As we age, certain dental diseases become more common, whether we’ve established hygienic habits or not. Youth can grant some resilience in overall health, but it can’t prevent dental diseases dependent on hygienic habits. A trusted dentist can always outline a personalized set of practices that work for you, and it’s best to start early in life.
Some diseases can affect a patient at any age, so we can think of them as “the usual suspects.” They’re common diseases that can strike young and old alike. However, these dental problems can sometimes affect different age groups more than others.
COMMON DENTAL DISEASES AFFECTING ALL AGES
We see patients of all ages and different backgrounds over the years, and we’re happy to have them enjoy dental health as often as possible. Sometimes we see some uncommon diseases, but most problems can be avoided by following your dentist’s recommended habits.
As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” especially with common diseases. Fortunately, twice-daily brushing and daily flossing do a lot to prevent common types of disease, so you’ll repeatedly see that advice in the sections below.
Cavities
Also known as caries, or more generally, tooth decay, cavities are small holes forming in the tooth. They begin on the enamel and burrow deeper. Cavities form when bacteria in our mouths consume residual sugar, producing an acid that can melt through teeth slowly. Plaque and tartar, if unremoved by daily brushing and flossing, can cause cavities.
Cavities tend to affect children more than adults, perhaps because of differences in the bacterial composition of our saliva. Some ethnicities can suffer cavities at slightly different rates, due to differences in genes present — resulting in bacterial differences.
Gingivitis
Inflammation of the gums, meaning redness, bleeding, and puffiness all indicate gingivitis. Usually, gingivitis isn’t accompanied by much pain, though. Plaque, if unremoved by daily brushing and flossing near the gum line, is a known cause.
Gingivitis can affect any and all age groups, and like cavities, it’s been known to affect different ethnic groups at different rates.
Gum Disease
Gum disease tends to affect adults more, but it can flare up at any age. It begins with plaque, which leads to tartar at the gums’ point of attachment. Sensitive teeth, gums bleeding, bad breath that doesn’t go away, or a metallic taste in your mouth are signs of gum disease.
Plaque, a clear and sticky film of bacteria, tends to form on your teeth — especially after eating. If it’s not removed by daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar. Tartar leads to gingivitis, and gingivitis leads to gum disease.
You might notice redness or discolouration, but It doesn’t necessarily come with symptoms of sensitivity and swelling like gingivitis. Your best bet is to have your dentist check for it during a dental exam, as they have a trained eye looking for the signs. If you catch it early, it can even be reversed!
Oral Cancer
Like all cancer, oral cancer can have multiple or unknown causes. Still, many cases of oral cancer can be traced to smoking or chewing tobacco habitually. Heat, pressure, or other factors can affect changes in your oral tissues. Your dentist will be able to spot parts of the mouth at risk.
As we age, our body’s cells break down and may not regenerate properly, so keep a vigilant eye out for oral cancer past age 40. Since tobacco use is the most significant factor, and kids are to be kept away from tobacco, you don’t have to worry about it for kids as much.
As a rule, keep an eye on your child’s oral health; listen if your child reports something wrong with their mouth. The earlier detected, the better chance at treatment — and after spotting it in the dentist’s chair, talking to an oncologist might give you precious time.
BEST LINE OF DEFENCE AGAINST COMMON DENTAL DISEASES
You might have noticed the importance of solid oral hygiene habits. They can put a dent in the plaque and tartar aiding the usual suspects (gum disease, gingivitis, cavities, and oral cancer). Great habits include brushing your twice a day, eating healthy, and quitting bad habits like smoking.
Good Habits Can Prevent Disease at Every Age
Brushing and flossing can’t take care of cancer, but quitting oral habits like smoking or chewing tobacco can dramatically reduce risk. A diet minimizing sugars, especially refined sugars, and maximizing whole foods is another good habit to form since plaque doesn’t have the fuel it needs to grow.
You can’t go wrong brushing and flossing daily, because it takes care of plaque. If you don’t remove plaque, it hardens into tartar.
Regular Professional Cleanings Complement Good Habits
Tartar can only be removed by a dentist, which is where regular cleanings come in. If you missed some plaque in your dedicated brushing and flossing regimen, professional scaling from a dentist tackles tartar you just can’t at home.
Your child should begin visiting the dentist as soon as the first tooth comes in. You can get a professional assessment of your child’s dental health and practical advice about how to brush baby teeth as they grow during infancy. After that, for children and adults alike, a visit once every six months for life is golden.
Great dental health is in your hands, and as long as you do your homework and visit your dentist regularly, a bright smile can last a lifetime.
Have you ever wondered if what you eat and drink can affect your teeth? Well, the short answer is YES. Here’s why.
Your teeth are made of up enamel, which helps coat and protect the surface and keeps damaging substances from penetrating the deeper, more sensitive areas of your teeth where the intricate nerves and blood supply to the tooth live. Without proper attention to your teeth and what keeps them healthy, your teeth may not last through your lifetime and without teeth it is difficult to maintain proper nutrition. When you remember that one of the main functions of your teeth is to help you chew your food, which is the first steps in proper digestion, you start to realize the importance of your teeth. Without food that is properly chewed, your stomach cannot properly dissolve the foods you consume and you may miss out on vital nutrients that your body needs for maximal health.
Here are a few different types of food and drink that can ruin those pearly whites…
BEVERAGES:
1. Coffee not only stains your teeth, but is acidic and can erode the enamel of your teeth. Also, remember that adding crème or sugar increases the “empty calories” that you may consume in your diet. Very important to remember if you are watching your waistline
2. Alcohol can cause you to lose additional fluids due to its diuretic effects. Drying out your body dries out your mouth, so without adequate salivary flow you are more prone to cavities
3. Citrus juice, due to the acid content, can cause breakdown of enamel, not to mention the fact that you consume a lot more calories (about 2-3 times more) in a cup of juice than you would by eating a piece of fruit.
4. One 12-ounce can of soda may contain as much as 18 teaspoons or up to 1/3 of a cup of sugar. That sugar is a feeding ground for any bacteria that are present in your mouth causing rapid tooth decay and cavities.
5. Sports drinks are typically loaded with sugar, so don’t indulge in these if water is readily available.
FOODS:
1. Sticky foods like dried fruits tend to stick around in your teeth longer and can lead to the fruit’s sugar coating your teeth. Even though the sugar is fructose rather than glucose, sugar is still sugar!
2. Hard candy is made up mostly of, you guessed it, more sugar. So when in doubt, leave it out, as the sticky hard candy that sits on your teeth is an open invitation for more tooth decay.
3. Although ice eventually melts into water, chewing hard ice can cause teeth to crack and cause the enamel to have tiny cracks that are open areas for bacteria to enter, sugar to coat those areas, feed bacteria and erode your teeth – let the ice melt in your mouth and you are doing your teeth a favor by washing away and diluting the enemies of your teeth.
Okay, so you still want to enjoy life and still keep your teeth happy? Here are a few tips from the American Dental Association for taking good care of your teeth!
TOOTH CARE GUIDELINES
Brush for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and lots of fresh water
Brush after each meal or a minimum of twice a day
Prevent tooth decay from occurring between your teeth by flossing daily
Use mouthwash or a dentist-prescribed oral rinse to protect your teeth and gums
Scrape bacteria off your tongue with a scraper or by brushing it after you brush your teeth
Drink lots of water daily to keep your saliva flowing and the pH of your mouth close to neutral
Visit your dentist regularly—a minimum of two to three times a year for cleanings and once a year for a visit with your dentist
See your dentist soon if your experience any pain in your teeth as cracked teeth are vulnerable teeth
Remember your teeth are the gatekeepers for your body, if they cannot do their job and your body cannot do its best to absorb what you feed it. Take care of your teeth and they will take care of you!
Our society places a lot of value on a pretty smile. Because of this people with major dental issues sometimes feel ashamed of the condition of their teeth. This can cause a vicious cycle where dental problems continue to worsen as people avoid the dentist out of embarrassment.
If you find yourself in this situation it is important to realize that your dentist is trained to work on a wide variety of oral problems and has likely seen everything you have going on. If you are avoiding the dentist out of embarrassment you are putting yourself at risk for even worse dental problems.
Your dentist has seen it all
It is highly unlikely that your dental problems will shock your dentist. The reality is that dentists are trained to deal with a wide range of oral issues. If you are going to see someone who has been a dentist for a while then they have seen it all. It is not uncommon for people to postpone visiting the dentist until the pain or issues can no longer be ignored. If this is you then take comfort in the fact that you are not alone.
Keep in mind that dentistry is a profession that helps people and try to view your dentist in that light. The goal is to alleviate your paint and get your teeth and gums healthy again. Your dentist will be focused on fixing your teeth and not on judging you for their condition.
Tooth decay is progressive
Being embarrassed about the condition of your teeth will not cause your tooth decay to disappear. Tooth decay is progressive and will continue to worsen until you do something about it. Your pain will continue and will likely worsen if you do nothing. Being afraid to face the dentist can also lead to tooth loss if decay is allowed to ravage your teeth. Missing teeth can impact your life in a number of ways. You may start having difficulty eating certain types of food and become self-conscious about your smile. In addition, missing teeth can lead to your other teeth shifting and cause your bite to get out of alignment. Tooth decay is not an issue that can be ignored because it will ultimately create even more problems. The only way to stop tooth decay in its tracks is to work with a dentist.
Gum disease can lead to serious problems
Gum disease is a common problem especially if you are dealing with other dental issues. Gum disease can start out as gingivitis which is easily treatable and can be reversed. If you leave your gingivitis unchecked it can progress into a more serious condition called periodontitis. All levels of gum disease can be painful. As the condition worsens so will the pain. The pain caused by gum disease is one of the more moderate symptoms when you consider the other problems that can be connected to it. Your gums can start to recede as a result of gum disease and ultimately lead to tooth and bone loss. Ongoing infections in your mouth have been linked to other serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes. If your gums are painful, swollen, look enflamed, or have started to recede then you should see your dentist right away. Use the potentially serious consequences of advanced gum disease to help you overcome any embarrassment you may be experiencing.
If you are experiencing anxiety at the thought of someone seeing the condition of your teeth then take some time to explore your options. Look for a dentist who has a long history of working with patients in your area. Ask around for referrals from people you know and do some research online. Get comfortable with your options and choose the right dentist for you.
Teeth and gum health is essential for your overall well-being. Here are 10 ways to keep your teeth healthy.
1. Don’t Go to Bed Without Brushing Your Teeth
Brushing your teeth before going to bed is paramount for maintaining good oral health. You might know that brushing your teeth at least twice a day is a must. But if you don’t brush first thing in the morning, bacteria and plaque can build up on your teeth and gum line, causing bad breath, gingivitis, and cavities.
2. Brush Properly
When you brush your teeth, you should use a soft-bristled brush and brush for two minutes. Take your time and start with the outer surfaces of your teeth. Go tooth by tooth to help slow down and avoid missing spots. Brush upper and then lower teeth with a gentle motion. Tilt your brush at a 45° angle and brush against the gum-line. This will get rid of any trapped plaque or food debris. Because the insides of your teeth are not as visible, they get skipped often–but these inner surfaces are just as vulnerable to plaque, so make sure to brush them. Don’t forget to use short back and forth strokes on the chewing surfaces of your teeth as well. Food can easily get trapped there, so don’t neglect these areas.
3. Pay Attention to Your Tongue
Your tongue is the essential part of your mouth. It keeps your teeth healthy by keeping them clean. The tongue also has papillae and taste buds that keep your mouth healthy by making sure you know what you are eating. If your tongue is dirty, it will cause bad breath, and plaque buildup on your teeth and gums as well.
4. Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride toothpaste helps keep your teeth and gums healthy by preventing cavities. Also, fluoride toothpaste provides a higher concentration of the mineral than any other source. Fluoride’s effectiveness in promoting dental health has been long established and is considered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be “one of 10 great public health achievements of the 20th century.”
5. Treat Flossing as Important as Brushing
It would help if you flossed your teeth at least once a day. Flossing cleans the spaces between your teeth and gums called interproximal spaces, where plaque can build up and cause bad breath. Flossing also helps to prevent cavities. Dental floss catches food, and plaque between your teeth, and cleans the gum line. Waxed dental floss is widely recommended by dental professionals, as it provides effortless gliding between evenly spaced teeth. The wax also strengthens the floss and prevents it from fraying too easily.
6. Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash is also an essential part of your daily routine. Swishing with mouthwash is an excellent way to keep your mouth healthy. It can be used to wash the interproximal spaces between your teeth and gums. It also helps to prevent plaque buildup, and bad breath.
7. Drink More Water
Water is essential for your mouth. You should drink at least eight 8 ounce glasses of water a day. You should also drink water when you eat and after you brush your teeth and floss. This will help keep your mouth healthy by keeping your tongue clean, removing toxins, and keeping the gums healthy.
8. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are very good for your teeth. They have vitamin C, which is needed to keep your teeth healthy. This vitamin also helps to prevent cavities. It would help if you ate as much of these foods as possible.
9. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods can cause tooth decay and cavities, which is why you should limit the amount of sweets, desserts, sodas, and acidic foods that you eat. When you eat sugary foods or sip sugary drinks for long periods of time, plaque bacteria use that sugar to produce acids that attack your enamel, the hard surface of your tooth.
10. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
You should visit your dentist regularly. It is crucial to have regular checkups with your dentist. This will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Your dentist will also tell you if there are any problems with your teeth, or gums, that need to be fixed.
Oral health is very important. You should have regular checkups with your dentist, and you should also make sure that you are brushing, flossing, and drinking enough water. This will help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent oral health issues. Contact us for more tips on how to maintain a healthy smile and to schedule your next checkup or cleaning.
If you've ever suffered from tooth pain, you know how uncomfortable it can be. There are multiple reasons why you could be suffering from tooth pain. Some of the more common reasons include cavities, a cracked tooth, or tooth sensitivity resulting from cold or hot foods. But a lesser-known cause of tooth pain is a sinus infection. If you suffer from a sinus infection, tooth sensitivity, or pain, here's some helpful information.
Sinus Infections
If you're a constant sufferer of sinus infections, you are not alone! Did you know that, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 31 million people in the United States get them? It's such a common ailment that they're the cause of 16 million doctor visits a year. Also known as sinusitis, a sinus infection occurs when the nasal passage cavities become swollen and inflamed. Because the sinuses are unable to drain, a mucus build-up can occur. It's usually caused by a virus like the common cold, but can also result from allergies or germs.
Once your sinuses have a blockage, the moist environment created by an excess of mucus creates a fertile ground for infections. We know — it's not the most pleasant imagery to think of, but it's helpful to understand what a sinus infection is so you can find the right relief! But what do our sinuses have to do with tooth pain? Can a sinus infection cause tooth sensitivity to hot and cold?
Tooth Pain
If you take a gulp of cool water and notice a sharp pain, a sinus infection could be the reason. This is due to where your sinuses are located in your facial structure. The roots of your upper molars are close to your sinus cavities. So when your sinuses become infected and swollen, the resulting pain is often mistakenly believed to have originated in your teeth.
Easing Tooth Pain
How long does a sinus toothache last? Unless other factors contribute to your tooth pain, it should stop when your sinus infection goes away. While sinus infections — and the resulting toothaches — can be painful, the United States Mayo Clinic reassures patients that they usually clear up within seven to 10 days. If you don't feel better by such time, consult your doctor. Over-the-counter medications might offer some pain relief, but a physician will best be able to determine your course of treatment.
How do you relieve sinus pain in your teeth? In addition to seeing your doctor, you can try some at-home remedies outlined in Medline Plus, an online information service produced by the United States National Library of Medicine:
Use a warm compress on your face several times a day.
Increase your fluid intake as a means of thinning the mucus produced from your sinus infection.
Inhale steam from a hot shower several times a day.
Use a humidifier in your bedroom when sleeping.
While a sinus infection can be one cause of teeth pain, it's best to avoid toothaches altogether! That starts with regular check-ups with your dental professional. They will diagnose potential issues, such as cavities or gum problems, that could eventually lead to a toothache. Your dentist and dental hygienist can also help you develop a good oral care plan. This includes brushing twice a day, then flossing or cleaning between your teeth with a water flosser or other interdental cleaning device, and lastly, using mouthwash to rinse away any remaining germs.
We know you care about your oral health and take preventive measures seriously. So it can be frustrating to find out you have tooth pain from something outside your control. Toothaches can be painful, especially when they occur with a sinus infection, but there are ways to find relief. When at-home remedies haven't given you the sinus tooth pain relief you need, speak with your dental professional to find a treatment that works for you!
Some people experiencing tooth sensitivity might not be able to handle hot or cold temperatures, while others might be sensitive to pressure. Biting down on something and feeling pain can be a jarring sensation. Find out what’s causing this sensation and how to treat it so that you can feel comfortable again.
Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Put Pressure on It?
The most common reason you might be experiencing pain when you put pressure on that tooth is tooth sensitivity, known more specifically as dentin hypersensitivity. Dentin hypersensitivity is caused when the protective outer layer of the tooth (the enamel) is eroded, leaving the sensitive layer under your tooth enamel (the dentin) vulnerable and exposed. Exposure of the dentin can be due to the loss of hard dental tissue (erosion or abrasion) or soft tissue (gingival recession). As a result, the dentinal tubules or holes are vunlerable when you bite into food or apply any other kind of pressure to the tooth, triggering the painful response.
Dentin sensitivity is not the only thing that can cause pain when you bite down or touch your tooth. This symptom could be caused by cavities, a loose filling, or a cracked tooth. It’s also possible that the damage goes beyond the dentin and affects the pulp tissue inside the tooth.
What Treatment Options Are Available to Me?
Since the pain you’re experiencing could be caused by various things, you must consult your dentist as soon as possible. A dentist will determine if your symptoms are being caused by tooth sensitivity or if it’s something else. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, your dentist might recommend using a solution that can help the tooth be less sensitive and provide pain relief, or provide options that can be applied in-office.
Consulting with your doctor can also help you figure out if you have a cavity or if you need to replace a crown or a filling. Those procedures can take care of the pain symptoms you’re experiencing.
If your tooth is cracked, your dentist will determine if that crack has extended into the pulp. If it has, the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) recommends that the tooth be treated with a root canal procedure. A crown is usually placed over it to protect the crack from spreading. Early diagnosis is key here – it can help save your tooth. That’s why it’s essential to see your dentist regularly. They might notice a problem with your teeth that you were unaware of and help you get treated.
Aside from seeing your dentist regularly, it’s important to keep up a good oral care routine. This should include brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss or another interdental cleaner. Brushing your teeth correctly is also important to ensure you don’t wear down your enamel and gums.
If your tooth hurts when you put any pressure on it, it’s normal to feel concerned. While many different things could trigger this symptom, the good news is that your dentist can help you figure out what is causing this problem. And remember, urgency is key here. The sooner you get to the dentist’s office, the quicker you’ll get some relief!
Usually when you make a dental appointment, it’s for a cleaning or a toothache – but did you know that your dentist is also able to identify unusual oral health issues?
If you have symptoms of any of these seven problems, schedule a visit to your dentist’s office to receive treatment.
Odd Oral Health Issues Your Dentist May Be Able to Help With
1.- Burning mouth syndrome
If you feel a burning sensation on your tongue, cheeks, and gums, you may have burning mouth syndrome. Experts aren’t sure why this condition occurs, but it can point to other health problems like shifting hormones, acid reflux, infections, and allergic reactions. Your dentist can help you with your symptoms and prescribe treatment for this problem.
2.- Dry mouth
Sometimes burning mouth syndrome is accompanied by dry mouth. This problem occurs when your salivary glands aren’t producing enough saliva. Many factors can cause this condition, including medications, smoking, alcohol use, dehydration, stress, and autoimmune diseases.
When you don’t seek treatment for dry mouth, you run the risk of developing further health problems. Your saliva is essential to proper digestion, so you may face gastrointestinal issues. Your mouth will be more prone to infections and sores, so you may experience tooth decay. Your gums can be affected, so you may lose teeth.
Other dry mouth effects may include sore throat, dry sinuses, and a hoarse voice. A lack of saliva can even deaden your sense of taste, and your overall quality of life may suffer.
Seek treatment from your dentist. They will advise you on your water intake, offer helpful suggestions, and prescribe medication if necessary.
3.- Oral herpes
Often called cold sores or fever blisters, these painful sores stem from the same source: the herpes simplex virus. These sores are quite common and contagious. First, the sore starts out with a tingling sensation in your lip. Then the sore swells and reddens while it grows into a painful blister. The virus can pass to another person with direct contact or by sharing utensils and drinking cups.
After one or two weeks, the blister heals, but the virus is still present in your body. Sores can reactivate due to sun exposure, stressful situations, fever, and fatigue.
Your dentist can prescribe treatment for future flare-ups. Several prescription medications are available to shorten the duration of the next outbreak. Some people find prevention and treatment in lysine tablets and ointments. Oral herpes is most treatable at the first sign of the problem. If you have a treatment from your dentist handy, your blisters won’t be as painful and prolonged.
4.- Thrush
If you have white spots, cracked mouth corners, or painful spots in your mouth, you may have thrush. This fungal infection occur in the mouth when people have an imbalance of the yeast known as candida albicans. After a round of antibiotics, this yeast can multiply too quickly, causing thrush to develop.
To deal with it, visit your dentist. They can prescribe an antifungal treatment to clear up your problem.
5.- Gingivostomatitis
This condition is caused by a virus or bacteria, most often from poor oral hygiene. You may experience symptoms like tender gums and mouth sores with this disease. Your dentist can show you how to brush properly and rinse with antiseptic mouthwash, and may prescribe further treatment if the condition worsens.
6.- Temporomandibular Joint Pain (TMJ)
If the temporomandibular joints on both sides of your head aren’t working (i.e. what you’d probably call your jaw), you will suffer pain when you open and close your mouth and when you speak, chew, or swallow. According to the American Dental Association, TMJ affects 15% of Americans and can be caused by injury, poor alignment, teeth grinding, a dislocated jaw, and arthritis.
Your dentist will examine your joints and muscles, looking for anything out of place. Your dentist may teach you strengthening exercises for your jaw, prescribe pain medications, or create a mouth guard for you to wear at night. You may be referred to an orthodontist if you need realignment.
7.- Bumps and cysts
Harmless growths are fairly typical and should pose no threat as long as they heal within a week or two. Other bumps may develop when a tooth is abscessed or infected. In rare circumstances, a cyst may be malignant. If you chew tobacco or smoke, you face a greater risk for oral cancers. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if you notice any unusual oral growths that don’t heal on their own.
Regularly scheduled dental exams are an essential part of your health care maintenance as the health of your teeth and gums are closely related to the health of the rest of your body. Evidence of heart problems, diabetes, and even oral cancer can be visible in the mouth during the examination. Therefore, investing in your dental health now can prevent costly issues in the long run.
While teeth are the main focus in your dental health, dental hygienists will also check jaw muscles and lymph nodes in the facial and neck area, and conduct a full cleaning session for both your teeth and gums.
What To Expect During a Routine Dental Examination at your cleaning visit?
1. Cleaning of Teeth and Gums
2. Dental Cleaning Exams
3. Deep Cleaning
Dental Examination
Scheduling Future Appointments
Schedule a Dental Exam with All Smiles in Lake Jackson, TX
What To Expect During a Routine Dental Examination at your cleaning visit?
Your dental check-up will vary depending on your personal needs. However, every exam has a general structure.
1. CLEANING OF TEETH AND GUMS
You will get a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums. Your gums, teeth, and neck area will also be examined for signs of disease or decay. If any issues are found, your dentist and oral hygienist will work with you on how to address the problem and improve your dental health at another appointment.
If needed, All Smiles offers convenient financing options that keep dental health within reach for people working with the constraints of a budget.
2. DENTAL CLEANING EXAMS
During your examination, the dental cleaning will be done by a professional dental hygienist focused on cleaning your teeth and removing as much plaque and tartar as possible. During this step, your dental hygienist will use special dental tools for a thorough cleaning that surpasses follows the latest standard oral hygiene practices.
3. DEEP CLEANING
While at the dental office, you may require to give your teeth and gums a deep cleaning with scaling and root planing. This deep cleaning will reach bacteria and plaque below the gum line that cannot be removed using at-home cleaning methods. Cleaning sessions may also include fluoride treatment and a polishing session done to protect and improve the appearance of your teeth. Polishing is done with a rotating head and a smoothing paste which creates a smooth surface that is more difficult for plaque to gather on.
Dental Examination
During the examination, a dentist will look inside your mouth at the gum and tooth area, and outside at the jaw and neck. The examination will check for potential signs of gum disease and areas where tooth decay may occur or has already begun to occur. Checking the periodontal pockets in your gums will show whether or not you have gum disease. An x-ray may sometimes be needed to check bite or tooth alignment, but is not always necessary.
In addition to evaluating your current dental health, dentists can also provide advice on your potential risk factors. Asking about personal habits, such as smoking or the frequency with which you floss, gives professionals information on how to help you care for your teeth better.
Scheduling Future Appointments
Take charge of your dental hygiene by scheduling regular appointments. Regular check-ups are important for prophylaxis, or preventative care. Prevention is always much easier and more affordable than treatment for serious gum disease or tooth decay. If your dentist has found decay, gum disease or other issues, you will need to schedule another appointment for treatment.
Tooth decay is serious business. Left unchecked, it can lead to cavities, gum recession and can cause your overall oral health to plummet. Sometimes, a good dental hygiene routine is not enough. Some people are more susceptible to tooth decay than others. Hereditary factors and environmental influence can shape your oral health.
What is tooth decay?
Tooth decay is an advanced form of plaque buildup on teeth. When bacteria in the mouth feed on starches and sugars, they produce acid as a waste product. Once the bacteria start to colonize, this acid grows and grows until it starts to eat away at tooth enamel and forms into plaque. This process advances until a cavity is formed and the destruction of the enamel is irreversible.
Tooth decay can be caused by many reasons. Sometimes, even with excellent oral health practices, you can still have signs of tooth decay.
Often the choices we make can affect our teeth without us knowing it. The food we eat and unknown underlying conditions can all negatively impact our oral health. Find out if you are more susceptible to tooth decay based on the following factors.
Bacteria levels
Oral bacteria needs to be at certain levels to keep your teeth healthy. These bacteria differ from person to person, so the bacteria in your mouth might be more aggressive than others.
To combat these kinds of bacteria, you can keep them at bay with an oral rinse after your normal flossing and brushing routine. Always remember to use a mouthwash without alcohol. Alcoholic mouthwashes can actually produce the opposite effect and cause more bacteria to form due to its drying properties.
Dry mouth
Dry mouth is a common affliction where the salivary glands do not produce the right amount of saliva. Without the right amount of saliva, your mouth loses its main defense against plaque buildup.
Saliva is instrumental in the natural cleaning process of the mouth. This viscous material washes away sugars and food particles, and can even help to repair damage caused by tooth decay.
Dry mouth is often a side effect of some medications or advancing age. To fight this condition, rinse your mouth with a mouthwash that supports enamel fortification. Drinking plenty of water is crucial in restoring some moisture to the mouth.
Gum problems
The gums have a very important role in the protection of the teeth. They wrap tightly around the roots of teeth and act as a barrier against the constant flow of debris and food particles. For this reason, when the gums are damaged or receding, teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay. Be sure to take extra care of your gums by flossing daily and using a fluoride toothpaste to stave off gum disease.
Tooth shape
Some people have teeth shapes that are naturally more prone to tooth decay. Those who have teeth with deep grooves are more likely to develop cavities since these grooves are harder to clean. Any decay or erosion that happens in these deep grooves occurs closer to the tooth root and is more destructive.
Unfortunately, there is little to be done about tooth shape as it is a hereditary factor. However, you can give your teeth the best chance by conducting a thorough cleaning at least twice each day. Take special care to make sure there are no food particles left over.
Dental problems are increasingly becoming popular among a majority of individuals in the United States. In fact, recent statistics show that dental decay is the second most common disease after the cold. Nearly 50% of the population in America experience dental troubles. Fortunately, there are many techniques you can use to prevent dental troubles.
Typically, flossing and brushing your teeth are the most common dental hygiene practices. Even so, there are other oral practices that can boost your dental health. In this article, we look at how to jump ahead of dental troubles.
Identify your cavity risk level
It is important to identify your cavity risk level. This way, you’ll be able to take control of your health. Identifying your cavity risk level requires you to undergo a dental examination. During a professional dental examination, your dentist identifies all underlying dental problems. This way, they can fix the problems as early as possible. Also, your dentist will give you the best teeth maintenance tips to boost your oral health. When you identify you have a higher cavity risk level, you’ll have to visit your dentist more frequently. On the other hand, you won’t need many dental visits if you have a low cavity risk level. Ultimately knowing your cavity risk level helps you jump ahead of dental troubles.
Clean your teeth regularly using the right toothbrush and toothpaste
Another way to jump ahead of dental troubles is to clean your teeth often. Use the right toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your teeth. Your mouth serves as a habitat for thousands of microorganisms. Therefore, you have to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Otherwise, food particles can accumulate on your teeth and form plaque. Plaque, in turn, leads to tartar which causes dental caries and decay. Plaque also produces acid, which can wear out the enamel hence leading to tooth sensitivity. Also, when brushing your teeth, ensure you use the right technique. Moreover, consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash at least twice a day to obtain fresh breath.
Consume a healthy diet and drink lots of water
One of the most common ways to jump ahead of dental troubles is to consume a healthy diet. Sugary foods lead to the formation of plaque which in turn leads to dental decay. On the flip side, acidic foods can lead to the wearing out of the enamel. So, always rinse your mouth with clean water after drinking coffee or tea. Do the same when you consume sugary foods to prevent harmful sugars stay in your saliva. When you are trying to improve your oral health, it would be best to consume fruits, vegetables, among other healthy foodstuffs. Not only are these foods good for your dental health but also your overall health.
Does drinking water protect you from cavities?
Water is important for your body. Health experts advise staying hydrated at all times. Drinking water that contains fluoride can help in strengthening your teeth, hence protecting you from cavities. Also, drinking water rinses your mouth after eating sugary or acidic foods. Thus, drink water frequently throughout the day.
Floss your teeth
At times, a normal toothbrush is not enough to get rid of all dirt particles in between your teeth. Fortunately, flossing your teeth helps you remove all food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth and gumline. It is therefore important to floss your teeth at least once a day. When flossing, take your time and be thorough. You can floss before or after cleaning your teeth; it all depends on what you want.
Stop smoking
Smoking harms not only your respiratory health but also your dental health. Tobacco consumption poses a great danger to the teeth and gums. More often than not, individuals think that smoking only causes teeth discoloration. But the harm goes further than that. Smoking leads to tooth loss, gum diseases, and oral cancer. If you are a smoking addict, consider getting help from a professional. They will advise you best on how to quit smoking.
Regular dental examinations / checkups
It would be best if you went for dental checkups at least twice a year. Dental checkups enable you to identify and treat dental problems early enough before they escalate. During a dental checkup, your dentist performs a thorough examination of your teeth. Here, they will identify signs of decay or caries. Then, they will advise you on the best way forward. Moreover, consider undergoing a professional tooth cleaning procedure at least once a year. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque from all the hard-to-reach areas and makes your teeth appear whiter.
Conclusion
Dental troubles are increasingly becoming popular among a majority of homeowners. Luckily, you can jump ahead of dental troubles by observing certain oral practices. Some of them include brushing your teeth, undergoing dental examinations, flossing, and eating a healthy diet. At the end of the day, you have to take responsibility for your oral health.
