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Do You Have a Sore throat after Wisdom Tooth Surgery?

It’s time for the dreaded wisdom teeth to come out. It’s a little scary, but the surgery will be quick and relatively painless. Let’s talk about the recovery. It’s not always easy, but it’s completely doable.

A number of patients report a sore throat after their wisdom tooth extraction surgery, but it won’t be the end of the world.

This pain is caused by swollen muscles that are in close proximity to the extraction site. It’s usually caused by a slight infection, but isn’t serious unless the pain persists for weeks or more. It should only linger for about 3 days after the surgery.

But until the pain subsides there are things you can do! Your sore throat after your wisdom tooth surgery is completely normal and you can have it subside in no time with some simple remedies.

Salt water remedy

Gargling salt water is a remedy for most any mouth pain. It contains natural healing properties that soothes pain and reduces inflammation. It also tends to speed up the healing process and remove bacteria.

Dentists and doctors recommend rinsing the mouth with ½ teaspoon of salt mixed into a cup of warm water. Because salt water is all natural, this method can be applied as many times as needed.

However, when spitting out the water, be careful not to apply too much force. This can create dry sockets in the mouth and lead to further issues. Be gentle as you rinse and spit.

A cold compress or cold treats

A sore throat after oral surgery is typically due to swelling. In order to decrease swelling, a cold compress or ice pack can be applied to the throat…20 minutes on and then 20 minutes off until the swelling goes down is recommended. Popsicles, ice cream, or other cold treats can also ease the pain internally and add a little sweetness to the recovery process.

Hot tea and lots of liquids

Teas such as chamomile or peppermint can greatly soothe a sore throat. Being careful not to make the tea harmfully hot, this can be a quick and simple remedy. Water and other gentle, non-citrus fluids are helpful to keep the throat hydrated and flush out bacteria.

Lemon and honey

Both lemon and honey also have natural soothing properties that can ease a sore throat. While these are both very helpful to healing the side effects of a mouth surgery, overuse could cause problems on the surgery site. As always, it is important to monitor and use moderation when using these ingredients.

Eat soft foods

Try to eat at typical meal times, but choose soft foods that will go down easily and won’t get stuck in your throat or hurt the healing wound. Foods like yogurt, soup, and ice cream can benefit and even help soothe a sore throat.

While it is normal to have a sore throat for a few days after a tooth extraction, it could be cause for concern if the pain and soreness persists more than a week or if it hinders your ability to speak.

While long term issues are very rare, and sore throats after surgery can end up being completely unrelated anyway, this pain is not something that should be ignored just in case.

At this point, you should contact your doctor or dentist. They’re always happy to help!

Your throat should be ready for talking and your mouth should be ready for eating again a few days after your tooth extraction. In the meantime, enjoy as much ice cream and popsicles as possible and rest that mouth! You will be back and ready to take your life back in no time!

(10/04/2024)
by Oral Surgery Specialists Of Atlanta

More Information: https://www.oralsurgeryspecialistsatlanta.com/blog/do-you-have-a-sore-throat-after-wisdom-tooth-surgery/

Gum Disease and Pancreatic Cancer

Periodontal disease may more than double your risk of pancreatic cancer. The participants in one study were followed for 16 years and the researchers found those with gum disease had a 64 percent increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Periodontal disease can affect nearly 50 percent of the U.S. population to some degree. More evidence is showing that this localized gum infection is linked to a host of systemic conditions. While many of the studies have shown strong connections, some links have not yet been established as “causal.”

Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that develops when a bacterium causes inflammation, also called gingivitis. One trigger is when food or plaque is trapped between the gum and the bottom of the tooth.

Without proper daily dental care, periodontal disease can seriously damage the tooth and soft tissue. This may ultimately lead to the loss of your tooth. Some of the common symptoms that you may find with periodontal disease include:

Bad breath or bad taste that doesn’t go away

Blood when flossing or brushing teeth

Bleeding or tender gums

Change in the fit of partial dentures or in your bite

Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

Loose teeth or tooth loss

New spaces between teeth

Pain while chewing

Puffy or swollen gums

Pus between the gums and teeth

Red, dusky red, or purple gums

Sensitive teeth

In addition to poor dental care, other factors increase your risk of developing periodontal disease. These include:

Crooked teeth

Defective fillings

Diabetes

Dry mouth

Female hormonal changes, such as with pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives

Heredity

Poor oral hygiene

Poor-fitting bridges or partial dentures

Smoking

Stress

Underlying immune-deficiencies—e.g., AIDS

If you recognize any of these symptoms of periodontal disease or have an increased risk from one of the listed factors, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately. Your dentist can perform an examination to determine whether you have gum disease.

They will also make recommendations about your oral care and overall health to help reduce your risk of diseases that are commonly associated with periodontal disease.

What Is Pancreatic Cancer?

Cancer is usually named by the organ in which it starts. When cancer cells begin to grow out of control in the pancreas, it’s called pancreatic cancer. There are two main types of pancreatic cancer. The pancreas sits behind the stomach. It’s about six inches long, two inches wide, and is shaped a little bit like a fish.

The pancreas is made up mostly of exocrine cells. These form glands and ducts that produce pancreatic enzymes. The enzymes are released directly into the intestines where they help digest foods. Cancer that develops in the exocrine cells is called adenocarcinoma and is the most common type of pancreatic cancer.

The pancreas also has endocrine cells that are important in the production of hormones. The pancreas makes glucagon and insulin, both of which help control blood sugar levels. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors are less common and start in the endocrine cells.

Unfortunately, the symptoms of pancreatic cancer do not show up early in the disease. By the time you experience symptoms, the disease is usually advanced. If you notice any unexplained symptoms, see your doctor who can check for conditions, including pancreatic cancer, that may explain your symptoms. People with advanced pancreatic cancer may notice:

Blood clots

Changes in stool

Dark-colored urine

Fatigue

Itchy skin

Pain, usually in the abdomen that radiates to the back

Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss

Light-colored stools

Nausea

New or worsening diabetes

Pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas)

Yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes (jaundice)

It is difficult to diagnose pancreatic cancer early as the organ is located deep in the abdomen. Doctors cannot feel a tumor during a physical examination and symptoms are not always obvious.

Pancreatic cancer is difficult to treat. Surgery offers the best option for controlling this cancer. However, when it is diagnosed at later stages, patients are not usually eligible for surgery. Pancreatic cancer can also become metastatic and spread to nearby lymph nodes. It can then spread to the liver, the lining of the abdominal cavity, and the lungs. If it is treated very early, there is a higher chance of survival.

How Is Gum Disease Linked to Pancreatic Cancer?

Data has shown a correlation between pancreatic cancer and gum disease. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found a link between bacteria commonly found in the mouth and the development of pancreatic cancer.

Participants with significant levels of the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis in their mouth had a 59 percent higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than those who did not have the bacteria. A second study published two years later found similar results. A higher risk of pancreatic cancer was also related to a second oral bacteria, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.

Currently, there is not much known about what triggers the development of pancreatic cancer. However, the lead researcher from the study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association believes that inflammation triggered by the bacteria in the mouth may consequently cause inflammation in the pancreas. A secondary possibility is that the bacteria is a marker for cancer-causing inflammation and is not a causative agent.

How Dental Care Can Help

Good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of periodontal disease. Your first line of defense is to maintain oral health by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once daily. Flossing helps remove debris left behind after eating that your toothbrush cannot reach.

Every six months you should also see your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup in hard-to-reach places where bacteria can grow and trigger periodontal disease. If you have already been diagnosed with gum disease, or notice that you have the symptoms, you should discuss this with your dentist. Your dental professional can recommend an appropriate treatment plan to help reduce inflammation.

(10/04/2024)
by Babylon Dental Care

More Information: https://www.babylondentalcare.com/general-dentistry/gum-disease-treatment/pancreatic-cancer/

Six Common Mouth Problems You Should Look Out For

CavitiesOne of the most common oral health problems that affect not just children but adults too. Cavities don’t just make your teeth look black either. At worse, they can lead to tooth decay, toothaches, and heightened tooth sensitivity. But, as soon as you get yourself to the dentist, cavities can easily be treated with either crowns, fillings, or root canals.

Cold soresAre you seeing small red, fluid-filled blisters around the area of your mouth? They might be cold sores that are caused by a virus called as the herpes simplex virus type 1. These type of mouth sores are highly contagious and can easily be spread to the people around you (right from the moment you have felt a tingling sensation by your mouth, up to the time the sores have healed). A dentist can prescribe you with antiviral medication in order to hasten your recovery. There are also over-the-counter medications that you can take for this condition.

Chipped toothNot only is a chipped tooth not a good look, but it can also potentially cause more harm to your mouth. The sharp edge might cause injury and increase the sensitivity of your tooth to temperature. If you have noticed one of your teeth being chipped, you should see a dentist immediately so they can ease you from the discomfort.

Darkened toothThere are different reasons for a tooth to change in color. One of the common reasons that can cause a tooth to change color is trauma. If you have observed your tooth changing hues from pink to gray, your tooth may be dying, and in most cases, you will need to see a dentist to have it treated with a root canal or tooth extraction.

PeriodontitisDo your teeth look a bit longer than it normally does? Does your gum line appear to have receded? If your answer is yes, you might have periodontitis. While this condition is easily reversible in the early stages, permanent damage can occur if you choose to leave it untreated. Seek out the help of a dentist before your condition gets worse.

ThrushHave you observed the presence of a white film within your mouth? It may be indicative of thrush. Thrush is a yeast infection that commonly affects people with weaker immune systems, diabetics, and individuals who wear dentures.

Once you spot signs of thrush in your mouth, you should head to your dentist for treatment. They will prescribe you with the right medication after running a diagnostic test to confirm your condition.

(10/03/2024)
by Carrollton Family Dental

More Information: https://www.familydentalcarrollton.com/6-common-mouth-problems-you-should-look-out-for

The Root Causes of Throbbing Tooth Pain

Pain in the tooth? There’s nothing worse.

After all, most people can empathize with the discomfort, distraction, and disabling nature of a bad toothache. Indeed, almost 4 billion people around the world suffer from one oral disease or another.

It’s never fun, and you almost certainly want it to disappear — and fast.

Knowing the primary causes of throbbing tooth pain may help you identify the issue and get it sorted sooner. Sound good?

Read on for the four primary causes of tooth pain and contact Cape dentistry North Eastham for urgent dental treatment.

You’ve Chipped or Broken a Tooth

Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth could be at the root of your tooth pain.

Think back to when the pain began.

Did you suffer any impact that could have fractured a tooth? You might have bitten down on something hard, or been struck on the mouth in a sports match. Heck, maybe you had a fistfight and got hit in the jaw!

In any case, there’s a chance that a tooth or two got broken in the process. Go and see the dentist to get it checked out.

You Have a Cavity

More often than not, toothache is caused by cavities.

This is when decay on your tooth destroys the enamel and creates a hole according to this trustworthy dentist in Newport News. If that hole gets large and close enough to the nerves, it can cause serious dental pain.

You’ll be desperate for effective toothache remedies!

It’s always best to act early if you suspect a cavity. The dentist will fill it with ease and the pain will cease. The longer you leave it, though, the worse the pain will become.

You might even need expensive and invasive treatment, known as a root canal, to fix the problem.

You’ve Been Grinding Your Teeth

There’s a chance that you’re a closet night-time teeth grinder.

In other words, you grind your teeth at night and have no idea you do it!

Until that is, you start suffering from toothache, jaw pain, and headaches. People that grind their teeth will gradually wear away at the surface of the tooth. In some cases, they might even break them; pain ensues.

Go to the dentist for confirmation of your grinding. If they confirm it, then they might give you a mouth guard to wear at night.

Your Filling Has Fallen Out

Remember those cavities we mentioned earlier? Recall how small cavities can be filled in order to resolve the problem?

Well, if you’re suffering from tooth pain and have had one of these fillings before, then there’s a chance it’s fallen out. Needless to say, the pain of the cavity comes back; it’s only going to get worse if you leave it alone.

Make an appointment with the dentist to refill the hole ASAP.

Get to the Root of Throbbing Tooth Pain

Few things are more concerning than experiencing throbbing tooth pain.

It has a severe negative impact on most areas of life- from chewing and talking to sleeping and relaxing. Understanding the causes of tooth pain is a good first step to seeking appropriate treatment.

(10/03/2024)
by Namaste UI

More Information: https://www.namasteui.com/the-root-causes-of-throbbing-tooth-pain/

What are the Steps to an Oral Examination?

When you visit your dentist for a professional cleaning and oral examination, many services will be provided. While professional cleaning may be the most obvious service provided, the examination is equally crucial, as you’ll be fully screened for a variety of conditions that can potentially impact not just your oral health, but your overall health as well. Here are all of the steps your dentist, hygienist, and support staff will take during your oral examination and cleaning.

Medical and Oral Health History

Your dentist, hygienist, or dental assistant will first ask you about any changes to the function of your jaw or teeth, or any newly diagnosed health conditions. They may ask about new medications, any new onset of tooth or gum sensitivity, headaches, bleeding, etc. The information you provide will be recorded in your dental record.

Plaque Removal and Polishing

Your hygienist or dentist will begin removing plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. Plaque tends to accumulate between teeth, at the gum line, and between teeth. They will use an ultrasonic device to loosen larger pieces of plaque first. Then, a tiny metal tool (hand instrument) will be used to scrape additional plaque from the teeth.

They will then thoroughly floss between all of your teeth, before polishing your teeth with a spinning polisher that will remove any further plaque and leave your teeth feeling clean and smooth.

Preventative Screenings (Occasional)

Your dentist will determine how often you should have X-rays of your teeth and jaws. You are unlikely to need X-rays at every appointment. But if it’s been a year or more since your last x-rays, your dentist may need them.

Likewise, if they need to see beneath the surface you may need X-rays. Incidentally, today’s digital X-rays are entirely painless and take just minutes. They also expose you to far less radiation than older, traditional X-rays. They are available to your dentist for viewing immediately.

X-rays help identify tiny cracks in teeth, cavities in their earliest stages, and loss of bone, indicating gum disease.

Oral Examination

The oral examination will be conducted by the dentist. During this comprehensive examination, the dentist will be looking for any signs of disease, decay, jawbone deterioration, and gum recession. They will look for symptoms including changes to soft tissues, lesion development, or other abnormalities.

They will also thoroughly examine the condition of your teeth. This includes looking for signs of weakening or softening enamel and dentin. They will look for excessive wear on the teeth (worn grooves) indicating jaw clenching or teeth grinding. Your dentist will also look closely at your gums, measuring periodontal pockets, and ensuring that the gums are not swollen or bleeding, indicating gum disease.

Your dentist will also evaluate the function of your jaw, prompting you to open and close your mouth. They may feel the jaw joint as you do so, to confirm the joint is not clicking, and to confirm proper alignment.

Finally, your dentist will conduct a visual inspection of the head and neck to look for any signs of abnormalities that indicate further testing should be scheduled.

If no problems are found during your oral examination and cleaning, you’ll be instructed to return in six months for your next cleaning and exam. If problems are identified during your appointment, your dentist will explain all treatment options and design a custom plan for your care.

(10/02/2024)
by Carmel Dental Associates

More Information: https://www.carmeldentalassociates.com/what-are-the-steps-to-an-oral-examination/

How to Prevent Cold Sores After Dental Work?

There are different precautionary measures you can adopt after the dental work because it may trigger to activate the HSV-1 virus that grows sharply. I would love to discuss the after dental work primary measures, please go through it.

Getting dental work done can often act as a common catalyst for cold sores, which are also referred to as oral herpes or fever blisters. These tiny yet distressing blisters can bring about discomfort and require a considerable amount of time to heal.

Nevertheless, there exist preventative measures that you can employ to decrease the chances of developing cold sores following dental procedures. This article aims to furnish you with useful tips and techniques to avert cold sores and uphold oral health throughout and after dental work.

How to Prevent Cold Sores After Dental Work?

1. Maintain Good Hygiene:

Personaly Hygiene plays a decent role to fight against any disease especially when it comes to treat viruses, You must keep your clothes and room neat and clean, take shower regularly.

Always brush your teeth, floss, and rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist. Proper oral hygiene helps keep the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), which causes cold sores, at bay.

2. Avoid Touching Your Face:

It is imperative to avoid touching your face, particularly the vicinity around your mouth, during and after dental procedures. Touching your face can lead to the transfer of bacteria, heightening the chances of cold sore outbreaks.

It is essential to be mindful of this and consciously keep your hands away from your face. By refraining from touching, you can minimize the risk of introducing harmful bacteria to the vulnerable areas affected by dental work, reducing the likelihood of cold sore development and promoting optimal healing. Practice good hygiene by refraining from touching your face throughout the dental work and recovery process.

3. Apply Cold Sore Treatments:

If you experience the initial symptoms of a cold sore, such as tingling or itching around the lips, you can take immediate action to prevent its progression. There are different types of medications you can use, now a days, Red light therapy is something unique, Abreva is the smart choice and Campho Phenique is also here, do you know that earwax is also useful for the treatement of coldsores, let’s go through these treatment options.

i) Earwax:

If you wonder about does earwax help coldsores? the smart answer would be “Yes, you can apply earwax for this purpose. While not scientifically proven, some individuals claim that applying a small amount of clean earwax to the affected area at the early stages can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the cold sore from fully developing.

However, it’s essential to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before attempting this method.

ii) Abreva:

Abreva over the counter is an FDA-approved medication specifically formulated to address cold sores resulting from the HSV-1 virus. With its active ingredient docosanol, Abreva aids in diminishing the length and intensity of cold sore episodes.

When you notice any indications of a cold sore, promptly follow the instructions on the packaging and apply Abreva accordingly. By adhering to the recommended usage, you can effectively leverage the benefits of Abreva to alleviate symptoms and expedite the healing process associated with cold sores.

iii) Luminance Red:

Introducing the Luminance RED, a revolutionary and painless device specifically created to assist you in effectively addressing oral sores located on or around the lips. Gone are the days of relying on messy lip creams, gels, ointments, patches, medications like Aciclovir or Lysine, or even products such as Vicks Vaporub and Abreva.

With the Luminance RED, you can now effortlessly manage lip sores without the hassle and inconvenience of traditional remedies. Experience a new level of convenience and efficacy with this innovative device that aims to provide relief and promote healing for oral sores in a simple and efficient manner.

iv) Campho Phenique Cold Sore:

If you’re seeking an alternative treatment for cold sores, Campho-Phenique emerges as a viable option, rivaling the effectiveness of Abreva cream. Specifically designed to address cold sores and fever blisters on the lips, Campho-Phenique offers maximum strength, delivering instant relief.

It aids in preventing infection, fostering a healing environment. Its original gel formula provides a well-suited solution for individuals seeking effective cold sore treatment. Do you know that Campho Phenique is expensive one, this is the suitable alternative to Abreva cream, offering the potential for swift relief and supporting the healing process of cold sores and fever blisters on the lips.

4. Protect Your Lips from Sun Exposure:

Cold sore outbreaks can be triggered by exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. To safeguard your lips, it is essential to apply a lip balm or sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before venturing outdoors.

This protective measure helps prevent the onset of cold sores caused by sun exposure. For added defense, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face and lips from direct sunlight. Follow your routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of cold sore outbreaks induced by sun and UV radiation, promoting healthier and more comfortable lips.

5. Manage Stress Levels:

Stress is a common trigger for cold sore outbreaks. Dental procedures can sometimes induce stress and anxiety. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques, engaging in regular physical activity, getting enough sleep, and seeking support from friends and family.

Engage in relaxation practices, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, to alleviate stress. Regular physical activity promotes overall well-being and stress reduction. Ensure you get sufficient sleep to maintain a healthy immune system and manage stress levels effectively.

6. Communicate with Your Dentist:

Inform your dentist about your history of cold sores before undergoing any dental work. They may take additional precautions, such as prescribing antiviral medications before or after the procedure to minimize the risk of an outbreak.

These medications can be instrumental in suppressing the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) responsible for cold sores, ensuring a smoother dental experience and promoting optimal oral health.

Conclusion:

To contain the rapid spread of cold sores, it is essential to diligently follow all of these steps. Let’s recapitulate these measures, as they are crucial for your adherence. Ensure proper oral hygiene, refrain from touching your face, and consider using cautionary cold sore treatments such as Abreva or earwax.

Protect your lips from sun exposure, manage stress levels effectively, and maintain open communication with your dentist. Bear in mind that prevention plays a pivotal role, and proactively taking these steps can effectively keep cold sores at bay, resulting in a smoother recovery following dental procedures. Embrace these guidelines to safeguard your well-being.

(10/02/2024)
by Geeky Egg

More Information: https://geekyegg.com/how-to-prevent-cold-sores-after-dental-work/

Why everytime I brush my teeth my tooth hurts?

Tooth sensitivity or pain when brushing is an extremely common problem affecting people of all ages. There are many possible causes, ranging from minor to severe, that could explain why you feel pain or discomfort when brushing your teeth. Identifying the specific reason is key to getting the right treatment and finding relief.

What Triggers Tooth Pain When Brushing?

There are a number of potential culprits behind tooth pain during brushing:

Exposed Dentin

One of the most frequent explanations for tooth sensitivity and irritation is exposed dentin. The hard, outer enamel layer that protects the tooth can become worn down over time from factors like chewing acidic foods, grinding teeth at night, and brushing too aggressively. This reveals the softer, inner layer called dentin underneath.

Dentin contains thousands of tiny tubules leading directly to the nerve of the tooth. When the dentin is exposed, cold, heat, air, sugary or acidic foods, and brushing can stimulate the nerve through these tubules and cause sharp, sudden pain. The discomfort is often brief and ceases once the trigger is removed.

Dental Caries (Cavities)

Dental caries, or cavities, are areas of decay in the hard surface of a tooth. They form when plaque bacteria on the tooth metabolize sugars and ferment them into acids. These acids eat away at the enamel and dentin, creating holes in the structure. As a cavity extends deeper towards the inner pulp and nerves, any irritation like brushing can cause lingering pain.

Cracks or Fractures

Cracks or fractures in a tooth can also lead to pain when brushing. Cracks create pathways for food particles, debris, and bacteria to enter the tooth and inflame the inner pulp tissue. Vertical cracks are often more painful as they extend down towards the root. Horizontal cracks across the top of the tooth may cause discomfort but are less severe.

Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the margin of the gums around the tooth root start to pull away, revealing more of the tooth surface and roots. Periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, hormonal changes, and other factors can cause the gums to recede. With more exposed root area, brushing may irritate the surface and cause tooth pain.

Periapical Dental Abscess

A tooth abscess happens when a bacterial infection develops inside the pulp chamber of the tooth or in the surrounding bone. Abscesses cause throbbing pain, tooth sensitivity, swelling, and can spread infection through the body if left untreated. Brushing a tooth with an abscess will likely cause severe pain by aggravating the infection.

Recent Dental Work

It’s quite common to experience some tooth sensitivity after certain dental procedures like getting a filling, crown, veneers, braces, or even a professional cleaning. The tooth may remain sensitive for a period of weeks up to several months as it recovers from the irritation of drilling or scaling during treatment. Gentle brushing technique can help avoid making pain worse in recently treated teeth.

Less Common Causes

While the above reasons are most prevalent, other less common possibilities include:

Bruxism: Nighttime teeth grinding wears down enamel and causes pain when brushing.

Enamel hypoplasia: Thin, weak enamel that exposes sensitive dentin.

Oral cancer: Unexplained pain that persists warrants an exam to check for serious issues.

Allergies: Rare allergies to toothpaste ingredients can cause burning pain when brushing.

When To Seek Professional Dental Help

In many cases, sensitivity from exposed dentin or recent dental work will resolve on its own within a few weeks using gentle brushing and desensitizing toothpaste. However, you should visit your dentist promptly if you have:

Consistent, severe tooth pain that disrupts sleep or daily life

Swelling in the gums or face

Loose teeth, chips, cracks, or other visible damage

Bleeding gums that won’t stop

Sudden sharp pains from hot or cold foods/drinks

An abscess or infection

The dentist has many options to treat tooth pain and sensitivity caused by various issues. Getting problems diagnosed early prevents more extensive dental work later on. Urgent dental care clinics can provide prompt treatment if you have a painful emergency outside regular office hours.

How Dentists Diagnose Tooth Pain When Brushing

Dentists use a combination of diagnostic techniques and tools to pinpoint what is causing discomfort when brushing:

Visual Exam

A clinical visual inspection of all teeth, gums, sides of the mouth, tongue, etc. Checks for decay, fractures, gum recession, swelling, redness, and other warning signs.

Dental X-Rays

Intraoral x-ray images help dentists detect issues beneath the visible tooth surface such as cavities, hidden cracks, abscesses, cysts, and bone loss which require treatment.

Cold Sensitivity Testing

Applying cold air or ice to the surface of teeth can provoke a sharp pain response in those with exposed dentin tubules. This helps identify problematic areas.

Percussion Testing

Gently tapping on teeth with a tool to check for pain or discomfort, which may indicate an abscess, fracture, or other problem.

Bite Pressure Testing

Having the patient bite down on a cotton swab or stick to check for pain that points to a cracked tooth.

Periodontal Probing

A periodontal probe is inserted between the tooth and gums to measure pocket depth around each tooth. Checks for gum recession.

The treatment recommended will depend on the specific cause of discomfort identified during the dental examination. Options dentists commonly use include:

Dental Fillings or Crowns

Fillings remove decay and restore the tooth structure. Crowns cap damaged or cracked teeth. This prevents irritation of the inner pulp.

Root Canal Therapy

If the pulp is infected, a root canal removes the inflamed pulp, cleans and shapes the interior root canals, and seals the interior space.

Gum Grafting Surgery

Grafting healthy gum tissue over exposed roots can treat sensitivity from gum recession.

Fluoride Treatments

Applying higher concentration fluoride helps strengthen enamel, prevent cavities that cause pain, and reduce dentin hypersensitivity.

Desensitizing Toothpastes

Special toothpastes contain active ingredients like stannous fluoride or strontium chloride to coat exposed dentin and seal tubules.

Dental Bonding

Bonding material applied to exposed root surfaces acts as a protective seal against sensitivity.

Antibiotics and Drainage

Antibiotics, incision, and drainage treat abscesses. Resolves infection and swelling to stop pain.

Nightguards and Mouthguards

Guards protect against grinding/clenching and the resulting enamel wear, cracks, and sensitivity.

Conclusion

Discomfort, pain, or sensitivity when brushing your teeth is quite common but should never be ignored. Possible causes include exposed dentin, decay, cracks, receding gums, abscesses, recent dental work, and bruxism. See a dentist promptly if you experience persistent or severe brushing discomfort for an exam and diagnosis. Treatments like fillings, gum grafting, nightguards, root canals, or tooth extractions can resolve the underlying problem so you can brush comfortably again. With proper dental care, tooth brushing should not be a painful torment.

(09/30/2024)
by CDHP Dental Health Project

More Information: N

White Stringy Stuff in Your Mouth After Brushing Teeth

Oral health is a window to your overall well-being, but sometimes, unexpected discoveries like white stringy stuff in your mouth after brushing can cause concern.

This residue, often a form of biofilm, isn't just about oral hygiene; it's also tied to everything from the products you use to your body's natural processes.

What this article covers:

Identifying the White Stringy Substance in the Mouth

Major Causes of White Stuff in Your Mouth

Comprehensive Solutions and Preventative Strategies

Identifying the White Stringy Substance in the Mouth

The white film, often described as stringy or slimy, is something most people encounter, yet few understand. It's usually a soft, harmless layer that forms due to the proteins in saliva interacting with the toothpaste. However, changes in its consistency or amount could signal underlying issues, such as teeth getting yellow despite brushing.

Characteristics Of The White Residue

Texture and Consistency Observations: The substance is often slimy, stringy, or foamy, and tends to appear after brushing, indicating a reaction between saliva and toothpaste ingredients. Best teeth whitening toothbrush and electric toothbrush whiten teeth are popular choices for tackling this issue.

When Does It Appear?: Noticing this white film primarily post-brushing could point to your toothpaste's composition, especially if it contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a common foaming agent.

Major Causes of White Stuff In Your Mouth

Understanding the root causes of this white residue is crucial. It's rarely a cause for alarm, but knowing what to look for helps maintain optimal oral health.

Reaction To Toothpaste Ingredients

Some individuals might experience a reaction to certain toothpaste ingredients, like SLS, which can cause a layer of protein from the saliva to peel away, appearing as white strings or film.

How Ingredients React With Saliva

Ingredients like SLS can interact with the proteins in saliva, causing them to coagulate and appear as white debris. Switching to an SLS-free toothpaste, like the ones we offer at SNOW, can often resolve this issue.

Sensitivity To Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpastes, especially those with abrasive ingredients, can sometimes exacerbate the appearance of white film due to their interaction with saliva proteins. SNOW's teeth-whitening products are formulated to be gentle yet effective, ensuring a comfortable experience even for those with sensitive teeth, thereby addressing the concern of can teeth get whiter by brushing.

The Phenomenon Of Oral Thrush

Oral thrush, a type of yeast infection, can also cause a white, cottage cheese-like coating inside the mouth. It's more common in infants and the elderly, especially denture wearers or individuals with compromised immune systems.

Brown spit when brushing teeth and yellow spit after brushing teeth could be indicators of oral thrush.

Recognizing Signs Of Candida Overgrowth

White patches that don't scrape away easily, redness, and slight bleeding might indicate oral thrush. It's different from the typical white film due to its cottage cheese-like appearance and the areas it affects.

Conditions That Encourage Oral Thrush

Factors like poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, and high sugar diets can encourage fungal growth. Regular use of SNOW's oral health products can help maintain a balanced oral environment, reducing the likelihood of such issues.

Plaque Build-Up and Its Consequences

Plaque, a sticky deposit on teeth in which bacteria proliferate, can sometimes manifest as a white substance along the gumline. It's the primary cause of many dental issues, emphasizing the need for effective plaque control.

From Plaque To Tartar: The Timeline

Plaque can harden into tartar if not removed regularly, leading to gum disease and cavities. Tartar can't be cleaned with brushing alone, making regular dental cleanings essential.

Risks Associated With Tartar Accumulation

Tartar build-up can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. Preventing tartar formation with proper oral hygiene is key to maintaining a healthy smile.

Comprehensive Solutions and Preventative Strategies

At SNOW, we advocate for proactive oral health practices. Prevention is always better than cure, especially when it comes to your smile.

Choosing The Right Toothpaste

Selecting a toothpaste that's compatible with your oral environment is crucial. Ingredients matter, and what works for one person might not work for another.

Recommendations For Sensitive Mouths

For those with sensitive teeth or reactions to standard toothpastes, switching to hypoallergenic or SLS-free toothpastes can make a world of difference.

The Downside Of Whitening Toothpastes

While whitening toothpastes can be effective, some can be too abrasive, especially for those with sensitive teeth. SNOW's whitening products are designed to balance efficacy with comfort, providing a superior teeth-whitening experience without the harsh side effects.

Combatting Oral Thrush

Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome is essential in preventing oral thrush. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and using antifungal medications if necessary.

Lifestyle Changes For Prevention

Reducing sugar intake, managing dry mouth, and stopping smoking are effective strategies against oral thrush. Additionally, using a gentle oral care product, like those from SNOW, can help maintain a healthy oral environment.

When To Seek Medical Attention

If you suspect you have oral thrush, it's important to seek medical attention. Early intervention can help manage the condition and prevent complications.

Effective Plaque Control

Controlling plaque is a cornerstone of oral health. It requires a consistent oral hygiene routine and regular dental check-ups.

Best Practices For Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental cleanings are standard practices. However, incorporating a teeth-whitening regimen, like SNOW's, can enhance your oral hygiene routine, contributing to both the health and aesthetics of your smile.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Professional cleanings are an essential aspect of oral health, helping to remove plaque and tartar that at-home brushing can't. They're also an opportunity for dental professionals to check for other issues, such as cavities or gum disease.

Conclusion

In essence, the appearance of white stringy stuff in your mouth after brushing your teeth is a common phenomenon, often linked to saliva's interaction with toothpaste or indicative of oral health conditions like oral thrush or plaque buildup. Prioritizing comprehensive oral care practices, including regular brushing, choosing the right toothpaste, and proactive health checks, is crucial. For those seeking an enhanced smile through safe and effective teeth whitening, SNOW offers tailored solutions to meet your unique needs, ensuring a radiant smile and healthier oral environment.

If you found this post helpful, check out these related articles:

Should I Brush My Teeth Before Whitening Trays

How Many Times Do I Have to Brush My Teeth to Make Them White

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Teeth White From Brushing

Are Whitening Strips Bad for Your Teeth?

Do Teeth Whitening Strips Work?

Best Whitening Strips for Sensitive Teeth

How to Whiten Teeth Instantly

Can Yellow Teeth Become White?

Can I Whiten My Teeth Twice a Day?

Best Time to Whiten Teeth

Does Tea Stain Your Teeth?

Does Tea Stain Your Teeth More Than Coffee?

Does Herbal Tea Stain Teeth?

Does Peppermint Tea Stain Teeth?

Does Rooibos Tea Stain Teeth?

(09/30/2024)
by Snow Cosmetics LLC

More Information: N

Signs That You’re Grinding Your Teeth

Many people suffer form bruxism, which means that they grind their teeth. However, how do you know if you’re grinding your teeth? It is extremely common to begin grinding your teeth during the night, when you have no awareness of the fact, but if you look out for the telltale signs and report them to your dentist then you will stand a good chance of being able to treat the major symptoms caused by grinding your teeth.

1) You have noticed damage to your teeth

If you have spotted chipped, cracked or flattened teeth and are confused about the cause, the explanation could be that you are grinding your teeth while you are asleep.

2) Your jaw feels tight and sore

Habitually grinding your teeth can take quite a toll on the muscles and joints in your jaw. If your face aches and it is becoming more painful to open your mouth or chew your food, you may be exhausting you jaw by grinding your teeth.

3) Your teeth are becoming more sensitive

There are many different causes of tooth sensitivity, ranging from gum disease to poor brushing technique. However, a fairly large number of cases of tooth sensitivity result from bruxism. If you have eliminated other possible causes of sensitivity, talk to your dentist about whether you might be grinding your teeth.

4) You have frequent headaches

If you suffer from tension headaches (i.e. headaches that hurt on both sides of your head and are located primarily around the temples), you may start to feel better if you address the possibility of grinding your teeth.

5) Your cheeks are damaged

If you are prone to grinding your teeth, you could also be damaging the soft tissue inside your cheeks. If you can see or feel painful areas of damage in your cheeks, bruxism is the most obvious explanation.

6) Your partner is aware that you are making unusual sounds during the night

Finally, if your partner has been alarmed by popping or grinding sounds from your side of the bed, this is an extremely obvious sign that you’re grinding your teeth.

(09/29/2024)
by Maple Place Dental Centre

More Information: N

Suddenly having a recurring issue with my mouth corners

At times, the corners of our mouths become excessively dry and start cracking. Have you wondered what we call this condition? Well, it is a harrowing and uncomfortable oral disease known as cheilitis or angular cheilitis. Also known as perleche, this problem manifests in dry and inflamed mouth corners, lesions or fissures on the corners, and excruciating pain. Angular cheilitis may either be viral or bacterial, and the causative factors may be numerous. So first, let us find out the root causes of angular cheilitis and how to prevent them.

Causes of angular cheilitis

The two main causative factors of cheilitis are – external and internal factors. The condition’s external causes include allergic reactions to cosmetics or drugs and exposure to extreme heat or cold or the sun. This type of cheilitis can be termed contact cheilitis. The internal causes of cheilitis include oral infection, autoimmune disorders, vitamin deficiencies, and age-related factors. We must be mindful of the ingredients we put on our lips and inside our mouths. Therefore, patch-testing lipsticks and other makeup products become crucial.

Research reveals that 90 percent of angular cheilitis is caused due to poor diet. Vitamin deficiency is the most common cause of cheilitis. The absence of vitamin B2 in the body slows down the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and decreases energy production.

Skipping meals can result in binge eating and stomach ulcers and rob the body of essential nutrients. As such, the susceptibility to be diagnosed with cheilitis increases. Therefore, timely meals can help in preventing cheilitis.

Research has identified approximately 30 allergens in toothpaste, and they are common in most of the tubes available in the market. In addition, research shows that toothpaste is the second most typical cause of contact cheilitis after lipsticks. On the contrary, it is the most common cause of cheilitis among males.

Celiac diseases may be an underlying cause of cheilitis. It is a disease that adversely affects the digestive tract, and consequently, the capacity of your intestines to absorb nutrients is hampered. Therefore, angular cheilitis is a warning symptom of celiac diseases.

Dehydration is another leading causative factor of cheilitis. The absence of enough liquids in the body could reflect in the mouth as dry and cracked corners.

We know that saliva is a warehouse of bacteria and viruses. Therefore, constant licking and biting of the lips may create an environment conducive to the escalation of bacteria and fungi and lead to problems like angular cheilitis.

Ways to prevent cheilitis

Precaution is better than cure, and this statement has unrivaled affirmation in the area of dental health. So, it is better to be aware and follow the necessary steps to avoid the occurrence of cheilitis in the first place. If you bite or lick your lips often, you must get rid of that habit. You should avoid the prolonged use of lipsticks and lip liners.

Eating vegetables and fruits abundant in vitamin A, vitamin B12, and zinc is necessary. Being particular about the products you use on your mouth and the foods you eat will go a long way.

(09/28/2024)
by Crosby Family Dental

More Information: https://crosbyfamilydental.com/what-causes-corners-of-the-mouth-to-crack/

Can Vaping Cause Canker Sores?

For those who may not be familiar, canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can form inside the mouth. Vaping, on the other hand, is the act of inhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or other similar devices.

As vaping has become more popular, questions have arisen about its potential impact on our health. One question you might have heard before is, “Can vaping cause canker sores?”

To get to the bottom of this, we’ll explore the link between vaping and canker sores below, along with other potential health risks associated with vaping.

What Are Canker Sores?

Canker sores are tiny, painful ulcers that form inside the mouth. They can appear on the tongue, the inside of the lips and cheeks, the roof of the mouth, and the gums. They are often round or oval in shape, with a white or yellowish center and a red border.

These sores are not contagious, meaning you cannot get them by sharing food or kissing someone who has them.

Types of Canker Sores

There are two types of canker sores: simple and complex. Simple canker sores are the more common, accounting for about 80% of cases. They usually appear on the inside of the mouth, last for about a week or two, and heal on their own without leaving a scar.

Complex canker sores, on the other hand, are less common and tend to be larger and more painful. They can last up to six weeks and may leave a scar. They can also cause more severe symptoms, such as fever and swollen lymph nodes.

What Causes Them?

The exact cause of these mouth ulcers is unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development. Some possible causes of mouth sores include:

Injury: Mouth injury, such as biting the inside of the cheek or tongue, can cause a canker sore to form.

Stress: Stress and anxiety can weaken the immune system and make a person more susceptible to canker sores.

Food allergies: Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, chocolate, coffee, and spicy or salty foods, can trigger the development of canker sores in some people.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation, can increase the risk of canker sores.

Vitamin deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins, such as B12, zinc, and iron, can increase the risk of painful mouth sores.

In some cases, underlying medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and HIV/AIDS, may also contribute to the development of painful sores.

What Is Vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or another similar device. These battery-powered devices heat a liquid (called e-liquid or vape juice) to create a vapor that is then inhaled. The liquid usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.

Types of Vaping Devices

E-cigarettes: These are the most common type of vaping device and are shaped like traditional cigarettes.

Vape pens: These are slightly larger than e-cigarettes and often have a refillable tank for e-liquid.

Mods: These are larger devices that allow for more customization, such as adjustable wattage and temperature control.

Pod systems: These are compact devices that use pre-filled pods of e-liquid.

What Chemicals Can You Find in E-cigarettes?

It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with vaping and to make informed decisions about its use.

Nicotine: Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. It can cause a variety of health problems, including addiction, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and respiratory issues.

Flavorings: E-cigarettes come in a wide range of flavors, such as fruit, candy, and dessert flavors. While these may be appealing to users, the chemicals used to create these flavors may be harmful when inhaled.

Propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin: These are the main ingredients in e-liquid and are used to create the vapor produced by e-cigarettes. While these chemicals are generally recognized as safe for use in food and cosmetics, their safety when inhaled is still being studied.

Heavy metals: Some e-cigarettes may contain heavy metals, such as lead and nickel, which can be harmful when inhaled.

Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that may be produced when e-cigarettes are heated at high temperatures.

Can Vaping Cause Canker Sores?

While canker sores are a common occurrence, research on the link between vaping and canker sores is limited. However, some studies suggest that vaping may be associated with an increased risk of developing canker sores.

A study published in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine found that individuals who used e-cigarettes had a higher prevalence of canker sores compared to those who had never used e-cigarettes.

Another study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that frequent e-cigarette use was associated with an increased risk of developing canker sores.

While these studies suggest a potential link between vaping and canker sores, more research is needed to fully understand their relationship.

Vaping and Oral Health

In addition to the potential link between vaping and canker sores, vaping may also have other negative effects on oral health. For example, it has been shown to cause dry mouth, which can lead to a variety of oral health issues, including bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Vaping has also been linked to an increased risk of periodontal disease, which is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. This is thought to be due to the fact that vaping can cause inflammation and irritation in the mouth, which can weaken the gums and make them more susceptible to infection.

Finally, vaping has been shown to cause damage to the cells in the mouth and throat, which can increase the risk of developing oral cancer. While the exact mechanisms behind this link are still being studied, it is clear that vaping can have serious negative effects on oral health.

Tips for Preventing Canker Sores

While the exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, there are several steps that can be taken to help prevent them from occurring. These steps include maintaining proper oral hygiene, avoiding trigger foods, and reducing stress.

Practicing proper oral hygiene

One of the best ways to prevent terrible mouth sores is to practice proper oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash.

In addition, you should also be careful when brushing your teeth. Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can irritate the gums and lead to this form of mouth ulcer. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.

Avoiding trigger foods

Certain foods can trigger canker sores in some people. As mentioned, these foods include acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, as well as spicy foods and foods that are high in sugar.

If you notice that certain foods trigger canker sores for you, try to avoid them or limit your intake.

Reducing stress

Stress is thought to be a trigger for canker sores in some people. To reduce your risk of developing canker sores, try to reduce your stress levels. This can include practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, or engaging in regular exercise.

In addition, getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet can also help reduce stress and promote overall health.

Vaping and Canker Sores

So, can vaping cause canker sores? While the link between vaping and canker sores is not yet fully understood, there is evidence to suggest that e-cigarettes can cause oral health problems.

Vaping can expose the mouth to harmful chemicals and irritants that can lead to canker sores and other health issues. As such, it is important for individuals who vape to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to protect their oral and overall health.

By practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding trigger foods, and reducing stress, individuals can reduce their risk of developing canker sores and other health issues associated with vaping.

(09/28/2024)
by Med Consumers

More Information: https://www.medconsumers.com/can-vaping-cause-canker-sores/

Seven surprising facts about the tongue you probably didn’t know

This small, muscular organ has many surprising secrets.

Did you know that your tongue is unique, like a fingerprint? Or that it plays a role in keeping you healthy? These interesting facts will help you see your tongue in a whole new light.

Here are more surprising facts about the tongue that you probably didn’t know:

1. Every tongue is unique

Just like fingerprints, no two tongues are the same. The surface of your tongue has unique patterns and textures that make it distinct.

This uniqueness can even be used for identification purposes, similar to how fingerprints are used.

2. The tongue is made up of eight muscles

Your tongue is incredibly strong and flexible because it’s made up of eight different muscles. These muscles work together to help you speak, chew, and swallow food. The tongue is the only muscle in your body that works without any support from your skeleton.

3. Your tongue has thousands of taste buds

Taste buds are tiny sensors that help you taste different flavours. Your tongue has between 2,000 and 10,000 taste buds, and they are replaced every two weeks.

Each taste bud can detect five different tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and savoury taste.

4. The color of your tongue can indicate health issues

The color of your tongue can tell a lot about your health. A healthy tongue is usually pink with a thin white coating.

If your tongue is a different colour, it might be a sign of a health problem. For example, a white tongue could indicate an infection, while a red tongue might be a sign of a vitamin deficiency.

5. Your tongue is home to millions of bacteria

Your mouth is full of bacteria, and many of them live on your tongue. While some bacteria are harmful, others are essential for your oral health. Brushing your tongue regularly can help keep harmful bacteria at bay and prevent bad breath.

6. The tongue heals faster than other parts of the body

The tongue is one of the fastest healing parts of your body. This is because it has a rich blood supply that helps repair wounds quickly.

If you bite your tongue or get a small cut, it will usually heal in just a few days.

7. Tongue rolling is a genetic trait

Can you roll your tongue into a tube? If so, you can thank your genes. Tongue rolling is a genetic trait that some people can do naturally, while others cannot. It's a fun trick to try, but not everyone will be able to do it.

Next time you eat, speak, or stick out your tongue, remember these amazing facts and appreciate this incredible organ a little more.

(09/27/2024)
by Pulse

More Information: N

Nine Myths About Dental Implants that Hold Patients Back

Not every patient is afraid of the dentist, but a lot aren’t exactly thrilled to go, either. Most of the time it’s due to misconceptions and myths out there about how some dental procedures work. While many patients feel self-conscious about missing teeth or problems with their mouth, fear and uncertainty can keep them from seeking the dental care they need.

Dental implants allow you to keep a beautiful smile and eat foods that you may not be able to have without healthy teeth. If you’ve been told you’re a candidate for dental implants but are still hesitant, it may be due to several common myths about the procedure and the implants. Don’t let bad information prevent you from having a healthy mouth, full quality of life, and a nice smile.

1.- Myth: Dental Implants are Too Expensive

It is true that dental implants have a higher initial cost than other procedures. The reason, though, is that they last much longer than other options. Even bridges, which are very popular, only last seven to 15 years which means you’ll have to spend money a few times over the rest of your life to replace them. Dental implants don’t need to be replaced as often.

2.- Myth: The Procedure is Really Painful

Having dental implants put in can be uncomfortable; we won’t tell you any different. But in terms of how much pain, most people will only need local anesthesia and nitrous oxide to get through the procedure. Of course, if you experience high levels of fear or anxiety, other sedation dentistry methods can be used. The procedure itself is not as painful, though, as you imagine it to be.

3.- Myth: Dental Implants Look Fake

The vast majority of patients are often surprised at how real their implants look. In reality, dental implants are the only option that can fool people. When you meet people for the first time, they won’t notice unless you tell them. As for people who knew your old smile, they’ll see the difference, of course. They’ll likely be pleasantly surprised at just how real the implants look.

4.- Myth: The Recovery Time is Too Long

What is or is not “too long” is a matter of perception. If you’ve lived with an unattractive smile or discomfort from unhealthy teeth, the two to six month recovery period isn’t so bad. Many patients feel that the time spent recovering is worth it. The extra healing time is due to the time it takes the dental implant root to bond with the bone in your mouth and gums.

5.- Myth: Caring for Your Implants is Difficult

In reality, once your dental implants are in, it’s extremely easy to care of them. Brush and floss your teeth like you always did. Even better, you don’t have to worry about getting cavities or tooth decay. We always recommend good dental hygiene, but you don’t have to do anything extra when you have implants. You can eat normal foods and chew gum, too.

6.- Myth: Very Few People Need Dental Implants

While not everyone gets dental implants, many people are candidates for the procedure. It’s estimated that nearly 70 percent of Americans, between the ages of 35 and 44, are missing one or more teeth. Nearly a quarter of all Americans over the age of 74 are missing all their teeth. That’s a lot of people who might be a good candidate for dental implants.

7.- Myth: Dental Implants are Unsafe

Dental implants have been used in patients for more than 40 years and have a 95 percent success rate. This indicates that the procedure and the implants are extremely safe for patients. Some people believe that dental implants cause migraines. This is usually due to an underlying issue like TMJ or complications from surgery, not the implants.

8.- Myth: You Must Go to a Specialist

Any dentist can technically offer dental implants, so you don’t need a specialist. It is important, however, that your dentist have experience and training in the procedure. Ask your dentist how long they’ve offered dental implants and what their background is before you schedule the procedure with them. You don’t need a different dentist, but you want to make sure the person you see knows what they’re doing.

9.- Myth: Anyone Can Get Dental Implants

While the procedure itself is extremely safe, and many people may need dental implants, not everyone can get them. Dentists must make sure patients are good candidates for the procedure first. The most important factor for dental implants is strong bone tissue in your mouth. Without this, you may be eligible for other options instead.

Conclusion

Dental implants are safe and effective for most patients. What prevents many people from seeking the procedure is a fear of the unknown or the belief in persistent myths. If you think dental implants may be able to help you, talk to your dentist to get the facts. Don’t let myths or fear stop you from taking care of your dental health or having a beautiful smile.

(09/27/2024)
by Dental Brothers

More Information: https://www.dentalbrothers.com/9-myths-about-dental-implants-that-hold-patients-back/

Scalloped Tongue May Be a Symptom of Bad Bite

A scalloped tongue is when your tongue has half-circle indentations around the edge. Scalloped tongue causes are usually when your tongue presses up against your teeth, either constantly or regularly, pressing the shape of your teeth into the sides of the tongue. It may also look like a rippled tongue.

There are many potential scalloped tongue causes and all should be checked out to eliminate the most serious possibilities.

What Causes a Scalloped Tongue?

Swelling of the tongue could be the reason why your tongue is pushing up against your teeth. If this is the case, it may be due to a number of different systemic conditions. Hypothyroidism is the most common cause of a swollen tongue, but there are others. Hypothyroidism condition is when your thyroid is not producing enough of its vital hormone, which controls how your body uses and stores energy. Hypothyroidism can lead to obesity, heart disease, and other serious health consequences.

Nutrient deficiencies may have links to a swollen tongue. In Chinese medicine, a swollen tongue is related to a spleen deficiency.

Scalloped Tongue Causes and Your Teeth

A scalloped tongue doesn’t have to be swollen to press against your teeth regularly. Instead, your tongue may be pressing against your teeth because your lower arch is too narrow. Your tongue might not have enough room. In some cases, it’s possible to remodel the lower jaw to increase the room for your tongue, especially if the problem is detected at a young age.

But what if there’s plenty of room for your tongue, and it’s still scalloped? In this case, it’s likely that your tongue is deliberately pressing up against your teeth on a regular basis. This may be because your bite isn’t coming together properly to stabilize your jaw for swallowing. To attempt to make up for this, your tongue pushes up against your teeth to help stabilize them. This repeated motion causes the tongue to acquire a scalloped shape. It can also lead to drifting of the teeth, causing the bite to become even less stable.

A bite that isn’t stable for swallowing is probably not stable for all the other muscular tasks your jaw muscles perform, such as chewing or assisting balance of the head. Even if you don’t have it yet, this could contribute to the development of TMJ, including jaw pain, headaches, and other symptoms.

Scalloped Tongue Treatment

The treatment for a scalloped tongue is usually determined based on what’s causing it. By treating the cause of the rippled tongue, you can treat the rippled tongue. Some common scalloped tongue treatments include:

Nasal dilators

CPAP machine

Surgery to correct the tongue shape or size

Surgery to remove abnormal or excess tissue or cells

Thyroid hormone medications

Dental devices such as mouth guards

Anti-inflammatory medications

A scalloped tongue is an important symptom that you should talk to your doctor about. If your doctor clears your health, it’s time to see a neuromuscular dentist.

(09/26/2024)
by Smile Columbia Dentistry

More Information: https://www.tmjtreatmentsc.com/patient-education/scalloped-tongue-may-be-a-symptom-bad-bite/

Breakouts around the mouth – how to clear them up quickly!

So, I have been seeing lots clients this week suffering from varying levels of breakouts around the mouth, chin and jawline area. This is becoming a bigger problem not just for teens but also young adults ranging from 20 all the way up to 50 years old.

My immediate response to all my clients when I see breakouts around the mouth is always hormones. This is the most classic cause of breakouts and acne around the oral and peri-oral area. So, when it comes to breakouts around this area always look at how regular your periods are, are you taking any medication (recently or in the past few months) that might be causing irregular hormonal activity such as the pill or are you going through puberty, pregnancy or menopause before looking at any other factors.

However, if you have exhausted all the above factors or know that they do not apply to you then is a far more extensive list of factors that cause breakouts in this area:

Stress (work, emotional, general tiredness)

Lip balms (Ones that have artificial colours, fragrances. Aim for pure wax lip balms)

Sulphate rich toothpaste

Not cleansing or removing makeup at night

Waxing, threading or shaving in the area

Acidic or greasy foods or beverages (always wipe mouth after consuming these)

Poor sleep

Poor diet or not eating enough (more detail later in the blog)

For men, look at your razor and shaving products

For women, the pill or other hormone alternating medications

Exercise and sweating

Excess UV (sun) exposure

PCOS (Polycystic ovaries)

Perioral Dermatitis – see your doctor or dermatologist for a diagnosis

Diabetes or insulin resistance

Corticosteroids or lithium-based medications

Skincare

So, what should you be looking out for in your skincare to prevent breakouts around the mouth? Well there are a couple of simple tips and tricks you can use to keep these breakouts at bay

Remove your makeup every night! Without exception!

Do NOT pick. It will only spread the bacteria in the affected area.

Is your makeup comedogenic? These are ingredients that clog your pores such as mineral oil, lanolin, propylene glycol and dimenthieone

Check your moisturiser – is it the right one for your skin, is it too thick or maybe not hydrating enough? If you suffer from blackheads on your chin then this is a sign of dehydration so try a hydrating booster – I recommend Dermalogica Hydrating Booster

Cleansing, cleansing, cleansing! Make sure again that you cleanse your skin morning and night and keep your cleansing cloth, sponge or flannel really clean to avoid the build of up of bacteria

Avoid petroleum-based products and products with SLS in

Look for products with benzoyl peroxide in to help clear up acne

Retinol – although it does have a good success rate, always air on the side of caution. Retinol is a very strong ingredient and can be too harsh on the skin.

Diet

So how does what you eat link to the breakout on your chin? Although the two may seem completely unconnected, I always say to all my clients that your skin is a mirror of what is going on inside the rest of your body. Second to the liver your skin the next best organ for detoxification and unfortunately that can sometimes express itself in breakouts.

You should be eating…

Foods that promote good gut health

Hormone-regulating foods e.g. foods which higher levels of oestrogen in the body

Lots of highly coloured fruit and vegetables

Anti-oxidant rich foods e.g. berries, beetroot and dark chocolate

You shouldn’t be eating….

Greasy, fatty foods

Dairy – It also causes androgen levels to rise in the bloodstream which we want to avoid in acne.

Highly sugary foods and drinks

Very low carb diets

Phytoestrogens

Hormones, Medications and Health Conditions

Some of the various medical conditions that could be causing perioral acne

PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovaries)

HA (Hypothalamic Amenorrhea)

Diabetes or insulin resistance

Irregular periods

Pregnancy

Menopause

Perioral dermatitis

Health conditions that may be causing the acne include

Puberty

Taking corticosteroids and lithium-based medication

High-stress levels

Poor sleep

History of cold sores in the area

Medication that you could be taking for perioral acne and how it works

So, when it comes to acne there are lots of various medications including Accutane, Roaccutane, Isotretinoin, anti-biotics among others. But for perioral acne specifically there are only two main options:

Spironolactone

Flutamide

Spironolactone or ‘Spiro’ is usually the drug of choice as Flutamide has various side effects. ‘Spiro’ works by decreasing testosterone activity and whilst it is effective, it is not a long-term solution. It, like Flutamide, has various side effects including low blood pressure and it is also a diuretic. Also ‘Spiro’ always triggers a first initial breakout that could last for a couple of days, weeks or months depending on how severe the acne is.

How estrogen is good and testosterone is bad

So, this is the science part of the blog! Acne is caused by three main factors:

Excess skin cells

Excess oil production

Bacteria (p. acnes)

If you can control the excess skin cells (with exfoliation) and the excess oil (with clearing masks and clay-based products) then the bacteria will take care of itself. Making acne one of the easiest things to clear up in the professional treatment room.

However, if you delve deeper into the causes of acne then you can start to look at why we start to get excess oil production and skin cells in the first place. Often, we can work it back to puberty in teenagers, stress in adults or bad dietary choices. But the actual root cause of the breakouts often links back to hormones

Causes of increased oil production in the skin include:

Increased production of androgens (male sex hormone)

Increased production of testosterone

Increased production of DHEA-S (stress hormone that comes the adrenal gland)

So, with all these excess male sex hormones floating around in the bloodstream and sending your oil glands crazy, estrogen comes to the rescue! Estrogen helps promote clear skin, normalise testosterone in the bloodstream and balances and soothes the skin. So, the higher your levels of estrogen, the better your skin.

(09/26/2024)
by Winslow Skincare

More Information: https://www.winslowskincare.co.uk/breakouts-around-the-mouth

What is the best solution for restoring full-mouth tooth loss?

Full-mouth tooth loss causes numerous issues, such as severe impairment of chewing function, jawbone resorption, and making the person appear older than their actual age. However, with advancements in science and technology, there are now many methods available for restoring full-mouth tooth loss, helping patients effectively address these issues.

1. Reasons for Full-Mouth Tooth Loss

Common reasons for full-mouth tooth loss include:

1.1. Chronic Periodontitis

Periodontitis (gum disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding the teeth (gums, enamel, ligaments, and bone). In this condition, the gums lose attachment to the teeth, the tooth sockets experience bone resorption, and periodontal pockets form, causing the teeth to become loose and eventually be lost.

1.2. Tooth Decay and Apical Infection

One of the leading causes of tooth decay is poor oral hygiene over an extended period. Plaque and food debris accumulate on the teeth, providing an environment for bacteria to thrive and proliferate. This leads to enamel erosion and eventually progresses to the dental pulp, disrupting the entire structure of the tooth.

1.3. Trauma to the Head, Face, or Neck

Trauma to the head, face, or neck can cause physical damage to the teeth, gums, tooth sockets (the bone that supports the teeth), or the soft tissues of the mouth, including the lips and tongue. Damage to the teeth can range from minor: chipping of the outer layers (enamel and dentin) to severe: vertical, diagonal, or horizontal fractures of the tooth or complete root fractures, leading to tooth loss.

1.4. Age

Similar to other body parts, teeth also age over time. Additionally, due to their structure and nature resembling bone, conditions such as osteoporosis and calcium deficiency in older adults are factors that make them more susceptible to tooth loss.

2. Negative Effects of Full-Mouth Tooth Loss

Full-mouth tooth loss has numerous negative consequences, such as:

2.1. Severe Reduction in Chewing Function

Effective biting, tearing, and grinding of food requires coordination between the upper and lower jaws. Therefore, if one or both sets of molars are lost, chewing function will be severely impaired, making it difficult to adequately break down food.

2.2. Increased Risk of Digestive System Disorders

The mouth is the entry point of the digestive system, responsible for breaking down food to facilitate digestion. When chewing function is severely reduced due to full-mouth tooth loss, other parts of the digestive system must work harder. Consequently, the digestive system can suffer serious harm, leading to various conditions such as constipation, stomach ulcers, and intestinal perforation.

2.3. Jawbone Resorption

Jawbone resorption (bone loss around the tooth sockets) describes the reduction in density, height, and volume of the bone surrounding the tooth roots. This condition is commonly seen in individuals who have experienced long-term tooth loss.

In patients with full-mouth tooth loss, jawbone resorption causes numerous negative effects:

It leads to gum shrinkage, causing the cheeks to sink in and the facial skin to become hollow, making the patient appear older than their actual age.

It causes the teeth in the opposite jaw to shift and become misaligned, affecting aesthetics.

It creates obstacles for performing tooth restoration methods.

2.4. Impaired Pronunciation

The incisors (teeth numbers 1 and 2) play a crucial role in clear and precise pronunciation. When a patient experiences full-mouth tooth loss, accurate pronunciation becomes more challenging, leading to the development of a speech impediment over time.

2.5. Other Consequences

In addition to the above consequences, full-mouth tooth loss also leads to severe impacts on health, as the patient cannot enjoy their favorite foods. This results in physical weakness and increasing mental fatigue, making it difficult for the patient to concentrate on work.

Additionally, in the long term, patients with full-mouth tooth loss may face various issues such as headaches , neck, shoulder pain…

3. Summary of 3 Solutions for Full-Mouth Tooth Loss

There are three common methods for restoring full-mouth tooth loss:

3.1. Classic Removable Dentures

Full-mouth removable dentures consist of two parts: the artificial teeth and the denture base designed to resemble the natural gums. This is the most common and cost-effective tooth restoration method available today.

Advantages of Classic Removable Dentures:

Easy to remove and clean.

Short waiting time for receiving dentures, typically completed in about 1 week.

Moderate cost, approximately 15 million VND per denture.

No requirement for the patient to have good jawbone density.

Disadvantages:

Low aesthetic value.

Rapid jawbone resorption due to pressure from the dentures.

Reduced taste sensation because food does not come into contact with the oral mucosa.

Loose and prone to falling out during eating and speaking, causing significant disruption to daily activities.

Suitable only for the upper jaw due to poor load-bearing capacity.

3.2. Implant-Supported Overdentures

To address the issue of looseness in removable dentures, implant-supported overdentures have been developed. This method uses attachments connected to implants to secure the dentures more firmly on the jawbone. There are two common types of attachments:

Ball Attachments: Each implant in the jawbone is fitted with a ball-shaped attachment that matches a socket on the denture.

Bar Attachments: The denture is tightly secured onto a metal bar (attached to 2-5 implants) and held in place by clips.

Advantages of Implant-Supported Overdentures:

Easy to remove and clean.

More aesthetic compared to classic removable dentures due to the use of more artificial gum.

Increases the stability of removable dentures, thereby improving chewing function.

Suitable for patients with significant bone resorption or those who are very elderly.

Disadvantages:

Reduces taste sensation because the base of the denture obstructs contact with the oral mucosa.

Requires regular inspection and replacement of attachments (approximately every 6 months).

Higher cost if multiple implants are needed.

3.3. ProArch/All-on-X Full Arch Restoration

One of the most advanced and modern techniques today is implant placement and fixed restoration on implants. These restorations are supported by implant posts, which act as artificial tooth roots and require care similar to natural teeth (such as brushing and daily flossing). Due to technological advancements, full arch restorations now require only 4-6 implants instead of the previous 8-12 implants.

Advantages of ProArch/All-on-X:

Natural and refined appearance of the completed teeth.

Temporary teeth provided on the same day for immediate use.

Replaces removable dentures, restoring freedom in eating and speaking.

Minimizes complex invasive surgical steps, such as sinus lifts or bone grafts, if the restoration is performed soon after tooth loss.

Disadvantages:

High cost, dependent on the brand of implants and the complexity of the final product.

(09/25/2024)
by Elite Dental Group

More Information: N

Why illness might leave a bitter taste in the mouth

Molecule that triggers inflammation also seems to influence how mice sense bitter flavors.

People who are ill often complain of changes in their sense of taste. Now, researchers report that this sensory shift may be caused by a protein that triggers inflammation.

Mice that cannot produce the protein, called tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), are less sensitive to bitter flavours than normal mice, according to a study published on 21 April in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity1.

People with infections, autoimmune disease or other inflammatory conditions have higher levels of TNF-α than healthy people, and the protein has been shown to reduce food intake2. To investigate the influence of TNF-α on taste, researchers at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, used engineered mice that could not produce the protein.

The researchers offered the engineered mice and normal mice water that contained different types and concentrations of flavours. The mice that could not produce TNF-α had normal reactions to sweet, sour, salty and umami flavours, but were less sensitive to bitter ones.

“Normal mice will pick up [that taste] at a much lower concentration. They will know this is bitter; they will not like it,” says Hong Wang, a molecular biologist at Monell and an author of the study. “But if the TNF-α gene is not there, then the mice will only start to avoid the bitter solution at higher concentrations.”

Taste sensation

In some of the experiments, the mice could drink their fill of either plain water or a flavoured solution; researchers measured the changing levels in water bottles to determine how sensitive the mice were to a particular taste. In other experiments, the mice had only a few seconds to drink while a machine counted how many times they licked the flavoured solution — a test that minimizes the influence of any after-effects that the mice feel on drinking the test liquids.

Both the normal and engineering mice showed the same flavour preferences in both types of experiment, indicating that they chose liquids on the basis of taste and not because of any after-effects of the flavour.

But the behaviour experiments could not determine whether the reduced reactions to bitterness reflected changes in the mouse tongue or in the parts of the brain that process taste. To find out, the researchers recorded electrical activity in the nerves that transmit taste signals from the tongue to the brain. In the engineered mice, these peripheral taste nerves fired less in response to bitter flavours than they did in normal mice, suggesting that TNF-α acts on the taste buds themselves.

That is a relatively new idea, says Jan-Sebastian Grigoleit, a neuroimmunologist at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California. TNF-α falls into a class of small signalling molecules called cytokines that are best known for their roles in the immune response. But Grigoleit says that researchers have been discovering that cytokines also help to regulate other body systems.

Tongue-tied

Robert Dantzer, a psychobiologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, cautions that the new study's findings could have multiple explanations. For example, growing up without TNF-α may have caused developmental abnormalities in the engineered mice that could explain their tolerance for bitter flavors.

Meanwhile, the study's authors are surprised that a lack of TNF-α affected only perception of bitter tastes, because they found that many types of taste cells seem to have receptors for the protein. (Some cells in the tongue's taste buds also produce the protein, but these cells specialize in sensing sweet and umami flavors.)

Wang says that the team now plans to investigate whether high TNF-α levels during illness make people extra-sensitive to bitter tastes.

(09/25/2024)
by Springer Nature Limited

More Information: https://www.nature.com/articles/nature.2015.17415

Why Do My Bottom Teeth Hurt?

Having bottom teeth that hurt can be a debilitating experience. However, there are many possible causes of tooth pain, from cavities to gum disease. Understanding the symptoms and treatments for these dental issues can help to relieve your discomfort and prevent the possibility of a serious situation.

Cavities are holes in the teeth created by acids. The pain associated with a cavity can be mild or severe. A cavity that progresses to a root canal can cause an abscessed tooth, which is a tooth that has become infected. These cavities can cause pain when chewing or biting. Dental filling materials can also be used to treat the problem.

A toothache can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as an infection or a heart attack. It is important to contact your dentist to get a diagnosis and treatment for the problem. Depending on the condition, a dentist may refer you to a primary care physician. An antibiotic can be prescribed by your doctor and may help to relieve the pain. A dentist may also apply a desensitizing agent in the office.

A toothache may also be caused by a sinus infection. Sinuses are located behind your cheekbones. If they become inflamed or blocked, they can cause a throbbing ache. A sinus cavity contains mucus that moistens the air when you breathe it in. A sinus infection may also be caused by allergies, which can cause a sore jaw.

A toothache may also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as diabetes. Diabetes can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral health. If your teeth and gums are in poor shape, you may be more susceptible to tooth decay, which can lead to an abscessed tooth. A dentist can help you determine if you have diabetes and treat it before it causes more serious issues.

A toothache can also be caused by a sinus infection, which can be caused by allergies or a virus. An overbite can also cause pain in the lower jaw. Bruxism, which is the practice of grinding the teeth while sleeping, can also cause tooth pain. A dentist can recommend a night guard to prevent grinding your teeth while you sleep. A dentist may also recommend dental braces to treat the problem. Braces can cause short-term discomfort, but can also help protect the teeth from future damage.

A toothache can also be a sign of a more severe condition, such as gum disease. This disease causes bleeding gums and can also lead to other health issues. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, and can lead to overall health problems. Having a dental night guard will help prevent the condition from worsening. A dentist can also recommend a gum graft if the problem is caused by gum recession.

A toothache may also be accompanied by a tingling sensation. This may be caused by a cavity, a cracked tooth, or an exposed root.

(09/24/2024)
by Elu Health

More Information: https://eluhealth.com/why-do-my-bottom-teeth-hurt/

Locked jaw: approach life wide open!

Our experienced and caring dentists love a challenge. And a locked jaw is one of the most challenging patient presentations seen at our Melbourne clinic. Commonly acknowledged as one of the hardest things to fix in dentistry, a locked jaw happens when one of the discs within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) moves in front of another component of the joint when the jaw opens and closes, and won’t return to its usual place.

The disc is now stuck forwards, and the jaw returns backwards. The patient tries to open their mouth, but can’t as the disc is in the way – hello, locked jaw!

And hello, pain! When patients try to open their jaw, they stretch the ligaments, nerves and blood vessels connected to the jaw, towards the back of the jaw space near the ear. This stretching may cause tinnitus (ringing), a feeling of full ears, and pain.

Locked Jaw Treatment

Allied health professionals have experience in managing chronic TMJ dysfunction (TMD) presentations and regularly achieve success.

But when the patient experiences these symptoms all of a sudden, they need treatment there and then. Acute TMD treatment involves manipulation (direct massage contact to the muscle by the dentist or assistant) or of direct-to-the-joint application of an injection of local anaesthetic or even saline.

The dentist may take X-rays before and after the treatment, to monitor progress and look for areas to improve. Sometimes the patient will also have an MRI scan to allow the dentist to look more deeply at the presentation before applying treatment.

Locked Jaw Treatment Case Study

It’s quite amazing – before treatment, this patient was barely able to open their mouth. Afterwards, the results spoke for themselves – the mouth was able to open to its full range and with no pain!

(09/24/2024)
by First Bite Dental

More Information: https://firstbite.com.au/news/locked-jaw-approach-life-wide-open/

Most Common Traumatic Mouth Injuries

When trauma occurs to your teeth, gums, or jaw, there is a chance that it may impact your ability to speak and chew properly. It may also change your appearance. Common oral injuries need to be treated quickly by the right professional.

Traumatic oral injuries are not caused by any sort of infection or other illness. Instead, they are caused by impact. Some of the most common sources of these injuries are falls, car accidents, and sports mishaps. However, less common, sometimes these injuries are caused by biting down on foods that are too hard.

If you’ve experienced mouth trauma, contact your dentist to determine if emergency dental services are needed.

Emergency Room or Emergency Dental Services

If you or a loved one has experienced an injury to your teeth or gums, your first instinct may be to seek out emergency dental services. Before you do, make sure you aren’t dealing with other injuries that need more immediate attention. Has the injured individual experienced any of the following:

Loss of consciousness

Memory issues

Severe bleeding

Difficulty swallowing

Trouble opening or closing mouth

Intense jaw pain

Any suspicion of spinal cord injury

Evidence of injury that could lead to permanent damage or worse

Most hospitals employ oral surgeons to ensure the patients with dental trauma receive the support they need. These surgeons treat many mouth injuries taking the appropriate steps to stabilize the patient.

Treating the Most Common Dental Injuries: Emergencies

When should you get emergency dental treatment? If you haven’t suffered any additional traumatic injuries but have serious dental trauma, you can seek emergency dental assistance. For example, you might do this if you have a broken tooth or one that’s been knocked out and you’re in excruciating pain.

You need emergency treatment if immediate action is needed to save or restore a tooth, or there is too much pain for you to function until a regular dental appointment. If your dentist doesn’t take emergency appointments, they may be able to refer you to somebody who does.

Teeth That Are Knocked Out or Broken in Half

A tooth that has been knocked out entirely is called an “avulsed” tooth. If this happens to you, remember that an endodontist can save your tooth. First, rinse it with milk, never touching it by the root. If possible, place it back into the socket gently. If not, hold the tooth in your mouth. You may also put it in a glass of milk. Don’t let it dry out.

An emergency dentist or endodontist may be able to set the tooth back into the mouth to have it reattached to the jawbone. There may be complications, which could prevent this from happening, for example:

It takes too long to get treatment

The tooth dries out

Your jaw bone is broken

Keep in mind that a broken tooth is a dead tooth. Therefore, it will require a root canal and likely a crown.

A tooth that has broken in half has had the pulp severed. However, it may be repairable. Dentists can use a process called bonding to make the tooth whole again. In most cases, an endodontist will need to perform a root canal.

Chips and Cracks: Non-Emergency Oral Injuries

Some injuries don’t need emergency treatment, but it is important to seek help soon. For example, if you suffer an injury that causes a minor chip or crack in your tooth, contact your dentist. They’ll want to get you in for an x-ray and to repair the tooth. In some instances, the crack or break may be more extensive than you realize. In these situations, you may need more intensive treatment.

(09/23/2024)
by Access Endodontics

More Information: https://www.accessendomd.com/dental-blog/most-common-traumatic-mouth-injuries/

Abscess in the Mouth: Diagnosis, and Treatment

Abscess in the mouth can be an uncomfortable and painful oral condition that requires prompt attention. They are typically caused by bacterial infections and can develop in various areas, including the gums, teeth, and surrounding tissues. This comprehensive guide will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for abscesses in the mouth, helping you understand this condition better and make informed decisions about your oral health.

Understanding Abscesses in the Mouth

Definition of an Abscess:An abscess is a localized collection of pus that forms due to the body’s natural response to infection. In the context of the mouth, it occurs when bacteria invade the tissues, leading to an inflammatory response and the formation of a pus-filled cavity.

Causes of Mouth Abscesses:Mouth abscesses are primarily caused by bacterial infections. The most common bacteria associated with oral abscess is Streptococcus species, including Streptococcus mutants and Streptococcus intermedius. Poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, gum disease (periodontitis), and dental trauma are common factors that contribute to the development of abscesses.

Symptoms of Abscesses in the Mouth

Localized Symptoms:Severe toothache or gum painSwelling and redness in the affected areaIncreased sensitivity to hot or cold substancesPresence of a bump or swelling filled with pusFormation of a fistula (a small channel) that drains pusFoul taste or odor in the mouthDifficulty in opening the mouth or swallowing

Systemic Symptoms:FeverGeneralized malaiseSwollen lymph nodesDifficulty in breathing or swallowing (in severe cases)

Diagnosis of Mouth Abscesses

Clinical Examination:During a dental examination, the dentist will visually inspect the oral cavity, looking for signs of inflammation, swelling, or pus-filled areas. They will also assess the patient’s medical history and ask about the symptoms experienced.

Imaging Techniques:To confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the infection, the dentist may request imaging tests such as X-rays, dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), or ultrasound. These tests help identify the location and size of the abscess, as well as any associated dental or periodontal problems.

Aspiration or Culture:In some cases, the dentist may perform an aspiration procedure, in which they use a needle to withdraw a sample of pus from the abscess for laboratory analysis. This helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.

Treatment Options for Mouth Abscesses

Incision and Drainage:In many cases, the primary treatment for a mouth abscess involves incision and drainage. The dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, make a small incision in the abscess, and allow the pus to drain out. This procedure is usually followed by thorough cleaning of the area and may require the placement of a temporary drain.

Antibiotics:To control the infection and prevent its spread, antibiotics are often prescribed. The choice of antibiotic depends on the severity of the abscess, the patient’s medical history, and the results of the pus culture. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the dentist.

Root Canal Treatment or Tooth Extraction:If the abscess is caused by a severely infected tooth, the dentist may recommend either a root canal treatment or tooth extraction. A root canal treatment involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth and filling it with dental material to prevent reinfection. If the tooth is severely damaged or cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. The dentist will discuss the options and help determine the best course of action.

Scaling and Root Planing:If the abscess is associated with gum disease, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be performed. This deep cleaning treatment removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and their roots, helping to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection.

Pain Management:During the treatment and recovery period, pain management is essential. The dentist may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can also help reduce swelling and pain.

(09/23/2024)
by Swiss Dent Bodrum

More Information: N

How Far Can Gums Recede Before Teeth Fall Out?

If you think you have receding gums and are worried that your teeth might fall out, then it’s a valid concern. And we’re thankful you researched the problem today so you can learn about the condition and even the solution.

Gum recession is real, and it’s serious.

Receding gums cannot be cured or reversed, but they can be stopped in their tracks, preventing the issue from worsening and your teeth from falling out. But how long does it take? The timing will depend on the individual and their habits.

For some, gum disease progresses in a matter of weeks or months, whereas for others with a moderate hygiene routine, the effects are slower. To truly answer the question, visiting and consulting with a dentist is best.

When left untreated, gum recession can cause other oral health problems like bone loss, which causes the teeth to become unstable and wobbly, eventually causing them to fall out.

Some treatments and procedures can help lift the gum, improve the tooth’s appearance and ensure that the underlying issue causing the gum recession, like gum disease, is managed and handled correctly.

Receding gum signs and symptoms:

If you notice any of the symptoms of receding gums below, please immediately schedule an appointment with a dentist, especially if your gums are throbbing.

Teeth appearing longer

Visible tooth roots

Tooth sensitivity

Loose teeth

Gum inflammation

Bad breath

Discomfort or pain along the gum line

If any of the above resonates with you, and you’re beginning to feel concerned, please take action now to avoid further dental complications. For more treatment information, please read on to learn what can be done.

Treatment will ultimately depend on the stage of your gum recession and what caused it in the first place.

Treatments for receding gums

The simplest treatment is Scaling and Root Planing, a deep clean of your gums, which goes below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar. This allows gum disease to thrive and contributes to your gums receding. Antibiotics can be prescribed to eliminate any remaining bacteria and reduce infection risk.

If you’re a patient living with gum disease, it’s recommended to visit the hygienist more regularly and to schedule deep clean appointments to ensure your teeth and gums are free from harmful bacteria. A more rigorous at-home cleaning routine is also recommended.

Surgical intervention and treatment

If your gum recession is more advanced, you might require surgical treatments like gum grafts, which can lift tissue from another part of the mouth to cover the exposed tooth roots.

Pinhole surgical techniques can also be used to lift and reposition the gums, a minimally invasive option to protect the roots of the teeth.

Flap surgery is also another option, where the gums are lifted to remove tartar and then stitched back in place.

Modern regenerative procedures can be used in which regenerative materials like graft tissue, membranes, and tissue-stimulating proteins encourage the body to regenerate lost bone and tissue. These procedures, paired with lifestyle changes at home, like improved oral hygiene practices and quitting smoking, can make all the difference in saving your teeth.

(09/22/2024)
by Perfect Smile Studio

More Information: https://www.theperfectsmile.co.uk/news/how-far-can-gums-recede-before-teeth-fall-out

Burping a Lot Even When Not Eating? Expert Explains Possible Causes and Solutions

If you find yourself burping all the time, it might be due to a condition known as aerophagia. Burping is natural and common, and it's actually normal to burp up to four times after a meal. This is due to the ingestion of excess air, which can happen if you eat or drink too fast, talk while eating, or consume carbonated beverages. However, according to DenOffentlige, if you are burping all the time, even when not eating, gastroenterologist Dr. Ken Brown believes it's time to make some lifestyle changes.

On behalf of the dietary supplement brand Atrantil, Dr. Brown explained on TikTok what could be causing your excessive burping and how to stop it.

While it's common to ingest air when eating, Dr. Brown mentioned other situations where this can happen: "If you find yourself burping often, and think about it, if it actually happens during stressful situations, there is something called aerophagia, which means you are actually swallowing small amounts of air."

Dr. Brown suggested a few things you can do to try to stop it.

1. Be Very Mindful of How You Breathe

Dr. Brown advised: "Try to focus on nose breathing and long exhalations. This will calm you down, when you get stressed, your upper esophageal sphincter can relax a bit, and you will swallow air without realizing it."

2. Be Careful with Using a Straw

People will also suck in air even though they think they are only sucking up liquid through the straw, he said.

3. Try Not to Chew Gum

Dr. Brown added: "Something that is also overlooked is that if you have heartburn, it sends a signal to produce more saliva and get you to swallow more often. All these are reasons why you might be burping all the time."

If your burping begins to affect your daily life, it might be a good idea to talk to your doctor about it.

(09/21/2024)
by Dagens

More Information: https://www.dagens.com/lifestyle/burping-a-lot-even-when-not-eating-expert-explains-possible-causes-and-solutions

Why Does My Jaw Hurt on Only One Side?

At the end of a long day, there’s nothing else you’d like to do than snuggle into bed and drift off into dreamland. But right as you’re falling asleep, you’re jolted awake by a nagging pain on one side of your jaw. Although the feeling can be alarming, don’t worry – it usually isn’t a cause for immediate concern. Read on as we discuss what causes jaw pain on one side and when you should seek care from your emergency dentist in Conway.

What Causes Jaw Pain?

There are several possible causes for jaw pain on one side, including:

TMJ Disorders

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders affect the joint that connects your skull and jaw. Since you have one joint on each side of your jaw, a TMJ disorder can cause pain in the joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. Other symptoms of this disorder include jaw tenderness, earaches, clicking or popping when opening your mouth, and difficulty opening and closing your mouth if the joint locks.

Oral Health Problems

In some cases, one-sided jaw pain can be traced to underlying oral health problems. Some common dental issues that cause jaw pain are cavities, an abscessed tooth, gum disease, tooth decay, growth of wisdom teeth, missing or crooked teeth, clenching or grinding your teeth.

Sinusitis

If your nasal cavities are inflamed, it can lead to sinusitis. Since the nasal cavities are located behind your cheeks, the inflammation can cause pain in one or both sides of your jaw. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, such as nasal congestion, yellow or green mucus, facial swelling, fatigue, and difficulty smelling or tasting.

When Should I See My Dentist?

Usually, jaw pain on one side isn’t a dire situation. However, if the discomfort is accompanied by certain symptoms, it could indicate a more severe condition that requires immediate treatment. Contact your emergency dentist right away if you experience any of the following:

Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days or is recurring

Difficulty eating, drinking, swallowing, or breathing

Swelling or a fever that doesn’t go away

Severe pain that disappears after a burst of bitter-tasting and unpleasant-smelling salty liquid

Tips to Relieve Pain

Are you experiencing mild jaw pain? Here are some tips for relief:

Apply a cold compress. Wrap an ice pack in a clean towel and apply it to the aching area. It’ll help numb the pain and reduce swelling.

Take over-the-counter medication. Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help alleviate your discomfort and manage inflammation.

Rest your jaw. Stay away from foods that require significant chewing power to avoid overworking your jaw muscles.

Massage your jaw. Massage therapy can help release pain and tension in your jaw. Try some techniques on your own or visit a specialist for help (healthcare provider, physical therapist, massage therapist).

If one-sided jaw pain is preventing you from falling asleep, try the tips outlined above for relief. When in doubt, contact your emergency dentist for treatment and peace of mind.

(09/21/2024)
by American Dental

More Information: https://www.youramericandentalcare.com/blog/2021/08/06/why-do-i-have-jaw-pain-on-one-side/

Why Do My Teeth Itch? Possible Causes and Solutions

We’ve all felt itchiness from bug bites or irritation. But have your teeth ever felt itchy? It’s a pretty strange feeling that may be a warning sign of some serious oral health issues — or a minor issue that you can address with some changes to your oral care routine. So, why do your teeth itch?

Itchy teeth can be caused by plaque buildup, gum disease, allergies, tooth damage, or even dental procedures. You can treat itchy teeth and gums at home by practicing good oral hygiene, sucking on ice cubes, or swishing salt water. Consult your dentist if your symptoms persist for more than a week.

Don’t panic just yet if your teeth and gums are itchy or irritated. These unpleasant symptoms might not be caused by serious health complications and can often be treated easily at home. Here’s everything you need to know about the possible causes and solutions for itchy teeth.

Why Do My Teeth Feel Itchy?

There are several reasons why your teeth might feel itchy. Fungal pathogens, plaque buildup, or even gum disease can cause itchy teeth.

Here are a few of the most common causes of itchy teeth:

Plaque Buildup

Excess plaque buildup can cause itchy teeth as well as other dental complications. Plaque is a sticky film made up of bacteria, germs, and sugars that sits on top of your teeth and gums.

Plaque can also cause cavities, gum disease, dental decay, and more. Brushing and flossing twice a day are the best ways to prevent and reduce plaque buildup.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, can cause itchy teeth. Gum disease is caused by poor oral hygiene, excess plaque, and tartar buildup. Symptoms of periodontal disease can also include swollen or bleeding gums, sensitivity, tooth loss, and more.

Allergies

Allergies are another common culprit behind itchy teeth. Certain allergies can cause your throat, gums, and the roof of your mouth to start to itch or swell. These allergies can also affect your teeth, causing them to feel itchy or irritated.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding or jaw clenching might be another reason for itchy teeth. Such actions can wear down the enamel and lead to increased sensitivity. However, there isn’t any solid evidence backing these claims.

Infections

Bacteria, viruses, fungal pathogens, or parasitic pathogens might also cause itchy and irritated teeth. For instance, the varicella-zoster virus can cause shingles as well as odontalgia, which is pain and itchiness in the teeth.

Tooth Damage

You might feel itchiness, pain, or sensitivity when a tooth’s structure, nerves, root, or pulp become damaged. Tooth damage can happen during everyday activities like exercising, cooking, or even driving.

A Recent Dental Procedure

Dental procedures like a root canal, cavity filling, or extraction can lead to unpleasant symptoms. These recent dental procedures might cause your teeth to feel itchy, irritated, sensitive, or painful. However, these unpleasant symptoms are typically part of the healing process and completely natural.

How to Treat Itchy Teeth in 7 Easy Ways

Don’t get too concerned just yet if your teeth are itchy or irritated. Thankfully, there are multiple straightforward ways you can try to treat itchy teeth.

Suck on Ice Cubes

Sucking on frozen water, frozen popsicles, or anything cold can help reduce symptoms of itchy teeth by decreasing gum inflammation. You can also consider sucking on frozen fruit such as grapes or strawberries to mix things up.

Use a Salt Water Rinse

You can also try swishing a homemade salt water rinse to reduce or eliminate unpleasant symptoms from itchy teeth and gums. Saltwater rinses can help kill harmful bacteria, reduce plaque, and aid in the healing process after a dental procedure.

To make a saltwater rinse at home, dissolve a tablespoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Swish the solution in your mouth for up to thirty seconds and rinse thoroughly with normal water afterward. Be sure to avoid swallowing the solution.

Stopping Smoking or Using Tobacco Products

Smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco products can irritate the gums, leading to dry mouth, itchy teeth, and other harmful consequences. You can reduce or remove these negative symptoms entirely by quitting these habits.

Avoid Certain Foods

In some cases, food allergies can cause your teeth to feel itchy or irritated. Avoiding certain substances that irritate your oral health can help reduce these symptoms. Consult your doctor if you aren’t sure which foods are causing the issues. Your doctor might place you on an elimination diet, conduct tests, or order blood work to determine your allergies.

Inspect the Ingredients in Toothpaste or Mouthwash

In some cases, ingredients found in your toothpaste or mouthwash can lead to irritation, sensitivity, or even itchy teeth. You might have a minor allergy to certain ingredients or have increased sensitivity. The most common toothpaste ingredient that people are sensitive to is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).Be sure to inspect all the ingredients in your oral hygiene products and consult your doctor to determine what’s best for you.

Try Taking Antihistamines

Antihistamines such as Benadryl (on Amazon) can help fight unpleasant symptoms from allergies, including itchy teeth. Antihistamines block chemical compounds created from your immune system that are responsible for symptoms of itching, vomiting, or other responses to allergens. Be sure to consult your doctor before taking any new medications.

Be Sure to Brush and Floss

Plaque development is one of the main culprits behind itchy teeth and gums. That’s why it’s crucial to brush and floss thoroughly at least twice a day. Practicing better oral hygiene can help decrease or remove itchiness, irritation, or other unpleasant symptoms.

How to Prevent Your Teeth From Itching

The best way to prevent itchy teeth is by practicing good oral hygiene techniques. Brushing and flossing thoroughly at least twice a day is essential to maintaining good oral health.

Be sure to brush for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste (on Amazon). Make sure you’re using a soft-bristle toothbrush (on Amazon) to avoid any damage to your enamel. You can also consider incorporating mouthwash to help fight symptoms of gum disease or infection.

If you’re a smoker, consider reducing or quitting tobacco products. These products can negatively impact oral health leading to itchy teeth, gum disease, or other serious health complications. Speak with your doctor or dentist to determine the best steps for your situation.

When Should You See Your Doctor?

In some cases, itchy gums and teeth can be an early warning sign of serious health complications such as periodontal disease. New medications, allergies, and hormonal changes can also cause itchy symptoms. For those reasons, treating itchy teeth and gums can be somewhat tricky.

You should consult your dentist if you’ve tried some home remedies and your symptoms are lasting more than a few days and over a week. Be sure to also contact your dentist if your symptoms get worse or you notice irritation, swelling, fever, or bleeding gums.

Always remember that symptoms shouldn’t be overlooked regardless of how big or small they might seem. You and your dentist can work together to determine the cause of the issue and develop a treatment plan that works for your situation.

(09/20/2024)
by Cavities Get Around

More Information: https://cavitiesgetaround.com/causes-and-solutions-of-itchy-teeth/

Fissured Tongue Symptoms

Fissured tongue-like effect symptoms otherwise known as Lingua plicata is a fiery yet mild condition that affects the surface of your tongue. The tongue is generally covered with small, pinkish-white bumps (papillae), which are in reality short, fine, hairlike projections.

But in this effect symptoms it is characterized by at least one fissure running along the tongue’s surface. The number and depth of the fissure may vary in individual. On the off chance that the fissures are very deep, the tongue may appear to have various sections. Apart from the appearance, Fissured tongue usually shows no other symptoms. Individuals may experience a burning sensation, particularly when they intake acidic food or beverages.

Signs

Signs and side effects of the fissured tongue may include:

Smooth, red, irregular patches on the top or alongside your tongue

Successive changes in the area, size, and state of the may occur

Uneasiness, burning sensation sometimes, frequently seen with eating hot and spicy or acidic food and beverages

Numerous individuals with fissured tongues have no side effects. This can last for quite a long time, months or years. The issue frequently settles all alone however may show up again sometime in the future.

Causes

There is no particular reason for a fissured tongue like symptoms, yet some research Source has highlighted a hereditary connection, recommending that it might run in families.

Nutritional deficiency

In exceptional cases, lack of healthy nutrients can cause Fissured tongue. An alternate report discovered a connection between Fissured tongue and nutrient B12 deficiency.

Then, research shows that pain-related with Fissured tongue may come from a deficiency in:

B nutrients, zinc, iron

The researcher has additionally linked it to poor oral hygiene, and esophageal reflux.

When should you see a specialist?

Fissured tongue like symptom is a minor condition. However, fissures on the tongue may show other more- serious states of the tongue or infections affecting the body all in all. On the off chance that you have fissures on the tongue that don’t resolve within 10 days, see your physician or dental specialist.

(09/20/2024)
by Sky Dental

More Information: https://skydental.co.in/oralhealth/fissured-tongue/

How To Stop Grinding Teeth In Sleep Naturally

How To Stop Grinding Teeth In Sleep Naturally: Even though many people are unaware that they grind their teeth, teeth grinding, or bruxism, which affects around one in ten adults, is a problem that should not be overlooked. In this article, I will provide you ten remedies to prevent you from Grinding Teeth during sleep and more.

Let’s get started!

What is night-time teeth grinding?

Teeth grinding (bruxism), a common instinctive response to stress, anxiety, or anger, can occur either while awake or asleep, but it is far less frequently observed during sleep. This is primarily due to the fact that many people are unaware they are doing it.

However, failure to recognize bruxism might have grave consequences. Because people are unaware of the force of their bite during sleep, the force exerted when forcefully clenching the jaw and teeth can cause major problems with both the teeth and jaw.

Studies have revealed that up to 250 pounds of force can be exerted during bouts of sleep bruxism, often known as nighttime teeth grinding. However, many people do not understand the consequences of their activities until it is too late.

How prevalent is tooth grinding during night?

Statistics on sleep bruxism are often difficult to get because many individuals are unaware that they grind their teeth during sleep. However, we have not been deterred. According to studies, 6% to nearly 50% of children experience nighttime tooth grinding to some degree.

This is partly attributed to the fact that a complete set of adult teeth takes between 17 and 25 years to erupt from birth.

Cause of Grinding Teeth In Sleep

Although there is rarely a single cause for nighttime teeth grinding, the disorder is frequently related with stress and worry. It is speculated that this is due to the fact that when we are stressed, our bodies accumulate a great deal of tension throughout the day, and those with sleep bruxism tend to release this tension by grinding their teeth during sleep.

Additionally, teeth grinding can be caused by a variety of sleep disturbances and preexisting conditions. In recent years, numerous studies have connected sleep bruxism to disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, sleep paralysis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and ADHD.

Additionally, certain medicines are frequently related to tooth grinding. This covers both legal and illegal substances, such as antidepressants, alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine.

What impact does tooth grinding have?

Long-term, untreated teeth grinding can cause severe damage to the teeth, causing them to feel excruciating pain or possibly disintegrating them over time. In addition, fillings, crowns, and implants can deteriorate with time, posing a potentially expensive and unpleasant repair issue.

Sometimes, one of the most well-known effects of tooth grinding does not impact the individuals themselves. Similar to the sound of nails on a blackboard or a newborn wailing, the sound of teeth grinding is one of those sounds that affects many individuals, including spouses.

10 Natural Remedies to Stop Grinding Teeth In Sleep

Watch what you consume

What you consume as part of your diet can make a significant difference in your ability to manage sleep bruxism. Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and many candies should be avoided at all costs, while sticky, difficult-to-chew foods such as peanut butter should be approached with extreme caution.

However, foods rich in magnesium, such as leafy green vegetables, yogurts, and brown grains, should be chosen due to their capacity to reduce inflammation during sleep.

Drink warm milk

Drinking warm milk with turmeric can be of great assistance when attempting to overcome teeth grinding-related sleep disturbances organically. This is largely due to the nerve-relaxing impact of tryptophan, an amino acid derived from milk, and the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of turmeric, a well-known spice.

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

As previously stated, coffee and alcoholic beverages should be avoided when attempting to overcome sleep bruxism. This is due to the effect of these chemicals on disrupting sleep patterns, causing hyperactive jaw muscles and teeth grinding.

Adopt the use of essential oils and aromatherapy

Stress is the most prevalent cause of sleep bruxism, and essential oils might be your best ally in reducing it. Lavender, cedarwood, bergamot, and chamomile have been demonstrated to have notably soothing effects on the brain, and are extensively employed in a variety of aromatherapy-based treatments. Therefore, purchasing an oil diffuser to alleviate your nighttime teeth grinding organically could be a wise investment.

Lavender oil should be rubbed into the jaw

A few drops of lavender oil massaged into the underside of the jaw before bedtime can help release any tension that may have subconsciously accumulated in the mouth over the day. In addition, the circular motion will encourage your mouth to relax, allowing you to fall asleep in a more natural state of relaxation.

Perform meditation

Numerous studies conducted over the years have proved the positive impact of mindfulness on mental health, with practices such as meditation and breathing exercises being especially effective at reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. It has also been demonstrated that meditating to soothing noises, such as ocean waves, raindrops, or traditional white noise, calms the autonomic nervous system, helping to decrease breathing, reduce heart rate, and increase sleeping efficiency.

Get into yoga

Yoga has been proven to be particularly effective at reducing the inflammatory symptoms associated with sleep bruxism. While most forms of exercise can assist to alleviate sleep bruxism in some way, yoga has been found to be particularly effective.

Practicing yoga positions that focus on stretching the neck, jaw, and mouth region, such as the ‘eyes around the clock,’ ‘camel,’ and ‘bridge’ poses, for instance, could help relieve facial tension and inhibit nighttime teeth grinding in a more natural way.

Consider herbal tea

Since nighttime teeth grinding is exacerbated by emotions of nervousness and tension, consuming non-caffeinated herbal tea – such as green or chamomile tea – can be an excellent way to relax your mind and body, relieving the pent-up sensations of stress that are commonly connected with the problem.

Apply a warm compress

Using a hot cloth, compress, or heating pad on a regular basis has been demonstrated to relax the muscles surrounding the teeth, jaw, mouth, and neck. This, in turn, increases the blood supply to these areas, improves circulation, and reduces the potentially detrimental consequences of teeth grinding during sleep.

Wear a Mouthguard or Mandibular Repositioning Device

Mouthguards or MRDs can stop teeth from grinding during sleep. They create a barrier or reposition the jaw to prevent grinding. Mouthguards cushion the teeth and reduce damage, while MRDs move the lower jaw forward to keep the airway open. However, these devices don’t address the underlying cause of teeth grinding. It’s important to seek professional help to develop a treatment plan.

Which natural treatment for nighttime teeth grinding is best for me?

It is important to first seek a professional evaluation from your dentist to determine the severity and cause of your nighttime teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Once the underlying cause has been identified, appropriate treatment options can be recommended.

In terms of natural treatments, there are several options that may be effective for some individuals. These include stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, as stress is a common trigger for teeth grinding. Additionally, establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and ensuring adequate sleep may also help reduce nighttime teeth grinding.

It is important to note that while natural treatments may be helpful for some individuals, they should not be used as a substitute for professional dental or medical care. A dentist or other healthcare provider can provide personalized recommendations and monitor the effectiveness of any treatment plan.

Conclude

In conclusion, while there are several natural remedies that may help to alleviate nighttime teeth grinding, it is always advisable to consult a dental professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

(09/19/2024)
by Spring Orchid Dental

More Information: https://springorchid.com.au/how-to-stop-grinding-teeth-in-sleep-naturally/

Is It Normal To Feel Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction?

Jaw pain after a tooth extraction is normal and typically fades after one to two days. It may also be accompanied by minimal bleeding and soreness. You might have some trouble opening your mouth as well. However, if the jaw joint pain and the bleeding in the extraction site persist after two days, it’s time to call your dentist. Severe pain could mean that the treated area is infected and that needs immediate dental attention.

Reasons For Tooth Extraction

Adult teeth are supposed to last for a lifetime, but due to circumstances, there would be a time where you might need a tooth extraction surgery. Dentists would often try all alternative solutions to save an infected tooth, but if the damage is severe and irreversible, removing the tooth will only be the viable option.

Here are the common reasons why a tooth extraction might be needed:

Trauma and damage. Whether the cause is poor oral health or accident, if the tooth is too damaged to be saved, removal will follow.

Wisdom tooth. In most cases, wisdom teeth are often extracted due to overcrowding. If they will cause misalignment and significantly affect the proper positioning of the nearby teeth, your dentist might recommend extraction. Some people are lucky enough to keep their wisdom teeth as they do not present any threat at all.

In preparation for orthodontia. Orthodontia is the procedure done to correct the alignment of the teeth. If a tooth is too big or if your mouth is overcrowded, the dentist might suggest tooth extraction to prepare your mouth for the treatment.

Infection. A neglected tooth infection can eventually lead to decay. When this happens, your dentist will initially perform a root canal treatment, but if the decay is extreme and causes severe pain, then tooth extraction will be needed.

To avoid risks. The bacteria in your mouth can pose many threats not only to your oral health but to your overall health as well. These bacteria can get through the blood vessel that might compromise your immune system.

Before the operation, you will undergo a series of tests and examinations. You will also be asked to take X-ray exams to check the actual position of your teeth and the extraction site.

Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction

Generally speaking, it is normal to feel jaw pain after a tooth extraction surgery. This normally lasts for 1 or 2 days and subsides on its own. Apart from jaw pain, you might also experience unpleasant sensations such as swelling and bleeding, it may even be hard for you to just open your mouth. But do not panic as these are very common effects of tooth surgery. If in case the pain in your jaw remains severe and unbearable, do not hesitate to contact your dentist’s office.

In rare cases, jaw pain may also be accompanied by other complications. You might be experiencing pain due to damages to your jawbone, nerves, or teeth. A dry socket can also be a reason for your jaw pain. This only happens when the blood clot that’s supposed to help in the healing process is missing. Due to this, bacteria get into the extraction site and start infecting it causing you to feel pain.

Managing Jaw Pain

After the surgery, your dentist will give you a list of things to follow for you to properly care for your teeth. It’s important to follow these guidelines to guarantee the speedy recovery of the extraction site and to avoid complications. You will also be informed on how to clean the wound and how to replace the gauze.

The list often includes the following instructions:

take your prescribed medication for pain relief

rinse your mouth with a specific solution, saltwater will do as well

apply a cold compress to the treated area

replace the gauze correctly in the specified time

avoid hard to chew foods

always drink water to stay hydrated

do not smoke or drink alcohol for the next 2 days

Other Complications after Tooth Extraction

Apart from jaw pain, tooth extraction can also cause other complications if not properly cared for. Here are some of the things that might take place after getting your tooth extracted:

Nerve injury. This is a very rare circumstance but it can still potentially happen to you. Nerve injury occurs when a dental nerve is placed in an unusual location and gets damaged while the surgery is ongoing. It causes a tingling sensation usually in the gums and the surrounding area of the extraction site.

Infection. It is possible for the treated site to be infected if bacteria gets in the wound. The common sign of infection could include flu-like symptoms like fever, pain, and fatigue. Your dentist will most likely prescribe you an antibiotic to fight off bacterial infection.

Dry socket. As this dentist in Epping explains a dry socket occurs when the blood clot that is responsible for making the healing process easier is missing in action. Because of this, there will be an opening or a tiny hole in the treated area where bacteria could attach themselves into. Food particles and debris might also get stuck in the hole giving an irritating pain.

Swelling and bleeding. Although these two are common occurrences after a tooth extraction, they might last for too long. This a very serious complication that might be caused by a bacterial infection. Consult your dentist right away to prevent further damages.

Home Remedies For Jaw Pain

You can also alleviate the pain in your jaw with simple tricks that you can do at home. Dentists suggest these pain relief solutions as well to help in managing discomfort during the recovery period.

Using ice or heat packs. Place it on top of the jaw until you feel relieved.

Supplements. You can also take supplements that can help in relaxing your jaw muscles.

Gentle massage and jaw exercise. Just be sure not to be too harsh on the newly treated area. Jaw exercise will help in strengthening the muscles in the jaw.

(09/19/2024)
by Premier Ortho

More Information: N

What are the Steps to an Oral Examination?

Medical and Oral Health History

Plaque Removal and Polishing

They will then thoroughly floss between all of your teeth, before polishing your teeth with a spinning polisher that will remove any further plaque and leave your teeth feeling clean and smooth.

Preventative Screenings (Occasional)

X-rays help identify tiny cracks in teeth, cavities in their earliest stages, and loss of bone, indicating gum disease.

Oral Examination

Finally, your dentist will conduct a visual inspection of the head and neck to look for any signs of abnormalities that indicate further testing should be scheduled.

(09/18/2024)
by Carmel Dental Associates

More Information: https://www.carmeldentalassociates.com/what-are-the-steps-to-an-oral-examination/

Tooth Sensitive to Cold: Causes, Symptoms and How to Deal With It

Some people experience tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity occurs when you feel pain, discomfort, or irritation when your teeth contact food or beverages at extreme temperatures. Therefore, you may feel pain when you eat ice cream or drink hot coffee.

Dentin hypersensitivity or tooth sensitivity is any pain or discomfort in the teeth due to hot or cold temperatures. For most people, cold temperatures make their teeth ache. Additionally, the condition can affect one or several teeth.

For some people, the symptoms are temporary and eventually heal. For others, it is a chronic problem that affects their everyday life. Even if it is chronic, it is not a life sentence. There are many things you can do to manage tooth sensitivity due to cold temperatures.

But first, learn about what causes the condition, some of the symptoms, and what experts say about tooth sensitivity.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity to Cold?

Several things cause your teeth to be sensitive to cold temperatures. The most common are:

Tooth decay or gum disease. If your teeth hurt when you eat cold foods and beverages, you could have tooth decay or gum disease. One of the early symptoms of these two conditions is teeth sensitivity to cold temperatures. Sensitivity often starts at the gum line. Therefore, you will feel a weird sensation before it graduates to tooth sensitivity. If your gums recede, then it could also mean sensitivity to cold temperatures.

Effects of oral products. Some people use oral products such as whitening creams and hardening solutions to improve their smiles. However, excessive use of these products leads to tooth sensitivity, especially to cold temperatures. It happens when the oral products abrasively affect the enamel.

Brushing too hard. Being too passionate about cleaning your teeth could lead to tooth sensitivity. Brushing too regularly or applying too much pressure when cleaning your teeth erodes the enamel. This leaves your dentin exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity.

Bruxism. Bruxism is excessive jaw clenching and teeth grinding. Many people develop this habit due to anxiety and stress. It leads to headaches and facial pain. Long-term effects include wearing down your teeth. This makes them sensitive to the cold.

Cracks in the teeth. Your teeth can sustain tiny cracks that grow with time. The cracks are a direct pathway to the nerves. Nerve exposure causes tooth sensitivity.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD is a gastric condition that causes acid to come up from the stomach and esophagus. This exposure to acidity wears down the teeth leading to sensitivity.Excessive vomiting. Conditions that cause excessive vomiting, such as gastroparesis and bulimia, could lead to tooth sensitivity. The acid in vomit wears down the enamel leaving the teeth exposed.

Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity

Pain or discomfort. You will experience pain or discomfort when you take cold beverages or foods. Most people cannot eat ice cream or drink cold water.

Changes in taste. You may experience changes in taste. There are notable changes in the way things taste, especially sweet and salty foods.

Pus or discharge. Sometimes tooth sensitivity comes with pus or other types of discharge such as blood. This is often a sign of an underlying condition.

Redness and swelling in the gums. This is often in cases of over-brushing, using too many oral products, and applying too much pressure as you clean the teeth.

You may also experience symptoms in other parts of the body, depending on your condition. For example, GERD comes with indigestion and stomach discomfort on top of tooth sensitivity.

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

Professionals have a few treatment options for people with chronic tooth sensitivity. These treatments are:

Applying fluoride. A professional will apply fluoride to exposed areas with cracks and holes. This helps to strengthen the enamel and dentin. This will reduce sensitivity, and you can feel less pain when eating cold foods.

Gum grafting. The dentist may cover receding gums with gum grafting. This ensures there is less exposure of the nerve endings. It will improve sensitivity to cold foods.

Root canal. In exceptional cases, the dentist may also treat the sensitivity via root canals. This is for progressed cases with underlying issues and conditions.

Sealants. And finally, the dentist will use sealants on the surface of the teeth to treat sensitivity. Sealants seal the tooth to create a barrier that overcomes tooth sensitivity. Therefore, you will be able to eat cold foods more comfortably.

How To Deal With Tooth Sensitivity

If you would like to deal with tooth sensitivity at home, you can. Most people do not go to the dentist until it is necessary. There are natural ways to ease the symptoms and improve your condition at home. So follow these tips to see results.

Incorporate a healthy diet. Avoid acidic foods because they will erode your enamel quickly. Instead, strive to provide your teeth with nutrients for strength and enamel preservation. Dairy and dairy products are great for strong teeth. Additionally, vegetables help to keep gums strong. And finally, carrots and healthy hard foods will moisten your mouth and make it better at fighting bacteria.

Manage stress levels. Learn to manage your stress and work off some of your anxiety. It will keep you from grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw. This preserves the other layer of your teeth.

Be gentle with your teeth. Avoid brushing your teeth too aggressively. You will experience less sensitivity and soreness. Also, switch out your toothbrush for one with softer bristles. And do not use too much toothpaste when you brush two times a day. Additionally, go easy with the whitening products and other oral products.

Do not give up on eating ice cream just yet! You can ease the symptoms of tooth sensitivity and finally enjoy a cold drink. Just be sure to follow these tips actively. If you realize that your symptoms are chronic or have other body issues, visit a dentist for a proper diagnosis. Additionally, follow the expert advice of a qualified dentist for a healthier smile.

(09/18/2024)
by All About Smile Dental Group

More Information: https://allaboutsmiledentalgroup.com/blog/tooth-sensitive-to-cold-causes-symptoms-and-how-to-deal-with-it/

Scary Causes and Symptoms of Epiglottitis

If you opened your news feed over the weekend, you were likely hit with some pretty scary health news from the celebrity world: Comedian, Sarah Silverman, was admitted to intensive care with Epiglottitis. Don’t worry, “What the heck is Epiglottitis?,” were my exact thoughts as well.

Thankfully, Epiglottitis is a fairy rare (particularly in adults) yet life-threatening condition that can occur over a period of days when the tiny cartilage flap (called the epiglottis), located at the base of the tongue, which covers the windpipe (or trachea) becomes inflamed and blocks air flow, according to Healthline.com. Silverman, like many patients, mistook this serious condition as mundane throat discomfort, the type that can occur with allergies, voice over-usage, or drinking a too hot beverage. Please note that the symptoms for Epiglottitis differ slightly for children and adults, and a Hib vaccine can be administered during childhood to help prevent the bacteria that causes most Epiglottitis cases in young children to occur…

1. What Characterizes Epiglottitis?

The Mayo Clinic explains that Epiglottitis is a condition that can occur over a period of days in older children and adults (alternatively, it can come on suddenly in small children). This means you might feel a slight airway restriction, however, your life may not be in jeopardy until the epiglottis (which is that small flap of cartilage covering over your windpipe) swells completely.

Once this trachea covering swells completely, it can completely block any air flow to the lungs. However, patients may be reluctant to consider Epiglottitis a medical emergency since the symptoms can be gradual and flu-like (i.e., sore throat, difficulty swallowing, raspy voice, etc.).

2. What Causes Epiglottitis?

According to Healthline.com, even though this condition is considered rare, a bacterial infection (caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b, or Hib) during childhood is the most common trigger of Epiglottitis. This type of bacteria is typically contracted when a patient inhales Hib germs from an infected person’s cough or sneeze.

However, the Mayo Clinic suggests that Epiglottitis can also occur due to drug use (i.e., smoking crack cocaine), a throat injury (puncture, due to drinking hot beverages, or from swallowing an object that causes injury), or due to the contraction of a viral, fungal, or bacterial infections (i.e., Streptococcus A, B, or C; shingles, chicken pox, yeast infection, severe diaper rash, pneumonia, or meningitis).

3. Difficulty Swallowing

Both older children and adults with gradually worsening Epoglottitis may express difficulty or pain when swallowing in the early stages. Oftentimes, drooling occurs when patients experience trouble swallowing.

The pain and inflammation of the epiglottis may also be more severe when leaning back or lying down, but upon sitting upright or leaning forward symptoms may seem to subside temporarily.

4. Sore Throat

As mentioned, the symptoms of Epiglottitis can develop over a few days, and become rapidly worse very quickly in older children and adults. Your throat may sound scratchy and your voice may become hoarse (similar to laryngitis) at first.

However, keep in mind that a typical sore throat due to a cold or flu will improve within a week. However, if you experience a sore throat that becomes painful and exceedingly worse, it should demand medical attention, especially if it’s accompanied by the other symptoms listed in this article.

High Fever

For children, a fever with chills is a sign to parents that something is wrong. In this case an elevated temperature soaring to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (or above 38 degrees Celcius) may indicate the type of existing viral, fungal, or bacterial infection that can trigger Epiglottitis.

Small children, and even adults with high fever, may appear irritable and restlessness. However, in the case of Epiglottitis, fever will typically accompany other symptoms listed in this article.

6. Abnormal Breathing

Breathing difficulty or breathing abnormalities are the major concern for both children and adults with Epiglottitis, according to NHS Choices (U.K. National Health Service). Breathing may present as high-pitched, noisy, muffled, or raspy in nature.

Children’s breathing may be “stridor” or make a high-pitched, vibrating, musical sounds that indicate a larynx or trachea obstruction. Both adults and children may be unable to catch their breath and resort to mouth breathing.

7. Bluish Skin/Oxygen Deprivation

If an adult or child presents bluish colored skin, this discoloration may indicate oxygen deprivation due to a swollen or blocked airway.

In this case, emergency care should be considered vital and immediate. If you suspect Epiglottitis, or you or a loved one has trouble swallowing/and or breathing seek out the neare

st hospital emergency department as soon as possible while keeping the patient in an upright position to ease breathing.

(09/17/2024)
by Emily Lockhart

More Information: N

What Is Uvulitis?

Hanging from the roof of your mouth and at the back of your throat, you will see a protrusion of pink-colored tissue in the shape of a drop. This is known as the uvula. The uvula usually ascends with the soft palate to prevent food and liquids from entering the nose while swallowing. It also aids in a person’s speaking ability. Finally, it can also trigger the gag reflex and prevent choking.

When the uvula becomes swollen, it can cause a foreign object sensation in the back of your throat. This condition is called uvulitis. Swelling of the uvula can occur together with swelling of the surrounding tissues such as tonsils and the throat. A person with uvulitis may also have a sore throat and swallowing may become difficult or painful. If you feel like you might have uvulitis, you can check this out by opening your mouth in front of a mirror and saying “ah”. If your uvula is swollen, it will probably be enlarged and the mucosa will exhibit a red color. But what causes it? Here are 10 swollen uvula causes.

Uvulitis can occur in any person, no matter the age or gender. However, the condition is more common in children than in adults. Some people are also more likely to get uvulitis than others.

Such people include those who have allergies, smokers, those who are constantly exposed to irritating chemicals and other irritants, and those with a weak immune system that makes them vulnerable to infections. If you are at risk of getting uvulitis, especially due to allergies, discuss your condition with a doctor.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Almost half of adults in the United States will experience symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), at least once a month. GERD is a consequence of the backing up of gastric acid (above the normal limit) into the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth with the stomach. This usually happens after a meal, and it causes symptoms with or without damaging the lining of the esophagus. Examples of typical GERD symptoms are heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.

Additionally, the acid from the stomach can flow upwards and reach the throat and the larynx (voice box), causing a subtype of GERD known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Common symptoms of this condition include sore throat, hoarseness, cough, and a lump-sensation in the throat. When the uvula comes into contact with acid reflux in LPR, it can become red and swollen. If you have uvulitis, and suspect of acid-reflux as a possible cause, consult with a specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Infections

Infections, especially those caused by viruses, and bacteria can also lead to uvulitis. Such infections include the common cold, croup, mononucleosis, strep throat, tonsillitis, and STDs.

When these infections affect the oral cavity, they can irritate any of the tissues here, including the uvula and the throat. Cases due to an infection like the common cold are usually short-lived, and go away within a few days.

Trauma

Trauma to the uvula can also cause uvulitis. Such trauma can result from conditions such as GERD, whereby stomach acid injures the throat, including the uvula.

Trauma to the uvula can also occur during surgical procedures such as removal of the tonsils or the insertion of a tube to deliver oxygen into the lungs.

Bacterial Infection

The most common bacteria that affects the throat is streptococcal bacteria. Specifically, Streptococcus pyogenes causes the inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils, leading to what we know as strep throat. Uvulitis can develop in severe cases of strep throat. If you have tonsillitis, for instance, the back of your throat including the uvula can be swollen because of the infection and inflammation. Sometimes, only one tonsil becomes inflamed along with your uvula. In severe cases, this can lead to deviation of the uvula away from the affected tonsil.

Genetics and Uvulitis

Genetics may play a part in some cases of uvulitis. A rare condition called hereditary angioedema can make your throat, face, hands, feet, and uvula swell.

Another rare condition leads to an elongated uvula that is larger than normal. However, although the condition resembles uvulitis, it is not uvulitis, and the only way to treat it is through a surgical intervention known as uvulectomy.

Diagnosis of Uvulitis

Upon visiting your doctor, they will interview you to get a history of your condition. It is important that you inform the doctor of any related symptoms including colds, cough, fever, and abdominal pain. Other important information includes any new foods you have consumed, exposure to chemicals or other materials, and medication you have taken for the condition, including over-the-counter drugs and antibiotics. The doctor will carry out a physical examination and may also swab the uvula or the throat for a laboratory examination.

Your doctor may also ask for a blood test to see whether you have an infection or not and to rule out some infections. In some cases, all these tests can be inconclusive and you may need to see an allergist to assess your case. Provide the allergist with your blood and skin tests to be able to identify the substances and foods that may cause an allergy.

Home Remedies for Uvulitis

If you have uvulitis, or a sore throat, your body is telling you that there is something wrong. Some home remedies can help soothe your swollen uvula and sore throat. These include sucking on ice chips or frozen juice bars, or ice cream. You can also try gargling with warm salt water.

Getting adequate sleep, and sleeping in comfortable surroundings, free from irritants, can also help your body recover and fight any infections. You should also keep your throat and body hydrated by sipping on warm water throughout the day. This will reduce the irritation of your throat.

Medical Treatment for Uvulitis

Treating uvulitis depends on the cause of the condition. Once the cause is resolved, uvulitis will also clear. Some medical conditions, like the common cold, can go away without treatment. Uvulitis due to such conditions clears up once the infection goes away. If, however, the condition causes a lot of discomfort, you can take pain medication and wait for the swelling to reduce. Cases of bacterial infection are treated with antibiotics. Make sure that you complete the course of treatment even after you get relief from the symptoms.

If uvulitis is a result of an allergy, seek a doctors assistance to determine the allergen so you can avoid it. Antihistamines or steroids are used to treat allergies. Uvulitis due to hereditary angioedema can be treated with C1 esterase inhibitors, plasma kallikrein inhibitor, bradykinin receptor antagonist, or androgens.

Long-Term Outlook for Uvulitis

Uvulitis is an uncommon condition that is usually a result of an underlying problem. For this reason, once the cause is dealt with, uvulitis resolves without further treatment. Home remedies, including avoiding trigger foods and other substances and keeping your throat hydrated, can also help.

Serious uvulitis is treated with medication. Discussing your condition with a doctor can help determine the best management plan depending on your condition.

(09/17/2024)
by 10Faq

More Information: https://10faq.com/health/what-is-uvulitis/3/

Misaligned Jaw – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Jaw misalignment is an alignment condition where your upper teeth do not sit perfectly over the lower ones. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites are some of the most common kinds of jaw misalignments. Overbite is a condition where the upper set of teeth close ahead of the lower ones while the opposite happens in the case of underbites. A crossbite is a dental condition where the upper set of teeth sits inside the lower set. Each of these conditions can cause problems in basic functions like biting and chewing. In several cases, misaligned jaws can cause severe pain and result in various kinds of gum diseases. Let’s delve deeper into the misaligned jaw causes and understand how to fix a misaligned jaw.

Causes of Misaligned Jaw

Genetic reasons along with early childhood habits are some of the primary causes of a misaligned jaw. Several teeth alignment conditions can also result in jaw misalignment. Understanding the root cause of this condition can help in treating it better. Let us look into some of the main causes of a misaligned jaw.

Bruxism- Bruxism is a condition where a person clenches and grinds their teeth. This constant grinding can cause the teeth to move out of their normal position and can lead to inflammation and a crooked jaw.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder- TMJ is a joint that connects the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw). The disproportionate structure of TMJ or its misalignment is one of the main causes of irregular jaw shape.

Injury- Accidents and sports injuries are other common causes of a misaligned jaw. Physical contact sports such as boxing, martial arts, football, and rugby are some of the main contributors to jaw injuries.

Hereditary factors- Many patients are born with a misaligned jaw and to fix the jaws to their correct position, several doctors recommend solutions such as retainers and braces. Patients might also be advised to undergo surgery depending on the severity of the situation.

Misaligned jaw symptoms

Misaligned jaw symptoms can range from pain in the jaws to aches in the muscles surrounding them. The symptoms of a misaligned jaw can differ based on the severity of the condition. Let’s look into some of them.

Headache

Shoulder pain

Facial Swelling

Clicking sound made by the jaw

Change in the facial structure

Inability to open the mouth completely

Weakening of teeth

Jaws tightening

Pain in gums

Misaligned jaw treatment

Misaligned jaw treatment differs based on the severity of the condition. A misaligned jaw can be ignored by people in case of mild disorientation. However, in medium to severe cases, doctors might suggest some of the following options.

Braces- Braces are one of the most commonly used treatments for misaligned jaws. They hold on to your teeth firmly and guide them toward their appropriate position. Braces are attached firmly to the teeth and rectify the condition over some time.

Aligners- Aligners are the most popular form of dental treatment. One of the biggest advantages of aligners is that they are convenient to use and can be customized as per your jaw and teeth measurements. Aligners must be worn for 22 hours a day to witness the best results. Another beautiful aspect of using aligners is that one doesn’t have to follow any dietary restrictions and undergo treatment in a carefree manner.

Dental bridges- Jaw misalignment can also be caused due to missing teeth. This is where dental bridges step in and fill up the void in your mouth. A dental bridge helps in restoring bite, smile, and overall health. They provide great value aesthetically and instill confidence in the patient.

Jaw Surgery- Patients can choose to undergo jaw surgery if their jaw is severely misaligned. This option is usually used as the last resort and procedures like Maxillary osteotomy (surgery on the upper jaw) mandibular osteotomy (lower jaw surgery) or genioplasty (chin restructuring) can be performed on the patient.

(09/15/2024)
by Flash Aligners

More Information: N

Tips for Relieving Wisdom Tooth Pain

It’s probably been years since you’ve experienced toothache pain from getting your permanent teeth. However, that pain may return because of your wisdom teeth. These third molars can put pressure on your gums when they come in or develop infection from impaction when they have difficulty erupting through the gums, which can cause quite a bit of discomfort.

We’re going to talk about relieving wisdom tooth pain, including tips for recovery after getting them removed. We’ll also discuss home remedies for wisdom teeth pain and why you actually may not need to get your wisdom teeth removed.

What are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the third molars that come through at the back of your mouth. They are the final adult teeth to come in and generally emerge in the late teens or early twenties, finishing your set of permanent teeth.

In humans’ evolutionary past, wisdom teeth were vital to grind and consume hard foods, like nuts and tough meats. In modern times, however, these third molars have little to no function, and wisdom teeth can become a problem if they affect the gums and cause pain, infection, or other dental problems.

Toothache pain can be mild or fleeting. It can also turn severe and more persistent. If your tooth pain will not go away, you should check in with your dentist.

When Do Wisdom Teeth Come In?

Most people see their wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 17 and 25. That’s about a decade or more after your first permanent teeth begin to grow. That can be a wide range and soreness from teeth developing in the gums can start long before teeth begin to erupt. Wisdom teeth coming in just underscores the importance of getting proper dental care throughout adolescence and early adulthood.

Granted, it may be harder to keep tabs on your child’s dental health or make time for an appointment when they leave home or go off to college. Still, they should do their best to brush and floss regularly and check in with their dentist to help avoid potential infection and limit the potential for wisdom tooth pain.

Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?

Not everyone has wisdom teeth either because they never developed or, more likely, from getting them removed. While research has shown that 53 percent of the world’s population has at least one third molar, it’s somewhat common to have less than four as our bodies adapt evolutionarily to not needing these extra molars to grind hard foods. In fact, some people never develop wisdom teeth at all!

How Do You Know if You are Developing Wisdom Teeth?

You may experience some of the following symptoms when your wisdom teeth start to emerge. These could include:

Redness or swelling in the gums

Jaw pain or tenderness

Facial pain stemming from nerve pressure

Small, white spots emerging behind your second molars in the back of your mouth

If you have children, it will have been years since they experienced teething pain.So, should they start to experience some similar symptoms, it’s possible their wisdom teeth are starting to break through the gums and causing toothache pain.

A check-in with your dentist or orthodontist can help you find concrete answers. They’ll typically take X-Rays that can verify if the third molars are erupting and track their development from that point on.

What Are Some Types of Wisdom Tooth Pain?

You may experience wisdom tooth pain for different reasons. Most common among these are:

Soreness as wisdom teeth develop under the gums and prepare to emerge.

Pain from an infected wisdom tooth—see your dentist for recommendations on how to deal with this issue.

Pain from cavity in wisdom tooth or teeth.

Tooth sensitivity due to crowding or hitting other teeth when you chew.

If you are dealing with general soreness, you may look to relieve wisdom tooth pain with an at-home remedy. Otherwise, consult with a health professional to determine whether you need to get your wisdom teeth removed.

Tips for Relieving Wisdom Tooth Pain

Achy jawlines and teeth can prove quite frustrating. But how do you help relieve wisdom tooth pain? If you’re feeling discomfort because they are just starting to break through the gums, follow these tips for wisdom tooth pain relief.

Eat Soft and Cold Foods

Pain in your third molar can make it difficult to open your mouth and cause sensitivity when chewing. As such, it’s a good idea to work in softer and colder foods, like yogurt, applesauce and ice cream. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids as well.

Take Some Ibuprofen

As an anti-inflammatory, ibuprofen can help relieve wisdom tooth pain before and after removal. If you’ve undergone a procedure to get your wisdom teeth removed, your dentist may prescribe a specific amount to take after extraction. Stop using ibuprofen and speak with a doctor if you continue to experience pain.

Use a Toothache Gel

If your gums are sore from wisdom teeth coming in or your third molars are tender, try a toothache cream or gel to help relieve gum and tooth pain from wisdom teeth. Orajel™ 4X Medicated For Toothache & Gum Cream provides instant pain relief* for severe toothaches and painful gums. It also helps prevent infection and kills harmful bacteria. Orajel™ PM 4X Medicated For Toothache & Gum Cream offers similar relief powered by four active ingredients for fast topical pain relief*, plus chamomile.

Both products have a Ready-Open Tube Tip for easy access. If you prefer a gel to a cream, try Orajel™ 4X Medicated For Toothache Gel, which delivers targeted and long-lasting pain relief*.

*Up to 2 hours relief

Try a Mouth Rinse

Using a mouthwash or rinse may help soothe toothaches and gums. If you’re looking to relieve wisdom tooth pain and have yet to determine whether you need to have them removed, try Orajel™ Toothache Rinse. It’s the only double medicated rinse for the temporary relief of pain due to toothaches and minor irritation of the mouth and gums, or occasional minor irritation, pain, sore mouth and sore throat.

Note that you should only use an over-the-counter rinse or mouthwash before undergoing any procedures to have your wisdom teeth removed. If you’ve already undergone surgery, stick to any rinses your dentist may have prescribed for you. Alternatively, you might try rinsing with warm salt water, but do not start rinsing until the day after your procedure.

Keep Brushing Those Teeth!

You want to ensure you are brushing your teeth when your wisdom teeth are coming in. Additionally, if you’ve gotten your wisdom teeth removed, you should resume brushing teeth (gently) 24 hours after extraction, as directed by your doctor.

Given that your third molars are all the way back in your mouth, some people struggle to brush them properly. That can lead to plaque build-up and infection. It’s a good reminder to brush those teeth properly, even when you’re feeling wisdom teeth pain. Doing so may help prevent toothaches, decay or infection in the future.

Do You Need to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

You do not necessarily need to get your wisdom teeth removed. A dentist is likely to recommend surgery to remove one or more wisdom teeth if there are signs of impaction, infection, or decay, or if your molars have too much crowding.

Some wisdom teeth may need to be removed if they are trapped beneath the gums. This can cause infection and damage other teeth roots or bone support. Others that emerge partially through the gums can be hard to see and clean and thus attract bacteria, which may result in infection. Your dentist may also advise that you have full-grown wisdom teeth pulled if they create crowding in your mouth and damage nearby teeth.

How Do You Know if Your Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed?

You may need to get your wisdom tooth removed if it becomes impacted. If a wisdom tooth is impacted, it is stuck below the surface of the gums. Impacted third molars come in at an odd angle because you don’t have enough room in your mouth for them to grow or develop normally.

One or multiple impacted wisdom teeth can cause numerous dental complications, including:

Wisdom teeth pain.

Infection.

Cavities.

Gum disease.

Damage to neighboring teeth.

However, just because you may have an impacted wisdom tooth or teeth does not necessarily mean you have to get them removed. If they are not causing you pain or showing signs of infection, your dentist or oral surgeon may not recommend getting them removed.

What are the Early Stages of a Wisdom Tooth Infection?

Pain, swelling and inflamed gums may be part of the early stages of a wisdom tooth infection. Other signs and symptoms may include:

Bleeding gums.

Unpleasant taste in your mouth.

Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing.

Fever.

Bad breath.

If you or your teen experience any of these signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with your local dentist.

When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

According to the Mayo Clinic, dentists often feel it’s better to get your wisdom teeth removed at a younger age because the roots and bones connected to your teeth are softer. Most people get wisdom teeth removed between the ages of 17 to 25, when they first erupt through the gums. Should your teen begin experiencing wisdom teeth pain, you may look to get the impacted tooth or teeth removed sooner, based on your dentist’s recommendations.

How Late is Too Late to Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?

You can still get your wisdom teeth removed after the age of 50. However, the process is likely to be more painful.

The bone density in the mouth of full-grown adults increases over time, making pulling teeth a bit more daunting. You might also face a longer timeline for recovery. So, while it’s never “too late” to get wisdom teeth removed, you’ll want to do so earlier if it’s possible. Talk with your dentist about potential procedures and anything you might do to prepare.

(09/14/2024)
by Orajel

More Information: N

Did you know? An infected tooth can lead to multiple-organ-failure and death

It’s common knowledge that dental issues are cosmetic. But, do you know that ignoring dental disease can result in severe illness and even death? Yes, deaths due to tooth infections often make it in the headlines.

Dental infections are the most preventable and easily treatable medical conditions. However, adults and children in low-income groups find it difficult to access dental care.

Plus, people often fail to acknowledge the seriousness of oral health and illness. They avoid tooth extraction and let the decayed piece in place for years.

Infection’s journey from tooth to the brain

Besides severe pain, a decayed wisdom tooth can also result in facial swelling. If the disease from the infected upper-jaw tooth reaches the brain, the patient may experience a headache.

At this stage, the patient has no other options but to opt for antibiotics and tooth extraction. Failing to do so can even result in death; yes, you read it right, death!

Lack of preventative care combined with inaction despite infection

A combination of tartar, plaque, and harmful bacteria can trigger tooth decay. The condition shows several signs and symptoms. It develops in the grooves and crevices of your molars.

Biannual dental checkups and cleanings at a dental clinic eliminate the chances of developing advanced tooth infections.

Plaque and tartar formation creates a perfect environment for harmful bacteria. They feed on naturally found saliva sugar and multiply. These bad bacteria also release acid that demineralizes and erodes tooth enamel resulting in cavities.

If these holes are not filled on time, the bacterial infection reaches the pulp, tooth nerves, and blood vessels. The situation can escalate quickly if the untreated infection spreads in the brain or other body parts.

A pocket of pus and bacteria

A dental abscess often accompanies a tooth infection. The condition involves the formation of bacteria pockets and pus on gums, inside the teeth, or on the jawbone. It’s a sign that the harmful bacteria have reached the gumline.

The condition is easily diagnosable and treatable during the initial stages. But a delay in starting the treatment can result in serious medical consequences.

Patients are vulnerable to osteomyelitis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, cellulitis, parapharyngeal abscess, and even sepsis.

Put simply, severe infections can affect the person’s health by spreading beyond the face and neck.

What’s sepsis?

When tooth infection enters the bloodstream, it triggers a reaction from the immune system. Sepsis occurs when the immune system overreacts. If left untreated, the medical condition can lead to septic shock, and ultimately, multiple-organ failure.

Stage-wise treatment options

Filling up cavities

Painless and quick treatment is possible if cavities get highlighted and filled without delay.

In case of decay, dentists remove the same with the help of a small drill and fill the treated area to restore the chewing power.

Root canal

If the decay reaches the inner areas of the tooth, it needs a restorative treatment like a root canal.

As a part of the process, the dentist drills the infected areas of the tooth to remove accumulated bacteria and pus. Rubber-like material gutta-percha is used for filling the space post removal of infected tissues. A crown is placed on the tooth to cover it for restoring chewing power.

If the infection has reached the tooth end, your dentist can recommend an additional process called an apicoectomy. It involves a minor surgery on the gums to remove the infected root and surrounding tissues.

Extraction

In some cases, dental decay completely damages the tooth and reaches the root. There is no other alternative option but to extract the dead tooth.

Antibiotics for controlling the infection

Dentists assess the severity of the infection and might prescribe strong antibiotics to stop it from spreading.

During treatment, the professional can ask you to switch to a different medication.

Hospitalization

Parapharyngeal abscess cases require pus draining from the infection site. The process may require hospitalization.

Patients who need surgical intervention to remove infected jawbone portions (apicectomy) also need a hospital stay. Specialists use intravenous drip to administer antibiotics.

Sepsis can cause sudden blood pressure drop, multiple organ failure, and even death. Thus, sepsis patients need hospitalization and ICU treatment with surgery, dialysis, and intravenous antibiotics, depending on the severity of the condition.

What’s the best option to avoid trouble? Simply practicing oral hygiene habits can help you stay ahead of the decay.

Which factors influence the type of treatment for an infected tooth?

The location of the abscess

The extent of the infection

Areas where the disease has spread

The infection’s impact on the immune system

Signs and symptoms to worry about

Some signs indicate if the dental infection has reached other areas of the body. Patients with the following symptoms require immediate medical attention:

Swelling of cheeks or overall face and neck

Burning sensation on facial skin

Painful tongue or mouth

Slight loss of vision or double vision

Severe one-sided headache

Fever

Difficulty in breathing and confusion

The endnote:

Why ignore even a tiny crack in the tooth and then pay for a complicated dental surgery later?

Maintain oral hygiene habits, and get your infected teeth treated on time. Most importantly, don’t delay the extraction of severely decayed teeth.

(09/14/2024)
by TruCare Dentistry

More Information: https://www.trucaredentistry.com/blog/did-you-know-an-infected-tooth-can-lead-to-multiple-organ-failure-and-death/

Serious Health Issues Caused by Poor Oral Health

Bad teeth are more worrisome than not having a perfect smile. A person’s teeth do have an impact on their health, and this impact goes well beyond what most people think. Your teeth are an indicator of health, and damaged or even crooked teeth can cause you serious health problems.

What Health Problems Do Bad Teeth Cause?

1. Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is often indicated by bleeding gums and swollen gums. It often results in infections of the structures around your teeth. Periodontal disease can, according to recent studies, lead to high risks of:

Stroke

Heart disease

Diabetes

Respiratory issues

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to follow a proper brushing schedule. Use the best electric toothbrush, visit the dentist and follow a professional teeth cleaning schedule.

2. Respiratory Infections

Your teeth are the gateway to your stomach. Bacteria and infections in your gums can lead to you having respiratory problems. The Journal of Periodontology claims that over time, infected gums and teeth can lead to:

Infections in your respiratory tract

Pulmonary disease

COPD

Pneumonia

This is a severe case, and a routine dental cleaning is often the best way to determine if you have tooth decay and infections that are bad enough to have a serious impact on health.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious issue that is impacting 9.4% of the U.S. population. There is a direct link between diabetes and bad dental health. This link works in both directions. People with bad dental hygiene and poor diets often eat sugary foods that are bad for their teeth.

Diabetics also have a compromised immune system, and this makes them more susceptible to developing bacterial infections.

Bad teeth and severe gum disease also make it more difficult to maintain blood sugar control. Lack of blood sugar control leads to a higher risk of developing diabetes.

4. Dementia

Brain health is also tied to your teeth. A surprising link between oral health and dementia has been made. Tooth loss in seniors was found to be linked to people that have poor walking speeds and poor performance in memory.

A report on dementia and tooth health can be found at the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

Dental health has also been linked to endocarditis, cardiovascular disease and pregnancy issues. Endocarditis is when the inner lining of a person’s heart is infected from bacteria from other parts of the body.

Bacteria in the mouth can make its way into a person’s bloodstream and attach to the heart.

Some research, and more needs to be conducted, has found that heart disease may also be affected by gum and tooth health. Oral bacteria may play a role in infections and inflammation that are known to cause stroke, clogged arteries and even heart disease.

Pregnant women who have bad dental health are also at risk of giving birth prematurely and low birth weight. This happens in cases where a person has severe periodontitis.

Neck and head cancers, arthritis and eating disorders may also be linked to oral health.

(09/13/2024)
by Harcourt Health

More Information: N

Three Simple Changes That Can Help Improve Your Oral Health

Preventing oral health issues can seem like a simple enough responsibility. You take the time to brush your teeth, and floss, and try not to overindulge in sugary, sweet foods and drinks, and as a result, your risk for decay is lowered. The process of preventing smile trouble can be straightforward, but unfortunately, patients still find themselves in need of help with cavities and gum disease. Your Bellaire, TX dentist can support you during regular dental exams, which include a professional teeth cleaning. You still need to do your part between those visits – with a few smart changes, you can improve your smile care routine.

1. Reevaluate Your Brushing And Flossing Habits

If you are concerned about the health of your smile after experiencing an oral health issue, take time to reevaluate your dental care strategy. You should be brushing at least two times a day. Every time you brush, you should dedicate least two minutes to the process, and reach every part of your teeth. Flossing is also something you need to take care of on a daily basis. Flossing is most effective when you are consistent, and when you move the string enough to clear away bacteria at your gum line – this protects you against periodontal problems.

2. Choose Water Over Soft Drinks When You Enjoy A Meal

A simple change from soft drinks to water can make meals healthier for your smile. This reduces your sugar intake, while also making it easier to wash away food particles that might stick to teeth when you eat. Your diet soft drinks may lack sugar, but note that they can still cause problems due to their acidity. Dark colas also pose a problem for teeth stains, which can call for a teeth whitening procedure to fully address.

3. Plan Healthy Snacks At Home, And Avoid The Vending Machine

Your choices between meals may account for more smile trouble than you realize. If your regular snack at work is something you procure from your vending machine, consider replacing it with a healthy snack brought from home. You can select a lower calorie option that provides you with the energy you need, while taking less of a toll on your oral health.

(09/13/2024)
by Contemporary Dental

More Information: https://contemporary-dental.com/2019/01/3-simple-changes-that-can-help-improve-your-oral-health/

Things You Should Never Do Before Going To The Dentist

Ah, the dentist. The haven of good dental hygiene, and for many, one of those places you really don't want to go. Despite a visit to the dentist being essential for maintaining good oral health, and most dentists doing everything in their power to make your visit as stress-free as possible, a huge amount of people are scared of the chair. One 2014 study published by Medical Principles and Practice found that 36 percent of people experience dental anxiety when in the dentist's office or before a visit, and 12 percent of those experience extreme fear.

Yet despite this trepidation, Americans seem to understand the importance of getting their teeth checked. As Delta Dental reported, approximately 93 percent of Americans plan on visiting the dentist in 2021. But in your fear of opening wide and saying ahh, you might be tempted to do some things before your check-up which could prove less than useful. If you're due for an appointment soon, sink your teeth into the following things you should never do before going to the dentist.

Avoid putting on too much makeup before seeing the dentist

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You might not think twice before putting on a face full of makeup before heading to the dentist, but it's a surprisingly annoying factor for your dentist. According to Savannah Dental Solutions, a dental practice in Savannah, Georgia, run by Chad and Alexandra Schnabel, "Dental procedures involve placing hands, tools, and water inside your mouth. Depending on exactly what you are having done, your mouth may also be numbed. Since the area around your mouth will likely get messy, it's best to skip the lipstick, foundation, and full face powder." That said, the dentists noted that blush and mascara are fine.

Try your best to arrive with a mostly bare face to avoid any unwelcome mess for the professionals perfecting your smile, and consider packing your makeup bag if you have to head somewhere else after your appointment. As Savannah Dental Solutions explained, "If you're heading to work or a social engagement after your appointment, you can always freshen up and apply makeup in the restroom on your way out."

Don't bring a picture of your dream teeth to a cosmetic dental consultation

Shutterstock

The Hollywood smile is a much-coveted look for some people, which is why it's not surprising that dentists are routinely asked how they can get an A-lister's stunning grin when stopping in for a cosmetic dental consultation. According to doctor of dental surgery Jay Grossman, however, bringing in a picture of your "dream teeth" isn't exactly a feasible way to approach dental work.

In an article for The Healthy, he explained, "Patients come in with pictures of celebrities and say, 'I want to look just like her.' I'm sitting there thinking, You can't have a smile that looks like Angelina Jolie's, because you don't have a face that fits those teeth. It's like when you get your hair color done — you can't just put the same highlights or lowlights in everybody's hair." Of course, having an idea of what you're hoping to achieve is wise, but don't get too set on a specific look.

Never keep your medical history a secret from your dentist

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A dentist appointment is a medical appointment, and should be treated as such. Unfortunately, though, when it comes to oral procedures, patients can forget that they need to be as open and upfront about any medical history as they would be with their primary doctor. Not doing so can be downright dangerous.

According to Martin Hogan, dentist and division director of the Oral Health Center at Loyola University Medical Center in Illinois, it's vital to share information beforehand so your dentist knows how best to treat you. In an interview with Medical Xpress, he explained, "If you have experienced a serious health condition such as a surgery or been diagnosed with a chronic condition, you need to tell your dentist before you come for your appointment. Depending on the illness, you may need to be premedicated with antibiotics to prevent infection."

This premedication, according to Hogan, is important. "Pretreatment one hour before the appointment with an antibiotic is recommended for patients with certain health conditions," the dentist revealed. Without it, your appointment "must be rescheduled ... resulting in a wasted trip."

If you're going to need medication, don't drink alcohol before your dentist appointment

This may seem like a no-brainer, but considering the anxiety that can surround a trip to the dentist, it's easy to see why people would be tempted to indulge in a drink or two before an appointment. However, doing so could mean trouble when you arrive at the practice, particularly if you're visiting to undergo treatment that requires medication.

Dr. David Potts, dentist for County Family Dental Care in Libertyville, Illinois, explained, "Of course, you could drink wine before going to the dentist, but it will affect [your] treatment. There will be some counter-indications between the wine and some dental medication." This could leave you at risk of having to reschedule your appointment or worse, you could put your health in danger.

If you're feeling a little nervous around your treatment, Potts advised, "You might consider doing some form of sedation dentistry instead. That won't keep you from any form of treatment, but will give you the same relaxed feeling you can get from wine."

If you're going in for a root canal, don't take painkillers

It seems pretty logical, right? For a procedure considered to be as frightening and painful as a root canal (although interestingly, only 17 percent of people actually consider it their "most painful dental experience," according to the American Association of Endodontists), taking some pain medication beforehand feels like the smart thing to do.

However, taking painkillers before arriving at the dentist may be an unwise move, and for more than one reason. As Downtown Dental, a dental practice in Greenville, South Carolina revealed, anesthesia is typically administered before a root canal begins, meaning there's no need for any over-the-counter medications. Also by taking painkillers, you're, well, killing the pain. This is a problem because your dentist may actually need for you to identify exactly where the pain is located before they can get to work. Even if you're nervous about the potential for pain, leave the medicating to the dentist.

If you're having dental surgery, don't wear contact lenses

It might seem like forgoing glasses and opting for contacts would be the more comfortable choice in the dentist's chair, what with the amount of stuff going on in and around your mouth during a procedure. The less on your face, the better, right? Well, this isn't quite the case, particularly if you're undergoing oral surgery.

According to Verywell Health, wearing contacts during surgery can be problematic if you're having to undergo a general anesthetic. This is because your eyes may need to remain closed for an extended period of time. While a short period of your eyes being closed isn't too risky, longer periods of wearing contact lenses with your eyes shut can raise your risk of eye infection, as well as being generally uncomfortable to remove afterward (via Healthline).

Also, if you're going to need oral surgery, make sure to wear practical, comfortable clothing, remove any jewelry beforehand, and if you have longer hair, tie it back so it's away from your face. The more you can help your dentist do what they need to do, the easier the procedure will be.

Don't step up your dental hygiene suddenly before seeing the dentist

Look, we get it. Going to the dentist strikes fear into the heart of even the most diligent flosser. And if it's been a while since you've had an exam, you might feel like putting in the hours on your dental hygiene just before your appointment. However, doing this is futile. After all, dental hygiene is a lifelong endeavor, and trying to make up for lost time may cause you a fair amount of discomfort.

More to the point, your dentist can tell. Martin Hogan, doctor of dental surgery and division director of the Oral Health Center at Loyola University Medical Center, told Medical Xpress, "Sometimes we will see the gum tissue slightly irritated and when asking patients about this, they mention that they have been flossing 'extra hard' the past few days in anticipation of their dental visit. Other times we may see the gum tissue slightly dried out, which often is caused by excessive use of alcohol-containing mouth rinses." So while we get why you'd do this, it isn't helping you and it certainly isn't fooling your dentist. Instead, focus on practicing good oral hygiene consistently. That's the way to save face with your dentist.

Don't smoke before coming to the dentist

Although smoking rates are on the decline in the U.S. — from 20.9 percent of adults in 2005 to 14 percent in 2019, per the CDC – it's far from rare. And with the myriad health complications that smoking can cause, it's little surprise that your dentist also isn't a huge fan of the harmful habit. As Ada Cooper, a New York City-based dentist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, told The Healthy, "Smoking is something patients shouldn't do period, but definitely not before the dentist."

Smoking can lead to tooth staining, bad breath, inflammation of your salivary gland openings, and heightened plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth, all of which can cause headaches for your dentist when trying to administer treatment (via WebMD). And that's all before the fact that smoking can also lead to a higher risk of gum disease, longer healing times after dental surgery and procedures, and a higher prevalence of developing oral cancer. If it wasn't time to quit before, it could be now.

(09/12/2024)
by Health Digest

More Information: N

The Real Reason Doctors Look In Your Mouth

Different parts of your body can serve as unique windows into aspects of your health by providing early warning signals of more serious underlying issues. Looking inside your mouth is one of the ways your health practitioner can uncover certain infections, growths, or other warning signs of health issues that might require further examination or testing.

According to the American Cancer Society, while there are no standardized screenings or tests for a routine oral exam, your doctor will typically look in your mouth during a check-up to determine, for example, if there are any possible precancerous or cancerous growths. Getting regular dental check-ups that include oral exams are also considered an effective way to catch potential oral cancers early. Some health providers even advise that you perform your own oral self-exam on a monthly basis and look out for any abnormalities such as white patches, sores, or lumps. This is especially critical if you are a smoker or someone who consumes alcohol regularly, as these practices put you at a higher risk for oral cancers.

One of the serious diseases that your doctor or dentist could potentially uncover is oropharyngeal cancer. Cleveland Clinic defines oropharyngeal cancer as cancer that arises in the oropharynx — the middle part of the throat — and can include symptoms such as a sore throat, a persistent lump, coughing up blood, white patches, and other symptoms.

Other issues the inside of your mouth can reveal

According to Rush University, your mouth can also reveal many other types of underlying health conditions. "Your oral health can't be separated from your overall health," says Ankitaben Han, a family medicine physician. For instance, as a result of an oral examination, your doctor may discover that you have oral thrush, also called candidiasis. Oral thrush, which is a type of yeast infection, can appear as white patches on the tongue. It is relatively uncommon in healthy adults, but is known to appear frequently in babies, and in adults with certain risk factors such as diabetes, cancer, or HIV/AIDS.

Other issues the inside of your mouth can reveal

Shutterstock

While pain in your mouth or jaw could be a sign of tooth decay or other dental problems, this could also be a red flag for more serious health issues. One of these possible issues could be heart disease, as one of the symptoms of heart disease can be pain in the lower left jaw. Frequent dry mouth can also be an indication of underlying problems such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or various immune disorders.

Medical experts at Rush University advise that, in addition to seeing your health practitioners for routine exams, you take certain preventive and proactive steps in support of your oral health by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and, if you are a smoker, quitting the habit.

(09/12/2024)
by Health Digest

More Information: N

Healthy Gums vs Unhealthy Gums: What’s the Difference

What are the differences between healthy gums vs unhealthy gums? Healthy gums look firm and pink. Unhealthy gums become swollen, bleed, and recede.

Strong, healthy gums are the lifeblood of great overall oral health. If you’re putting too much focus onto your teeth and neglecting your gums when it comes to brushing, you could be putting your health on the line.

Unhealthy gums have the potential to bring on a lot of oral health issues including gingivitis, gum disease, periodontitis, and tooth decay. Poor oral health is more common than you might think: nearly half of adults over 30 suffer from periodontal diseases!

Curious about your own gum health? Keep reading to learn the difference between healthy gums vs unhealthy gums.

Characteristics of Healthy Gums

Healthy gums do more than just enhance the visual appeal of your smile — they also support a healthy mouth environment!

There are several characteristics that are a tell for strong, healthy gums. Visually, good gums are a rich pink color and will not appear pale or red. They’ll also look firm and will appear to be “gripping” onto the connecting teeth.

If you’re fostering healthy gums, they won’t bleed when you brush or floss. Also, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort when chewing.

Try touching your gums with your fingertips after you wash your hands. If you can press down without feeling pain, you’re in the clear.

Do your teeth feel loose? Are you having unexplainable bad breath?

There are many signs that point to unhealthy gums, and most of them can be spotted without the help of a dentist. Here are a few telltale signs of gums that need a little extra care:

redness

swelling

pain and discomfort

bleeding

irritation

receding gums

metallic taste

pus

If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms of unhealthy gums, it’s time to see a dentist and take control of your oral health!

It’s also important to monitor your teeth for any unhealthy discoloration, stains, or cavities, as this can lead to unhealthy gums.

For more information, Putney Dental Care demonstrates how to identify a cavity or tooth stain and how to determine the difference between the two.

Improving Your Gum Health

While dealing with gum health issues can be a hassle, it doesn’t mean that you have to say goodbye to a great smile or oral health! Even if your gums are damaged, improving your gum health has never been easier.

Spend more time brushing and flossing, and pay special attention to your gums. Or wear a night guard. Make sure you attend regular check-ups and cleaning sessions with your dentist and eat foods that promote oral health!

If you’ve already developed a form of gum disease, it isn’t the end of the world. There are many ways you can reserve oral issues before they become severe. Check out this reverse periodontitis option to learn more about how to get your gums healthy again.

Healthy Gums vs Unhealthy Gums

Your gum health means the difference between a clean mouth and an unclean mouth. Maintaining a good brushing and flossing routine, regularly visiting your dentist, and avoiding harmful foods are all part of getting your oral health under control.

Now that you know the characteristics of healthy gums vs unhealthy gums, you can monitor your own gum health for yourself. Happy brushing!

(09/11/2024)
by Kellys Thoughts On Things

More Information: https://kellysthoughtsonthings.com/healthy-gums-vs-unhealthy-gums-whats-the-difference/

Five Causes of Tooth Pain When Biting Down or Touching Teeth

Have you ever been excited about your favourite meal only to experience pain when taking your first bite? Pain, regardless of where it’s felt, is a pretty good indicator that something isn’t quite right, and you may require some form of medical intervention. Tooth pain is no exception, and seeing your family dentist sooner than later is the best way to prevent any serious oral issues that require a visit to your emergency dentist.

Here are 5 of the most common reasons you may be experiencing pain when biting down or touching your teeth, including

1. Cavities

As children, our parents drilled into us the notion of avoiding foods with high sugar content, and for good reason. When sugar in your mouth is broken down by plaque bacteria, it becomes acid and this acid causes tooth decay by softening the enamel layer of your teeth. As this bacteria eats away at the enamel, small holes form in your teeth known as cavities. Cavities are sneaky, and often form before you feel or see any noticeable symptoms. The first sign of a cavity may be the tenderness you feel when biting down or touching the affected tooth.

2. Alignment

The alignment of your teeth is so important, there’s an entire arm of dentistry that deals with nothing but issues directly related to alignment known as Orthodontics. When your teeth are incorrectly aligned, and the top and bottom teeth don’t meet just right, early or excessive wear to your teeth can occur, causing not only jaw pain but also pain when biting.

3. Sinus congestion

Not all dental pain is caused by a dental issue! The roots from your top teeth sit very close to your sinuses, meaning that pressure, congestion or infection from your sinuses may be the source of tooth pain. This phenomenon is known as a “sinus toothache” and is usually felt in the upper posterior teeth nearest to the sinuses. This is typically the cause of tooth pain when the pain isn’t limited to a single tooth but rather a group of teeth.

4. Periodontitis

Periodontitis, the result of untreated gingivitis, can cause severe oral pain. Overall dental health involves maintaining not only your pearly whites but also the pink stuff that keeps them stable in your mouth. Caused by poor oral hygiene, gingivitis is the accumulation of bacterial plaque around and between your teeth. When this plaque isn’t removed before it’s able to harden into tartar, it can trigger an immune response, leading to the destruction of gum tissue. Without treatment, this destruction of gum tissue leads to red, bleeding, tender gums, dental pain, and in extreme cases, tooth loss.

5. Detached fillings or crowns

With the average lifespan of fillings and crowns falling between 10-15 years, those fillings/crowns you got as a teenager may be the cause of the pain you’re feeling. When a filling or crown becomes loose, it allows bacteria to become trapped beneath it, causing irritation to the tooth and, in some cases, the nerves below your teeth. Biting down on a loose filling or crown can antagonize the already irritated tooth, causing sharp pain.

(09/11/2024)
by Yankee Valley Dental Clinic

More Information: https://www.yankeevalleydental.ca/blog/5-causes-of-tooth-pain-when-biting-down-or-touching-teeth/

How Long Does it Take for a Cavity to Form?

Cavities are one of the most prevalent health conditions. In fact, they are only second to the common cold. Not only are they extremely common, but severe cavities are one common reason for tooth loss or the need for extraction. However, teeth don’t go from being fine to needing to be extracted overnight.

This raises the question of how long it takes a cavity to form and at what point it can pose the threat of tooth loss. Since there is no standard answer for how long it takes a cavity to form, we must look deeper at what cavities are and how they form in order to understand more about how quickly or slowly they can develop.

For starters, we need to have a firm understanding of what cavities are and what causes them. Cavities are holes in the teeth formed from acids that are released from bacteria found in dental plaque. Plaque is a sticky, clear film that sits on the surface of your teeth. Not only does plaque house thousands of bacteria, but it also catches food particles when you eat. This allows the bacteria to feed on the sugars and starches, converting them into an acidic waste product that is deposited onto the tooth surface. Over time as more and more acidic is deposited in one spot, the enamel eventually wears down and a cavity begins to form.

Cavities can form anywhere on the tooth surface and are named based on where they appear. For example, one common type of cavity is known as a pit and fissure cavity. These cavities are found in the pits and fissures that make up the chewing surface of the molars and premolars. This type of cavity is especially common since it is so easy for plaque to develop and remain undisturbed. Other locations cavities can form include the roots and on smooth surfaces. Generally speaking, root cavities only form when gum recession has exposed the tooth roots, which have a very thin layer of protective enamel. Smooth-surface cavities are less common since it is harder for plaque to accumulate on smooth surfaces.

Even though cavities can affect different parts of the tooth, the way that they develop is the same no matter where they form. There are five stages of tooth decay, including:

Stage 1: Demineralization

Demineralization occurs when the acids from bacteria cause the enamel to lose minerals. Since the mineral composition of enamel is the primary reason for its strength, losing minerals weakens the enamel. Since demineralization can be seen as white spots of the teeth, it may be able to be caught early and reversed with fluoride treatments.

Stage 2: Enamel Decay

After the enamel has been weakened, then the acids will start to erode through it. This forms a small to medium cavity that only affects the enamel. Cavities that only affect the enamel layer can usually be treated by placing a composite filling.

Stage 3: Dentin Decay

Directly below the enamel lies the dentin layer. If the acid continues to erode through the enamel, it will eventually reach the dentin. At this point, the cavity tends to grow in size. Therefore, cavities that affect the dentin layer usually need to be treated with larger fillings like inlays or onlays.

Stage 4: Pulp Decay

Below the dentin lies the innermost layer of the tooth known as the dental pulp. If the bacteria reaches the pulp layer, it will infect the inside of the tooth. Since the pulp is composed of blood vessels and nerves, a pulp infection will cause significant discomfort and pain. At this point, the only way to save the tooth is to perform a root canal to remove the infection.

Stage 5: Abscess

In some cases, a pulp infection can continue to spread deeper into the tooth, moving from the pulp chamber into the tooth roots through the root canals. This usually results in an abscess that forms at the base of the tooth roots. Not only is this extremely painful, but it usually results in the tooth being extracted.

How fast or slow a cavity goes from stage 1 to stage 5 depends on a number of factors. For starters, it is important to mention that not all cavities reach stage 5, and it is recommended to seek treatment early on to prevent the cavity from progressing. Since most cavities take years to form, seeing your dentist twice a year for regular dental checkups can save you from a stage 5 cavity. In fact, dentists can detect cavities in their earliest stages and provide the necessary treatment to prevent them from progressing.

Some factors that determine how fast or slow a cavity develops include:

Location: cavities located in areas with more plaque accumulation tend to grow faster, while cavities located with less plaque tend to grow slower

Diet: regularly consuming large amounts of sugar feeds the bacteria responsible for cavities, making them grow faster

Oral hygiene: brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental cleanings helps to reduce the amount of plaque, which slows the growth of cavities.

(09/10/2024)
by Dr. Deborah Tabb

More Information: N

How Do You Treat TMJ and Can You Cure it Permanently?

TMJ is the abbreviation for the joints on each side of the face where the lower jaw connects to the head. It is also sometimes used to describe problems with those joints. If you’ve ever been diagnosed with TMJ disorder, you may already know what it feels like. If not, you may be experiencing the symptoms now and you’re not sure what is wrong.

How is TMJ disorder treated? Can it be permanently cured? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this overview of TMJ.

What is TMJ?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, where the lower jaw connects to the skull at each side of the face. If you put your fingers in front of your ears and open and close your mouth a few times, you should be able to feel your TMJ working. It is a hinge type of joint as it primarily allows for up and down movement and some side to side movement.

What is TMJ Disorder?

When the joint becomes irritated, inflamed, or misaligned, it is considered to be TMJ disorder. TMJ symptoms include:

Pain in the jaw.

Pain in the temporomandibular joints.

Pain when chewing.

Tension in the facial muscles.

Ear pain.

Popping or clicking sounds when opening and closing your mouth.

Limited movement of your jaw.

Swelling of the face and jaw.

Headaches, especially in the temple region of the head.

Pain in the neck.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder can occur due to a variety of causes:

Injury. An injury or blow to the face or show can cause misalignment of the TMJ.

Excessive chewing. Chewing a lot for long periods of time can put excess strain on the TMJ.

Chewing something hard. Chewing on something particularly hard or chewy can put strain on the TMJ and cause irritation of the joint.

Arthritis. Arthritis is a condition affecting the joints, which can include the TMJ.

Autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases can cause excess inflammation in the body, which may include the TMJ.

How is TMJ Disorder Treated?

There are a few different ways to treat TMJ disorder and flare-ups:

Apply ice. Ice reduces swelling and inflammation, which may relieve pain.

Rest the jaw. Try to avoid chewing, talking, singing, or other movements of the jaw.

Take anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Pain relievers like ibuprofen have anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve TMJ symptoms.

If none of the above provide relief of your symptoms, your dentist may provide the following additional TMJ treatments:

Bite splints. A bite splint helps to stabilize your jaw so that it moves in proper alignment, allowing it to heal.

Mouth guards. If your TMJ occurs because you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, your dentist can provide you with a custom mouth guard to wear at night that absorbs the force and takes the strain off your jaw.

Stretches. There are stretching exercises you can do to relieve pain and restore range of motion in your jaw.

Muscle relaxers. Prescription strength muscle relaxers may provide relief of TMJ symptoms.

Will I Ever Experience Permanent Relief of My TMJ Symptoms?

If you have TMJ symptoms that don’t subside with the above treatments, or if your symptoms keep coming back (flare-ups), surgical treatment may be in order. The joint may need to be rebuilt from the inside in order to work properly. Surgery may provide a permanent cure of your TMJ disorder.

Who Treats TMJ Disorder?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMJ disorder, the first person to call is your dentist. Dentists have extensive knowledge of the anatomy of the jaw and the relationship between your jaw and your teeth. R. Renan Williams, DDS provides treatment for TMJ disorder that can provide lasting relief of your symptoms. We make it our goal to restore your range of motion and give you back the ability to eat the foods you love without pain.

(09/10/2024)
by R. Renan Williams, DDS

More Information: N

The Veneer Procedure Explained

A dental veneer is an ultra-thin tooth-colored shell that is fitted on the front side of your tooth to restore its look and improve your appearance. Chipped teeth, cracks, tooth discoloration, uneven spacing or alignment and worn enamel are among the numerous problems that can be solved by veneers.

So what is the veneer procedure like? What should I brace for?

Stage #1 – Enamel Removal

Enamel removal is done to create room for the veneer. The layer of enamel being stripped off your tooth is usually as thick as the shell replacing it.

Stage #2 – Mold Preparation

At the end of the first stage, your orthodontist will take images and impressions of your mouth and use them to make a mold for your mouth. Sometimes the impressions are taken and sent to a separate laboratory for veneer preparation. You may be forced to wait up to four weeks before the shells are sent back to your orthodontist.

Stage #3 – Veneer Placement

The final appointment involves fixing the veneer on your tooth.

Your orthodontist may have to make adjustments on the shell to ensure it fits your tooth correctly. This may mean repeatedly placing and removing it to examine its fit and hue, and trim it accordingly. Your tooth will also be roughened using special tools to prepare it for the veneer.

The special cement is applied to the inside face of the shell before it is attached to your tooth. Your orthodontist may concentrate a high-intensity light on the cement to harden it and strengthen its bonding with the tooth.

(09/09/2024)
by Fair Oaks Dental Group

More Information: https://mydentistpasadena.com/the-veneer-procedure-explained-in-3-basic-stages/

How To Choose A Good Dentist?

Choosing a new dentist can be a daunting process for many of us. A dentist like any health professional sees us when we are most vulnerable. Let’s be honest, how confident or brave do you think you look with your mouth open next to someone hovering over you with a sharp implement? When it comes to visiting a dentist, most of us tend to put off the visit except in an emergency. If we have moved cities, suburbs, or even countries, this difficulty gets multiplied because we do not know what to look, where to look amidst the slick websites with glamourous images and impressive “before and after” photos.

So, what should you consider when you are deciding who your dentist should be? Here are a few tips to choose wisely:

Australian Dental Association

In Australia, the Australian Dental Association is the peak national body for dentists. The ADA has a repertoire of information on the latest news in dentistry, regulations and is the proponent of oral health policies in Australia. You can search for a dentist through the ADA’s Find a Dentist Service which locates dentists near you.

Word of Mouth

There is no stronger advertising than word of mouth. A dentist, like a hairdresser or a doctor, is personal, so when a family member or a friend recommends someone, it is most likely that you will like them. If you are moving cities or across a great distance, you can also ask your existing dentist for a recommendation. The chances are they would know someone they went to school with or through an industry association that might be a great fit for you.

Reviews

Let’s face it, these days no business can escape from the limelight. Whether it is positive or negative publicity, every business must go through the ups and downs of social media and review sites. Google reviews unlike social media, for the most part, is trustworthy, but it is always easy for a competitor to leave a negative review under an assumed name. So, how can you choose a dentist from a myriad of reviews?

Check out for informative and relevant reviews. Avoid reviews that do not have any comments and only have stars. Look out for reviews that describe what the patient has faced and experienced. Real patients write about the procedure they had instead of a general comment

Feel the language. Most authentic reviews use everyday language. Be on the lookout for over descriptive terms or technical jargon because these can be fake reviews done by a paid agency

Look for a mix of reviews. No business can only have positive reviews. Ignore a dentist who does not have any negative reviews. While reviews for the most part cannot be taken off, there are instances where service providers have been successful in removing negative reviews. When reading reviews, it is always the balance you need to seek

Compare reviews across websites. Comparing social media platforms in addition to Google is the best way to go. If all reviews are positive, you need to research further

Do Your Own Research

If you have private insurance, some health insurers try to convince you to use their “contracted dentists” or “preferred providers”, with the promise of reduced out-of-pocket expenses. However, you will be impacted personally by the dentist you see, so any financial gains you might receive will be negligible if you are not satisfied and must change dentists frequently.

Customer Service

Imagine you have come across a dentist you think is good for you and want to fix an appointment. Instead of confirming an online appointment or emailing the dentists’ office, ring the office. Check how friendly are the customer service staff when talking to you. Even if you think everyone at the front desk has great customer service, you might observe some small nuances over the phone. In your first visit, you could also observe how tidy is the waiting room and the manner with which the reception staff treats patients that can set the tone for your future appointments.

The Dentist

After long hours of research, you feel you have found a dentist you think will be good. However, even while sitting in the chair, you can still evaluate if you have made a good decision to ensure “continuity of care” instead of a short-term visit. Is your dentist running late for your appointment? Is the dentist taking the time to explain what they are doing, and in a way, you could understand? Did the dentist address your concerns? Did the dentist talk to you about preventive care, such as brushing and flossing?

Choosing a dentist should always be viewed as a long-term proposition. Seeing the same dentist over a long period of time provides you with a consistently high level of service, that cannot be matched by chopping-and-changing dentists.

(09/09/2024)
by Cosmetic Dentistry

More Information: https://www.cosmeticdentistinbrisbane.com.au/2020/06/29/how-to-choose-a-good-dentist/

Your Sore Tongue Could Mean an Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency has some strange symptoms, from craving nonfood substances like dirt to a mysteriously sore tongue. The most common form of iron deficiency is iron deficiency anemia, in which the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells. A blood test will confirm a deficiency, and your doctor can formulate a treatment plan to bring your levels back up to normal. Once your iron levels have increased, your iron deficiency tongue symptoms should disappear.

Oral Anemia Symptoms

In a 2014 study in the Journal of the Formosan Medical Association, participants with iron deficiency anemia experienced a host of oral symptoms compared to a control group of age- and sex-matched healthy adults. The top five oral symptoms were a burning sensation in the lining of the mouth, inflamed purplish veins on the underside of the tongue, dry mouth, inflamed swollen tissues and sores and an abnormally smooth tongue.

You may also see white patches inside the mouth, and your tongue may be paler than usual. These symptoms are the result of inflammation caused by your body's inability to transport fresh, healthy blood to your cells.

Other Low Iron Symptoms

If an iron deficiency is causing your tongue symptoms, it's highly likely you'll experience concurring symptoms. According to Mayo Clinic, common iron deficiency symptoms include:

Severe fatigue

Weakness

Pale skin

Chest pain

Fast heartbeat

Shortness of breath

Headache

Lightheadedness and dizziness

Cold hands and feet

Brittle nails

Strange cravings for non-nutritive items such as dirt, ice and starch

Decreased appetite

How to Treat Iron Deficiency

Once you remedy the deficiency, your tongue symptoms should go away. Your doctor may recommend a daily iron supplement, and you can also focus on including more iron-rich foods in your diet. Women need 18 mg of iron daily, and men need 8 mg. Some of the foods highest in iron include:

Fortified breakfast cereals: Up to 18 mg per serving

White beans: 8 mg per cup

Beef liver: 5 mg per 3 ounces

Tofu: 6 mg per cup

Spinach: 6 mg per cup, boiled

Lentils: 6 mg per cup

To increase the amount of iron your body absorbs from foods, pair iron-rich foods with a source of vitamin C, abundant in most fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A in plants, can increase iron absorption and inhibit compounds in foods that can prevent absorption such as tannic acid and phytates. Sources of beta-carotene include carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash, spinach, kale, apricots and cantaloupe.

Relief for a Sore Tongue

There isn't much you can do for your sore tongue until you treat your iron deficiency. However, there are some things you can do at home that may temporarily relieve swelling and pain. Ibuprofen or other over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines can help reduce soreness and swelling, but make sure that the product you choose doesn't interact with any other medications you're using.

Gargling with salt water is often recommended to soothe a sore throat, and it may have the same benefit for a sore tongue. Similarly, a mouth rinse with hydrogen peroxide can help relieve minor mouth irritation. To prevent making matters worse, avoid crunchy or sharp foods like chips, acidic foods like lemons, spicy foods and foods that are too hot in temperature. Brush your teeth, gums and tongue gently as well.

(09/08/2024)
by Live Strong

More Information: https://www.livestrong.com/article/393453-tongue-symptoms-and-iron-deficiency/

Chlamydia In The Troath: Symptoms, Treatment And More

When it comes to avoiding sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some people think oral sex is safer than intercourse. But several STIs—such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis—can spread through oral sex. In many cases, chlamydia is curable with antibiotics, however an untreated chlamydia infection can result in serious health problems, including ectopic pregnancy and infertility.

This article discusses the possibility of getting chlamydia in the throat, what it may look like, and other symptoms. It also talks about diagnosis and treatment options, how chlamydia spreads, and when it’s time to seek medical care.

Can You Get Chlamydia in the Throat?

It is possible to get chlamydia in your throat when you have unprotected oral sex with a person who is infected with chlamydia.

Possible routes of getting chlamydia in the throat include:

Giving oral sex to a person with an infected penis

Giving oral sex to a person with an infected vagina or urinary tract

Giving oral sex to a person with an infected rectum

What Does Chlamydia in the Throat Look Like?

In some people, a chlamydia throat infection doesn’t cause any symptoms, however it can still spread to others. Some people experience symptoms similar to a strep throat infection.

You may have a sore throat and notice that your mouth and throat are more red than usual. Some people also get white spots on their tonsils or back of their throat. In some cases, sores form in the mouth or around the lips. Your tongue may also feel more bumpy.

Symptoms of Chlamydia in the Throat

Common symptoms of oral chlamydia include:

Sore throat

Pain the mouth

Redness in the mouth or throat

Mouth sores

Sores around the lips

Dental problems

Swollen lymph nodes

Bumps on the tongue

White spots in the back of the throat or tonsils

Fever

Symptoms of a genital chlamydia infection include:

Pain or burning during urination

Frequent urination

Pain during sexual activity

Pain or swelling of the testicles

Itching or burning

Rectal pain

Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, including bloody discharge

Keep in mind that chlamydia symptoms may not surface right away. They usually appear 1-3 weeks after initial sexual contact with an infected individual. Even if a person with chlamydia doesn’t have symptoms, they can still spread the infection to others.

How Is Chlamydia Diagnosed?

Whether you have symptoms of a chlamydia infection in your throat or genitals, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Many tests can screen for chlamydia, but testing for throat chlamydia isn’t usually part of standard STI screening. Tell your medical provider if you’re experiencing symptoms in your throat or are worried about an infection after giving oral sex.

If your medical provider suspects chlamydia in the throat, they’ll ask about your symptoms and sexual contact. They may then swab your throat and send the sample to a lab to test for chlamydia. It’s also possible that you’ll have a general STD test, which may involve a urine sample, blood test, or cheek swab. If you test positive for any STI, make sure to tell your sexual partners so they can take necessary precautions.

Treatment

Healthcare providers treat throat chlamydia infections with antibiotics such as azithromycin or doxycycline. Antibiotics work by slowing or stopping bacterial growth, which cures the infection. If you are diagnosed with chlamydia of the throat, wait to have oral sex or sexual intercourse until you finish your prescribed dose and your symptoms have completely resolved.

Even if your symptoms improve or go away, make sure to finish the entire course of antibiotics. Stopping early could cause the infection to come back. While antibiotic treatment may cure a current infection, it is possible to get chlamydia again. The recurrence rate of chlamydia is particularly high, so it’s important to take action to prevent future infections.

Preventing throat chlamydia

Because throat chlamydia spreads through contact during oral sex, practice safe sex by using a condom or dental dam.

Other ways to prevent the spread of chlamydia include:

Avoiding sexual contact if you have sores in your mouth

Using latex or plastic condoms or a sexual barrier

Routinely getting checked for STIs

Encouraging your partner to have regular STI checks

If you have any symptoms of chlamydia or any other STI, it’s best to avoid sexual contact until you receive and finish any treatment. You cannot get chlamydia from contact with toilet seats, sharing clothes or towels, or hugging.

Risks of Chlamydia in the Throat

Along with potentially uncomfortable symptoms, chlamydia carries a risk of other medical complications:

Infertility in women

Preterm delivery in pregnant women

Ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that implants outside of the uterus)

Infections in newborn babies from an infected parent

Inflammation in the upper genital tract

Prostate gland infection

Pelvic inflammatory disease (an infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes that causes pelvic pain and fever)

Reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter’s syndrome, a type of inflammatory arthritis

If you have chlamydia and think you may be experiencing any of these complications, seek emergency medical care right away. Some chlamydia-related medical issues can be irreversible without proper treatment.

When to See a Doctor

If left untreated, throat chlamydia can result in significant health complications. If you have strep throat-like symptoms after giving oral sex, seek medical care right away, especially if you’re pregnant. A healthcare provider can test you for chlamydia and other STIs and also rule out other infections.

(09/07/2024)
by K Health

More Information: N

Signs You Need a Dental Cleaning

Getting a dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. However, it can be difficult to know how often to get one done. Most general dentists recommend dental cleanings twice a year, but there are certain signs to be aware of that can indicate a need for them more frequently.

How to tell if you need a dental cleaning

Outlined below are a few signs that indicate a need for a dental cleaning. When unsure, it can be helpful to review the following information.

Plaque and tartar

Plaque and tartar are dangerous to the teeth and gums. Thankfully, they can often be identified. Plaque may appear as a white or yellow film. Tartar, on the other hand, typically appears white and hard. It sits right above the gum line and is often very difficult to remove at home. Both plaque and tartar are signs that a dental cleaning is needed.

Dark spots

Any spots or areas on the teeth that are dark indicate a need for a dental cleaning. Discoloration usually indicates a cavity or decay, both of which require the attention of a general dentist. In some scenarios, these spots may be harmless and only require a dental cleaning. However, there are times when spots require more in-depth treatment, such as a filling, dental crown, or bonding procedure.

Staining

Unfortunately, the teeth are prone to staining. Heavily dyed foods and beverages can leave the teeth looking yellow, which is not ideal for anyone. When the teeth start to look yellow or stained, it is usually an indicator that a dental cleaning is necessary. Cleanings alone do not remove stains; however, they can help avoid the long-term buildup of stains.

Bad breath

Another sign that a dental cleaning is necessary is bad breath or a foul odor in the mouth. Oftentimes, bad breath is an indicator that the teeth have buildup behind them or beneath the gums. When there is any sort of buildup, it is usually a result of a long-term lack of oral hygiene, which means a dental cleaning is in order.

In some scenarios, a dental cleaning alone may not tackle the bad breath. In this case, further exploration and treatment may be required.

Discomfort

Any pain, discomfort, or soreness in the gums or teeth indicates a need for a dental cleaning. More often than not, discomfort indicates a cavity; however, in some cases it may just be a sign that the teeth need to be cleaned. Plaque and tartar that build up on the teeth or along the gum lines can put pressure on the nerves, which may result in discomfort. The pressure can be relieved through a dental cleaning with a general dentist.

Get started with a dental cleaning

When experiencing any of the signs listed above, it is necessary to get a dental cleaning right away. Dental cleanings can improve oral health and reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Reach out today to learn more or to get started with a dental cleaning appointment.

(09/07/2024)
by Smiles By Canada

More Information: https://www.smilesbycanada.com/blog/signs-you-need-a-dental-cleaning/

Endodontist vs Regular Dentist: Differences Explained

Let’s dive in and demystify these two key roles in your dental healthcare team.

Your Regular Dentist: The General Practitioner of Oral Health

Think of your regular dentist as the general practitioner of your mouth. They’re often the first line of defense in your oral health, and you’re likely most familiar with these professionals. Regular dentists cover a wide range of oral health issues. They perform routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, and may also handle more complex procedures such as crowns or bridges.

If you’ve ever had a cavity filled or your teeth cleaned professionally, you’ve interacted with a regular dentist. Their main focus is on preventive care, helping to keep common dental problems at bay.

What Makes an Endodontist Special?

An endodontist, on the other hand, is a specialized dentist. They undergo additional years of training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on diagnosing and treating dental pain and diseases affecting the dental pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth. This includes conditions like tooth infections, dental injuries, and root canal therapy, which is their most well-known role.

In other words, endodontists are the “tooth-saving” experts. They step in when the problem is too severe or complex for a general dentist to handle.

When Should You See an Endodontist?

There are several situations where you might find yourself in an endodontist’s office rather than your regular dentist’s. Let’s dive into some of these scenarios.

Persistent Tooth Pain

Persistent tooth pain is one clear sign you may need an endodontist’s expertise. This isn’t your ordinary toothache – we’re talking about a severe, constant ache, sensitivity to hot or cold, or pain when biting down. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it could be a sign of deep-rooted problems, such as an infection or inflammation in the pulp of your tooth, which an endodontist is specifically trained to handle.

After a Dental Injury

Have you suffered a dental injury? Perhaps you’ve had a hard fall, a sports accident, or even a car crash that affected your teeth. In such cases, an endodontist can play a crucial role in saving your damaged tooth. They’re skilled at dealing with the complexities of tooth trauma, including fractured, dislodged, or knocked-out teeth.

When You Need a Root Canal

Root canals – most of us shudder at the thought. But they’re often essential for treating severe tooth decay or infection that has reached the dental pulp. Regular dentists can sometimes perform root canals, but complex cases are often referred to endodontists. They are experts in pain management and use advanced technologies that make the procedure as painless and efficient as possible.

Why Choose Gentle Dental for Your Endodontic Needs?

When it comes to your oral health, choosing the right provider is crucial. At Gentle Dental, we take pride in offering endodontic care that is a cut above the rest. Here’s why our clinic should be your first choice for endodontic needs.

Expertise and Advanced Technologies

The world of dentistry is continually evolving, with new technologies and techniques being developed all the time. At Gentle Dental, we stay at the forefront of these advancements.

Our endodontists have undergone rigorous training, far beyond the years spent in dental school. They bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, honed over years of clinical experience treating a wide variety of complex dental issues.

But our commitment to offering top-quality care doesn’t stop there. We incorporate the latest technologies into our practice to improve diagnosis, treatment, and patient comfort. We use 3D imaging, which offers detailed views of your mouth, helping us diagnose issues with accuracy. Our use of dental microscopes allows for enhanced precision during procedures, reducing the risk of complications, discomfort, and recovery time.

Personalized and Comfortable Care

At Gentle Dental, we believe that dental care should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. We offer personalized treatment plans designed to meet your specific needs. Before starting any treatment, our endodontists take the time to discuss the procedure, potential alternatives, and any risks involved. We ensure all your questions are answered and that you feel confident in the care you’re receiving.

We also understand that dental procedures can be intimidating for many. That’s why we’ve created an environment that prioritizes patient comfort. From the moment you step into our clinic, our friendly staff will make you feel welcome and at ease. During procedures, we use efficient pain management strategies to ensure your comfort.

Seamless Referral Process

If you’re visiting us based on a referral from your regular dentist, you can expect a smooth transition. We value the relationship you have with your dentist and work in close collaboration with them to ensure continuity of care. We keep them updated on your treatment progress, so everyone involved in your care is on the same page.

Our clinic provides a comprehensive range of services under one roof, meaning that you don’t have to go through the hassle of visiting multiple clinics. We aim to make your endodontic treatment as efficient and stress-free as possible.

If you’ve been experiencing persistent tooth pain, had a dental injury, or your dentist has suggested a root canal, we’re here to help. Don’t let dental problems affect your quality of life. Reach out to us and schedule your consultation with Gentle Dental today.

Conclusion: Your Smile Deserves the Best, Choose Gentle Dental

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. It deserves the best care possible. Whether you need routine dental care or specialized endodontic treatment, Gentle Dental is equipped to provide the exceptional care that your smile deserves.

Our team of endodontists brings a combination of expertise, advanced technology, personalized care, and a seamless referral process, aiming to make your visit as beneficial and comfortable as possible.

Don’t let dental pain take away your joy. Let us help you restore your smile and your confidence. Reach out to us at Gentle Dental and schedule your consultation today. Together, let’s take the first step towards a happier, healthier smile.

(09/06/2024)
by Gentle Dental

More Information: N

Recovery after dental crown procedure: Eating after permanent crown

If you have had to receive a dental crown at some point, you know that the crown looks and feels very much like your natural teeth. It even acts like a natural tooth. In fact, you can even treat it just like a regular tooth. One of the questions that many people have after they receive the crown from their dentist is what type of special dental crowns aftercare they need to follow. Once the crown is permanently in place, you will be happy to know that you don’t need to follow too many special tips.

Recovery After a Dental Crown Procedure

Numbness from Anesthetic

If a local anesthetic was used during the dental crown procedure, the numbing effect may still be present for several hours after the dental appointment.

During this time, patients are prone to burn or bite themselves unknowingly because they are unable to feel the warning sensations, such as heat or pain, as usual. For this reason, it is recommended to avoid drinking hot liquids or chewing hard foods during this time.

There may also be some bruising and inflammation at the site of the anesthetic injection shortly after the dental crown procedure, particularly on the lower jaw. This should go away spontaneously without the need for treatment after several days.

Pain, Discomfort and Sensitivity

Most people experience some pain or discomfort in the affected area of the mouth following a dental crown procedure. This typically improves after several days or weeks without any assigned treatment.

Many patients find it useful to use simple analgesic medications to help manage the pain in the meantime. For example, ibuprofen is often recommended to help reduce the associated pain and make the patient feel more comfortable.

Some sensitivity of the surrounding gums is common following the placement of a dental crown, due to irritation from the dental cement. In most cases, a topical anesthetic gel readily available at most pharmacies is able to help relieve this, and is often more effective than oral medications such as ibuprofen. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth may also be useful.

If the pain continues beyond several weeks or it is severe, it may be necessary for patients to seek dental advice to investigate the situation.

While it is normal for the crown to feel strange as patients get used to the feel of it in their mouth, in some cases the crown may need some adjustment to properly fit the shape of the mouth. If the bite does not seem right after several days or a week, dental advice to investigate the need for adjustment should be sought.

Care for Temporary Crowns

Most people who need a dental crown will get a temporary crown to protect the prepared abutment tooth between the two appointments, while the permanent crown is being constructed to fit their jaw and bite shape. The temporary crown will require special care to prevent fractures and dislodgement because it is more fragile than the permanent crown.

In general, patients can continue to eat and brush their teeth as normal; however, the following diet and oral care recommendations are prudent:

Avoid sticky or chewy foods, which may dislodge the temporary crown

Avoid hard foods, which may break the temporary crown

Attempt to chew most foods on the opposite side of the mouth while the temporary crown is in place

Avoid flossing next to the temporary crown, or take care to slide the floss rather than lifting it out

Dietary Advice During Recovery

Foods and Drinks to Avoid with Temporary Crowns

With the temporary dental crown, the following few precautions should be taken:

Avoid chewy or sticky foods, such as caramel, taffy, and gum. These foods can grab and pull out the crown.

Avoid chewing hard foods, such as granola, hard candy, and ice. These goods can break off or dislodge the crown.

Avoid foods that are extremely cold or hot

Avoid tough foods like hard bread or steak.

It is also advisable that you chew less on the affected mouth part but chew more with the opposite side of your mouth. This will reduce the possibility of dislodgement or damage to the dental crown. More so, when flossing, slide out the flossing material instead of lifting it out. You may mistakenly pull off the temporary crown when lifting the floss out.

Once you receive the permanent crown, it is important for you to avoid sticky diets for the first 24hours. After then, you may return to your normal diets and oral practices.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid with Permanent Crowns

When you receive your permanent dental crown, you will have fewer dietary restrictions. Nonetheless, there are still a few diets to avoid, which include:

Hard or crunchy foods like pretzels, seeds, or nuts. These types of foods can break or chip your dental restoration.

Sticky foods like steak and candies. These foods can pull off or potentially dislodge your dental crown. More so, be mindful of your dental crown when choosing snacks.

Popcorn and nuts. Biting down on nuts or accidentally on an uncooked popcorn kernel can be harmful to your dental crown.

If you’re the type that likes chewing on ice, it is important that you stop as this can cause damage to your dental crown.

Raw vegetables. It is advisable to eat cooked vegetables and not raw vegetables. Cooked vegetables are softer and will not harm or damage your dental restoration.

Oral hygiene

As soon as you receive your crown, it should be permanent within the hour. This means that it has cemented into place and it is not going to move when you talk or chew. You can treat it just like it was a part of your natural teeth. Even though the crowns are not likely to stain, this does not mean you should not brush. You will still want to brush them, as well as the gums. In addition, you want to floss regularly – at least once a day. This helps keep the entire mouth healthy.

Exemplary oral care should continue to be practiced for the lifetime of the patient. They should be aware that crowns are still susceptible to decay, particularly along the gum line of the abutment tooth. For this reason, it is important for patients to brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and carefully floss daily.

What to do if complications occur?

If After a Dental Crown Placement

Uneven bite

In most patients, the bite is normal after a dental crown or bridge procedure. However, it can be difficult to sense the bite when your mouth is numb. If you find that your bite is uneven once your anesthesia wears off, please call dentist as soon as you notice the issue. experienced dentists will want to fix the bite to keep the crown or bridge from cracking as a result of a “high” bite.

You Feel Sensitivity and Discomfort

Generally, a feeling of discomfort and sensitivity goes away within a few days after the procedure. But, if you still have a nerve in your tooth and experience any kind of discomfort when you bite, immediately contact your dentist. This may be a sign that your crown is too high and should be adjusted.

You Have Noticed a Dark Line on Your Crowned Tooth

If you see a dark line on the tooth next to your gumline, don’t worry, it is normal. The dark line is a metal that is showing up through the crown. This is especially typical if you wear porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns.

You Crown Has Been Cracked

A dental crown, especialy if it is made of porcelain, may chip under the extreme biting force. In most cases, it can be repaired. The dentist uses a special adhesive and composite resin to put cracked particle in place. Usually, repaired crown doesn’t last long, so consider it as a temporary solution. If you have more than one chip, you may need to replace your crown.

A Dental Crown Seems to Be Falling Out when You Bite or Chew

If your crown is badly adjusted to your tooth, it means that with a course of time the cement may wash out, resulting in the gap between the crown and the tooth under it. Usually, this is followed by a bad smell from the mouth. If you notice this symptom, you could already have bacteria spread under your crown. Contact your dentist to check your crown and fix it.

Your Crown Has Been Fallen Out

Sometimes, crowns can fall out due to improper fit and washed out cement. If this happens to you, put your crown in a plastic bag and bring it to your dentist. This crown can be used as a temporary one until your new crown is designed. Don’t try to put the crown in place by your own. In case of fallen crown, wash your tooth to remove any cement left. A cotton swab or a toothpick may be helpful. If you don’t have a possibility to visit your dentist immediately, you can try to fit you crown by using a special adhesive sold in pharmacies.

How to Prevent Decay

Crowns are crafted from high-quality dental materials, such as ceramic porcelain and zirconia. These surfaces are impenetrable to decay. However, this does not mean the tooth structure underneath cannot suffer a cavity. Some patients wrongly assume that teeth with restorations do not require as much attention. On the contrary, teeth with dental crowns require just as much care, if not more. If proper oral hygiene habits are not maintained, recurrent decay can develop underneath the crown. Once this occurs, the tooth weakens further, often leaving extraction as the only viable option.

To actively prevent recurrent decay, you should brush at least twice a day, and floss at least once per day. When cleaning between the teeth, gently pull the floss all the way through the spaces, rather than snapping it down. This will help keep the crown from loosening or falling off. Some patients find that specialized hygiene tools, such as interproximal brushes and dental picks, are beneficial as well. dentists can help you determine an at-home regimen that will work for your needs.

How to Prevent Damage

Dental crowns are strong, durable, and resilient, much like your natural tooth enamel. However, when exposed to excessive force or pressure, crowns can chip or fracture. To prevent this, avoid chewing on hard objects, such as pens, pencils, ice, or your fingernails. It is also important that you never use your teeth to open packages.

Additionally, if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), or if you play contact sports, you should wear an occlusal guard. These oral appliances protect your teeth from damage by gently separating and cushioning the upper and lower arches. If you think you may require a mouth guard, talk to dentist about a custom oral appliance.

(09/06/2024)
by Dr. Keyhani

More Information: N

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