6-warning-signs-of-tooth-decay/

Is UV Teeth Whitening Safe?

Everyone deserves to have a beautiful, confident, and healthy smile, so it’s no wonder that there are so many at-home products on the market that help you combat yellow or stained teeth to achieve a brilliant sparkle. But there’s one teeth whitening product that’s gained attention in the past decade among celebrities and social media influencers that’s a bit more high-tech and a bit more expensive: an at-home UV teeth whitening kit. Here, we’ve laid out a few facts on the safety and effectiveness of these types of products, so you can understand how it works before considering it as an option for a whiter smile.

How It Works

These kits are similar to a common in-office teeth whitening treatment, which involves a dental professional applying a peroxide-based whitening gel to your teeth, and placing a blue UV light over the teeth. Together, the gel and light create a system that can expedite the teeth whitening process. And these in-office treatments are effective—according to a study published in the Journal of Conservative Dentistry, light-activated bleaching showed an increase in lightness compared to bleaching done without light. Further, the light-activated process lasted longer.

An at-home kit functions similarly and typically instructs you to apply a whitening gel to your teeth with a pen and then use a portable LED light over your teeth for a few minutes over a period of days. These kits often come with a higher price tag than other at-home whitening solutions, like whitening toothpaste or strips.

Safety of UV Teeth Whitening Kits

You might be wondering: is UV teeth whitening safe? While the American Dental Association does mention that in-office light-activated treatments are an option you could consider for teeth whitening, they do not mention at-home UV light kits as a recommended option. The ADA also notes that tooth sensitivity may be associated with this process when done at the dentist’s office.

Another critical safety consideration: there are no regulations associated with at-home UV light teeth whitening kits. A 2019 article in the Journal of the American Dental Association states that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines for Infection Control “do not include safety recommendations or regulations that are directly related to blue light exposure.”The article also concludes that evidence suggests you should take precautions when using dental curing kits. Further, according to the Oral Health Foundation, regulations on these kits vary from country to country. For instance, kits in Europe cannot legally contain more than 0.1% peroxide, whereas other countries allow for stronger amounts. Plus, some kits sold over the internet may contain extra ingredients that could be potentially harmful.

Another potential issue in using UV teeth whitening is that there can be extreme user error, resulting in damage and even burns. The ratio of gel to UV exposure varies from kit to kit, and without the consultation of a dentist, you may not know your threshold for sensitivity. What's more, applying too much gel at one time can result in the gel conducting too much of the heat from the UV light, causing gum burns.

So, to answer the question initially stated about safety, it’s unclear. Therefore you should avoid using UV light kits at home, as the research isn’t definitive enough to say that it’s safe. Plus, the ADA has not approved this kind of therapy.

What if I injured myself with an at-home UV whitening kit?

If you’ve experienced any injury from a UV whitening kit, don’t panic—your oral health care provider will know what to do. If you’re injured, contact your oral health care provider immediately, and have the kit on hand to provide any information. From there, they will be able to help determine the best treatment. Luckily, there are plenty of other safe and effective home whitening methods available—and they don’t break the bank either!

Teeth Whitening Alternatives

If you want to whiten at home, you’ve got options. One is to choose a toothpaste that contains a whitening ingredient, like hydrogen peroxide. You can use a whitening toothpaste every day for continuous whitening that becomes part of your oral care routine—no extra steps required. Whitening strips and pens are other options, though you should consult with your oral care professional to ensure that this is the safest method for your needs. While these methods won’t be as quick as an in-office treatment, you can take comfort in knowing that they’re safe. But before you go ahead and choose an at-home whitening option, talk to your oral care provider first, and together you can determine the best (and safest) method.

The next time you notice an advertisement or celebrity endorsement for a teeth whitening UV light kit, remember to take it with a grain of salt. With the right at-home treatment or even a treatment via your oral care provider, you can get the star power smile without the risk.

(12/12/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/teeth-whitening/is-uv-teeth-whitening-safe

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a highly contagious infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes), common in children but affecting adults too. Strep throat symptoms include a sore throat and a fever, as well as throat swelling, a swollen uvula, or swollen tonsils.

Healthcare providers use several tests to diagnose strep throat. It is treated with antibiotics, while medications and home remedies can help people to cope with symptoms until the infection clears. It's uncommon, but strep throat can cause serious complications.

This article will talk about what strep throat is and how you catch it. You will also learn about how your healthcare provider can tell if you have strep throat and what treatments you might need. There are also some steps that you can take to prevent strep throat.

Strep Throat Symptoms

If you catch strep throat, you will usually start feeling sick two to five days after you are exposed to the bacteria that causes the infection. There are several symptoms of strep throat, but the most common is a very sore throat.

Other symptoms of strep throat are:

Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing (which might also be felt in the ear on the same side)

Fever (101° F or higher)

Red, swollen tonsils that may have white patches or streaks of pus on them

Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth (called petechiae)

Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck

Chills

Fatigue

Headaches

Loss of appetite

Abdominal pain

How Long Is the Contagious Period of Strep Throat?

Strep throat is highly contagious through airborne particles, touching a contaminated surface, or sharing personal items like food utensils. You'll feel sick about two to five days after exposure. After 24 to 48 hours of taking antibiotics, the infection should no longer be contagious. Good hygiene practices, such as hand washing, will help with strep throat prevention.

What Can Be Mistaken for Strep Throat?

Strep throat is not the only infection that can cause a sore throat. In fact, viral illnesses that cause a sore throat are more common than strep throat.

There are a few ways that strep throat is different from a sore throat from a viral infection, and these symptoms can help you to know if you have strep throat.

Strep throat may start suddenly with a fever. Sore throats from viral infections tend to happen gradually. If you have strep throat, you usually do not have a cough. A sore throat from a virus is more likely to have a cough with it, along with other cold symptoms like:

A runny nose

A hoarse voice

An eye infection commonly called "pink eye" (conjunctivitis)

The main symptom of strep throat is a sore throat that starts suddenly with a fever and chills. Your tonsils might be red and swollen. They might also have white streaks or pus on them. You might also have fatigue and a headache, but cough is usually not a strep throat symptom.

Causes

Strep throat spreads in saliva or other body fluids that have group A Streptococcus bacteria in them. If someone who has strep throat coughs or sneezes around you, it can expose you to the bacteria as it spreads through the air. You can also pick it up if you touch people or objects with bacteria on them.

Strep throat is very contagious. It's easily spread from one person to another. Some people are more likely to catch strep throat than other people, including people with weak immune systems, people having chemotherapy, babies, and people who are pregnant.

If someone in your home catches strep throat, there are steps you can take to lower your chances of catching it:

Do not share personal items, like towels, drinking cups, and eating utensils, with the person who is sick.

Wash clothes and bedding in hot water.

Keep your hands clean (that means washing your hands correctly and often).

Can You Be Around Someone With Strep Throat?

Someone with strep throat has the bacteria in their saliva and other body fluids. If they cough or sneeze, they can easily spread it to people. Sharing drinks or touching objects they've used also spreads infection. Avoid catching it from someone in your home by not using the same personal items, washing clothes and bedding in hot water, and washing your hands often.

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider can usually tell if you have strep throat. An expert in throat health, called an otolaryngologist, can also diagnose the infection.

They will ask you about your symptoms and look at your throat and neck. They will look for signs of strep throat, including:

Redness, swelling, or white patches that look like pus in the throat or on your tonsils

A rash on your body that started on your neck and chest

Red spots on the roof of your mouth (petechiae)

Swollen tonsils (tonsillitis)

Lymph nodes that are swollen

Your healthcare provider might do some tests to figure out if you have strep throat. These strep throat tests may include:

A rapid strep test uses a sample of saliva from the back of your throat. The results only take a few minutes, but sometimes, they are not right. A rapid strep test might say that you do not have strep throat when you really do. This is called a false-negative test result.

A throat culture uses a sample of tissue taken from the back of your throat using a swab. The sample is sent to the laboratory where technicians will look at it to see if any bacteria is growing. The results take several days to come back, but it is the most accurate test for strep throat.

Treatment

Before your healthcare provider decides on treatment, they will want to make sure that you do not have a sore throat for another reason. For example, a viral illness cannot be treated with antibiotics.

However, if you have strep throat, it means you have a bacterial infection. In this case, you would need an antibiotic. There are different antibiotics that treat strep throat, including:

Amoxicillin

Penicillin

Clindamycin

Cephalosporin

Clarithromycin

Azithromycin (called a "Z-pack")

Your healthcare provider will look at your medical record and talk to you about your health before they decide which antibiotic to give you. For example, if you are allergic to penicillin, they can prescribe you a different kind of antibiotic.

Sometimes, antibiotics are not strong enough to clear up a strep throat infection. This is called antibiotic resistance. If you are being treated for strep throat but your symptoms do not get better, your healthcare provider will change your treatment.

You should stay home with strep throat until you've taken antibiotics for 24 to 48 hours. After that, you aren't contagious and can't spread strep throat to other people.

It is important to take your antibiotic prescription exactly as instructed. You need to finish all of the medication—even if you start to feel better.

If you stop taking the antibiotics too early, the infection might not clear up. Instead, it might get worse. You could also have serious complications from the infection.

Strep throat symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and a headache can usually be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medicine like ibuprofen. Strep throat home remedies, like having cool drinks or ice pops, can also help to ease throat pain.

Getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating nutritious meals (even if it hurts to swallow) will also help your body to recover.

Does Strep Throat Go Away on Its Own?

Strep throat symptoms can go away without treatment, usually within a week, but strep throat that's left untreated can lead to more serious conditions. For example, children with a red-bump rash may have strep that's led to scarlet fever. It's important for people to be accurately diagnosed and treated by a healthcare provider.

(12/12/2024)
by Very Well Health

More Information: N

Six Ways to Keep Your Gums Healthy

Having cavity-free teeth doesn’t mean you have healthy gums. Since it’s usually painless, you may not know if something is wrong with your gums. A few strategies can help you keep your whole mouth healthy.

When it comes to your mouth’s health, it’s not all about how straight your teeth are or how bright your smile is. You can’t forget about your gums!

What is gum disease?

Gum disease starts when plaque builds up under and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film-like substance that’s filled with bacteria. It can cause infections that hurt the gum and bone, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Plaque also can cause gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis causes your gums to become:

inflamed

tender

red

swollen

prone to bleeding

Fortunately, since the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place aren’t impacted, this damage is reversibleTrusted Source.

You can also develop periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. Periodontitis impacts the bones that hold your teeth in place. Left untreated, it can ruin the gums, bones, and tissues connected to your teeth.

The final stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis. This is when the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are destroyed. It can impact your bite, and teeth may need to be removed.

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), signs that you might have gum disease include:

consistently bad taste or breath

separating or loose permanent teeth

gums that easily bleed

gums that are swollen, red, or tender

gums that have pulled away from your teeth

Gum disease is preventable. Here are a few ways you can help keep your gums healthy.

1. Floss

Floss at least once a day. This helps remove the plaque and food that’s beyond your toothbrush’s reach, according to the ADA. It doesn’t matter when you floss. Do it at night, do it in the morning, or do it after lunch… just do it!

2. Get regular dental cleanings

Your dentist can detect early gum disease symptoms if you see them on a regular basis. That way symptoms can be treated before they become more serious. A professional cleaning is the only way to remove tartar. It can also get rid of any plaque you missed when brushing or flossing. If you have gingivitis, brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings can help reverse it.

3. Quit smoking

Yet another reason for smokers to quit: Smoking is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. Since smoking weakens your immune system, it also makes it harder to fight off a gum infection, say the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source. Plus, smoking makes it more difficult for your gums to heal once they’ve been damaged.

4. Brush twice a day

Brush your teeth after every meal. This helps remove the food and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums. Scrub your tongue too, since it can harbor bacteria. Your toothbrush should have soft bristles and fit in your mouth comfortably, says the Mayo Clinic.

Consider a battery-powered or electric toothbrush. These can help reduce gingivitis and plaque more than manual brushing. Swap toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray.

Try an electric toothbrush today.

5. Use fluoride toothpaste

As for toothpaste, store shelves are lined with brands that claim to reduce gingivitis, freshen breath, and whiten teeth. How do you know which one is best for healthy gums? Make sure to choose toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the ADA seal of acceptance. After that, the flavor and color is up to you!

You can purchase toothpaste that contains fluoride online.

6. Use a therapeutic mouthwash

Usually available over the counter, therapeutic mouthwashes can help reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, reduce the speed that tarter develops, or a combination of these benefits, according to the ADA. Plus: A rinse helps remove food particles and debris from your mouth, though it’s not a substitute for flossing or brushing. Look for the ADA seal, which means it’s been deemed effective and safe.

It doesn’t matter whether your brush, floss, or rinse first. Just do a good job and use the right products.

(12/11/2024)
by Healthline

More Information: https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/ways-to-keep-gums-healthy?utm_source=ReadNext

What's The Difference Between Gingivitis And Periodontitis?

It’s normal for your mouth to contain bacteria. However, when the bacteria build up, gum disease can develop. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that coats the teeth.

The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. It involves gum inflammation, but it doesn’t always cause symptoms. It’s possible to have gingivitis without realizing it.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. This is the more advanced stage of gum disease. It can damage the gums and lead to tooth loss over time.

To learn more about gingivitis and periodontitis, read on. We’ll explain the different symptoms and treatment, as well as how to prevent gum disease.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is mild gum disease. It typically causes minor issues, which might come and go. When treated early, the condition is reversible.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of gingivitis include:

red, swollen gums

gums that bleed when you floss or brush your teeth

gums that randomly bleed

Often, gingivitis causes no pain or other symptoms.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to minimize inflammation. Treatment includes:

Oral hygiene. This includes regular brushing and flossing — and using the right techniques when doing so. A dentist can show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

Professional dental cleaning. A dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gumline.

Antiseptic mouthwash. This prescription mouthwash contains chlorhexidine, which reduces bacteria in your mouth.

What is periodontitis?

Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, or severe gum disease. Periodontitis is inflammation of the periodontium, which is the gum tissue and bone that keep your teeth in place. As the condition progresses, it can cause teeth to loosen.

Symptoms

Periodontitis happens in stages. The later the stage, the more severe the symptoms.

Symptoms of periodontitis include:

red, swollen gums

bleeding gums

sensitive teeth

sore gums

bad breath

loose teeth

teeth that change positions

pain during chewing

gums that recede (pull away) from the teeth

When the gums pull away from a tooth, they form spaces called gum pockets. These spaces can become infected.

Treatment

Because periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease, it requires additional treatment. Again, the goal is to reduce inflammation.

Treatment includes:

Oral hygiene. Maintaining oral hygiene can slow down periodontitis and prevent additional tooth loss.

Professional dental cleaning. A dentist will perform a deep cleaning. They’ll remove tartar and plaque from teeth and below the gumline, which can help the gums reattach to the teeth.

Antibiotics. In severe cases, your dentist might prescribe oral antibiotics or apply a topical antibiotic.

Open surgery. During this procedure, your dentist cuts open the inflamed gums and cleans the root of the tooth. Next, they stitch the gum tissue together so it can reattach to the teeth.

How does gingivitis progress to periodontitis?

If gingivitis is left untreated, the plaque can accumulate and spread to the gumline. Bacteria in the plaque release toxins, which irritate and inflame the gums.

This triggers a chronic inflammatory response in the body, which damages the gum tissue and bone that keep the teeth in place. The result is periodontitis.

As the gums break down, they pull away from the teeth, creating gum pockets. These gaps can become infected by bacteria in the mouth, causing even more tissue damage.

The tissue damage can also make the gum pockets deeper. If the gaps become too big, the teeth may loosen due to bone loss. Deeper pockets may also mean it’s harder to reach the bacteria when you brush and floss.

What are the risks for gingivitis and periodontitis?

The following factors can increase your risk for gingivitis and periodontitis:

not maintaining oral hygiene

smoking or chewing tobacco

substance use

genetics

misaligned teeth that are difficult to clean

stress

lack of nutrients

puberty

pregnancy

hormone changes

certain medical conditions, like diabetes or HIV

some medications, like steroids or cancer therapy drugs

What are the causes of gingivitis and periodontitis?

The most common cause of gingivitis and periodontitis is a buildup of plaque.

The bacteria in the plaque “eat” sugars in your mouth, then release waste byproducts. These byproducts can irritate your gums and cause inflammation.

Other factors affecting gum disease include:

Hormone changes. During pregnancy, changes in hormones may increase the inflammatory response of gum tissue. Similarly, hormone fluctuations during puberty might make gum tissue more susceptible to plaque-related inflammation.

Medications. Some prescription drugs might enlarge the gums, making teeth more difficult to clean. Other medications might reduce saliva, which normally helps clean the teeth and control bacteria.

Nutrition. A low intake of vitamin C or high intake of refined carbohydrates can increase inflammation in gum disease.

How to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis

You can prevent gingivitis and periodontitis by maintaining oral hygiene. When done consistently, an oral hygiene routine can prevent plaque from building up and causing gum disease.

Oral hygiene basics

A good oral hygiene routine includes:

brushing your teeth twice per day

flossing between your teeth every day

eating a balanced, nutritious diet

scheduling routine dental cleanings

not smoking

When to see a dentist

In addition to your regular visits, you should see a dentist if you have:

red or swollen gums

bleeding while flossing, brushing, or eating

painful gums

separating gums

loose teeth

persistent bad breath

pain while chewing

teeth that look longer than usual (due to receding gums)

If you already have gum disease, be sure to attend your follow-up appointments. This is especially important if you have received treatment for periodontitis, which requires follow-up care.

Outlook

The outlook for gum disease depends on the stage.

Gingivitis is reversible. It can go away with proper oral hygiene and professional dental cleaning. If gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, you’ll need additional treatment. The exact outlook also depends on the severity of periodontitis.

Generally, early periodontitis is easier to treat and control. Early treatment reduces the risk of damage and tooth loss. If you have periodontitis, it may mean more frequent trips to the dentist so they can monitor your condition.

In both cases, you’ll have to maintain oral hygiene habits at home. Visit your dentist regularly for the best outlook. During each visit, your dentist can identify early signs of gingivitis before it progresses.

(12/11/2024)
by Healthline

More Information: N

How To Reverse Gum Loss Naturally?

What Causes Receding Gums?

In this oral surgery, the dentist takes tissue from the roof of your mouth and attaches it to your gum line. The objective here is to cover the exposed roots of your teeth to guard them from harm. For extraordinarily damaged gums, gum graft surgery can help restore some misplaced tissue. The best approach to treat gum recession is to forestall it happening within the first place.

How Can You Reverse Gum Loss?

It is enough to mix solely a pinch of salt and heat water and rinse it within the oral cavity. In addition, it is desirable to rub with a little clove oil for inflamed gums. In addition, as an alternative of oil, the uncooked nail can be used by chewing to release its liquid that impacts the infected gums. This home remedy has been shown to scale back swelling, swelling, pain and bleeding of the gums. Pinhole surgical technique is an innovative surgical procedure for receding gums. During PST, your dentist makes a tiny hole in your gum tissue above the exposed tooth root.

And while receding gums can’t grow back, there are ways to catch gum recession early and forestall it from getting worse. A traditional gum grafting procedure entails excising tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth and using it to cover the exposed root. Dr. Lamas can cover one or two teeth during this sort of procedure.

Reverse Gum Loss

Healthy gums fit snugly round your teeth and cover the sensitive roots. But hundreds of thousands of Americans have receding gums, a situation that makes gum tissue loosen and pull back from teeth, exposing them to break and decay. In superior stages of periodontitis, the gums aren’t able to keep teeth in place, causing them to become loose, fall out, or require elimination by a dentist. Want to know more about How Do You Reverse Receding Gum Line?

This treatment is best for gentle circumstances, as it is mainly to stop additional gum recession. Regardless of the precise explanation for your receding gums, treatment is necessary for stopping further dental issues and complications. At home, you must adopt cautious dental hygiene habits.

This is becoming a very popular treatment choice because each the procedure and the outcomes occur very quickly. Dental professionals who know all about reversing periodontitis. Use a great every day vitamin supplement and make certain you might be obtaining the day by day minerals required. People can even ask their dentist for tips about modifying this method to handle their receded gums. When cleaning the inside surfaces of the entrance teeth, maintain the toothbrush vertically.

How To Reverse Receding Gum Line?

Many people don’t even realize that they have receding gums until it’s already occurring. However, should you discover any signs of gum recession, it’s important to contact your dentist immediately. The course of may be treated to each prevent additional injury and to repair any lack of gums. GGS helps prevent bone loss and the gums from receding further. It also can protect the previously exposed tooth roots from decay. Most importantly, receding gums can be a symptom of underlying dental problems, together with gum disease, and may increase the danger of tooth decay and tooth loss.

According to a examine, fluoride decreased the rate of tooth decay by a median rate of round 29%. Another examine came upon that living in a spot which does not have fluoridated water can enhance the prospect of tooth decay by as much as 32%. The subject of gum recession is a tricky one, especially as a end result of we are going to all face it sooner or later. If your dentist sees that at-home strategies haven’t cured your gingivitis, s/he could prescribe a round of antibiotics to battle the infection. Avoid typical mouthwash dangers by utilizing alternatives like natural mouthwash. Not only should you use a good, soft-bristled brush, you should discover the best way to keep in mind to alter it out typically.

Reverse Receding Gums Naturally

We also present tips on the way to slow and stop its development. Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide and water resolution. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric gel may help prevent plaque formation and gingivitis that lead to receding gums.

There are several natural remedies for treating receding gums. However, you should all the time seek the guidance of along with your dentist to choose the most suitable resolution for you. A periodontist can determine the most effective course of treatment to keep away from wasting gum tissues and your teeth.

Reverse Receding Gums Naturally

Hormonal changes also can wreak havoc in your oral health. If you wear dentures, your dentist should ensure that they match correctly, as this can also result in problems. Have you ever puzzled what your dentist is doing when they’re poking around your teeth and calling out numbers to your dental hygienist? Also generally identified as receding gums, gum recession is an oral condition where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth.

(12/10/2024)
by Medium

More Information: https://www.andersonperiodontal.com/3-great-benefits-of-laser-gum-disease-treatment-bloomfield-hills-mi/

Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?

Most people wake up in the morning with less than kissable breath. But when bad breath, also known as halitosis, interferes with your confidence and social life, it's time to figure out what's causing it. Do cavities cause bad breath? And is your oral care routine strong enough to keep bad breath away? Here's what may be causing your bad breath and how you can remedy it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath results from an accumulation of germs in the mouth. According to a review in the Journal of Pharmacy and BioAllied Sciences (JPBS, the official publication of the Organization of Pharmaceutical Unity with BioAllied Sciences registered in India), when certain germs in the mouth interact with proteins in the saliva, this creates volatile sulfur compounds. The sulfur compounds are what we smell when we realise it's time to grab a mint. According to the JPBS review, bad breath can be caused by:

Poor oral hygiene that allows food debris to get trapped in the mouth

Gum problems and periodontitis

Germs on the tongue

Ear, nose and throat problems, including tonsillitis and sinusitis

Dry mouth

Personal habits, such as smoking and drinking alcohol.

Do Cavities Cause Bad Breath?

Cavities are small holes in the teeth where germs collect and eat away at the enamel. While cavities do not directly cause bad breath, they can contribute to it. Germs can get stuck and accumulate in the decay pockets, making it more difficult to keep your mouth clean and your breath fresh, explains the American Dental Association (ADA).

Bad breath does not necessarily signal a cavity, but it could indicate that you have one. That's why it's important to maintain regular dental appointments and see your dentist right away if you suspect that you have a cavity or if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain.

Manage Bad Breath and Cavities Like a Pro

One of the easiest ways to manage and prevent both bad breath and cavities is to practise good oral hygiene. Start with brushing twice a day. Brushing your teeth physically removes decay-causing germs and food particles. You should also floss daily to remove lingering germs and food particles hiding in between your teeth.

Keeping your mouth moist is important for fresh breath, too. A healthy saliva flow is one of the best defenses against bad breath, as it washes out the mouth, notes the ADA. Be sure to drink plenty of water and talk to your doctor about any possible contributing factors for dry mouth, such as taking certain medications.

Smoking is another contributor to bad breath, and it can also increase your risk for gum problems, explains the ADA. Ask your doctor for strategies to help you quit.

If you wear dentures or another oral appliance, the US-based Mayo Clinic suggests cleaning them daily to prevent bad breath. Follow your dentist's specific directions for cleaning your appliance.

Finally, seeing your dentist regularly ensures that your mouth stays healthy. A professional teeth cleaning can remove germs and food that your toothbrush at home may miss. Your dental professional will also check for cavities that could harbour bad germs. If they do detect any cavities, they can fill them to stop the condition from worsening.

Bad breath can be a real bummer. While cavities do not directly cause bad breath, you can prevent both bad breath and cavities by practising good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly.

(12/10/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/bad-breath/do-cavities-cause-bad-breath

If You Need Tooth Decay Treatment, Don't Wait

Even after trying your best to prevent tooth decay, sometimes the dentist finds a little cavity or two. It may be tempting to put off tooth decay treatment when you're not feeling any pain, but procrastination comes with a price: Tooth decay doesn't repair itself, and what starts out as a minor problem can quickly become serious, changing your treatment options dramatically.

The Start of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay refers to the damage of the teeth enamel. The enamel is the tough, external part of your teeth. This can be problematic to adults, teens and children. A sticky layer of film known as plaque continuously forms on the teeth. When you drink or eat foods containing sugars, these germs in the plaque manufacture acids which attack the tooth enamel. The sticky plaque helps keep the acids in contact with the teeth and after a period of time, the enamel breaks down.

Signs and Severity of Tooth Decay

You won't notice pain and sensitivity until decay goes through the enamel into the dentin layer. Dentin is made up of tiny nerve endings that become irritated and cause sensitivity when exposed to hot, cold, sweet, sticky and sour foods. You may also feel discomfort when biting down and find that food frequently gets trapped between your teeth.

Decay spreads rapidly through dentin because it is much softer than enamel. Root decay also spreads quickly, since the cementum covering on the root is not as hard and thick as enamel. Be warned that as tooth decay continues, your pain may be more frequent and intense.

It is important to remember that infection develops when decay and germs reach the pulp portion of your tooth, which contains the nerves and blood vessels. Pain from an abscessed tooth is persistent, serious and will likely keep you up at night. Other symptoms include fever, facial swelling and a bad taste in your mouth. You may notice pus draining from a red swelling on your gum near the root tip. Consequences can be serious if the infection spreads into your jawbone or throughout your body.

Tooth Decay Treatment

If your dentist detects a small area of erosion on your enamel before it reaches the dentin, he may suggest an approach that would help repair the spot. This process might include at home use remedies. Alternatively he may suggest using mouthwashes, toothpastes or filling materials that contain fluoride, calcium and phosphates.

When decay reaches the dentin, there is no turning back. A small cavity can be repaired with either an amalgam filling (composed of silver and other metals) or a tooth-colored resin material. If the tooth has lost a lot of its structure, however, your dentist may need to do a crown. Crowns strengthen and restore shape and function to your teeth, but they cost quite a bit more than a simple filling.

An abscessed tooth is the worst-case scenario, and your treatment options are slim: You can either opt for a root canal treatment or an extraction, though dentists will typically only do extractions when there are no other means of saving the tooth. Should you require a root canal, your dentist or an endodontist will remove the unhealthy pulp and clean and seal the pulp chamber. After root canal treatment, teeth can become more brittle and break easily. If you lost a lot of tooth structure due to decay, your dentist may also recommend a crown for your tooth.

Do you see a pattern here? The longer you put off dental treatment, the more involved and expensive it becomes — and the more pain you may have to endure. The moral of this story is to go to the dentist at the first sign of trouble. Better yet, help prevent decay from occurring by brushing and flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for a more thorough cleaning and checkup.

(12/09/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/cavities/if-you-need-tooth-decay-treatment-dont-wait

The Connection Between Dentists and Doctors

Dentists and doctors have more in common than supplemental schooling and white coats. Between oral and overall health, your body works as a system. Oftentimes 1 health issue can cross over to these 2 professions. Though dentists are trained in teeth, oral health issues can signal serious systemic illnesses. How dentists can help doctors detect a diagnosis:

Diabetes and Gum Disease

14% of New Mexico’s population has diabetes. Those with the disease are at high risk for developing gum disease. And it’s a 2-way street. Gum disease makes it hard to control blood sugar levels, which can compromise overall health. And because symptoms are sometimes subtle, diabetes can go unnoticed for years. The mouth offers clear-cut signals of the disease, and your dentist is trained to spot these warning signs.

If you’re diabetic or pre-diabetic, take control of your oral health. Diabetics with gum disease who receive appropriate dental care are healthier and often experience a reduction in blood glucose levels.

HPV and Oral Cancer

Genital HPV, human papillomavirus, is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the U.S. and world, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s estimated that 90% of adults have been exposed to some form of the disease. Every sexually active person is at risk for contracting HPV. And HPV can cause oral cancer.

Your dentist is often your first line of defense when it comes to spotting oral cancer. He or she will check for signs during a routine exam. In addition to practicing safe sex, it’s important to stay on top of your preventive care visits with your doctor AND dentist.

Heart Disease and Gum Disease

In fact, researchers recently discovered a link between oral bacteria and heart disease. Rather than judging gum disease severity through inflammation and bleeding, dentists can now identify specific types of bacteria present in the mouth. This gives them the ability to detect a patient’s probability for heart complications.

Reduce your risk for heart disease! Keep your teeth healthy, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet.

Dentists and doctors may be different, but they can both make a positive impact on your overall health.

(12/09/2024)
by Delta Dental

More Information: N

How Can Psoriasis Affect The Mouth And Tongue?

Psoriasis can affect any area of the body, including the mouth and tongue. The condition can cause cracks on the tongue or smooth patches, a complication called geographic tongue.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes a person’s skin to grow faster than average, resulting in changes in skin color and, often, scaly patches.

These patches can form anywhere on the body. Less frequently, psoriasis affects the mouth. Oral psoriasis can cause discolored patches with yellow or white edges to form on the tongue.

Read on to learn more about the symptoms, risk factors, and treatments for psoriasis on the tongue.

Symptoms of psoriasis on the tongue

Psoriasis can cause noticeable changes in the tongue’s color, texture, and feeling.

For example, people with psoriasis are more likely to develop an inflammatory condition called geographic tongue.

Although psoriasis on the tongue is rare, symptoms include:

discolored patches with yellow or white borders

swelling and discoloration on the tongue

smooth patches

fissures or cracks in the surface of the tongue

Psoriasis on the tongue can be tricky to diagnose because signs may be mild or even unnoticeable. However, for some people, these symptoms can lead to pain or swelling so severe that it makes eating or drinking difficult.

A thorough examination and testing can help a doctor determine if a person with a geographic tongue has oral psoriasis.

How does psoriasis affect the mouth, gums, and lips?

Psoriasis typically does not affect the mouth. When it does, people may experienceTrusted Source the following symptoms:

peeling skin on the gums

sores or pustules in or around the mouth

pain or a burning sensation when eating hot or spicy foods

a noticeable change in taste

In most cases, the patches or sores will appear inside the cheeks.

Risk factors for psoriasis on the tongue

To develop psoriasis, a person must have at least one relevant gene and experience exposure to triggers.

Several factors can triggerTrusted Source psoriasis, including:

stress

medications

infection

injury to the skin

Psoriasis may affect only one area of the body or several, and it may arise in new places. No matter where it occurs, psoriasis is not contagious, so a person cannot pass on the condition to others.

Treatment

Many treatments can helpTrusted Source people manage their psoriasis symptoms.

Oral psoriasis sometimes requires no treatment. However, consult a doctor if the symptoms interfere with daily activities.

For people with oral psoriasis, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatories or topical anesthetics such as lidocaine. These medications can help reduce inflammation and pain, making it easier to eat and drink.

A person may notice improvements in oral psoriasis if they treat body-wide symptoms. Typically, when treating psoriasis, a doctor will prescribe medications such as:

non-biological medications, such as methotrexate

biological treatments, such as guselkumab

acitretin

cyclosporine

phototherapy

topical treatments such as steroid creams, emollients, or ointments.

Prevention

To prevent psoriasis symptoms from flaring up, it can help to avoid triggers. For psoriasis on the tongue, a person can:

avoid spicy or very hot foods

quit smoking

use mouth rinses

practice good oral hygiene

It can also help to reduce stress, which can worsen symptoms.

(12/07/2024)
by Medical News Today

More Information: N

Can Diabetes Cause Dry Lips?

The answer to this question is simple – Yes, Diabetes can cause dry lips and dry mouth. It is more common in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes.

Dry lips and dry mouth are common occurrences in anyone’s life. It is experienced by diabetics too. But the difference is that when a diabetic person shares it, it is often not just something common or ignorable; it is rather a very serious symptom that needs to be catered to with attention.

It is easy to understand from the name that it is a condition where the mouth and lips feel dry and devoid of moisture. This can affect the individual. It is seen in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetic patients.

This is a problem that can also lead to other serious dysfunctions. Therefore, it must not be ignored.

A high blood sugar level in the body due to uncontrolled diabetic levels is often the cause behind a dry mouth and dry lips. This condition is termed – Xerostomia.

This is a very uncomfortable feeling. This symptom is often accompanied by other signs such as:

Dry tongue

Chapped and cracked lips

A Rough feeling inside the mouth

Sores and infections in the mouth

Painful gums

Trouble in swallowing food

Bruises and cracks

Bad breath

Now, we just had a look at what Dry lips in diabetes are. But what is the reason behind this? Let us find out.

How does Diabetes cause Dry lips?

We confirmed that prevailing diabetic conditions could be the reason behind dry lips. But you might be wondering … how are drying of lips linked to diabetes?

Well, let us now get into answering this essential question.

The primary reason diabetic patients experience a dry mouth is the fluctuating and often high blood sugar levels. When the body’s blood sugar levels see a sudden and unusual sugar level, it can lead to several different symptoms. One of them is dry lips and mouth.

Unmanaged high blood sugar levels can lead to the drying up of the lips. This can be caused by two reasons.

One of the reasons is the intake of high sugar foods that give rise to a high blood sugar level. The other reason is that improper production and release of insulin in the body can also drastically increase blood sugar levels.

The occurrence of dry lips can be either persistent or come and go every once in a while. This depends on when and how much your blood sugar level rises. If it is always at high ends, then it may lead to prevailing dry lips all the time.

These are the two main reasons that can lead to dry lips in diabetics.

Other explanations or causes of dry lips can be due to:

High blood pressure

Kidney issues

Dehydration

Medicines for blood pressure control

Antidepressant medicines

These other causes may often be linked to diabetes as well. This is because diabetes is a condition that leads to the development or severing of several bodily issues and ailments.

This has a tendency to become a serious problem and lead to discomfort. Thus, it is necessary to understand this condition well and take appropriate measures to manage it.

Let us have a look at what the effects of dry lips can be. Only when we know what the consequences of it are can we properly resolve the problem.

Here we go.

What are the effects of drying lips due to diabetes?

We now know what dry lips are, how they are connected to diabetes, and their causes. Now, let us go on to have a look at what the effects of dry lips and dry mouth can be.

The drying up of moisture in the mouth can be very uncomfortable. It has the following effects:

Drying mouth and lips is a cause for less saliva production, leading to discomfort in swallowing food or water.

Saliva in the mouth plays an important role in directing the food in its right path and keeping away bacteria and other microbes that may lead to harmful effects in the mouth.

Dryness in the lips results in cracked and chapped lips that can often be painful. If too severe, they can even bleed. It is also very uneasy and hampers with sensation.

Dry mouth and lips can also lead to gum sores, diseases, and infections. It can hamper daily eating too. Hence, it is very essential to keep a check on it all.

The risk of fungal infection in the mouth can also increase. There can be an infestation of oral yeast leading to inflammation and infection.

These problems and increasing symptoms can also give rise to tooth decay. This makes the diabetic condition even worse and adds several other issues to the health.

Hence, the negative effect of blood sugar problems can also have a drastic influence on the drying up of lips and mouth. The persistently high levels of carbohydrates in the body can contribute to other complications of health.

To keep away from these health-related discomforts, one must make sure to have a good meal and diet plan that suits their diabetic needs. Restrictions and medicines must be followed very efficiently to ensure protection and prevent the severing of these symptoms.

There are many other ways to keep away dry lips that are caused by diabetes. We have a list of tips and tricks that can help you overcome this dry lips and mouth issue.

Let us move on to look at these effective ways to deal with dry lips and mouth.

9 Easy Solutions to prevent of Dry Lips in Diabetes

Now you are aware of how and why this drying of the lips due to diabetes. And now, it is time to look at some preventive and curing measures to help your prevailing condition of dry lips and mouth.

It can create several uncomfortable issues and lead to bad maintenance of the teeth and gums, leading to many other problems. Therefore, it is very crucial to take into consideration the ways that can solve these problems.

We have some tips to include in your everyday schedules to ensure safety and keep your diabetic symptoms under check.

Here are 9 easy tips to get rid of them:

First of all, it is important to take your insulin doses properly. Insulin doses help to keep the blood sugar levels out of high risks of spiking. Thus, it can help to maintain the blood sugar levels and hence keep away other symptoms too. Also, make sure to attend your doctor’s and dentist’s appointments regularly.

This tip might seem too simple, but it is one that works the best. It is important to drink enough water all day. This is anyway a required criterion for diabetic patients besides;, it also helps with retaining moisture in the mouth. It is advisable to drink around 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.

If you are a frequent user of cigarettes, tobacco, and a regular alcohol drinker, it is necessary to pay attention to these things. They can also lead to dry lisp and mouth. The frequency of smoking and drinking must either be reduced or completely cut off.

If you live in a dry and dehydrating place, you can use a humidifier in your rooms to maintain a moist environment.

It is also aided well if you brush your teeth at least twice a day. This keeps the gums, tongue, and mouth safe and prevents any excess damage due to dry lips or mouth.

Flossing is a good way to let the mouth be clean and keep away any germs that may lead to infection. Possibly use an alcohol-free mouthwash for best results.

Sucking on mints, chewing gums, etc., can also keep the mouth protected from moisture loss. It also keeps the mouth cool and comfortable.

You can also use moisturizing lip care ointments that can prevent chapped lips and keep away the pain. There are many medicinal balms available too.

Include foods that have high fiber in them. They help keep the sugar levels low and controlled, leading to the prevention of other symptoms.

(12/07/2024)
by Beat Diabetes

More Information: N

Headache Won’t Go Away? The Problem Could Be Your Teeth

Americans are known for having lots of headaches.

In fact, about four out of every 10 Americans experience recurring headaches, though they feel healthy otherwise. One in eight Americans have chronic headaches so severe as to be debilitating.

No other pain problem is more widespread among Americans than headaches.

This is something that can interrupt your work, studies, or home schedule, and you’ve likely attempted numerous remedies to alleviate the situation.

However, there’s probably one that you never even thought about: have you considered that your teeth may be at fault for your headaches?

What Dental Problems Have to Do with Headaches

About 80 percent of chronic headaches are caused by tense muscles. Muscles that are held tight for prolonged periods begin to feel achy, and tight muscles in your jaw can result in headaches.

These types of tension headaches may occur on either side of your head or feel like they are wrapped around it. They typically feel like a low-level, dull pain that does not throb, and over-the-counter pain killers are usually sufficient to relieve the pain.

How can you tell if your headache truly has its origin in your mouth? You might notice the following symptoms:

Jaw joints that click or pop

Jaw muscles feel sore in the morning upon waking

Evidence of grinding teeth

Painful scalp or head when touched

Pain behind eyes

Pain in cheeks

Pain in teeth or an individual tooth

Your bite can be the source of your headaches and pain. When you close your jaw to swallow, your upper teeth must meet your lower teeth firmly to keep the jaw properly aligned. Since we swallow more than 2000 times per day, it’s essential to have a well-formed bite or pain can result.

If you have a missing tooth or teeth that are out of alignment, your jaw muscles must use more effort to bring the upper and lower teeth together. The extra strain on your jaw muscles cause pain, which turns into a headache.

Jaw Pain Can Continue to Radiate Out Past Your Head As Well

That’s right. Jaw pain can radiate out to other areas of your body, like your neck and spine.

Your jaw muscles are connected to your neck muscles. If your jaw muscles are working extra hard due to the situation previously described, your neck muscles may have to overcompensate. This radiates pain to your neck, which may also cause tense muscles in your back.

Before long, you may be complaining of neck and back pain in addition to your frequent headaches!

Your body could be stuck in a painful loop, when pain triggered by your bite is picked up by the trigeminal nerve, the largest nerve in your head. This nerve will transmit the mouth pain along the muscles in your face, then send it to your neck, and issue it to the muscles in your scalp. Head pain can trigger more jaw pain, which starts the cycle all over. This can lead to chronic headaches.

Teeth Can Be the Culprits, Too

Another reason you may experience headaches from a mouth problem is if you have a damaged tooth. A throbbing or sharp pain in your mouth can transform into a headache.

You may, for example, have a tooth with an exposed nerve, and cold foods can irritate it. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to seek dental care immediately so the tooth can be repaired and bacteria prevented from entering your bloodstream and causing serious problems.

How a Dentist Can Help

A skilled dentist will be trained to know if your bite or a missing tooth is causing your headaches. They will perform an exam of your jaw, neck muscles, and teeth to evaluate whether the pain source is in your mouth. If that proves true, your dentist will recommend courses of treatment to correct your bite.

If the source of the problem is determined to be bruxism, your dentist will fit you with a custom dental appliance. This rubbery insert prevents you from grinding your teeth at night, and will soon relieve the morning pain you’re experiencing. Also, it will protect your teeth from further enamel erosion, which can lead to periodontitis and other serious dental problems.

Your dentist may also recommend other physical therapy or chiropractic treatments to alleviate neck and back pain and realign your spine.

If you experience a headache with any of these symptoms, waste no time in seeking emergency care to rule out a life-threatening illness like a stroke or brain aneurism:

Unprecedented, completely debilitating pain

Weakness or numbness in extremities

Vision problems

Loss of orientation

Fainting or blacking out

(12/06/2024)
by South Florida Dental Care

More Information: N

Mouth Pain: Does It Always Require A Dentist?

Oral pain may arise due to a number of reasons besides dental issues. However, seeing as how dental issues are the most prevalent in that area of the body, most people immediately assume a mouth problem is a dental problem.

Do all instances of mouth pain require a visit to the dentist, though? Not necessarily… but in almost all instances, having a dentist check out what’s going wrong in your mouth can prove useful.

Not quite sold? Consider this: nearly 90 percent of diseases may cause symptoms in your mouth. Ninety percent!

Even if you are not ultimately dealing with something that is strictly a “dental” problem, getting a dentist’s professional opinion on your mouth pain is generally worthwhile.

Some general symptoms to look out for when caring for your oral health are:

Tooth, jaw, or gum pain

Teeth that are exhibiting looseness

Bad breath that recurs on a daily basis

Lumps, irregular patches, sores, and bruises in your mouth

If any of these symptoms are noticeable, you should consult with your dentist right away. They’ll either treat the issue or consult you to another healthcare professional for further treatment.

Let’s look at some specific types of mouth pain.

Toothache

Toothaches are the most prevalent form of dental pain. They are caused by the decaying of one’s teeth, abscessed teeth, gum infection, repetitive motions such as grinding teeth, fractured or sensitive teeth, and damaged fillings.

Symptoms of toothache include drainage from the affected tooth, headaches with a low fever, swelling in the gums or around the tooth, and – of course – pain in the tooth. This pain may be dull, throbbing, sharp, constant, or irregular. In some instances, pain may only result if pressure is applied to the teeth.

Does a toothache require a dentist? If it is severe, persists for more than a couple of days, and causes pain in your head, ears, jaw, or cheeks when you open your mouth – you better believe it!

Sore or Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums often indicate an underlying problem, such as an oral injury, complications arising due to pregnancy, brushing one’s teeth too vigorously, or inflammation. Sore gums can also be an indication of gum disease or gingivitis. If left untreated, this may develop into periodontitis.

They can also be an indication of some underlying condition, such as diabetes.

A visit to the dentist will tell you if you have gum disease and whether you need some advanced dental treatment, such as scaling or root planting. The dentist may refer you to another healthcare professional if the issue is a symptom of something else, such as oral thrush, or a gynecological issue resulting from pregnancy or menopause.

Lumps, Patches, Mouth Sores

Generally, these are a sign that you are suffering from either canker sores or fungal infection. However, they can also be a symptom of oral cancer, some signs of which may include: bleeding sores that do not heal, lumps inside your mouth, discolored tissue, shifting of teeth, and rough spots within your mouth.

Mouth Inflammation

Mouth inflammation causes pain, heat, swelling, and redness inside your mouth. There are two types of inflammation: acute and chronic.

Acute inflammation is caused by burning your mouth. For example, by consuming hot beverages. In most acute cases, the inflammation heals within a few hours. You do not need to get medical help except in the most serious cases of acute inflammation.

If you suffer from chronic inflammation, however, it’s better to get it checked by a dentist.

Why? Because chronic inflammation can be related to gum disease or something more serious, such as mouth cancer. Chronic inflammation can also be a symptom of heart disease or diabetes and may occur if you’re having a stroke.

Burning Mouth Syndrome

Burning Mouth Syndrome refers to the sensation of burning on your tongue, the roof of your mouth, or the inside of your cheeks. It’s characterized by a scalding sensation. If the pain doesn’t go away or worsens, you should see your dentist about it as soon as possible.

In some cases, it is related to stress, anxiety, and depression. In other cases, it’s linked to allergic reactions to toothpaste, mouthwash, or the material that dentures are made of. It might indicate a problem with one’s immune system, a hormonal imbalance, or nerve damage.

(12/06/2024)
by South Florida Dental Care

More Information: N

Understanding Polymorphous Adenocarcinoma

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma is a rare type of salivary gland cancer that usually occurs in small glands distributed throughout your mouth. The primary treatments are surgery and radiation therapy.

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma — previously known as polymorphous low grade adenocarcinoma — tends to be a slow-growing cancer that rarely spreads to other tissues.

Many people don’t have any noticeable symptoms when they receive their diagnosis.

The most common treatments for polymorphous adenocarcinoma are surgery and radiation therapy. Radiation therapy is usually only necessary if there’s a high risk your cancer may reoccur.

Like essentially all cancers, the outlook for polymorphous adenocarcinoma tends to be better the earlier it’s diagnosed and treated.

Keep reading to learn more about polymorphous adenocarcinoma, including symptoms, causes, and treatment.

What are the symptoms of polymorphous adenocarcinoma?

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma tends to grow slowly. Most people don’t have symptoms when they’re initially diagnosed. Swelling inside your mouth is the most common symptom.

The most common location for polymorphous adenocarcinoma is in the roof of your mouth, but it can also occur in other places such as the:

inner lips

floor of your mouth

edges of your tongue

Other potential symptoms of salivary cancers can include:

facial numbness

weakness in facial muscles

numbness in part of your face

pain in your:

face

jaw

neck

How aggressive is polymorphous adenocarcinoma?

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma has low metastatic (growth) potential, meaning it rarely spreads to distant body parts. Because of its slow growth, doctors can often successfully remove the tumor with surgery.

What causes polymorphous adenocarcinoma and who’s at risk?

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma is a rare salivary gland cancer that usually occurs in the minor salivary glands. It makes up about 3% of head and neck tumors.

Doctors don’t know exactly why some people develop polymorphous adenocarcinoma. Like other cancers, it develops when genetic changes in your cells cause them to replicate out of control.

PAC is most common in people in their 50s or 60s. It affects females about twice as often as males.

Salivary gland cancer risk factors

Risk factorsTrusted Source for salivary cancer in general include:

smoking, which is associated with an increased risk of Warthin tumorsTrusted Source but not other types of tumors

radiation exposure

infections with some types of viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV)

possibly HIV infection

possibly a diet low in vegetables and high in animal fat

possibly heavy cellphone use for parotid gland tumors, although current research is inconclusive

Some workplace exposures, such as nickel alloy dust or silica dust, may be linked to a higher risk of salivary cancer, but the link isn’t still certain. Other people at risk might include people who work in:

asbestos mining

plumbing

rubber products manufacturing

some types of woodworking

How do doctors diagnose polymorphous adenocarcinoma?

People often receive a diagnosis of salivary gland cancer after they develop swelling and visit their primary healthcare professional.

Initial tests for salivary gland cancer often include:

a review of your personal and family medical history

a review of your symptoms

a physical exam with a complete head and neck exam

If your primary healthcare professional thinks you need further tests, they may refer you to a specialist called an ear, nose, and throat doctor. They may perform or order additional tests such as:

Indirect pharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy: In this test, a doctor uses small mirrors to look at the back of your throat, the base of your tongue, and your voice box.

Direct pharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy: For this test, a doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube with a camera into your mouth or nose to assess areas that aren’t easy to see with mirrors.

Imaging: A doctor might also use imaging tests such as:

X-rays

CT scans

MRI

positron emission tomography (PET) scan

ultrasound

Not all salivary gland tumors are cancerous. A biopsy of your salivary gland is necessary to find out whether a tumor is cancerous and to differentiate it from other types of salivary gland cancer.

Types of biopsy you might receive include:

Fine needle aspiration biopsy: Fine needle aspiration involves taking a small amount of cells and fluid from a tumor with a needle.

Core needle biopsy: A core needle biopsy involves using a hollow needle to get a section of suspicious tissue and test it for cancer.

Incisional biopsy: An incisional biopsy involves using a knife to cut out a tiny piece of the tumor.

Surgery: Surgery involves removing the entire tissue sample. Your doctor might request it if they suspect cancer.

What are the treatment options for polymorphous adenocarcinoma?

The main treatments for polymorphous adenocarcinoma are surgeryTrusted Source and radiation therapyTrusted Source.

Surgery may involve removing the tumor and surrounding tissue or removing this tissue and some surrounding bone tissue. Removal of your neck lymph node is generally only necessary if there’s evidence that it’s spread.

Radiation therapy is generally only necessary at a high risk of having cancer reoccurrence. Your doctor might recommend radiation therapy if there are still signs of cancer cells at the edges of the tissue surgically removed. This is known as positive surgical margins.

Takeaway

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma is a rare salivary gland cancer that usually develops in one of hundreds of small salivary glands throughout your mouth. It tends to progress slowly and rarely spreads to other areas.

Doctors can often successfully treat polymorphous adenocarcinoma with surgery. If there’s a high risk that the cancer might return, they may recommend radiation therapy after surgery.

(12/05/2024)
by Healthline

More Information: N

How Common Is Mouth Cancer?

Mouth cancer affects the mouth area, lips, gums, and throat. This type of cancer is usually found in smokers, heavy drinkers, or people with a history of HPV. Adjusting certain lifestyle habits may reduce your risk.

Mouth cancer includes cancers of the mouth and back of the throat. If detected early, most forms of mouth cancer are treatable.

Early symptoms may not be very noticeable, but unusual symptoms in the mouth or throat area lasting longer than 2 weeks should prompt a doctor visit. Usually, mouth cancer is more common in people over 40, but it can also occur in younger people.

This article looks at how common mouth cancer is and where in the mouth it typically appears. It also examines the potential risk factors and treatment options.

How common is mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer, also called oral cancer, is a fairly common cancer. It makes up about 3% Trusted Sourceof all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States.

Additional mouth cancer incidence rates include:

Mouth cancer is 3 timesTrusted Source as common in people assigned male at birth than those assigned female at birth.

Overall, about 11.5 adultsTrusted Source per 100,000 will get mouth cancer.

An estimated 54,540 newTrusted Source mouth or throat cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2023.

There will be about 11,500Trusted Source deaths from mouth or throat cancer in 2023.

Mouth cancers are slightly more commonTrusted Source in white people than in Black people.

The incidence of mouth cancer increases with age, with an average diagnosis of 64 yearsTrusted Source.

Non-Hispanic white men over age 65 are the most likelyTrusted Source to contract mouth cancer.

Mouth cancers linked to HPV infectionTrusted Source increased yearly by 1.3% in people assigned female at birth and 2.8% in people assigned male at birth from 2015-2019.

Worldwide, Papua New Guinea had the highest overall rate of mouth cancers in 2020, followed by Bangladesh.

Where in the mouth does mouth cancer typically occur?

Mouth cancer is most likelyTrusted Source to occur on the tongue and floor of the mouth and on the lips. It can also be in the gums, cheeks, tonsils, salivary glands, the roof of the mouth, and throat area.

While some issues in and around the mouth may not be a cause for concern, contact a doctor or dentist if you have any of these symptoms for longer than 2 weeks:

a sore throat or feeling that something is caught in your throat

a red or white patch in your mouth

any irritation, sore, thick patch, or lump in your throat, lip, or mouth

difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking

difficulty moving your tongue or jaw

numbness in your mouth or tongue

ear pain

jaw swelling that causes dentures (if you have them) to be uncomfortable

What causes mouth cancer and who’s at risk?

The exact causes of mouth cancer are unknown, but the following risk factors increase your chances of mouth cancer developing:

Smoking: Most mouth cancers are related to or tobacco use. Any form of tobacco use will increase your risk of oral cancer. It’s estimated that about 90% of mouth cancers worldwide are due to tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or a combination of both.

Alcohol use: Heavy alcohol use is known to increase your risk. Heavy smoking and drinking combined will increase that risk further.

HPV: Infection with some forms of HPV can causeTrusted Source mouth cancers.

Age: People over 40 have a higher risk of mouth cancer.

Sun exposure: Too much sun exposure can also increase your mouth cancer risk.

Being male: People assigned male at birth are almost twiceTrusted Source as likely to get oral cancer.

How is mouth cancer treated?

Treatment depends on the cancer’s stage and the area of the mouth or throat that is affected. Generally, treatment options include:

Surgery: Surgery to remove cancerous areas is usually an initial treatment for all mouth cancers. In early stage or small cancers, this may be the only treatment needed. Depending on how large an area is removed, reconstructive surgery may also be needed.

Radiation therapy: Sometimes radiation therapy alone is used for small mouth cancers, such as in the lip area. It’s also used after surgery or along with chemotherapy to prevent recurrence or help manage later stage cancers.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used alone or combined with radiation in later stage mouth cancers.

Clinical trials: Many experts suggestTrusted Source that people with head and neck cancers consider a clinical trial, to possibly take advantage of newer treatments.

What’s the outlook for people with mouth cancer?

Mouth cancer is most treatable when diagnosed and addressed in an early stage. The type of mouth and throat cancer will also factor into the long-term outlook.

Generally, according to the SEERTrusted Source database, the average 5-year survival rateTrusted Source for all mouth and throat cancers is 68%. Several variables can influence the survival rate, such as:

the cancer’s stage at diagnosis

a person’s age and overall health

the type of cancer you have

your cancer’s general response to treatment.

Takeaway

Mouth and throat cancer is a fairly common type of cancer. It’s usually seen more in white men over the age of 40.

Overall, the lifetime riskTrusted Source of developing mouth cancer is about 1 in 60 for men and 1 in 141 for women. Black and Hispanic people are less likely to develop mouth cancer than white people.

If diagnosed early, mouth cancer can be treated. Treatment options may include surgery alone or surgery combined with radiation or chemotherapy.

Limiting tobacco and alcohol use and regular dental and oral health screenings can reduce your risk of developing mouth cancer.

(12/05/2024)
by Healthline

More Information: N

How Many Teeth Can Be Replaced?

Losing your natural adult teeth, whether due to injury, decay, or simply the effects of aging, can significantly impact your quality of life. Your teeth play an essential role in allowing you to eat, speak, and smile properly. Fortunately, a number of tooth replacement solutions exist in modern dentistry. With the right treatment plan, it’s possible to replace multiple missing teeth or even a full set of natural teeth.

But how many teeth can you realistically have replaced through current dental treatments? What key factors determine the number of teeth you should replace? This comprehensive guide examines the tooth replacement options available, considerations for treatment planning, and what’s involved when replacing several or all of your natural teeth.

Common Tooth Replacement Procedures and Restorations

Several types of artificial teeth and tooth restorations can bring back your beautiful, functional smile:

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are tiny titanium-alloy posts that your dentist surgically places into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over several months through the process of osseointegration. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root that can securely support one or more prosthetic teeth.

Implants can support three main types of tooth restorations:

Implant crowns – Individual tooth replica cemented onto an implant post.

Implant-supported bridges – Replacement teeth joined together and anchored on adjacent implants for a span of missing teeth.

Implant-retained dentures – Full or partial set of replacement teeth clipped or snapped into implants. Easier to insert and remove than fixed bridges.

Implants are considered the gold standard for tooth replacement due to their durability, natural look and feel, and long-term success rate. They also help maintain bone integrity since the implants integrate with the jawbone unlike removable dentures.

2. Dental Crowns

Crowns are tooth-shaped caps custom fabricated to fit over an existing tooth that has been prepared by filing it down. Crowns fully surround the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line to restore shape, size, and strength.

Crowns are commonly cement-retained to dental implants to replace single missing teeth. The crown essentially serves as the new artificial tooth.

3. Fixed Bridges

Traditional fixed bridges consist of artificial replacement teeth anchored to crowns cemented over adjacent natural teeth on each end. This provides a fixed non-removable prosthesis to fill a space left by one or more missing teeth.

The natural teeth supporting the bridge must be conditioned by reshaping them to serve as abutment teeth. Bridges typically require at least one healthy tooth on each side of the gap, or sometimes implants are used as anchors instead.

4. Removable Partial and Full Dentures

Removable dentures are prosthetic appliances made of durable acrylic resin that replaces some or all of the teeth with a set of artificial teeth. Partial dentures fill in areas of multiple missing teeth and have pink or gum-colored bases to blend with the gums. Conventional full dentures replace a whole upper or lower arch of teeth.

Dentures typically attach to nearby natural teeth with metal clasps and are removable by the patient as needed. Some newer partial dentures snap or clip securely into dental implants for added stability and retention.

5. All-on-4 Full Arch Dental Implants

The All-on-4 technique uses 4-6 dental implants strategically placed in the jawbone to support a full set of artificial teeth via a fixed bridge or hybrid denture. The implants bear the chewing load, avoiding the need to rely on the bone or soft tissue for support.

All-on-4 provides a full dental arch reconstruction in one visit if adequate bone volume exists. The prosthetic teeth are fixed permanently into place, providing immediate function for eating and speaking.

6. Full Arch Fixed Implant Bridges

Placing at least 6 dental implants per arch provides stability for a permanent fixed bridge of replacement teeth. The bridge is securely screwed into the implants, usually in the lab before placement. More implants means less load on each one and enhanced comfort and function.

For patients who qualify based on their bone condition, full arch bridges over multiple implants provide a highly functional and natural tooth replacement option. Maintenance is also relatively minimal compared to other restoration types.

Key Factors in Determining Teeth to Replace

Several important considerations help determine appropriate tooth replacement plans:

Your budget – Cost goes up for more implants versus removable options like partial dentures. Dental insurance may cover some procedures.

Existing oral anatomy – Need healthy natural teeth to support certain bridges. Sufficient bone volume for every implant site.

Lifestyle factors – Implants and fixed bridges usually better for more active lifestyles versus removable dentures.

Restorative goals – Fixed bridges or implants provide superior aesthetics compared to removable options. The number of teeth showing affects your smile.

Adjunct treatments – Some patients need bone grafting, ridge expansion, or sinus lift procedures to place implants.

Oral health maintenance – Keeping excellent hygiene around restorations needed to prevent complications.

Thorough planning with your dentist is required to decide the optimal tooth replacement solutions suited to your specific needs, desires, and overall health. There are often multiple excellent options in terms of treatment planning.

What’s Involved in Replacing Multiple Missing Teeth

Patients who are missing several non-adjacent teeth have various effective options for replacing them. Implants offer an excellent solution as they can be strategically placed to support crowns that fill in the gaps left by the missing teeth. Planning implant position carefully based on remaining natural teeth and tissue anatomy is crucial.

For short spans of one to three consecutive missing teeth, dental bridges anchored to healthy adjacent teeth may be an option. This assumes the supporting abutment teeth are sound. Combining bridges between certain teeth and implants to replace others in the same arch can work well.

Removable partial dentures remain a viable and affordable option to replace several missing upper or lower teeth in a row or spread apart. Modern partial denture materials and attachment systems provide a comfortable, natural, and functional restoration. Flexible partials that use thermoplastic nylon frameworks are also very comfortable and have no metal clasps.

The optimal combination of tooth replacement appliances for multiple missing teeth depends on your specific conditions. A tailored mix of options can effectively restore form and function.

What’s Required to Replace All Teeth in One Arch?

Patients who require replacement of all upper or lower teeth have various excellent options, including:

Conventional Full Dentures

Traditional complete dentures have been used for generations to replace a whole arch of missing teeth. Made of durable acrylic resin, full dentures rest on the gums and remaining alveolar bone to stay in place. Regular denture adhesives can improve retention further. Today’s denture materials provide a comfortable, natural fit and appearance.

All-on-4 Full Arch Implants

The All-on-4 concept uses just 4-6 dental implants placed at precise positions in the jawbone to support a full arch prosthesis. The implants provide immediate stability and stimulation to the bone. With adequate bone volume no grafting is required.

The replacement teeth attach via abutments to the implants which bear all the chewing load. All-on-4 provides a fixed, non-removable set of teeth in as little as one appointment if pre-fabricated components are used.

Full Arch Fixed Bridges Over Implants

Placing 6-10 dental implants per arch gives excellent support for a permanent bridge or fixed hybrid denture. More implants means less load on each one and reduced pressure on the bone. With good bone quality and volume, all upper or lower teeth can be replaced with a stable prosthesis on implants.

ull arch fixed implant restorations provide superior stability and often a better quality of life over removable options. However, higher cost is a factor, and maintenance requirements are still needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Teeth

How many dental implants can be placed for a full arch restoration?

The number of implants that can be placed depends on available bone quality and volume at strategic locations. But generally 6-8 implants on each arch provides solid support for full mouth rehabilitation.

Can all teeth be extracted and replaced with dentures or implants in one visit?

Immediate full arch restoration is possible in select cases with advanced planning. But typically multiple visits are needed to extract teeth, contour bone, place implants, and insert prostheses over several months.

Is it better to do the upper or lower full mouth restoration first?

The maxillary arch is often prioritized first since lower teeth provide chewing force. But ensure adequate tooth replacement in both arches for proper bite alignment and to prevent bone loss.

What are the benefits of fixed implant teeth over removable dentures?

Dental implants fuse with the jawbone preventing bone loss compared to dentures. They have higher stability and retention for better comfort. And there are no restrictions on foods you can eat. However, implant procedures are more invasive and cost is higher.

Can dental implants and dentures ever be used together?

Yes, full or partial removable dentures can clip or snap onto implants for added retention and stability. These implant-supported dentures are less likely to slip and can feel more natural.

Conclusion

Losing your natural permanent teeth can negatively impact your quality of life. But modern dentistry offers many advanced replacements from single implants to full mouth restorations. With thorough planning, it’s possible to replace all or most of your teeth with comfortable, functional, and visually appealing solutions.

Implants provide the most natural and durable replacement options. Fixed implant-supported bridges and arches can effectively restore your entire upper or lower smile line. Removable partial and full dentures also remain excellent tooth replacement appliances. Combined options are also possible based on your specific needs and goals.

Consulting closely with your general dentist, prosthodontist, periodontist, and/or oral surgeon will guide you through the best options and sequence of treatment for your situation. Be sure to discuss all your concerns, desires, and expectations.

Replacing multiple teeth or even your entire set of natural teeth is a big decision and investment. But with modern techniques and materials, many solutions exist for achieving a beautiful smile you can be confident in again.

(12/04/2024)
by CDHP Dental Health Project

More Information: N

What to Do if a Dental Abscess Bursts on Its Own?

Few dental conditions are more unpleasant than abscesses, and if one bursts in your mouth, it can be both alarming and painful. It’s much better to see a dentist before it reaches this point, but sometimes it can occur because we don’t spot the abscess in time.

If this happens to you, the recommended action is to see a dentist as soon as you can, but even before this, there are certain actions you need to take – and to help you understand what they are, in this post we explain what to do if a dental abscess bursts on its own.

If you want to learn more about dental abscesses and get a preview of some of the things we’re going to be talking about, you can also watch this video before reading on.

What to Do if a Dental Abscess Bursts on Its Own The short answer

If you’re reading this because you have an abscess that’s just bust, you’re probably not interested in reading about a lot of theory – so let’s get straight to the point. Then, if you want to learn more about abscesses, you’ll find more info below.

So what should you do?

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1. Remain calm

The first thing to remember if an abscess bursts spontaneously in your mouth is to remain calm.

It might be an upsetting experience and you may be in some pain or discomfort, but by remaining calm and in control of the situation, you will be able to take the necessary actions to resolve the immediate issues.

Step 2. Rinse your mouth

Mix up a saline solution consisting of one teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and use it to rinse your mouth. It’s important to make sure the water is only lukewarm but not hot.

Swill the solution around in your mouth for around 30 seconds and then spit. Repeat the process two or three times to make sure your mouth is clean and the abscess has been disinfected by the saline solution.

Step 3. Manage the pain and swelling

After the abscess bursts, you may experience some pain or swelling, so your next concern should be to manage this.

The best way to do this is to apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek where the abscess burst. This will help reduce the pain and swelling.

If the pain is more intense, you can also help to alleviate it by taking over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen. However, make sure you don’t take more than the recommended dose as explained on the package.

Step 4. Book an emergency appointment with a dentist

A burst abscess is considered a dental emergency, so your next step should be to book an appointment with a dentist at the earliest possible opportunity. Preferably, you should see a dentist the same day – or the next day at the latest.

If you’re finding it difficult to speak, you can ask somebody else to book the appointment for you.

Step 5. Continue to keep your mouth clean

Hopefully, you will be able to see a dentist very quickly, but in the meantime, you will need to ensure your mouth remains clean.

Continue to brush at least twice a day and preferably after meals too. You should also floss once a day.

Be careful when brushing around the site of the abscess so as not to irritate it further.

You should also use an antimicrobial mouthwash – or a saline solution if you don’t have mouthwash – to prevent the abscess from developing further infection.

Also, it’s highly recommended that you avoid smoking or drinking alcohol until after you have seen a dentist.

What is a dental abscess?

So now we’ve discussed the procedure you need to follow if an abscess bursts in your mouth, we can talk in a bit more detail about abscesses.

Let’s start at the beginning – what is a dental abscess?

A dental abscess is an infection of the mouth, face, jaw or throat that may begin as an infection in a gum, a tooth or a cavity. After the infection starts, the abscess will develop into a painful pocket of pus that is at risk of bursting in your mouth.

They are most common in people with poor dental health, and taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent them from occurring.

Generally speaking, there are three types of dental abscess:

Periapical

This is the most common type of dental abscess and occurs when bacteria infect the pulp inside a tooth.

Periodontal

This kind of abscess occurs when bacteria infect the gums.

Gingival

This is the name given to an abscess caused by something like a food particle or a piece of broken tooth becoming stuck in the gum. This type of abscess can be extremely painful.

An important point to bear in mind is that dental abscesses don’t heal by themselves, so if you suspect you have one, you shouldn’t put off booking an appointment with a dentist because the quicker you have it looked at, the easier it will be to heal.

Treatment of a dental abscess

Treatment of an abscess will depend on the severity of the abscess and how far it has developed.

In some cases, a dentist will simply need to drain the pus and then treat the infection through the prescription of antibiotics.

However, if the abscess is more developed, the dentist may need to treat it with additional procedures, which may include root canal treatment or scaling and root planing.

(12/04/2024)
by CDHP Dental Health Project

More Information: N

Fixing Mouth Issues: Tips for three Common Problems

Understanding the Basics of Oral Health

Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being. Your mouth is not only the gateway to your body but also an indicator of your overall health. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to various problems, ranging from bad breath to serious dental issues. In this article, we’ll delve into three common mouth problems and provide effective tips for fixing them.

1.- Dealing with Bad Breath

Identifying the Causes

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and impact your confidence. It can stem from various factors, including poor oral hygiene, certain foods, smoking, dry mouth, or underlying health conditions.

Effective Solutions

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath.

Use Mouthwash: Rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath.

Limit Odorous Foods: Minimize consumption of foods like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes that can leave a lingering odor.

Quit Smoking: Smoking not only stains your teeth but also contributes to bad breath. Consider quitting to improve your oral health and overall well-being.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and to address any underlying dental issues contributing to bad breath.

2.- Combatting Tooth Sensitivity

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, characterized by discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, can significantly impact your quality of life. It occurs when the underlying dentin layer becomes exposed due to receding gums or enamel erosion.

Tips for Relief

Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Opt for toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth, containing ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride to help alleviate sensitivity.

Practice Proper Brushing Techniques: Avoid aggressive brushing, as it can exacerbate sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions when brushing.

Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages: Acidic foods and drinks can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. Limit consumption of citrus fruits, sodas, and acidic beverages.

Consider Fluoride Treatments: Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments or varnishes to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Use a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your enamel and alleviate sensitivity.

Address Underlying Issues: If tooth sensitivity persists, consult your dentist to rule out underlying dental problems such as cavities or gum disease.

3.- Preventing and Treating Gum Disease

Recognizing Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, ranges from mild gingivitis to more severe forms that can lead to tooth loss. It’s caused by bacteria in plaque, which can irritate and inflame the gums if not properly removed.

Steps for Prevention and Treatment

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help remove plaque and prevent gum disease.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine dental visits are essential for professional cleanings and early detection of gum disease.

Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens your immune system and increases your risk of gum disease. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health.

Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nutrients for gum health. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages, which can contribute to plaque buildup.

Professional Treatment: In cases of advanced gum disease, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or surgical intervention to remove tartar and restore gum health.

Conclusion

Maintaining optimal oral health requires a combination of proper oral hygiene practices, a healthy lifestyle, and regular dental care. By addressing common mouth problems such as bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and gum disease proactively, you can ensure a healthy and confident smile for years to come.

(12/03/2024)
by Joannah David

More Information: N

How to Manage Brittle Teeth

Did you know your tooth enamel is stronger than your bones? So, if your teeth chip or fracture easily, there's usually an underlying reason your teeth are so brittle.

It's essential to find the cause for your brittle teeth so that you can seek treatment – or at least learn to care properly for them to fortify your smile.

What Causes Brittle Teeth?

Though tooth enamel is tough, several habits and conditions can cause the enamel structure to weaken and the teeth to become brittle.

So, if your teeth are prone to breaking, it might be due to one of the following causes:

Grinding and Clenching Teeth: These habits wear away dental enamel.

Poor Oral Care: Decay, cavities, and lack of pulp can all result in brittle teeth, due to:

Inadequate brushing, which eventually destroys the tooth pulp

Overbrushing, which can erode enamel

Lack of or inadequate fluoride, which defends your teeth against all sorts of bad elements.

Nutritional Deficiencies: A range of vitamins and minerals are essential for healthy dental enamel. When your body is deficient in these essential nutrients, your teeth can weaken.

For example, research published in General Dentistry, the peer-reviewed journal of the United States Academy of General Dentistry, found that vitamin A deficiency causes tooth brittleness. And a lack of vitamin D results in poor absorption of minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for enamel strength.

The main causes of nutritional deficiencies are eating disorders and poor diets in general. Also, some medications prevent your body from absorbing nutrients.

Acids: Eating disorders can sometimes result in acid damage to enamel if a person vomits frequently or sucks on lemon wedges.

Other conditions and habits that produce enamel-weakening acids include:

Gastroesophageal acid reflux disease (GERD)

Severe morning sickness

Too much sugary food and beverages (especially fizzy drinks).

Dentinogenesis Imperfecta: In this inherited condition, the dentin doesn't form correctly, resulting in the abnormal formation of the middle layer of the teeth. This results in:

The teeth becoming discoloured

The teeth possibly becoming weaker, resulting in fracturing.

Dehydration and Dry Mouth: If your body's not producing enough beneficial saliva to clean your mouth and neutralise acids, this can cause issues leading to brittle teeth.

Ageing Teeth: When people age, the pulp and nerves supplying the teeth shrink, an article published in the University of Missouri Extension explains. This process reduces the amount of fluid moving into the tooth enamel. Dry dental enamel is weaker and more prone to breakage.

Older teeth have also received more exposure to chewing forces and acids that gradually cause thinner, more brittle enamel.

We want your teeth to be as strong and healthy as possible, so check out the available treatments for brittle teeth and learn the numerous ways you can manage your life to prevent or reduce the chances of having brittle teeth.

Brittle Teeth Treatments

Sorry to report that tooth enamel doesn't regrow. But dentists can treat brittle teeth to improve the enamel's strength. Ask your dental professional about these treatments:

Fluoride supplements and fluoride gels to remineralise teeth

Dental sealants to the chewing surfaces to protect teeth from fractures and decay

Veneers, thin shells that cover the teeth, to help prevent tooth breakage

Crowns, thicker and strong coverings for teeth, to help prevent cavities and breaks, especially after a root canal procedure.

Managing or Preventing Brittle Teeth

Fragile teeth require special care, but there are many actions you can take to achieve a healthy and attractive smile:

Ask about veneers or crowns to cover up the damage if your teeth are already chipped or fractured.

Treat causes affecting your sleep and eating behaviours with relaxation techniques, behaviour therapy, or psychotherapy. Ask your dentist and doctor to advise you on the help you deserve.

Seek medical attention for conditions that produce acid reflux or excessive vomiting.

Reduce the wear and tear on your teeth with a mouthguard to wear at night.

Talk with your doctor about your medications. Perhaps you can find substitutes that won't cause dry mouth and will let you absorb essential nutrients.

Sip water only throughout the day.

Consume a healthy diet that includes calcium-rich dairy products, plus fruit and vegetables. And avoid eating/drinking acidic or sugary foods/beverages that might damage tooth enamel.

Break your sugar habit or addiction. Need some help? The United States Cleveland Clinic offers a 10-day plan.

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste on a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Brittle teeth don't have to hold you back. With a proper diagnosis of the cause, treatment and management techniques can improve the strength and appearance of your teeth – and your smile.

(12/03/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/threats-to-dental-health/how-to-manage-brittle-teeth

Mouth Conditions That Can Cause Pain

Sometimes we experience mouth pain and we ignore it thinking its from a minor reason, but sometimes when we ignore mouth pain, it means we are ignoring major oral issues. If your pain persists for a long period you should consult your doctor. Here are some mouth diseases that can cause pain:

1. Mouth ulcers

One reason for mouth pain can mouth ulcers, a condition caused by ill-fitting dentures, fractured teeth, or fillings. The symptoms include burning mouth, facial pain, and mandibular pain. If the pain persists for more than 3 weeks it should be discussed with your doctor. Usually ulcers related to these traumas resolve within a week after removing the cause. You can use anti-inflammatory and anesthetic throat spray for temporary relief. A good mouth wash should be used to maintain oral hygiene, you can also use our home remedies.

2. Abscessed Tooth

Another painful cause of dental pain is an abscessed tooth, an infection in your tooth. If your tooth pain is keeping you awake at night it can be due to an abscess which is more than just a toothache. Those with weak immune systems often get them. The middle part of an abscess is painful when touched. You should not push your infected abscess as it forces the infection deeper into tissues. The pain can be avoided temporarily with painkillers or natural remedies, like chewing a whole clove or using a used tea bag. This condition cannot be treated with painkillers and you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Avoid very hot or cold food and drinks. A root canal is the usual recommended treatment.

3. Oral candidiasis (Thrush)

This is a fungal infection of the oral mucosa caused by poor dental health, local trauma, diabetes, severe anemia, malnutrition, deficiency of iron, folate and vitamin B12, immuno-suppression, smoking, or drug use. It causes pain when eating and drinking and alters the sense of taste. Consult your doctor regarding the pain and its possible cause.

4. Painful tongue

A sore tongue can be caused by oral thrush or anemia. If you are feeling pain on your tongue without having bitten or burnt your tongue, its recommended to see your doctor. If you wear dentures clean them as often as you would clean your original teeth. Dentures should be brushed before soaking them to remove food particles. Its important to maintain good oral hygiene.

5. Gum Gingivitis or sore gums

Painful gums may be due to inflammation of gums known as gingivitis. There are several causes including hormonal changes during pregnancy. Its important to take care of your gums and keep them healthy. You can massage your gums with your finger tip. If the pain persists consult your doctor and should treat it accordingly. Pain in gums is also caused by localized sores.

(12/02/2024)
by Positive Med

More Information: https://www.positivemed.com/2014/02/05/5-mouth-conditions-can-cause-pain/

Teeth and Gum Care

With proper care, your teeth and gums can stay healthy throughout your life. The healthier your teeth and gums are, the less risk you have for tooth decay and gum disease.

How Should I Care for My Teeth and Gums?

There are four basic steps to caring for teeth and gums:

Brushing

Flossing

Eating right

Visiting the dentist

Tips for Brushing

Brush at least twice a day. If you can, brush after every meal. Brushing removes plaque, a film of bacteria that clings to teeth. When bacteria in plaque come into contact with food, they produce acids. These acids lead to cavities. To brush:

Place a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste on the head of the toothbrush. (Use a soft toothbrush.)

Place the toothbrush against the teeth at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.

Move the brush across the teeth using a small circular motion. Continue with this motion cleaning one tooth at a time. Keep the tips of the bristles against the gum line. Avoid pressing so hard that the bristles lie flat against the teeth. (Only the tips of the toothbrush clean the teeth.) Let the bristles reach into spaces between teeth.

Brush across the top of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Make sure the bristles get into the groves and crevices.

Use the same small circular motion to clean the backside of the upper and lower teeth -- the side that faces the tongue.

To clean the inside of the bottom front teeth, angle the head in an up-and-down position toward the bottom inside of the mouth and move the toothbrush in a small circle.

For the inside of the top front teeth, angle the brush in an up-and-down position with the tip of the head pointing towards the roof of the mouth. Move the toothbrush in a small circle.

Give your tongue a few gentle brush strokes, brushing from the back of your tongue forward. Do not scrub. This helps remove bacteria and freshens your breath.

After brushing your teeth for two to three minutes, rinse your mouth with water.

Replace your toothbrush with a new one every 3 to 4 months.

Tips for Flossing

Floss once a day. Flossing gets rid of food and plaque between the teeth, where your toothbrush cannot reach. If plaque stays between teeth, it can harden into tartar, which must be removed by a dentist. To floss:

Remove about an 18-inch strip of floss from the dispenser.

Wind the floss around the middle fingers of each hand, leaving a 1-inch section open for flossing. Floss the top teeth first, then the bottom.

Place the floss in your mouth and use your index fingers to push the floss between the teeth. Be careful not to push too hard and injure the gums.

Move the floss up and down against the tooth and up and around the gum line. The floss should form a C-shape around the tooth as you floss.

Floss between each tooth as well as behind the back teeth.

Use a clean section of floss as needed and take up used floss by winding it around the fingers.

Tips for Eating Right

Eat a variety of foods but eat fewer foods that contain sugars and starches. These foods produce the most acids in the mouth and the longer they stay in the mouth, the more they can damage the teeth. Hard "sucking candies" are especially harmful because they stay in the mouth a long time.

Snacking on sugary foods can lead to tooth decay because most people don't brush after snacks. Starchy snack foods, like potato chips, stick to the teeth. Avoid snacking on:

Candies, cookies, cakes and pie

Sugary gum

Crackers, breadsticks and chips

Dried fruits and raisins

Dental Check-Ups

Visit your dentist at least once every six months. To maintain healthy teeth and gums, it's important to have regular check-ups and professional cleanings. You should also see your dentist if you have pain in your teeth or mouth or bleeding, swollen gums.

You can also ask your dentist about dental sealants. Sealant is a material used to coat the top, chewing surfaces of the teeth. This coating protects the tooth from decay and usually lasts a long time.

(12/02/2024)
by Medicinenet

More Information: N

Who Knew Brushing Your Teeth Could Be Life Saving?

Our parents, our dentists and popular culture have always touted the benefits of great oral health care — brushing your teeth, flossing regularly, and visiting your dentist at least twice a year.

What a lot of people don’t realize is that good oral care extends beyond your teeth, gums and mouth. Here are some studies that suggest that good oral health can also help reduce heart disease, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.

Heart Disease and Gum Disease

People who have gum disease are two to three times more likely to have heart disease, according to Harvard Health Publishing, although there may not be a direct link. Harvard suggests that people who don’t follow good oral health likely don’t follow other overall good health practices, which is why there is a link between people who have gum disease (periodontitis) and people who have heart disease.

With that said, how, then, does good oral health contribute to good cardiac health? Oral health extends beyond merely brushing and flossing your teeth. It also involves decreasing your sugar intake, quitting smoking, and losing weight. There are some studies that suggest that inflammation in the mouth can cause or worsen inflammation of blood vessels. Also, an increase in plaque in the mouth has a link to plaque in blood vessels.

Osteoporosis and Oral Care

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become less dense and more brittle. It is more common among older people, and more common among women than men. One of the risks with osteoporosis is fractures.

According to the NIH’s Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, there is a strong connection between bone loss (osteoporosis) and tooth loss. In fact, women who have osteoporosis are three times more likely to lose their teeth as well.

Does one cause the other? The NIH says that isn’t clear. There’s a link but not necessarily a cause and effect. People who do not eat good diets are more likely to experience osteoporosis and periodontitis.

Bottom line: Visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. Board certified dentists are trained to identify signs of bone decay, which can be a signal of bone loss throughout the skeletal system.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Dental Care

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation, pain and swelling in the body’s tissues and joints.

The research here is less about whether there is a direct link or cause-and-effect relationship between RA and oral health. It’s more about how practicing good oral health is even more important for people who suffer from autoimmune diseases.

An article published on Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center explains that some medications that RA patients take can also cause some mouth ulcers and other oral problems. That is why it is very important to brush and floss your teeth, as well as use a high quality mouthwash that not only protects against plaque buildup but also contains fluoride to promote remineralization.

Bottom line: Everyone should practice good oral health, but it is especially important for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases in order to prevent the spread of infections and tooth decay.

Diabetes and Oral Health

While poor oral hygiene does not cause diabetes, it is important for people who have diabetes or are at risk for it to step up their dental care. Why? Diabetes sufferers are at higher risk for periodontal disease. Also, diabetes slows healing, so healthy gums and teeth lessen the risk for infection or diseases that originate in your mouth.

Bottom line: If you have diabetes or are at risk for it, step up your brushing, flossing and preventive dental care. Good oral health care could be the difference between living well with diabetes and struggling with it.

Healthy Mouth, Healthy You

The American Dental Association recommends the following for your oral health:

● Brush your teeth twice a day.

● Floss or use an interdental cleaner (like a dental pick) once a day.

● Add an alcohol-free mouthwash if needed, as per your dentist.

● See your dentist twice a year for regular checkups, cleanings and X-rays.

● Don’t smoke.

● See your dentist if you note signs of gum disease (bleeding, swelling, tenderness, odor).

(11/30/2024)
by Pittsburgh Healthcare Report

More Information: https://www.pittsburghhealthcarereport.com/who-knew-brushing-your-teeth-could-be-life-saving-how-good-oral-health-care-can-reduce-other-health-risks/

How Do You Fix Dentin Hypersensitivity?

Dentin hypersensitivity is a common condition caused by exposed dentin, which can result in severe, persistent pain and discomfort. Although it can affect people of any age group, it is mostly seen in people between ages 20-40.

Common triggers for dentin hypersensitivity include:

Thermal (hot or cold foods)

Chemical (sour foods)

Tactile (hard foods)

How is dentin hypersensitivity fixed?

After taking a detailed history of your condition and identifying predisposing factors, your dentist may recommend:

At-home desensitizing therapy in mild to moderate cases

In-office desensitizing therapy or clinic treatment sessions if the pain is very severe or home therapy isn’t working

Endodontic therapy in extreme cases

At-home desensitizing therapy

Your dentist may advise you to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and give you toothpaste, mouthwash, chewing gum, etc., that contain desensitizing agents such as potassium nitrate, potassium chloride, or potassium citrate. Potassium causes diffusion (transport) along the dentinal tubules (internal dentin structure) and reduces the excitability of the interdental nerve fibers by blocking the axonic action.

In-office desensitizing therapy

This therapy can provide immediate relief from symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity. In-office desensitizing agents are materials that undergo a setting reaction (glass ionomer cement and composites) and those that do not undergo a setting reaction (varnishes and oxalates).

Either of these is applied over the dentin as a replacement of the enamel and helps form a protective cover that reduces tooth sensitivity.

Endodontic therapy

This involves removing the dentin-pulp complex of the affected tooth and filling it up. It is commonly known as root canal therapy.

What causes dentin hypersensitivity?

Our teeth are covered with a hard cement-like structure called enamel, under which lies the dentin layer, which has numerous nerve endings.

If there is loss of the protective layer of enamel due to abrasion or tooth decay and the dentin is exposed, this can cause excessive stimulation of the nerve endings and lead to severe pain or discomfort.

How is dentin hypersensitivity diagnosed?

People with dentin hypersensitivity may have symptoms such as chipped or fractured enamel or tooth decay. Many complain of pain or irritation when that part of the tooth is exposed to hot or cold foods.

To assess the severity of the condition, your dentist may apply slight pressure or a jet of air on the affected tooth and monitor your response.

How can dentin hypersensitivity be prevented?

It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene on a regular basis, which can help prevent tooth decay and damage to the enamel.

Poor hygiene, faulty brushing techniques, using a toothbrush with hard bristles, using abrasive toothpaste, and excessive scrubbing can lead to erosion of the enamel layer.

(11/30/2024)
by Medicinenet

More Information: N

What Are the Signs of Dental Implant Failure?

Dental implant treatment is applied to obtain aesthetics and function similar to the natural tooth in cases where the natural tooth cannot be treated. Implant is a combination of the Latin words in and planto, which means to place inside. The process of placing implant teeth is called implantation.

Dental implants are among the reliable restoration methods in the prosthetic treatment of congenital or acquired jaw disorders, which are placed in place of the lost tooth or teeth. Generally, dental implants consist of three parts: titanium body, abutment and a natural tooth-like crown.

Successful treatments performed by a dentist specialised in the field of prosthetic dental treatment, with the correct treatment planning, the patient’s compliance with the physician’s warnings during the treatment process and the quality materials used can be used for many years.

Conditions such as age, genetics, systemic and oral diseases, medications, smoking and alcohol use, nutrition, pregnancy, suitability of the jawbone for the application are among the patient-dependent factors and are evaluated separately by the dentist in treatment planning. Some precautions to be taken before implant treatment increase the success of the implant after early and long-term use.

Symptoms frequently encountered in unsuccessful dental implant applications; severe and continuous toothache, infection and long-term swelling in the gums, movement of the implanted tooth to the extent that the patient can notice, inability to stay fixed in place, dislocation or fracture, gingival recession in the implanted area, difficulty and pain in biting, chewing functions, difficulty in speaking, numbness and tingling in the tongue and lips due to nerve damage caused by implants positioned at an incorrect angle close to the nerve, pain and infection due to damage to neighbouring teeth, allergic reaction to the material used.

Necessary treatments are applied to problems in the teeth, gums and jawbone caused by unsuccessful applications. If there is a loss of bone tissue, bone graft treatment is expected to be completed to improve the area. After the necessary healing process, implant treatment can be started again when the risk factors of various diseases are evaluated and the implant is ready for application.

Implant success and lifetime can be increased by taking into account the dentist’s recommendations on nutrition and oral care during and after the treatment process. After the treatment, the patient is called for controls at intervals of 3-6 months. Dental radiographic controls are performed every 18-24 months to observe the change in the implanted bone tissue.

(11/29/2024)
by Antalya Dent Smile

More Information: https://antalyadentsmile.com/what-are-the-signs-of-dental-implant-failure.html

Four Ways To Keep Up Good Dental Hygiene As You Get Older

Good dental hygiene and oral care habits are important at any age. But as you get older, you might find yourself wondering if your dental routine needs some tweaking, or if certain life changes have also caused changes in your mouth. Whether you have all of your original teeth, some of them or a full set of dentures, diligently caring for your mouth is just as important when you get older as it was when you were a kid.

1.- Fluoride Is Still Important

Fluoride isn't just for children. Even if you're over 50, it's still important to protect the surface of your teeth and ward off decay. The Mayo Clinic notes that older individuals have an increased risk for cavities, making it doubly important for you to make sure fluoride is a part of your daily routine. When brushing – twice a day – use a fluoride toothpaste. Drinking fluoridated tap water can also help you defend against tooth decay as you get older. If you are particularly concerned about cavities or have had a few as you've aged, your dentist might even give you an in-office fluoride treatment for an added level of protection.

2.- Watch Out for Dry Mouth

Although getting older doesn't necessarily make dry mouth more likely, certain features of aging, such as more regular medications or a chronic condition, can increase your risk for dry mouth – along with cavities or decay. Dry mouth can also affect the fit of your dentures, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, often causing chafing between the dentures and your gums.

If you suffer from dry mouth, there are a few improvements you can make to your dental hygiene to reduce your symptoms. You can use a moisturizing mouthwash or spray, or chew sugar-free gum, which encourages the production of saliva. Another option is to use an artificial saliva product, often available from the pharmacy without a prescription. According to the American Dental Association, it contains ingredients that allow it to closely mimic real saliva.

You can also consult your doctor or dentist if your dry mouth is caused by medication. Adjusting your dose or trying a new medicine can help alleviate certain symptoms.

3.- Caring for Your Dentures

According to the American College of Prosthodontists, more than 178 million people in the United States are missing at least one tooth, and tooth loss is more likely to occur in older people. If you're among that group, it's still important to take care of those dentures just as you would care for real teeth. Use a toothpaste that is specially made for dentures, and make sure you clean them on a daily basis. You'll also want to brush your gums and tongue with a soft toothbrush to remove any bacteria and food particles from your mouth. If you have partial dentures, be sure to floss between the implants before you put the dentures back in. Your dentist can give you specific instructions on taking care of your dentures, so that they last as long as possible.

4.- Don't Forget about Gum Disease

Whether or not you have all of your real teeth, gum disease remains a big concern among older individuals. A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that nearly 64 percent of adults over age 65 had severe or moderate periodontitis in 2009 and 2010. Albeit common, gum disease doesn't have to be a cost of getting older. Maintaining good dental hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly will help you prevent it or treat it quickly.

A healthy smile looks great at any age. Keeping up with good hygiene habits, visiting your dentist regularly and making changes to your routine as your body changes will help you keep a great-looking smile for life.

(11/29/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/oral-care-age-55-up/four-ways-to-keep-up-good-dental-hygiene-as-you-get-older-1014

What To Look For In An Endodontist

If you find yourself needing a root canal, your dentist will likely refer you to an endodontist. Many of us have little to no experience with dental care outside of regular cleanings. If you fall into this category, the term endodontist may be new to you.

You may even ask yourself, how is an endodontist different than a dentist. Learning more about this dental specialty and what to look for will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re selecting the best endodontist in Ellicott City.

If you’re in need of an endodontist, reach out to Dr. Lina Jarboe and Dr. Burton Waxman at Access Endodontics today. You can reach our team at 410.936.4478 or connect with us online to learn more.

What Are Endodontics?

This particular field of dentistry focuses on the study and treatment of the inner tooth, including the dental pulp. An endodontist’s job generally revolves around saving and preserving teeth that are damaged, decayed, or that have suffered an injury. While your dentist covers the regular checkups, fillings, and cosmetic procedures, your endodontist will diagnose and resolve tooth pain. They use specialized technology to perform procedures that are beyond a general dentist’s capabilities.

Typically, endodontics will perform root canals and other procedures based on referrals. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, reach out to your dentist right away.

Qualities of a Great Endodontist

When you need a serious dental procedure done, you want to know you’re in the hands of a professional you can trust. To ensure that your endodontist is that sort of professional, be sure that they have the following four qualities.

Proper Qualifications

Endodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that requires two extra years of postdoctoral education at an accredited dental school. The person providing your endodontics services should have received this education at an accredited institution by the American Dental Association (ADA). This signifies that your endodontist has displayed a high level of expertise and knowledge in their field of study and has passed rigorous testing from certified professionals.

Specialization in Your Area of Need

Endodontics is a specialized area of dentistry. Finding an endodontist with experience, chairside manner and knowledge, will ensure that you have a positive visit. Some endodontists are highly specialized, focusing on a specific procedure. For example, certain endodontists have built their reputation off of root canal procedures. They may be great at what they do, but they also may not be the dental professional you’re looking for if you need anything other than a root canal. Your dentist should refer you to an endodontist that skillset matches the services you require.

Use of Cutting-Edge Technology

Endodontics, just like all other fields of dentistry, relies heavily on technological advances that allow practitioners to perform their procedures with greater ease, greater precision, and with less pain and recovery time for the patient. The use of cutting-edge technology requires dental professionals continually enhance their skillset and obtain additional training. When your endodontist uses the latest technologies and treatment techniques, it shows a willingness for continued learning and a desire to invest their time in providing patients with the best experience possible.

Good Chairside Manner

Qualifications, expertise, and cutting-edge technology are certainly important qualities of a great endodontist. But if your doctor is unfriendly, or unaccommodating, it can make your endodontic procedure more complicated than necessary. To find out if your endodontist has a good chairside manner, you can look up “endodontics Ellicott City” and read some reviews for the top results. Otherwise, you can stop in and have a preliminary meeting with one before your procedure is performed.

(11/28/2024)
by Access Endodontics

More Information: N

Five Tips for Whiter Teeth

You may feel self-conscious if your teeth have become stained or discolored. Maintaining a bright, white smile involves a bit of work, commitment, and occasionally some at-home teeth whitening products. You can also talk to your dentist about in-office teeth whitening services as a safe way to achieve the smile you desire.

To learn more about teeth whitening services, reach out to your dentist today.

5 Ways to Keep Your Teeth White

If you’d like to ensure that your teeth stay bright, white, and beautiful, make sure you follow these five teeth whitening tips.

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

The most important thing you can do for whiter teeth is to practice good oral hygiene. Simply brushing once a day and flossing once in a while is not enough.

To keep your teeth and mouth as healthy as possible, you need to brush at least twice a day and floss once a day, every day. This will keep your teeth as bright and white as possible and will also decrease your chances of getting cavities, prevent gum disease, as well as bad breath.

If you are experiencing any tooth or gum-related pain, talk to your dentist right away. While taking care of your teeth and gums at home is important, your dentist will be able to refer you for specialty services such as an endodontist, if needed.

2. Eat Foods That Are Good for Your Teeth

You may be aware of the kinds of foods that will do damage to your teeth; anything that’s high in sugar or acidic will wear down your tooth enamel and potentially cause cavities. But some foods promote shiny, white, beautiful teeth.

These foods include cheese, nuts, apples, pears, leafy greens, strawberries, sweet potatoes, and even garlic.

3. Avoid Teeth-Staining Drinks

Certain beverages can cause staining that only a teeth whitening procedure from your dentist will remove. Things like coffee, red wine, soda, sports drinks, and even tea will cause discoloration in your teeth.

Also, certain foods will have the same effect on your smile if you eat them too frequently, including fruits and berries, tomato sauce, and certain candies. You don’t need to avoid these foods and drinks altogether, but you shouldn’t eat them in excess, and you should try to rinse your mouth with water when you do eat them. If you have mouthwash on hand, this can be even more effective. Of course, the most reliable way to prevent stains on your teeth is to brush after consuming the beverage and foods listed above.

4. Regular Dental Visits

Going to see your dentist at least once every six months is one of the best ways to keep your teeth sparkling white. They offer teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dentistry procedures that are more thorough than anything you can do at home. In addition, they will remove plaque and tartar and monitor your mouth for cavities and gingivitis. If you’re in need of endodontic services like a root canal, your dentist will refer you to a respected endodontist near you.

5. Avoid Smoking

Concerns over the whiteness of your teeth probably shouldn’t be the main reason why you quit smoking, but it should certainly be one of them. Cigarette smoke is bad for your lungs, heart, gums, mouth, teeth, and more. It can cause your smile to become discolored and make teeth-whitening challenging or even futile. Smoking can also cause a number of other issues with your oral health. If you want a white smile, talk to your doctor about quitting.

(11/28/2024)
by Access Endodontics

More Information: https://www.accessendomd.com/dental-blog/5-tips-for-whiter-teeth/

What To Do If It’s Been a While Since Your Last Dentist Appointment

It’s no secret that going to the dentist, especially if it’s been a while since your last appointment, can be intimidating. Whether it’s due to a fear of the unknown or financial concerns, people often put off their dental appointments until more serious concerns arise. No matter the reason, Smile Designers hopes you will schedule your next appointment with our family dentistry in Longmont, CO! Here are a few of our tips to make your first dentist appointment in a while a bit easier. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Schedule an Appointment As Soon As Possible

If you feel it’s been too long since your last dentist appointment, schedule an appointment with our family dentistry in Longmont as soon as possible. It’s important to prioritize your dental health, regardless of how long it’s been since you last visited the dentist.

Communicate With Your Dentist

Communication is key when it comes to receiving the dental care you need. It’s important to remember that you aren’t alone in putting off your biannual dentist appointments. In fact, according to Delta Dental Institute, 42% of Americans reported that they don’t see a dentist as often as they should. Let your dental care team know when your last visit was and be honest about any concerns you have.

Make a List of Any Questions or Concerns

Before you go to your next dentist appointment, make a list of any concerns or questions you may have. This can help you remember everything you want to discuss with your dentists and ensures you are getting the most out of your dental care.

Know What To Expect

Knowing what to expect can make your dentist appointment less daunting. During your appointment, your dentists will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for any issues. They may also take X-rays, provide a thorough teeth cleaning, and perform any restorative dental treatment needed. Your dentist is there to help you and wants to ensure you’re comfortable, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns!

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns!

If it’s been a while since your last dentist appointment, don’t delay any longer. By taking action now, you’re setting yourself up for a healthier future. At Smile Designers, we’re happy to welcome you back or help you establish a new dental care routine, no matter how long it’s been.

(11/27/2024)
by Smile Designers PC

More Information: N

How Long Does A Tooth Extraction Take To Heal?

Within this blog we will be covering all the key points to know about how long a tooth extraction takes to heal. This includes the time & stages of tooth extraction, how to speed up healing, and whether you extraction is healing correctly.

Tooth Extraction Healing Time and Stages

The time a tooth extraction takes to fully heal will largely depend on where the tooth was located, and the type of extraction that was performed. Typically, the healing time is between 7-10 days, although in more serious cases it is possible for healing to take between 2-3 weeks. The key stages of tooth extraction healing have been outlined below.

Stage One: This first stage comprises the initial 24 hours directly after the extraction and includes the formation of a robust blood clot. It is likely that there will be some discomfort, inflammation, and potentially light bleeding during this stage.

Stage Two: This stage involves the next 24 hours after stage one, and at this point the clot begins to properly form around the socket area. At this point the platelets within the clot have started to produce chemical factors which will encourage healing, while inflammation will begin to decrease.

Stage Three: By 3-4 days, this stage begins, and it will involve the early closure of the gum tissue around the extraction site.

Stage Four: This is the final stage, and it takes place around 4-7 days after stage three and 7-10 days after the initial extraction has taken place. At this point the extraction site has effectively fully healed, although it is possible that some extra time is needed in complex extraction procedures.

Speeding Up Healing

As mentioned before the healing process will vary based on where the extraction took place and the complexity of the extraction itself, although some tips to ensure the healing occurs swiftly have been detailed below.

Immediately following the procedure, you can ice the area to minimise pain or swelling for around 15 minutes, and should wait around 15 minute intervals in between future ice pack use

You should bite down on the gauze for 5-15 minutes after the procedure to ensure pressure is being applied sufficiently, and this should be repeated if it starts to bleed again.

Once the first 24 hours after the extraction have passed then you can begin to use a warm saltwater rinse. This involves a teaspoon of salt and a glass of warm water and can be used daily.

Any pain relief medication that has been given by the dentist should be taken as prescribed, otherwise you are able to purchase you own medication. However, check first with your dentist/doctor to ensure they won’t be problematic for the healing process.

Is the Extraction Healing Correctly

In many scenarios patients who have teeth extracted are unaware if their affected area is actually healing in the correct manner. You will be able to tell if it is healing correctly, if the first few days only involve some light bleeding, inflammation, and minor discomfort. Additionally, if you see some bruising around the area or stiffness in the jaw then this is perfectly normal. There may also be some small fragments of tooth/ root within the socket or sharp edge of the bony socket, which often clear and self-resolve. Help should only be sought if they don’t come out by themselves.

You will know that the extraction is healing correctly if there are noticeable improvements as the days pass by. You may even take pictures to monitor this and compare them will extraction healing pictures available online, to ensure that everything is normal. If you believe that your healing process is not occurring correctly then you should contact your dentist immediately. While in the majority of cases there is no issues, it will help put your mind at ease.

(11/27/2024)
by The Denture & Implant Clinic

More Information: N

Tooth Pain After a Filling: Is It Normal?

It is relatively common for you to have some pain or sensitivity in the treated tooth after a filling. After all, a dentist was just poking around and drilling in the tooth. Usually, any discomfort should fade after a day or two. Why do some people experience tooth pain for longer than the normal period after a filling? There are many reasons you might feel a bit of pain or sensitivity after a dentist fills your tooth, beyond the normal discomfort.

Malocclusion

One common reason for pain in a tooth after you get a filling is that the filling isn't positioned quite right, and it's interfering with your bite. A filling that is too high can cause malocclusion, which prevents the teeth from fitting together correctly when you bite down. Your dentist can adjust the height of your filling so that you can bite down with comfort and ease.

Type of Filling

The type of filling your dentist used can also cause sensitivity or discomfort in the tooth. For example, sensitivity is fairly common when a composite resin material is used in the filling and may result from the filling shrinking slightly and creating a gap beneath it. There are many ways to cope with or eliminate sensitivity due to a composite filling, from using a different material or changing the method used to place the filling.

Galvanic Shock

Galvanic shock occurs when adjacent fillings composed of different metals (one of gold and the other made of amalgam) touch and produce an electric current; however, this situation is rare.

Exposed Pulp

If an inflamed nerve or an exposed pulp is behind your discomfort, your options might be to have a root canal or for the dentist to remove the damaged tooth and replace it with an implant or bridge.

Keep in mind that your new filling may also be aggravated by hot, cold or sweet food and beverages, as well as air and pressure from chewing. These sensitivities should subside in a week or two. If they don't, schedule a return visit to your dentist. They may refer you to a dental specialist known as an endodontist, a dental professional who specialises in identifying tooth pain, performing root canals, and most importantly, saving teeth. The endodontist may determine that your cavity was deeper than suspected and that the decay had gone into your tooth pulp. In that case, they will most likely perform a root canal. In South Africa, many general dentists can perform root canal procedures themselves, so referral to an endodontist may not be required.

What to Do About the Pain

The goal of getting a filling is to correct tooth cavities and ease any discomfort. But if it's been a week since your filling and you're still feeling pain when you bite down, eat, or even just open your mouth, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. He or she will be able to pinpoint and correct the issue.

If you want to avoid cavities in the first place, be sure to follow a great oral care routine at home.

Brushing twice a day will strengthen your enamel and help prevent cavities.

Flossing daily will also help you prevent cavities and will keep your gums healthy.

Regular dental visits are important for spotting any problems before they need major treatments.

Preventive care is always best, but once you need a filing, seek your dentist's help to plan your next steps.

(11/26/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/fillings/tooth-pain-after-a-filling-is-it-normal

How Does A Tooth Polishing Procedure Work?

Smooth, shiny, stain-free teeth are a real confidence booster. One way to achieve a bright, attractive smile is through tooth polishing. Many dental practices offer polishing after a dental treatment or as the final stage of a routine dental visit. Dental hygienists generally perform this service in busy practices, but dentists may perform the polishing themselves in some practices.

Cleaning and Polishing Teeth

When layers of plaque build up on the teeth, they harden and form a tough mineral substance called tartar. Germs can live beneath tartar and cause dental problems. To help prevent this, dental hygienists remove tartar in a procedure called scaling. After scraping off the hard tartar with special instruments, the hygienist polishes the teeth. Dental polishing removes surface stains on the teeth and leaves them shiny and smooth, putting the finishing touches on a protective dental treatment.

Tooth Polishing Procedures

Tooth polishing is a painless dental procedure, and some patients enjoy it. The dental hygienist uses a small, soft rubber cup and polishing paste. If a patient has severe stains, an air polishing system may be used - this involves a jet of pressurised air and water mixed with an abrasive agent to polish the teeth. An article in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology (JISP) reports that some dental hygienists provide selective polishing, which means they only polish teeth that remain stained after scaling. Another option is therapeutic polishing, which helps remove germs from tooth roots that are exposed during dental surgery.

Tooth Polishing Pastes

Tooth polishing pastes are called prophy pastes, an abbreviation of prophylaxis that refers to the protective effects of tooth cleaning and polishing. Dental hygienists choose between fine, medium and coarse pastes to fill the rubber cup that delivers the paste to the tooth surface. Coarse and medium pastes are most effective at removing stains quickly, according to the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health, but they can also scratch and roughen the tooth enamel, thus making it more likely to develop stains at a later stage. Fine pastes are less damaging and create a more highly polished finish, but can be less effective at removing stains. The JISP states that the abrasive agents most often used in prophy are calcium carbonate and pumice flour.

Air Polishing for Teeth

Published by the Journal of Dental Hygiene, a review of several studies shows that polishing with a jet of air, water and an abrasive agent removes stains more effectively and quickly than polishing with a rubber cup and prophy. In addition, air polishing is generally less harsh on tooth enamel. Sodium bicarbonate is often used as the abrasive agent in air polishing, but glycine (a naturally occurring amino acid) is less abrasive and just as effective.

Tooth Polishing Precautions

If there is gum recession and the cementum is exposed, the use of a mild polishing paste may be recommended to ensure there is no sensitivity to the tooth surface. If patients have problems like teeth sensitivity, untreated cavities, exposed dentin or roots, and problematic or receding gums, these oral issues should be treated before the teeth are scaled and polished. Lastly, according to the Journal of Dental Hygiene, patients who should not have their teeth polished include the following: people suffering from respiratory problems, hypertension, conditions that weaken tooth enamel, or allergies to the abrasive agents.

Although tooth polishing is not an essential dental treatment, it can help patients feel confident about the look of their teeth and encourage good oral care habits. If your teeth have surface stains, ask your dentist whether polishing would help improve their appearance.

(11/26/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/dental-visits/how-does-a-tooth-polishing-procedure-work

Why Does the Roof of My Mouth Hurt When I Eat?

There are some common sources to explain why the roof of the mouth hurts and causes you discomfort while you eat. It can have many possible causes, so one should not instantaneously assume the worst-case scenario. Some of the more common issues are discussed below.

Burns & Bumps

Any hot drink or extremely spicy foods can result in burns and bumps forming on the roof of your mouth. The skin on the roof of your mouth or the palate is more sensitive in comparison to that on your tongue. Hence a sore palate is more susceptible to a sore tongue.

A minor burn due to an extremely hot drink or spicy food can damage your soft palate and cause bumps, blisters, or swelling. If such is the case, then it may take about a week for the bumps to settle down. In the meantime, you can choose to eat soft and light foods and drink cool or chilled drinks so that your palate can heal without any further damage.

Canker Sores

Canker sores tend to form on the inside of the cheek and are round and very sensitive, at times though they may also end up forming on the roof of your mouth. They can be caused due to several issues related to the immune system. They may start to develop due to stress, hormonal imbalances, or consuming certain types of foods.

They usually tend to be sore for about a week and go away within two weeks. In the meantime, while they heal, you can consume bland foods to avoid irritating the canker sores. If they extend two weeks, you should pay a visit to the doctor, and your dentist could prescribe a pain-relieving gel to be applied to your sores.

Bump on Roof of Mouth Sinus Infection

Bacterial infections such as common cold, tonsillitis, streptococcal sore throat, sinusitis, and other types of such infections can result in the palate to be sore. The pain may be due to bacteria growth irritating your palate or the sinus pressure pushing on the palate of your mouth. Some fungal infections can also cause pain and redness of the palate.

Causes of Roof of Mouth Bump

The bump on the roof of the mouth can be caused due to multiple varying reasons. Some of the causes are:

Injury

Burns

Hyperdontia

Oral Cancer

Torus Platinus

Cold Sores

Cold sores generally tend to form on the lips but can also find its way to the roof of your mouth. When they form on the roof of your mouth, they can be extremely painful as fluid-filled blisters may also develop. They can be caused due to a virus knows as ‘herpes simplex virus.’

The fluid-filled blisters start to become crusty within four days and start to heal after 8-10 days. You should avoid touching them no matter how sore they become, as that increases the time of the healing process. Cold sores do have the chance of coming back again, so a visit to the doctor may be required to get a long-term medication to get rid of them completely

Variety of Other Symptoms of Pain in Roof Of Mouth

When you are facing pain in roof of the mouth ,you may experience following symptoms:

Itching

Fever

Blistering

Cough

Sore Throat

Runny Nose

Dental Issues

In some cases, when you have recently gotten done with dental treatment, the after effects may include pain around the treated area along with an infection. The infection can then reach the soft tissues on your palate, especially if the treated area includes the top teeth.

In such a case, visiting a doctor is the best option to get rid of the infection and get the proper medication to get rid of the pain.

Oral/Mouth Cancer

Generally, having a mouth sore is harmless and tends to heal on its own. Whereas, in some cases having the constant roof of mouth sores can be a symptom of oral/mouth cancer. It can be treated if found at an early stage. You should visit your dentist if your mouth sore does not heal by itself within two weeks. If your dentist suspects that the mouth sore might be cancerous, you will be sent to an oral surgeon to get an oral evaluation and perform a biopsy of the tissue.

Mouth Cancer can be developed on any part the mouth including:

Gums

Tongue

Roof of Mouth

Floor of Mouth

Lips

If cancer is found, the treatment can start instantly. The treatment may require surgically removing the cancerous sore and after that, getting chemotherapy or radiation to be making sure that other cells are not affected.

Have Some Questions About Roof Of Mouth Sore? Here Is Everything You Need To Know

Why the roof of mouth hurts when I eat after not eating for a while?

Sometimes this feeling is common and if your mouth aches for a couple of seconds or a few more maybe it’s just the salivary gland trying to produce more saliva all of a sudden. Since you haven’t eaten in a long time, your mouth reacts to the surge.

However, if the pain becomes frequent, you need to get it checked immediately as it can be due to buns, acute or chronic infections, dental issues, cold sores, or canker sores. It may also be due to mouth cancers. And in any such case, it is better to get inspected before your condition worsens.

What is incisive papilla and how to get it removed?

It is the projection of the mucous tissue that appears between the upper teeth, two of them. A swollen papilla hurts a lot and is caused due to many factors. Oral hygiene has, however, nothing to do with it. It mostly occurs due to human impact, including consuming food that is sharp or biting the papilla.

Food that is hot or too spicy can also result in the incisive papilla. It can be treated quickly by thorough cleaning of the mouth or utilization of floss in the spaces. Brushing twice in a day and good oral hygiene helps it heal faster.

How to check if I have bumps on the roof of the mouth?

Checking for bumps on the roof of the mouth is an easy task. Most of the time, your mouth lets you know that it’s in trouble. You start to feel something extra in your mouth as your palate has become swollen. It gets hard to eat and drink the stuff without the pain and soon it starts irritating you. Or , you may experience erythema and spots in the mouth.

What is a hard bump on the roof of the mouth?

Bumps can be caused due to problems like canker sores; colored sores that appear on the roof of your mouth. Cold sores, infections, etc. however, torus palatinus is the most common cause and the hard palate is affected in this case. If your bump has not healed after two weeks, you need to see a doctor.

Home remedy to cure lump on the roof of the mouth

Lumps or bumps on the palate are not troublesome in the early days and can be treated at home. Several home remedies to get rid of such problems are:

Drinking as much cold water as you can; it helps get rid of mouth burns. You can also retain the cold water in your mouth for 5-10 minutes sequentially.

Another good option is to consume yogurt or milk (not hot), its proteins help as a barrier and coats your skin.

Utilization of aloe Vera gel is also practiced around the world as it is considered as a natural healing aid.

How to Cure if the Roof of my Mouth Hurts when I Eat Bread?

Eating bread or any other soft item may hurt if your mouth is going through an oral or dental problem including burns, bumps, sores, and infections. If it’s not serious you can cure the pain at home by using honey, milk, or keeping yourself hydrated. It checks your electrolyte imbalance and helps in quick healing. However, if the imbalance is severe, you need to see a doctor.

If your bumps or infections are caused due to trauma cold water can help, but painful blisters demand medical help. You may be advised to use medicated mouthwashes, soft toothbrushes, or other pastes.

Why does the Roof of Mouth Hurt when Swallowing?

Mouth roof, also known as palate may hurt or get sore when you try to swallow things if it’s injured. Damage can be of many forms. For instance, you may have developed a bump or burn due to hot or spicy food. As the palate, soft or hard, is much more sensitive than the tongue, a small burn can lead to a severe bump and become troublesome.

Apart from that, immune deficiencies may lead to the formation of canker sores right inside your cheek area and when it travels to the mouth, you feel pain when swallowing stuff. Dental problems can also lead to sore mouths.

How to Get Rid of Blisters on the Roof of the Mouth Due to Eating?

Mouth sores are irritating and really painful. They are caused by many related and unrelated mouth problems. Whatsoever, once a blister is formed inside your mouth or on the lips, it becomes really difficult to eat or drink something. But with patience and care, it can be treated. If you are unaware of the reason you should try avoiding hot, salty, crispy, and vitamin C food.

Also, items with high sugar content, tobacco, or alcohol should not be consumed. These foods can be acidic and are bad for your oral health. Along with precautionary treatments, you need to apply mouth ointment, gargle with salty water, and should not touch the blisters.

What is the Difference in Lump and Roof of Mouth Sore?

Lumps or mucous cysts occur on the lips or inside the mouth. It occurs when your salivary glands have excessive mucous. The problem is not so painful and is relatively harmless if treated early as compared to mouth sores. The latter results from canker sores, bumps, infections, or other reasons and mainly affect the palate area. Lumps, however, can occur everywhere.

Also, lumps formed on the roof of the mouth may lead to the roof becoming sore. Both can be managed if caught early and can be quite painful if the situations worsen or prolongs. Cysts can become permanent and cancerous if are not handled with care.

Is Blister and Roof of Mouth Burn the Same?

Essentially, they are not the same however are caused due to similar reasons. Mouth burns are usually internal and affect the palates. On the contrary, blisters mostly affect the area inside of the lips but can appear on the outside. As discussed, the set of causes is almost the same for both problems, and, hence, the treatments also converge.

You may avoid eating salty, hot, or edgy food. Also, stay away from food that is rich in vitamin C, sugar, etc. Ointments and mouth gels can help you get rid of both the problems but blisters are more damaging and irritating than the burns. The burned roof of the mouth can be healed fast by different cures.

What Causes Swelling in the Roof of the Mouth?

The swollen palate may result from one of the stated reasons. Cold sores or canker that appear on the gums, lips, and other areas may lead to blistering and swelling of the palate. Many people suffer this fate after eating pointy food that may hurt the soft palate, hot or spicy food resulting in a burn, or through a hard item.

Another common reason is dehydration that leads to electrolyte imbalance in the mouth. It leads to swelling and is usually one of the first indications of dehydration. Lumps, viral infections, or cysts are some of the extreme underlying problems. In any of these cases, you must receive proper medical care.

How do you stop the roof of your mouth from hurting?

Pain in the roof of the mouth can be unbearable and everyone wants some kind of immediate relief from that pain. If you are at home and you face such issue then the best thing you can do for an instance is that you can suck something cold or you can use warm water and rinse. This would make a lot of difference.

Why does the roof of mouth feels bruised?

You may feel that there is a bruise on the roof of your mouth after drinking something very hot or extreme cold. It may also happen due to inflammation or infections.

Why is the roof of my mouth red and hurts?

This is mostly searched by the people who face roof of mouth sore and red. They see some sort of small red spots on the roof of their mouth. The cause of such spots may vary. It might be because of the dentures or some infection and it also might be caused due to irritation from food.

(11/25/2024)
by Cards Dental

More Information: https://cardsdental.com/why-does-the-roof-of-my-mouth-hurt-when-i-eat/

Understanding Lip Discoloration: Causes and Treatment

Have you ever noticed that your lips are changing color? This may be due to hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration, which can result from a variety of factors.

Our lips are covered with thinner skin, which makes them more susceptible to the effects of pollution, sun, and aging. They’re also more likely to get darker spots, discoloration, and lesions.

These spots look quite unattractive and can be a cause of embarrassment for you. So how do you bring back your natural lip color? Luckily, there are several treatments available for this problem. Ahead, learn about the sources of lip discoloration and how to treat and prevent it.

What is Lip Discoloration?

Lip discoloration is a condition in which the tips of the lips get tanned or become discolored. This occurs because the skin on our lips is so much thinner that the barrier is not as effective in retaining the moisture needed for healthy-looking and pigmented lips. Certain external factors also contribute to lip hyperpigmentation.

Lip Discoloration Causes

A person can experience lip discoloration due to numerous causes. It can be a result of sun damage, nutritional deficiencies, or an underlying medical condition. Apart from that, various other factors may also become a reason for discolored lips:

Hormonal Changes: Lip discoloration due to hormonal shifts are more likely to impact women with relatively darker skin tones.

Smoking: If you are a chain smoker, then you’re definitely at higher risk of lip hyperpigmentation.

Chemotherapy Treatment: Some sort of chemotherapy treatments can harm the tissues in our lips and may result in lip discoloration. In addition to that, issues like the insufficient amount of hemoglobin and excessive sweating might also lead to darkened lips.

Medical Conditions: Certain diseases, such as dermatitis or jaundice, can leave you with purple or extremely tanned lips.

Excessive Use of Substandard Lipsticks: Daily usage of such products may also contribute to darkened or discolored lips.

Lip Discoloration Treatment

Numerous medical treatments are available for discolored lips that you can opt for depending on the extent of your discoloration, budget, and personal preferences.

These treatment options may also address the underlying condition that causes lip discoloration. However, if your lips are getting darker because of the use of certain medications, speak to your dental professional about going for alternative drugs.

Medical treatments for some skin discoloration usually include:

Laser therapy.

Intense pulse light therapy.

Cryotherapy.

Photodynamic therapy.

Surgery.

Chemical peels.

Topical medicated ointments.

Preventing Lip Discoloration

Depending on the cause, lip discoloration can be prevented through various approaches:

Quit smoking, and if it is difficult, speak with a doctor to get a smoking cessation plan.

Eat a balanced diet.

Limit sun exposure and apply a lip balm having sunscreen in it.

Protect your face and lips from sun exposure as much as you can.

Exfoliate regularly.

Know when to see a professional.

Be gentle with your skin.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, severe lip discoloration or pain can be indicative of a serious underlying condition. Therefore, it’s best to seek medical attention if you experience irregularly shaped skin lesions, contusions that do not heal, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.

Key Takeaway

The lips are one of the most noticeable features of our face, so it’s no surprise that we all want them to look the best they can. But due to certain environmental factors and medical conditions, they get discolored and look aesthetically unpleasing.

However, there’s no need to worry. There are various tricks and cosmetic procedures available that can polish the texture and color of your lips.

You can also use topical creams to fade the discoloration of your lips. But nothing can work unless you also apply sunblock on your lips religiously. Remember, taking care of your lips is important for your overall health and hygiene.

If discolored or hyperpigmented lips are due to an underlying medical condition, then it can be a cause of concern. In such cases, consult your healthcare professional. So he can evaluate the actual cause and provide appropriate treatment.

FAQs:

How Can I Fix My Discolored Lips Naturally?

There are several home remedies that you can opt for to restore your hyperpigmented lips. Turmeric, coconut oil, cucumber juice, aloe vera, lemon, honey, and pomegranate powder are some of the most preferred and widespread ingredients that can naturally nourish and beautify your lips.

How Do You Treat Discolored Lips?

After determining the actual cause of discolored lips, doctors can prescribe the most suitable treatment options. If certain medications are darkening your lips, you need to talk to your doctor to be switched to another medicine.

There’s also a wide range of over-the-counter creams and gels available that you can pick to lighten the dark skin around your lips. If none of this works, then you should consider going for medical treatments, such as cryotherapy, light therapy, or surgery.

Is Lemon Good For Lip Discoloration?

Lemon is a natural bleaching agent popular for its incredible skin-lightening properties. Therefore, it can be extremely beneficial in fixing darkened or discolored lips. You can apply lemon and sugar scrub daily on your lips to acquire the maximum results.

With consistent use, it will heal the uppermost layer of your lips and clear away pigmentation, resulting in visibly lighter, soft, and supple lips.

(11/25/2024)
by Why Health Line

More Information: N

Lost Gum From Between Teeth

Have you lost gum from between your teeth? If you look at any magazine photo or advertisement you will see cosmetically beautiful smiles with uniform, straight teeth. The smiles you see in these magazines do not have gaps or spaces. If you have tiny triangles between two or more of your teeth, you may feel self conscious about their appearance.

Unfortunately, lost gum between teeth can indicate that the tissue is not as healthy and strong as it should be. Often, gum treatment is needed before cosmetic alterations can be made to fill these spaces. Good oral hygiene is important for your teeth and gums and patients are encouraged to improve how they brush and floss. Once your gums have been treated and are healthy, treatment for the dark spaces can be done. You can say goodbye to these black spaces in your smile through one of three treatment options.

What causes lost gum from between teeth?

In simple terms, space opens between teeth is caused by trauma, receding gums, and gum disease. From a distance, those spaces look like there is food is caught between your teeth. Upon professional inspection, those black spots can indicate a bigger dental problem. You may wish to fill spaces between the teeth for a more uniform appearance.

Gum disease has two distinct stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. The beginning stage of gum problems is gingivitis. Gingivitis is an infectious inflammation of the gums that many people experience at one point or another. It can usually be treated with diligent brushing, antiseptic mouthwash, and thorough flossing at home. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious infection can occur. Full blown gum disease will destroy the supporting bone between tooth roots. It can eventually lead to tooth loss.

To get rid of this deeper infection, your dentist will do a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. During this procedure, they remove plaque and tartar buildup around the roots.

Gum disease causes gum and bone loss

Gum infections will cause loss of the triangular papillae from between teeth. This disease is serious and has also been linked to more than just your oral health. In fact, the bacteria present in this disease can flow into your bloodstream. This is thought to increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, heart failure, dementia, and diabetes. Unfortunately, the damage that gum disease can cause to your body doesn’t end with better brushing habits. After all, periodontal disease isn’t just a lack of oral hygiene. Many pregnant women experience gestational gum problems due to the increased changes in hormones.

Certain medications can also lower your immune system, making your body even more susceptible to illnesses like gingivitis and gum disease. Dental treatments can resolve the disease, yet repairing the lingering damage presents a different matter altogether.

In addition, mild gum recession can be caused by aggressive brushing techniques. Dentists recommend that your regularly brush your teeth with a less abusive soft bristled brush. Use the proper brushing technique to protect your gum tissues and prevent further recession.

Options for replacing the lost gum from between teeth

Your gums need specialized care before the dentist can start fixing the dark spaces. Once any present disease and infection has been cleared, then one of the following procedures may be recommended:

Dental bonding:

Also referred to as composite bonding, dental bonding repairs the structure and appearance of teeth. This technique uses the same resin like composite material that is often used to fill cavities. This commonly performed procedure offers cosmetic solutions that can last anywhere from five to 10 years with proper care and maintenance. Dr. Fondriest will perform a shade analysis to perfectly match the dental bonding to your natural tooth color, for a seamless appearance.

Using bonding instead of veneers to replace a gum papillae is quite difficult. When comparing bonding vs. veneers, replacing the lost gum from between teeth is easier with veneers.

Veneers:

Crafted from very thin pieces of ceramic, veneers act as a type of cover for your front teeth. They can camouflage a host of cosmetic issues in an otherwise healthy, functional dentition. Often old composite veneers are replaced with porcelain. Dental veneers are one of the best ways to improve the cosmetic appearance of teeth in a relatively short amount of time. It often takes just a couple of appointments to receive the veneers to camouflage the host of esthetic issues, including spaces between your teeth. However, due to their custom fabrication and design, ceramic veneers are pricier than other cosmetic treatments. Dental veneers last on average 15 to 20 years before needing replacement. Most clients who choose them feel that veneers are worth it.

Dental crowns can be used to fill space from lost gum from between teeth

Dental crowns are restorations used to protect a weakened or injured tooth. They also are used to correct serious esthetic flaws, when fillings or dental bonding will not suffice. The dental crown is usually made of porcelain, and covers the entire visible area of a tooth. This porcelain “cap” acts as a cover over the vulnerable or unaesthetic natural tooth.

It’s important to note that for each open space, two teeth will need cosmetic treatment. Essentially the root contours are reshaped to close the visible gaps.

An aspect of better quality dentistry is achieving a goal with the least amount of drilling. Crowns and veneers are the two main cosmetic dental options for transforming your smile.

Orthodontic treatment can close space from lost gum from between teeth

Gum disease will often cause recession of tissue from around and between your teeth. The gum between your teeth is called the interdental papillae. Losing the papillae produces the dark space. The black spaces will be more pronounced when your teeth shapes are triangular/trapezoidal in shape. Simply sanding the contact points of crowns to a more square shape will broaden the contact point between the crowns. As the teeth move closer, these spaces close down by pinching the gum papillae.

(11/24/2024)
by Dr. James Fondriest, DDS

More Information: https://lakeforestdentalarts.com/lost-gum-from-between-teeth/

Signs Of A Cavity In Between Teeth

You know the importance of brushing your teeth and having good oral hygiene to avoid cavities. But did you know that cavities aren't just in your teeth?

Yes, even when you take care of your enamel, you can still end up with a cavity between your teeth. This has a technical term called an interproximal cavity. It forms like other cavities: when the enamel is worn away and bacteria are able to get into the tooth.

When this happens with your permanent teeth, it can cause tooth pain that you don't want to have to deal with, as well as other problems when the cavity penetrates into the bloodstream.

The Goal is to Keep Your Healthy Teeth Free From Decay

Preventive dentistry is the best way to make sure you don't end up with interproximal cavities and tooth decay. These tips will teach you how to recognize if you have the signs of a cavity in your teeth and how to prevent cavities in general.

Keep in mind that if you're concerned that you may have a cavity, you should contact your dentist early. The sooner the problem is taken care of, the less likely you'll need more serious fixes like a dental crown or root canal treatment.

Understand What a Cavity Is

You've been taught to brush your teeth since childhood to avoid cavities. But what exactly is this dental concern, anyway? And do you really need to floss?

A cavity is an easily preventable dental condition in which the hard surface of your teeth (the enamel) ends up with a tiny hole in it. This permanent damage is caused when the bacteria stick to the tooth.

Cavities Can Be Avoided With Regular Care

As you engage in frequent snacking, eat sugary foods or drink sugary drinks, and don't effectively clean right after, the food particles form dental plaque.

As plaque, bacteria sticks to the enamel and decays the tooth. If you don't remove decay fast, it turns into a hole that requires a large filling to fix it. However, if it's caught early, the enamel could be recalcified with fluoride gel.

Preventing a Cavity

The best way to prevent interproximal cavities and other cavity types, according to the American Dental Association, is to brush at least twice a day.

Use toothpaste with fluoride to get rid of the bacteria, and follow with flossing and a mouth rinse. Fluoride is a commonly added ingredient to most over-the-counter tooth products.

Tooth Sensitivity? Stop What You're Doing and Check Your Technique

If you notice tooth sensitivity, you could be using the wrong brush. Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush unless your dentist recommends otherwise. Brush your teeth in a circular pattern, and include your gums to prevent gum disease.

Habits Are Important, Too

Flossing is important since interproximal cavities form between the teeth, and the floss and mouthwash get up in those hard-to-reach places.

Avoid sugary snacks and drinks, quit habits like using tobacco, and head to your dentist during office hours for preventative cleanings. If you need professional help quitting bad habits, your primary doctor can provide medical advice.

Recognize the Symptoms of Interproximal Cavities

If you're concerned that something isn't quite right, but you're not sure what's going on with your teeth, look for these symptoms to guide you:

Sensitivity to heat or cold- This is usually one of the first side effects you'll notice as the cavity erodes your enamel and gets into the second layer of tissue, the dentin. Once temperatures reach this layer, discomfort is the natural side effect.

Pain in the teeth - Sensitivity is annoying but it goes away. Pain, on the other hand, is different. It's constant, mild to moderate, and often throbbing. It can be hard to narrow down where the pain is coming from because it feels like it's in your other teeth, too. The dentist can take x rays to figure out where the interproximal cavity is.

Bad breath - Officially called halitosis, bad breath is a warning that there's tooth decay going on somewhere. Halitosis is harder to diagnose yourself, but if you know you have it, you want it gone quickly.

Browning or yellowing teeth - When you see dark spots on your teeth, it's not normal. This is a sign that a hole is beginning to form inside the tooth. It can be recalcified with fluoride gel if you catch it before tooth decay becomes a hole. At that point, the dentist can use tooth colored filling material to cover the hole, but it can't be reversed.

Abscesses or pus forming - If you have a weird spot on your gums that is beginning to show pus, it's a sign your cavities have progressed. This means you have to schedule an ASAP visit with your dentist before your interproximal cavity requires a root canal, bridge or dental implant.

Chips - Sometimes, a chip or broken tooth occurs without us realizing it. If you ate something hard or sticky, it could have cracked the top layer. To prevent cavities from destroying the tooth, the dentist can place a natural looking cover over the tooth or add a filling treatment. This keeps plaque from getting into the dentin and causing discomfort. But a chip or crack that isn't treated becomes a serious dental issue, often requiring a root canal to correct.

Head to the Dentist Before You Think You Have a Cavity

So how can you avoid interproximal cavities between two teeth or cavities in general? The best thing to do is to seek out preventative care at least every six months, according to the American Dental Association.

Professional cleanings and dental exams help catch problems early, before cavities can form. And if you do need a filling, the dentist can use a variety of metal alloys to solve minor issues.

Prevention or Early Care, Either Way is a Good Reason to Visit the Dentist

Interproximal cavities form when bacteria is ignored and allowed to run rampant. Head to your dentist for routine visits, and call for an urgent appointment if you think you may have an interproximal cavity or any other dental issues.

(11/23/2024)
by Charlotte Emergency Dental

More Information: https://www.charlotteemergencydental.com/blog/signs-of-a-cavity-in-between-teeth/

What causes receding gums?

Gum recession, also known as gingival recession, occurs when the margin of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away, exposing more of the tooth surface. This can happen for a number of reasons:

Gingivitis and periodontal disease

The most common cause of gum recession is due to gingivitis, an early stage of periodontal (gum) disease. When plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) builds up along and under the gumline, it can cause inflammation and irritation, making the gums swollen, reddish in color, and prone to bleeding easily when brushing or flossing.

Over time, this chronic inflammation damages the gum tissue and causes it to slowly detach from the tooth. This creates spaces known as periodontal pockets, where more bacteria can accumulate. As the disease advances, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue is destroyed, leading to loosening of the gums and eventual exposure of the tooth roots.

Aggressive brushing

Brushing too vigorously or with improper technique can eventually cause the gums to recede. Scrubbing back and forth vigorously or brushing horizontally with pressure can wear down the gum tissue. Ideally, brushing should be done at a 45-degree angle towards the gums, using gentle circular motions. Harder bristled toothbrushes may also irritate and traumatize the gums over time, causing sensitivity and recession.

Smoking and tobacco use

Smoking and chewing tobacco have been strongly linked with higher rates of gum disease and accelerated gum recession. The multitude of toxins and chemicals in tobacco products can irritate and inflame the gum tissue. They also suppress the immune system, restrict blood flow, and slow down the healing response.

Additionally, the nicotine causes gum tissues to become more permeable and prone to bacterial invasion. Smokers tend to have much more tartar and plaque buildup as well, which exacerbates irritation of the gums. The stains can also make gum issues harder to recognize visually.

Clenching and grinding teeth

People who have a habit of forcefully clenching, grinding, or chomping their teeth are at higher risk for increased gum recession. The excessive forces exerted during these behaviors can cause teeth to move and shift out of alignment, often putting more pressure on the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Over time, this can definitely cause the gums to recede.

Periodontal surgery

Certain surgical procedures to treat advanced gum disease can cause recession as well. For example, gingivectomy is performed to excise excessive diseased gum tissue in order to reduce deepened periodontal pockets. This can sometimes leave areas of root exposure once healing is complete.

Orthodontic treatment

The movement and adjustment of teeth during orthodontic treatment can in some cases contribute to gum recession. Certain types of aggressive tooth alignment and prolonged pressure can create tension on the gum tissue. This is especially true if proper oral hygiene is not maintained during treatment. Inadequate bone support around the teeth can also predispose gums to recession.

Thin gingival tissue

Some people simply have thinner gum tissue genetically that is more vulnerable to recession even without inflammatory disease. Thin gingiva offers less protection for the deeper structures of the periodontium. There is a reduced barrier against the accumulation of bacteria and easier penetration of bacterial toxins.

Genetics

Research suggests that genetics play a definite role in gum recession as well. Some people may be predisposed to thinner tissue, insufficient keratinized gingiva, or gum anatomy that is more susceptible to recession. Other genetic traits related to connective tissue disorders, anti-inflammatory response, and wound healing may also influence risk.

Orthodontic tooth extraction

Extracting teeth for orthodontic purposes can potentially lead to gum recession as well. This is especially true of premolar extractions, where gums and bone may thin over time near the extraction sites. Proper treatment planning is important to avoid this consequence.

Overly aggressive gum surgery

In rare cases, gum surgery to treat periodontal disease may be too aggressively performed, removing more tissue than necessary. This can result in receding gums due to insufficient gingiva remaining to provide adequate coverage.

Why does gum recession matter?

Receding gums are a concern because they can expose the tooth roots and lead to further problems:

Tooth decay – Without the protective covering of gum tissue, exposed tooth roots become much more vulnerable to invasion by decay-causing oral bacteria. Plaque and tartar can readily adhere in these areas, leading to cavities.

Tooth sensitivity – Once the cementum layer of the root surface is exposed due to receded gums, the openings to underlying dentinal tubules become exposed as well. This allows hot, cold, or acidic foods to stimulate the nerves and fluid within the tubules, causing sharp pains and sensitivity.

Destruction of bone – The fibers of the periodontal ligament that attach the teeth to the surrounding jawbone can also become exposed and irritated. This bony attachment is damaged, leading to inflammation and gradual loss of the alveolar bone around the tooth.

Tooth loosening or loss – As bone recedes away from the root surface due to infection and inflammation, teeth can become loose and even fall out in severe cases of gum disease. Mobile teeth make chewing difficult and undermine dental function.

Poor aesthetics – Increased tooth length and dark triangular spaces between teeth due to gum recession can give your smile an unappealing “toothy” or uneven look. Receding gums accentuate the aging process.

Root cavities – Once gum recession occurs, cavities at the gumline and beneath the gums can form. These subsurface lesions are more difficult to detect, treat, and restore.

Keeping gum recession under control is extremely important to minimize the risk of these undesirable consequences. Mild cases can often be treated and stabilized to prevent any further progression of the recession. More advanced recession may require complex grafting procedures to cover substantial areas of exposed root surfaces in an effort to regrow some of the lost gum tissue for both functional and aesthetic reasons.

Why does gum recede between teeth specifically?

Gum recession can occur anywhere around the teeth where gingival tissues have broken down, but it is most prevalent in the areas between the teeth (interproximal areas). There are several reasons this occurs frequently in these locations:

Difficult to access for cleaning

The tight embrasures and small spaces between teeth provide ideal areas for plaque to accumulate and thrive. Food debris and bacteria can readily get trapped in these interdental spaces, which are harder to access and keep clean compared to broader facial and lingual tooth surfaces. Lack of adequate cleaning in these areas allows plaque to proliferate.

Inflammation and tissue destruction

The anaerobic bacteria in plaque produce toxins that break down gum tissue fibers and cause inflammation. recurring episodes of inflammation due to poor cleaning within the gingival crevice can lead to irreversible destruction. The cellular attachment of gum to tooth is lost, resulting in recession.

Food packing

Bits of food readily get packed into the tight spots between teeth during eating and chewing. They then become impacted and are difficult to dislodge completely. This constant source of irritation inflames the localized area and promotes sustained bacterial colonization in that vulnerable site.

Weak gingival embrasures

Some individuals are prone to having weaker, thinner gum tissue between their teeth based on certain anatomical factors. The size, shape, and position of the interdental bone and contacts predispose the gum to easier breakdown and recession even with diligent oral hygiene.

High muscle attachment

A stronger, more forceful muscle attachment near the crestal bone places increased stress on the gingival margin. The pull of muscle forces during chewing can contribute to more rapid localized tissue breakdown in those high stress areas. This is often seen between back molars.

Orthodontic factors

Teeth that are crowded, crooked, or overlapped can create areas where cleaning and maintenance of gums is impaired. Physical impediments make hygiene access difficult. Orthodontic treatment to straighten and align teeth also puts tension on gum and bone tissues in between teeth.

Periodontal disease progression

As gingivitis and periodontitis progress, collagen fibers that attach the gums to the tooth surface are steadily destroyed by proteolytic enzymes from bacteria. The initial gingival inflammation increasingly destroys the gingival margin until the gum detaches from the tooth. The interdental papilla is often the first affected area.

With meticulous oral hygiene and professional care, gum recession between teeth can often be minimized or avoided altogether. But in moderate to severe cases, surgical procedures like gum grafting are usually needed to try to cover exposed roots and regrow healthy gingival tissues between teeth. The adjacent teeth provide scaffolding for the graft to adapt and heal optimally.

What are the treatment options for receding gums between teeth?

Here are some of the key treatment approaches available when gums are receding between teeth:

Improved oral hygiene

Practicing thorough daily oral hygiene is crucial both for treating and preventing receding gums between teeth. Effective hygiene to control plaque is the starting point in managing gum recession. This includes brushing properly twice per day with a soft or extra soft bristled brush. Flossing once daily with light force is critical to dislodge plaque between teeth. Using antiseptic mouthwash can reduce bacteria as well.

Professional cleanings

Getting teeth professionally cleaned and scaled by a dental hygienist every 6 months is key to controlling subgingival plaque. More frequent cleanings may be prescribed if gum disease is present. Regular cleanings allow areas like interdental spaces to be cleaned beyond what patients can do at home.

Gum tissue grafting

Grafting gingival tissue can help cover exposed tooth roots and fill in the receded areas between teeth. Tissue is commonly harvested from the palate and surgically adapted into place around the recession defects. Over several months, blood supply re-establishes in the grafted donor tissue. Proper healing provides maintained gum coverage.

Guided tissue regeneration

Using specialized barrier membranes or tissue-stimulating proteins can be combined with grafting procedures. This encourages selective regeneration of bone and gingival attachment fibers along the root surface, helping rebuild lost support around the recession.

Pinhole surgical technique

This is a minimally invasive approach where small “pinholes” are made in the gums. Special tools are used to gently loosen gum tissue and slide it down over exposed roots without grafts or sutures. Less discomfort but results can be variable.

Bone grafting

Bone grafts or tissue-derived growth factors can be placed under the gumline when significant bone loss is present near the recession. This supports regrowth of natural tissue and stabilizes improved gum coverage.

Crown lengthening

When gums have receded substantially, crown lengthening surgery reshapes gum and bone tissue to expose more natural tooth structure. This provides a better foundation for restorative work.

Laser therapy

Lasers have been utilized to remove diseased gum tissue while also promoting healing. Their value for stimulating regrowth is being researched.

Medications

Locally applied or systemic drugs that aim to reduce bacteria and inflammation may be helpful. Locally delivered antimicrobials can suppress plaque in difficult to clean recession areas.

The prognosis for stabilizing or improving gum recession between teeth depends on multiple factors: proper home care, degree of recession, health conditions, and choice of treatment. Mild cases may respond to conservative options, while advanced recession may require a combination of regenerative procedures to optimize outcomes.

(11/23/2024)
by CDHP Dental Health Project

More Information: N

What Is A Gumline Cavity?

If you’ve recently joined the cavity club or are worried you may be a future member, know that you’re not alone. Tooth decay is so common that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) report that it affects nine out of ten people over the age of 20. While receiving a cavity diagnosis is never the ideal experience, it’s important to learn about the common causes, treatments and prevention tactics that can help stop it from worsening or lessen the risk of future cavities.

Causes of Gumline Cavities

A dental cavity forms when plaque, a sticky bacterial film that builds up inside the mouth, solidifies and creates an area of decay. This bacteria combines with sugar to produce acids that dissolve the tooth's enamel, the hard surface that works as a protective layer against tooth decay. And when this protective layer begins to wear, different types of cavities have the potential to form.

Have you ever wondered what areas of the mouth are most prone to tooth decay? Well, not all teeth are created equal. Plaque tends to accumulate more easily in certain areas. For example, the back teeth' pits and fissures (molars) are a hot spot for plaque and the spaces in between the teeth. Plaque also builds up easily along the gumline, and when this plaque isn't removed, a gumline cavity can form.

Gumline cavities can also be associated with exposed tooth roots. Gum tissue usually protects the roots, but the roots will be vulnerable if the gum tissue recedes. That's because roots are covered in a material called cementum, which is much weaker than tooth enamel.

Treatment of Gumline Cavities

As outlined by Mayo Clinic, there are several standard treatments for cavities, the most common, a filling. To create a filling, a dental professional numbs the surrounding area of the problematic tooth, drills, or lasers to remove the decayed material, and then fills in the hole with a protective material like composite resin or dental amalgam.

Tooth decay at gumline treatment is similar to other cavity treatments, but with some small differences. If the cavity extends beneath the gumline, it can be challenging for the dental professional to access it with their drill or laser. In these situations, your dentist may perform minor gum surgery to access the cavity.

How to Prevent Gumline Cavities

Toothbrushing

While there's no such thing as guaranteed gumline cavity prevention, you can take daily, consistent steps to fight them. The best way to prevent cavities is to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Remember to brush along your gumline with a proper brushing technique that involves placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and using a back-and-forth motion to brush along each tooth. Once the gumline area is clean, move on to the rest of the tooth surfaces for complete cleaning.

Interdental Cleaning

For the hard-to-reach plaque around your teeth and gumline, a daily routine of flossing will also help to prevent cavities. To floss beneath your gumline, curve the floss around each of your teeth' base and make sure to be gentle to avoid cutting or bruising the gum tissue. Water flossing is an excellent alternative to flossing, while mouthwash should also be added to your daily oral health routine to rinse out bacteria.

Professional Teeth Cleanings

And like all preventative health measures, a regular dental checkup is paramount to your overall oral health. A dental professional can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove plaque and tartar from along the gumline that you could not remove with your at-home measures. They can then thoroughly examine your mouth and look for conditions like gum recession that could put you at risk of gumline cavities.

No one enjoys receiving the news of a cavity at the gumline diagnosis. Still, the more you know about this specific type of tooth decay - its causes, prevention, and treatment - the more confident you'll feel with whatever next steps your dental professional recommends. With an excellent oral hygiene routine and help from a dental professional, you can reduce the chances of a gumline cavity or proactively treat it if recently diagnosed.

(11/22/2024)
by Colgate

More Information: N

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