Maintaining oral hygiene has multiple advantages. While daily teeth cleaning at home is the basis of good oral health, dentists recommend a professional preventive treatment at least twice a year. You may be nervous about visiting a dental hygienist because you aren't sure what happens during a visit. Knowing the names and functions of some standard dental tools you'll see during an average cleaning appointment can help you be ready.
1. Mirrors
A dental mirror is the single most important professional dental tool for both dentists and dental hygienists. Without this tool, it would be challenging to examine the surfaces of your teeth or the gum tissue at the back of the mouth. Mirrors can be made of metal or fiberglass frames with high-tech surfaces such as a rhodium-plated mirror to avoid image distortion.
By reflecting the light from above, dental mirrors help illuminate your mouth's interior, enabling the dental hygienist to identify calculus deposits more easily. Some mirrors have a concave shape that offers magnification capabilities to help the dental hygienist spot even the smallest deposits.
Handles are typically made out of a stainless steel material or some out of a resin material. While some mirrors are reusable, others are lightweight and disposable for easier manipulation and reduced wrist fatigue.
2. Scalers
Scalers are hand-held metal teeth cleaning tools that scrape off the plaque and calculus (tartar) from the teeth. The pointed end is used for the tooth section above the gumline, while the curved blunt end is used to reach below the gumline without injuring the gum tissue.
Most dental hygienists usually begin with an ultrasonic scaler, which helps remove plaque and tartar while using a water spray to cool the instrument's tip and rinse the mouth. According to RDH Magazine, these come in two models called magnetostrictive and piezoelectric versions, which have different frequencies and tip movements but have been shown to deliver almost identical clinical results. The scaler hand instruments are used next to remove any plaque and tartar that remains on the teeth.
Your dental hygienist may choose not to use magnetostrictive ultrasonic scalers with patients who have cardiac pacemakers implanted because they can cause interference with the pacemaker, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
3. Polishers
After the dental hygienist has removed the plaque and tartar from your teeth, the next step is polishing each tooth to ensure it's as white and shiny as possible. The most commonly used polishers are prophy angles, small rubber cups fitted to a low-speed rotary electric polishing tool. With a mild to moderate abrasive paste, these buff away uneven areas on the teeth leaving the entire surface smooth and clean. This makes it easier for healthy gum tissue to attach to the tooth surface. Polishing is completed after ultrasonic scaling and hand scaling.
4. Begin With a Rinse
Regardless of the teeth cleaning tools your dental hygienist uses, a professional cleaning will usually begin with a pre-procedural rinse. This improves the safety of the procedure for both the dental hygienist and patient.
Next time you see the tray of instruments your dental hygienist intends to use, you'll be able to identify the scalers, mirrors, and polishers. And you'll know that those tools will clean your teeth and prevent oral health conditions like gingivitis and tooth decay. And feel empowered to ask your dental hygienist for more information about their instruments.
Oral thrush, also called candidiasis, is a fungal infection that creates painful white sores in your mouth. However, in some cases, the mouth will not produce white spots but look red and sore instead. Oral thrush can be a bit unsightly, but there’s no need to worry! The gum fungus this infection causes can be treated and, even better, prevented. Here’s what you need to know about treating your oral thrush.
Symptoms of Oral Thrush
Not sure if what you’re seeing in your mouth is oral thrush? Here are some symptoms you can watch out for:
Painful white spots on the tongue or inner cheeks
Occasionally, the area will not produce white spots, but will become red and sore
Light bleeding on the spots when eating or brushing your teeth
Fungus on the roof of your mouth, gums, tonsils or back of your throat
Cottony feeling in your mouth
Loss of taste
Causes of Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida. Which, if you’re keeping track, is what inspired the infection’s official name, “candidiasis”. This fungus spreads more easily to people with reduced or suppressed immunity, like young or elderly people or people with immune system disorders. Denture wearers, people taking certain medications, and people with dry mouth syndrome or diabetes are also more susceptible to oral thrush.
Oral Thrush Remedies
The best bet for treating oral thrush is talking to your doctor about prescribing an anti-fungal medication. But, if you’re looking for home remedies, there are a few things you can try to get your infection under control.
Unsweetened yogurt can help regulate the healthy bacteria levels in your mouth that fight the infection.
Try taking acidophilus capsules or liquid. Similar to unsweetened yogurt, acidophilus can help restore your mouth’s normal bacteria. You can find it in natural food stores and many drugstores.
Use a soft toothbrush to avoid scraping the sores.
Avoid mouthwash until the infection has cleared. Not only can mouthwash sting, it can also dry out your mouth which could cause the infection to get worse.
Preventing Oral Thrush
Finding the root cause of your oral thrush might take some time. But once you do, there are plenty of ways you can prevent it from coming back. Work with your dentist to find the right treatment for you and get back to flashing your confident smile.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily and see your dentist regularly for your twice-yearly cleanings, especially if you have diabetes or wear dentures.
Check your dentures. First and foremost, make sure your dentures fit properly and don't cause irritation, and always remove them at night to give your gums some time to rest. Ask your dentist for the best way to clean your type of dentures and remember to clean them daily.
Limit sugar and yeast-containing foods. Sugar and yeast-containing foods may support the growth of Candida. To keep oral thrush at bay, try reducing your intake of sugar and yeast-containing foods like bread, beer and wine.
Are you experiencing pain in your face, neck, or mouth? If that pain worsens right before or during meals, you might have sialolithiasis. Thankfully, sialolithiasis treatment is usually successful and can sometimes be resolved at home. Learn more about this condition, what causes it, and how to treat it.
What Is Sialolithiasis?
Sialoliths, more commonly known as salivary stones, are hardened mineral deposits in the salivary glands. Your salivary glands transport a liquid filled with minerals to your mouth. This saliva aids in digestion and lowers the acid levels in your mouth. Salivary stones are small deposits of calcium and other minerals that form in the ducts of the salivary gland. If these hardened deposits grow large enough, they can block the saliva flow and cause the glands to swell.
Of your three major salivary glands, 80 percent of stones form in your submandibular glands, which are located along your jawline. They can also form in your parotid and sublingual glands, as well, though it's uncommon. The size of salivary stones can vary from a few millimeters up to two centimeters, and they usually appear white or yellow in color.
What Are the Signs of Salivary Stones?
The main sign of a salivary stone includes pain in the face, neck, or mouth that increases around meals. Your salivary ducts secrete more saliva during these times to aid in digestion, and a salivary stone can block the flow and cause pain and swelling. Other secondary signs of sialolithiasis include:
Dry mouth
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty opening your mouth
Redness in the area of the duct
Bad taste in your mouth
Fever (if the duct becomes infected)
What Causes Salivary Stones?
Although the cause of salivary stones is unknown, a few factors can increase your risk of getting one. These factors include:
Dehydration, which causes saliva to be more concentrated
Medications like blood pressure drugs and antihistamines that cause dry mouth
Poor diet or not eating enough food, which decreases saliva production
Chronic gum disease
What Is Sialolithiasis Treatment?
Your dentist or dental hygienist can sweep their fingers along your head and neck to detect swellings and other abnormalities like salivary stones. If your dental professional suspects you have sialolithiasis, they might prescribe imaging to provide a more definitive diagnosis. This can include X-rays, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan of the face and neck area.
At-Home Treatment for Salivary Stones
For smaller stones, your dentist might recommend some at-home remedies. These include:
Sucking on citrus fruits or sugar-free sour candies to increase saliva flow and dislodge the stone.
Drinking more fluids to fight dehydration and encourage saliva flow.
Taking over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling.
Sucking on a popsicle or ice cube to relieve pain and swelling.
Professional Treatment for Salivary Stones
If you are unable to remove the stone yourself, see your dental professional immediately. Salivary stones can sometimes cause infections or abscesses if not addressed. Your treatment will depend on the size and location of the stone:
For smaller stones, the dental professional might gently massage or push the stone out of the duct.
For larger stones that are easily seen, the dental professional might use a local anesthetic and make a tiny incision over the stone to remove it.
For larger stones that are difficult to see, you might require a relatively new surgery called a saliendoscopy. In this treatment, a surgeon inserts a tiny lighted scope inside the duct to locate the stone and then uses microinstruments to remove it.
In rare cases, a patient with recurrent salivary stones or severe damage to the salivary gland might need to have the gland completely removed.
A sialolithiasis diagnosis usually results in a positive outcome. While there is no way to prevent salivary stones completely, you can decrease your chances by staying hydrated and practicing proper oral care. If you think you might have a salivary stone, contact your dentist immediately for an exam and treatment.
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic treatment in Australia, but like all treatments, it carries a risk of side effects and complications. These may sometimes involve pain or discomfort.[1]
Teeth whitening treatments provided by a dentist or using a take-home kit don't usually cause pain, but if you have sensitive teeth, you may feel discomfort when bleaching agents are applied to their surface. Your dentist can discuss options to reduce this discomfort, or they may recommend an alternative treatment.[1]
What are the side effects of teeth whitening?
Most people don't experience any negative effects from teeth whitening, but your dentist will make sure you understand what the possible risks are before you decide to have the treatment. These may include:[1]
sensitivity to hot and cold food and drink
a sensation like a mini electric shock in treated teeth
These usually stop within 48 hours of teeth bleaching and your dentist may be able to provide desensitising products such as gels or toothpastes for sensitive teeth to help. If you continue to experience discomfort after this time, or you notice other unusual side effects, you should contact your dentist straight away to make an emergency appointment.[1]
What are the possible dangers?
Teeth whitening risks are reduced significantly if you have your treatment at a dental clinic or use a take-home kit under the guidance of your dentist. Beauty salons are not qualified to whiten teeth.[1]
Dangers of improper teeth whitening can include:[2]
inflammation in the soft centre (pulp) of teeth that are cracked or have exposed dentine
irritation or burns if the bleaching agent contacts the gums, skin, eyes or mucous membranes
irritation of the throat and stomach if swallowed, possibly leading to bleeding or distension
Whitening products sold over-the-counter in Australia must not contain more than 6% hydrogen peroxide or 18% carbamide peroxide to lower these risks. Treatments that use higher concentrations may only be provided by a qualified dentist.[2]
Always talk to your dentist
Whether you're interested in teeth whitening at a dental clinic or you would prefer to do it yourself at home, it's important to have a consultation with a dentist before you use any product on your teeth.[1]
Your dentist can examine your mouth to check whether you're suitable for a whitening treatment and they will explain the possible risks involved so you know what to expect. If you do choose to have a treatment, they can adapt it to your individual needs if you have sensitive teeth or gums.[1]
What are the alternatives to teeth whitening?
If you decide teeth bleaching isn't right for you, your dentist may offer other suggestions for whitening your teeth. These could include:[3]
improving your oral hygiene to reduce plaque that can darken teeth and cause tooth decay
professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque that may have already built up on your teeth
porcelain or composite veneers fitted over your teeth to change their appearance,
although these can also cause teeth sensitivity and have their own associated clinical risks
You can help your teeth to stay white and avoid stains by:[3]
avoiding strongly coloured food and drink, such as tea, coffee, red wine and tomato sauces
drinking through a straw to reduce contact of liquids with the front teeth
Are you aware of all the serious health risks that exist when you have poor oral health?
When you lack proper oral hygiene, you risk suffering from tooth decay, gum disease, periodontitis, and more.
These dental health complications can become more serious and life-threatening if left untreated.
Did you know that you can also develop brain-related complications when you neglect your oral health care?
That’s right: studies found a link between poor oral health and poor brain health.
What does that mean for you?
Your oral health can affect your brain health. And this is perhaps one of the most dangerous outcomes that can result from bad dental hygiene.
Not sure if you have poor oral health?
Here are some examples of poor oral hygiene:
Bad brushing habits
Neglecting to floss
Grinding your teeth
Eating foods high in sugar
Smoking or chewing tobacco
And much more…
Teeth brushing tip: for good oral health, you should brush your teeth 2-3 times daily and floss daily.
Do you want to make sure you maintain a healthy mouth so you can prevent severe brain-related diseases from happening to you?
In this article, you will learn…
How your teeth and your brain are connected
Brain health complications that can result from poor oral health
Signs you might be experiencing tooth decay or gum disease
What you can do to keep your teeth healthy and thriving
And much, much more…
The Link Between Your Oral Health And Your Brain Health
Your Teeth and Your Brain Are More Connected Than You Think
Did you know your teeth are directly connected to your brain?
There are multiple nerves in the oral cavity that attach to your brain. For instance, the trigeminal nerve is a cranial nerve that connects your teeth, gums, jaw, and more.
As a result, an untreated tooth infection can quickly become a brain infection. This happens when the tooth infection spreads to the bloodstream, which carries bacteria straight to the brain.
At this point, the bacterial infection attacks neurons found in the brain, which puts you at risk of memory loss and other life-altering complications.
In severe cases, a brain abscess can form. This a rare condition in which pus invades the brain.
Symptoms of a Brain Infection From Teeth:
Fever
Lethargy
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Trouble remembering
Increased confusion
Reduced mobility
Vision changes
And more…
Special note: if you think you might be experiencing a brain infection from poor oral health, visit your trusted dentist right away.
Now that you know how dental hygiene affects brain health, let’s look at the most common brain disease caused by poor dental hygiene.
Dementia And Poor Oral Health
The Most Common Brain Disease Caused By Poor Dental Hygiene
Dementia is a prevalent condition that causes memory loss. It is also one of the most common brain diseases caused by poor dental hygiene.
The memory loss caused by dementia can be so extreme that it impacts daily functioning.
Though dementia usually occurs in old age, it can happen much sooner if oral health complications are involved.
How Poor Dental Health Causes Dementia:
Gum Disease And Dementia — Did you know you are more likely to develop dementia if you suffer from gum disease? Studies found a connection between gum disease and cognitive decline and a direct link between periodontal disease and dementia. Some studies even suggest that gum disease can be a catalyst for Alzheimer’s. As your dentist, how can you keep the disease under control if you have the early stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis?
Tooth Infection And Memory Loss — Did you know an untreated cavity can lead to dementia? A tooth infection can result in memory loss when the infection spreads to the brain. When your cavity reaches the tooth’s root, the infection threatens nerves and blood vessels, which directly connect to the brain. Stop the infection from spreading by maintaining proper oral hygiene, and be sure to visit your dentist regularly.
Tooth Loss And Dementia — Did you know a mouth full of teeth is less likely to develop dementia later in life? Studies show that severe tooth loss and dementia are connected. While the reason for the connection remains unproven, there is certainly a link. If you have lost a lot of teeth over the years, you might be at a higher risk of getting this brain disease.
Signs Of Tooth Decay And Gum Disease
Are You Experiencing Any Of These Symptoms?
Don’t let your dental health complications go undetected. Keep dementia and brain disease from happening to you when you maintain proper oral health.
Keep reading to discover the signs and symptoms of common dental health issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Signs of Tooth Decay:
Toothache
Loose teeth
Teeth falling out
And more…
Did you know… you might not experience any symptoms of tooth decay. Visit your trusted Leander family dentist to learn for sure.
Signs of Gum Disease:
Toothache
Bad breath
Swollen gums
Bleeding gums
Receding gums
Gum tenderness and pain
And more…
Now that you know the main signs and symptoms of tooth decay and gum disease. Let’s talk about what you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy for the long term.
What You Can Do To Keep Your Teeth Healthy & Thriving
Protect Your Brain Health By Preventing Poor Dental Health
Do you want to minimize your risk of developing brain diseases like memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s?
You can prevent poor brain health by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Here are the top three things you should do to keep your teeth healthy and thriving:
Brush your teeth 2-3 times per day
Floss your teeth at least once per day
Visit your family dentist regularly
Do you need a new family dentist?
Great news: the best dental office in Leander is accepting new patients right now.
Don’t Wait Any Longer – Visit Your Leander Family Dentist Now
Schedule Your Appointment With Apple Springs Family Dentistry
Are you past due for your routine teeth cleaning?
Remember, depending on your oral health history; you should get your teeth professionally cleaned every 6 to 12 months.
If it’s been a while since your last check-up or if you’re experiencing symptoms of tooth decay or gum disease, don’t wait any longer.
Schedule your appointment with Apple Springs Family Dentistry right now.
Apple Springs Family Dentistry is the most trusted family dentistry in Leander, Texas, and the surrounding area.
With a welcoming atmosphere and a skilled staff, you will always feel comfortable and taken care of at this quality dental office.
There is a connection between your oral health and your systemic health. That means that routine oral care not only helps protect your smile, but it is important to good overall health and long life. Most people appreciate how important brushing and flossing are to the well-being of their teeth and gums. But many do not consider their oral health when it comes to exercise, a well-balanced diet, and dehydration. In fact, dehydration is among the leading risk factors for gum disease and tooth decay.
Understanding Dehydration
Your body weight is 60 percent water, and water is crucial to all bodily functions. Much of your water is contained within the cells, but there is water in the blood vessels and between the cells as well. Dehydration is a deficit of that body water. It happens when you do not replenish the water you expend. Your body expends water in a number of different ways, including:
Exhalation
Sweating
Urination
Bowel movements
Dehydration Symptoms
Your body gets much of the water it needs through the foods you eat. It cannot get all the water it needs in that manner, however, and so you need to drink water or at least liquids containing water. When you do not drink enough, symptoms will start to manifest. The most common symptom is xerostomia—commonly referred to as dry mouth. This happens because your salivary glands lack the fluid needed to create adequate saliva. The tongue itself can become dehydrated, and those symptoms include dryness, roughness, and a dulling of the normal pink color. Other indications of dehydration include:
Fatigue
Fainting
Dizziness
Headaches
Intense thirst
Disorientation
Increased heart rate
Little to no urination
How dehydration affects you and how soon depends on a wide range of factors. However, if the dehydration continues, the condition will lead to serious health complications, including:
Coma
Seizures
Heatstroke
Kidney failure
Hypovolemic shock
Dehydration and Oral Health
Dehydration affects your oral health as well, and this negative impact does not require serious dehydration and symptoms. It begins as soon as the mouth is dry for an extended period. A core purpose of the saliva that your glands produce is to clear food particles, bacteria, and acids from the mouth. When that is not occurring in an adequate fashion, it can lead to a wide range of oral health issues:
Tooth decay – Your body makes saliva when you chew in order to aid with that chewing process, begin the digestion process through enzymes, and help to wash the food bits away. Food particles that remain provide nutrition for oral bacteria to form plaque and produce acids as part of that process. Those acids eat away at your tooth enamel and create cavities that will eventually become more serious tooth decay. When your body is making enough saliva, that fluid actually helps neutralize those acids.
Periodontal disease – Plaque not only builds up on the tooth but along your gumline and on other oral surfaces. That plaque contains bacteria that can infect your gums, and your gums are more prone to such infections when the mouth is dry. An infection of your gums leads to an inflammatory response, which is periodontal disease. The earliest form of gum disease is gingivitis, which is relatively minor in that you can reverse it through hydration and regular brushing and flossing. If that gum disease persists, however, it will advance to periodontitis, which is not reversible and much more severe. It causes the gums to recede so that your tooth roots are exposed and will eventually undermine bone and connective tissues. This will eventually lead to tooth loss and even infections that spread to the jawbone and elsewhere.
Halitosis – Dry mouth is the leading cause of bad breath. Not only are there more bacteria because your mouth is dry, but there are actually agents in your saliva that suppress the aspects of bacteria that cause foul smells. You can brush your teeth, rinse with mouthwash and chew sugar-free gum, but if the underlying issue is that the mouth is dry, that bad breath is going to keep returning.
Weakened tooth enamel – Your tooth enamel is healed and strengthened through a process known as remineralization. This is why the American Dental Association recommends fluoride toothpaste. In addition to fluoride, you have other minerals in your mouth that are important to your teeth, such as calcium. Saliva is integral to distributing these minerals to all of your teeth. When there is not enough saliva, your teeth do not get the minerals they need, and the enamel is worn down quicker due to the acids in the mouth.
Fungal infections – Xerostomia can also make your mouth more prone to fungal infections like thrush. In many cases, there are other underlying health issues that lead to the infection, but the dry mouth provides the foothold.
Bolster Your Saliva for Better Oral Health
Saliva has many benefits for your general oral health, including:
Inhibiting the staining of your teeth. Foods like tomato sauce and beverages like red wine can stain your teeth, and saliva mitigates that effect by washing those substances away.
Maintaining fresh breath. Your saliva is constantly replenishing itself to keep the teeth clean. Without enough saliva, even someone who practices good oral care otherwise will have halitosis.
Strengthening your tooth enamel. Your enamel can be repaired, but that remineralization will not be nearly effective without your saliva distributing those trace minerals throughout your mouth.
Fighting gum disease and cavities. A dry mouth will experience faster and more abundant plaque accumulation, which means that you will be more susceptible to preventable oral health issues.
How to Know You Are Dehydrated
Be mindful that there is no hard and fast rule for how much water you need on a daily basis. You should drink water throughout the day, even when you are not thirsty and when you eat. There are signs you can watch out for, but each person is unique, and generally, when these signs manifest, you have already lost 2 percent of the fluids you need. Signs to watch for include:
Dark urine
Headaches
Muscle cramps
Sudden mood changes
Dry lips and nasal passages
Reduced mental acuity
Weakness and tiredness
Keeping Hydrated
If you experience any indications that you may be suffering from significant dehydration, consult with a doctor right away. A medical professional is needed to rehydrate your body quickly in a safe manner. For light dehydration and in order to prevent it, consider the following steps:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. There is no one rule that suits everyone, but you should have a water container on hand at all times so that you can sip often. In addition, be mindful that carbonated drinks and sports drinks are not good substitutes for water.
Hydrate prior to, during, and after working out to offset perspiration.
Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables makes it easier to stay hydrated.
Limit your intake of caffeinated drinks, which cause increased urination.
Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages, and when you do drink, be sure to hydrate.
When working outdoors, take a break at the first signs of lightheadedness or dizziness.
Wear light-colored clothes outdoors and dress in layers so that you can adjust as needed.
If any clothes are saturated in sweat, replace them with dry clothes as soon as possible.
Anticipate temperatures and humidity levels that may necessitate having extra water on hand.
Start Your Hydration as Soon as You Wake
Many people reach for a coffee as their first drink of the day, but consider that you have just gone eight hours or so without hydration. That is why it is so important to start your morning with a glass of water. Additional hydration may be necessary if you work out in the morning or you drink coffee and other caffeinated drinks. The benefits of hydrating early in your day include:
Making it easier to remain hydrated throughout the day
Increasing your alertness and responsiveness
Boosting your immune system
Flushing toxins from your body that had built up overnight
Jump-starting your metabolism even before you eat breakfast
Improved complexion and skin radiance
Better regularity with urination and bowel movements
Drink Purified Water for Optimal Oral Health
Many people opt for deionized or distilled water, but such options may be inferior to spring water for your oral health. Spring water contains beneficial minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous. For those wishing to purify their water while leaving in the necessary minerals, you may want to consider investing in a reverse osmosis filtration system with a mineral filter. Reverse osmosis safely removes impurities, such as bacteria, viruses, and numerous chemicals: chlorine, lead, mercury, and so forth. It therefore improves the look, smell and taste of your water. Reverse osmosis systems are generally affordable and easy to maintain, and they can pay for themselves over time by eliminating your need for bottled water or an ongoing water delivery service.
Be Consistent With Your Hydration
If you establish good hydration habits, it will be much easier to remain hydrated on a consistent basis. Be mindful that when you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated to some degree. This is why doctors recommend sipping water throughout the day as part of your normal routine rather than as a response to a particular symptom. Consistent hydration provides many health benefits throughout your body.
Staying hydrated and properly balancing your diet is essential to good oral health, as is regular oral care at home. Do not skip your regular dental checkup either. If you do experience oral health issues, your dentist can identify them much earlier than you would be likely to spot them. Also, be mindful that your dentist is a resource, and you can ask him or her about hydration, diet, oral care products, and so forth.
The mouth just like the rest of your body is bound to be affected in one or the other should you contract certain diseases. Besides, oral functions, the mouth can also exhibit early signs of certain diseases long before you are given an official diagnosis. It is therefore important to be keen on your oral health as well as keep regular visits to your dentist even when nothing is wrong with your oral health.
A clean and healthy mouth is key to maintaining your overall health. This does not rule out the risk of contracting any oral disease but minimizes the chances. However, some oral diseases are as a result of your prevailing health conditions. Some conditions affect your oral health leading to diseases that even proper oral hygiene cannot eliminate. However, treating these medical conditions also treats your oral diseases bringing you relief.
Below are five medical conditions that harm your mouth
1.- Diabetes – Diabetes and gum disease go hand in hand. Gum disease increases your blood sugar levels affecting your diabetes. On the other side, diabetes interferes with the flow of blood to tissues in the gums. This, in turn, affects the gums causing gum diseases; either gingivitis or periodontitis. Treating either of the diseases consequently treats the other disease.
2.- Oral cancer – Oral cancer causes the development of sores in the mouth. These sores can become infected with yeast and bacteria causing pain and difficulty in eating. Cancer treatment also causes the mouth to dry up promoting the development of gum disease and tooth decay.
3.- HIV/AIDS – HIV/AIDS treatment raises the risk of gum diseases due to a dry mouth. It also leads to the development of sores in the mouth which are susceptible to bacterial infection. Treating HIV/AIDS with open sores and wounds in the mouth presents a challenge in managing the disease.
4.- Anaemia – This affects the supply of blood to the tissues in the mouth. Without blood and nutrients, the gums become affected and susceptible to inflammation and receding. Treating anaemia also treats the gum diseases since the supply of blood and nutrients make them strong enough to fight off bacterial infections.
5.- Medication for allergies, depression or high blood pressure – Antihistamines and antidepressants cause the saliva in the mouth to dry up. Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth lubricated and clean from harmful germs and bacteria. With a dry mouth, harmful bacteria gather in the mouth and their action on the teeth and gums causes gum disease as well as tooth decay and receding gums. Receding gums expose the dentine and pup of teeth causing cavities. For patients on these medications, they should increase their water intake to avoid a dry mouth.
Nutrition might seem like a pretty straightforward topic, but it can quickly veer from "put food in mouth to live" to a deeply confusing place. With acronyms. And statistics. And conflicting ideologies. And just when you think you have your healthy eating journey covered, a new trendy diet comes along and knocks you off your stride. In the spirit of finding a nutritional balance that works for you, we're outlining three trendy diets, and taking into account their effect on your teeth.
1.Keto
THE FAT-BURNING DIET
The ketogenic diet is having a moment. This high-fat diet originated as a medical diet designed to shift the type of fuel your body uses for energy. When this happens, you're in ketosis, and your body burns its stored fat to get energy from ketones.
The keto diet should be rich in proteins and fats, such as meats, eggs, fish, nuts, butter, oils, and cheeses, and fibrous vegetables, all of which should support good oral health. Just don't overload on protein and poor-quality fats from processed foods and forget to incorporate vegetables and fruit within the carbohydrate allowances.
TEETH TIP: Watch out for keto breath, described as an overly sweet smell on the breath. It's a side effect of ketosis, and the smell is attributed to a compound called acetone being released from the lungs.
2.Paleo
THE CAVEMAN DIET
The popular Paleo diet is about throwing it back to the paleolithic era, and eating foods our hunter-gatherer ancestors might have consumed. The idea is to avoid foods that became staples of the human diet after agriculture took hold.
The Paleo diet encourages people to eat fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, oils, lean meats, and fish — all of these foods are generally great for healthy mouths, too. The diet omits dairy, legumes, potatoes, and grains that are otherwise considered part of a healthful diet, as well as refined sugar, salts, and highly processed foods.
TEETH TIP: Dairy is often recommended as part of a diet to support oral health, so make sure you are getting enough calcium in your diet.
3.Mediterranean
THE HEART-HEALTH DIET
The Mediterranean diet is based on the eating habits of people in southern Italy and Greece in the 1960s. It has been shown to improve heart health, lowering "bad cholesterol" and reducing risk of stroke and heart attack.
This diet encourages eating a rounded diet rich in fruits and veggies, which is good for oral health, too. In addition to fruits and vegetables, this type of diet emphasizes olive oil, dairy, legumes, fish, white meat, nuts, starches — it even allows for desserts and wine. The key to this eating plan is limiting quantities: 4 to 6 ounces of red wine per day, one 3-ounce dessert per week, 3 servings of fish per week, 3 servings of dairy per week, etc.
TEETH TIP: Because the daily glass of red wine could stain teeth over time, you may want to see your dentist more often for cleanings or look into whitening products.
Typically, when you have a sore throat, it's common to experience pain temporarily while swallowing. But what if you had to deal with this discomfort on a prolonged basis? As the Washington Manual of Medical Therapeutics explains, the technical term for pain while swallowing is odynophagia, and it can sometimes indicate that a more serious health condition is present.
What Conditions Can Cause Odynophagia?
There are a variety of conditions that can cause pain while swallowing, and you're probably familiar with the common ones, such as the common cold, strep throat and tonsillitis. While uncomfortable, most people's immune systems can conquer these ailments.
The following are some other possible causes of painful swallowing that you may be less familiar with:
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), this condition occurs when acid from the stomach backs up into the esophagus and causes a painful burning sensation in the chest, as well as pain when swallowing. This feeling is also known as heartburn or acid indigestion. If you see a physician for this condition, the NIDDK outlines that they will likely recommend that you eat smaller meals, as well as avoid greasy and spicy foods and alcohol. Over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, can also help to relieve symptoms.
Esophagitis
As the Cleveland Clinic details, this disorder is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that travels from the mouth to the stomach. Esophagitis can sometimes be caused by anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin. It can also result from vomiting or certain infections caused by viruses and bacteria. Avoiding foods that are spicy or acidic can help to limit discomfort, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The Cleveland Clinic also notes that a qualified specialist can use a special lighted tube to examine your esophagus and take a tissue sample if needed. Treatment often depends on the cause of this condition.
Candidiasis
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains, this condition occurs when yeast causes an infection in the mouth, throat or esophagus. This condition is also known as thrush and commonly causes white patches and soreness in the mouth. Candidiasis is more common in people with dentures, HIV/AIDS and cancer, as well as babies. Healthcare providers can easily diagnose this condition by doing a physical examination and possibly sending a throat swab to a lab. Usually, your doctor would prescribe an antifungal medication for seven to 14 days to treat this infection.
Esophageal Cancer
As an article published in ENTtoday explains, odynophagia is highly associated with cancer of the esophagus. Your medical professional can perform a procedure known as an endoscopy to examine the tissues of your esophagus and stomach with a special camera in order to look for any specific problems. If they find cancer, treatment can be started as soon as possible.
What's the Difference Between Odynophagia and Dysphagia?
Sometimes there can be a little confusion when using the medical terms odynophagia and dysphagia, since they both involve the same parts of the body. According to BMJ Best Practice, dysphagia is often described as difficulty when swallowing — whether it's difficulty getting the food or fluid transferred from the mouth to the esophagus or down the length of the esophagus. Dysphagia doesn't necessarily involve pain, whereas odynophagia does.
If you're experiencing any pain or discomfort in your throat, it's best to get a professional diagnosis. Your doctor or dental professional will be able to examine your symptoms and advise you on a treatment plan.
When it comes to your oral health, your routine at home is arguably just as important as seeing the dentist once every six months for a teeth cleaning. A good at-home routine is essential for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. But what is the ideal at-home oral care routine? It’s pretty simple, consisting of daily brushing and daily flossing. You can even elect to complement your at-home oral care routine by using a mouth rinse to further eliminate plaque-causing bacteria within the mouth. Remember, it’s never too late to start.
Here’s a closer look at what your daily oral care routine should consist of.
Brushing
Minimally, you should be brushing your teeth at least twice per day. To do this, you should be using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an ADA-approved electric toothbrush. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste and try brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle, gently and in small circular movements. Make sure you also brush your tongue and the area of your mouth where the teeth meet the gum line. While most people elect to brush their teeth first thing in the morning and then before they go to bed at night, it’s also a good idea to brush if you’ve consumed foods or drinks high in sugar.It’s also worth noting that you should be changing out your toothbrush every three to four months, as the bristles become worn and less effective over time.
Flossing
Flossing serves two very important purposes. One, it helps remove food stuck between the teeth that the toothbrush cannot reach. Two, it helps remove plaque buildup around the gum line, which can lead to gum disease if it’s not removed. On that note, it’s important to incorporate daily flossing into your oral care routine. It doesn’t matter what time of the day you floss, just so long as you commit to doing it. Though you should find the type of floss that you prefer, we recommend a waxed type for easy gliding in between the teeth. Gently slide the floss in between each tooth and up so it’s underneath the gum line. Make a few passes to ensure that you’re removing all of the plaque buildup that has accumulated.
Mouth Rinse
A mouth rinse isn’t necessarily crucial to a good oral care routine, but it can serve as a nice complement to flossing and brushing. Mouth rinse serves a couple of purposes, as it can help freshen breath, help eliminate acids and minimize plaque buildup. To properly use a mouth rinse, take the suggested amount and then swish it all around in your mouth before spitting it out into the sink.
Finally, while a good at-home oral care routine is essential to a healthy mouth, you should still be seeing the dentist at least once every six months for a teeth cleaning.
