Bacteria accumulate on your teeth as a result of poor dental hygiene making gums and teeth vulnerable to infection. The immune system responds by inflaming the gums to fight the infection. Only if the infection is treated and the origin of the infection is removed, the inflammation will proceed.
The gums and bone framework that hold teeth in place deteriorate over time as a result of inflammation and the chemical compounds released. Periodontitis, or serious gum disease, is the consequence. Inflammation can affect the other parts of the body as well. Oral bacteria can enter the body in a variety of ways. Bacteria from the mouth can be ingested. Read on to learn how issues with oral health can cause gastrointestinal inflammation.
Oral Infections Can Lead to the Development of Diseases
Scientists are discovering even more correlations between our dental health and our entire health as knowledge advances and new approaches for diagnosing the origins of certain diseases emerge. Bacteria that invade the body via the mouth have been linked to the following disorders in numerous studies:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Bacteria from your mouth can enter your circulation and destroy the good bacteria in your stomach. That's when your digestive problems start to get worse. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects the large intestine and is a prevalent condition. Cramping, stomach pain, bloating, flatulence, and constipation or diarrhea, or both, are signs and symptoms. IBS is a long-term condition that you'll have to deal with.
Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel illness that affects the intestines. It induces digestive tract inflammation, which can result in stomach pain, severe diarrhea, exhaustion, loss of weight, and malnutrition. Crohn's disease causes inflammation in various parts of the digestive system in different persons. Crohn's disease is an extremely debilitating condition that can sometimes result in life-threatening repercussions.
Diverticulosis
The infections or inflammation of pouches that can develop in your intestines is known as diverticulitis. Diverticula is the name for these pouches. The pouches are normally harmless. They might appear in your intestines at any time. Diverticulosis is the medical term for having them.
Diverticulitis might be modest at times. However, it can be serious, resulting in a huge infection or intestinal perforation (most doctors will term it a burst).
There are a Few Things to Keep in Mind When Practicing Good Dental Hygiene…
Brush for at least 2 minutes twice a day.
Floss daily to get rid of plaque in the hard to reach places your toothbrush doesn't get.
Prevent gum disease by eating a nutritious diet that includes the nutrients you need (especially vitamins A and C).
Cleanings and exams at the dentist should be done regularly. One of the most efficient ways to detect early indicators of any dental illness is to use this method.
Remember to give your dentist your full medical history as well as any recent health changes, even if they don't appear to be linked to your oral health.
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!
If you’re experiencing tooth pain from an abscess, you may be wondering: Is there any tooth abscess home remedy that works? Are home remedies for tooth problems safe? In short, this is not a problem you can solve on your own, but you can take steps to reduce your discomfort while waiting for treatment from the pros. Read on for some vital information on this condition.
What Are Dental Abscesses?
If you’re experiencing a concerning amount of pain or discomfort in your mouth, it may be caused by a condition known as a dental abscess. An abscess is a hole or dent created by germs that can occur in your tooth (periapical abscess) or gums (periodontal abscess).
Your abscess may be caused by:
Not following a good oral care routine
Traumatic injury to your face or mouth
Dental work that has been damaged or broken.
Symptoms of a dental abscess may include:
Continuous pain coming from your mouth, jaw, neck, or ear
Swelling around the affected areas
Sensitivity to touch, pressure, or temperature
Unpleasant taste in your mouth due to the abscess draining
Fever.
When Should I See a Professional?
If you’re wondering how to get rid of a tooth abscess without going to the dentist, the simple answer is that you can’t. Your dental health has reached the point where you need professional intervention and treatment, or it will continue to worsen. Luckily, this is a great opportunity to talk with your dental professional, and they’re specially trained to help you solve the problem and understand what has caused it.
We recommend booking an appointment with your dental professional immediately. In the meantime, we have some helpful tips for finding relief at home while you’re waiting for your appointment.
Helpful tip: The Mayo Clinic recommends visiting the emergency room if you experience swelling and fever or have trouble breathing or swallowing.
Finding Relief
It’s important to remember that home remedies for your abscessed tooth will not treat your abscess or address its underlying cause. Your abscess will not get better without treatment from a professional, and will likely worsen. However, there are options available that may help temporarily reduce your discomfort in the meantime, which can still offer tremendous relief.
While you wait for professional treatment, there are many options that can help provide relief for your discomfort from a dental abscess:
Over-the-Counter Medication
Medications can help to reduce your pain or swelling. If you decide to go this route, be sure to use these medications as instructed on the packaging. This may be effective in helping to reduce your discomfort, but don't let it prevent you from scheduling an appointment with your dental professional.
Cold Compress
You can use a store-bought icepack or make your own at home by freezing a washcloth or using a bag of ice or frozen veggies. Apply it to the affected area on the outside of your cheek for 10 minutes once an hour.
Antiseptic Mouthrinses
You can try three types of rinses to find relief.
For a salt-water rinse, stir a few teaspoons of salt into warm (but not hot) water until it dissolves.
Another option is to mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a one-to-one ratio.
If you're not the DIY type, you can purchase an over-the-counter antiseptic mouthrinse at your local pharmacy, grocery or convenience store.
Swish whatever mixture you choose around your mouth, or rinse with it after meals and spit it into the sink. Note that while this is a great habit in the early stages, it will not cure your abscess.
Helpful tip: While some dental conditions (such as gum problems) are reversible on your own with the help of proper dental care, dental abscesses will not heal on their own or through any methods you try at home. They require treatment and diagnosis from your dental professional and can lead to more serious conditions if left untreated.
Dental Abscess Treatment and Prevention
Please take comfort in the fact that while abscesses are unpleasant to deal with, they’re a regular occurrence at your dental office. Your dental professional is specially trained and equipped to diagnose the underlying cause of your abscess, provide appropriate treatment, and offer tips to prevent it from occurring again in the future.
Treatment for a dental abscess may include:
Prescribed antibiotics (be sure to take these as instructed and only at the recommendation of your dental or medical professional)
Professional removal of affected tissue, draining of the abscess, and cleaning affected areas of your mouth
Root canal treatment if the abscess has entered the soft inside of your tooth.
To prevent future abscesses and avoid worsening the issues that led to your condition, it would be helpful to ensure you are practising a good and healthy dental routine.
Steps to maintain your oral health may include:
Gently brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Cleaning between your teeth once a day using floss, a flossing device, or an interdental brush
Consuming a balanced diet that limits overly sugary or acidic foods and beverages
Avoiding smoking and tobacco products
Visiting your dental professional regularly.
Dealing with an abscess can be difficult, but you can see this as a challenge to improve your dental routine and avoid further problems in the future. You’ve made a great choice to inform yourself on what dental abscesses are, why you need professional treatment, and what you can do to find temporary relief in the meantime.
While dentists will often do everything possible to save a tooth no matter the age of the patient, there are some situations where tooth extraction is necessary. When it comes to removing teeth, there are two different types of extractions a dentist or oral surgeon can use depending on the reason for removal: Simple extraction and surgical extraction.
A simple extraction can be used when the tooth is already fully emerged past the gum line and can be easily removed using forceps. A surgical extraction involves cutting into the gums to retrieve a tooth, usually because it is impacted. Here are some common reasons a patient might need to have either a simple or surgical extraction performed.
Reasons for a simple tooth extraction
A dentist might suggest pulling a patient’s tooth because of infection or overcrowding in the mouth. Continue reading to learn more about each of these reasons for a tooth extraction.
Tooth decay or gum disease
Fillings or root canal treatment can often treat minor cases of tooth decay, but severe deterioration can warrant the need for extraction. This situation often occurs if the patient has not had a dental exam in a while and the decay has gone untreated for a long period of time. Eventually, the decay can extend to the pulp of the tooth leading to an infection.
If the infection is too severe to be treated by root canal therapy, the extraction of the tooth is necessary to keep the infection from spreading. Gum disease is another type of infection that causes the degeneration of the bones and tissues surrounding a tooth. If not addressed early on, these structures can deteriorate to the point that the tooth either falls out or needs to be pulled.
Overcrowding
If teeth are severely misaligned or overcrowded, it might be necessary to pull teeth to open up space in the mouth or to make an opening for an impacted tooth. Most often, the removal of the tooth or teeth is combined with orthodontic treatment. Braces are used after the tooth is removed to further expand the jawbone and balance the bite.
Impacted teeth and surgical extraction
An impacted tooth is one that has been blocked from emerging from the gums and is often discovered during a dental X-ray. Some impacted teeth will eventually break through the gums without treatment; also, removing baby teeth or orthodontic treatment can sometimes allow the teeth to come in properly. Other times, tooth extraction is necessary if the teeth are unable to erupt through the gums on their own. Often, surgical extraction is used on wisdom teeth or maxillary canines that cannot be guided to the correct position.
Conclusion
Typically, a dentist will do everything possible to preserve a tooth if possible before choosing to extract it. However, if the patient is suffering due to an infection of the tooth or gums it might be necessary to quickly remove the tooth to avoid even more harm from occurring. If teeth are overcrowded or impacted, a treatment plan can be made to determine if a tooth extraction is the best line of action.
When it comes to tooth decay, there are some very specific signs and symptoms that people should be on the lookout for. If someone is experiencing any of these symptoms, it would be best that they make an appointment with their dentist as soon as possible, in order to maintain a healthy dental routine.
As cavities progress, tooth decay can quickly set in, and the steps to have this alleviated and fixed can mean more money and time for the patient.
Common signs and symptoms of tooth decay
It is important that when a cavity first begins to form, a person typically does not have any symptoms at all. It takes visiting a dentist for your bi-annual cleaning and check-up for them to see the signs that a cavity is forming or has formed already.
Once a cavity has formed, decay can begin to set in, and it is important to realize that these signs and symptoms can indicate that a cavity is present, and tooth decay is starting.
Toothaches
When someone experiences a toothache, this is typically an indicator that something is not right with the tooth. If someone is experiencing any spontaneous pain or tooth pain that does not seem to have any apparent reason, but it can indicate a cavity or the start of tooth decay.
Tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can be normal for people. However, if there is a sudden change in tooth sensitivity for a certain tooth, this could be another indicator of a cavity. It is important to note when the sensitivity began and give this information to your dentist. This can help them in assessing the tooth for a cavity or tooth decay.
Sharp or sudden pain when eating or drinking hot, sweet or cold foods and drinks
If someone begins to notice that they are having sharp or sudden pain when eating or drinking certain foods or drinks, this can be another indicator. Again, it is important to note what is causing sudden pain. It would need to be over multiple instances, and not just one time. However, when it begins to happen, this typically continues occurring. Informing your dentist of this can also be helpful for them to asses and determine what is happening to cause the pain.
Visible staining on the surface of a tooth
If someone begins to notice that stains are forming on a tooth and the stains are brown, black or white, this could be another indicator of tooth decay. Visible signs of stains on the tooth's surface can mean that the tooth itself has started to take over due to erosion over time. Noting when you first noticed the stains would be helpful to your dentist. If this occurs with some of the other indicators that were mentioned above, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Quick! Stick out your tongue and say…yuck? No one ever said tongues were pretty. And maybe that’s why they’re sometimes neglected when it comes to oral health. But your tongue is an important part of your mouth, and you should always include it in your hygiene routine. Here are four things you should know about keeping your tongue healthy:
1. Tongues need cleaning
Far from smooth, your tongue is covered in tiny bumps, called papillae. “The surface of the tongue can harbour a lot of bacteria,” says Dr. Euan Swan, dental programs manager at the Canadian Dental Association in Ottawa. In fact, a study at the University of Michigan’s School of Medicine discovered that about a third of the bacteria species found on people’s tongues weren’t growing on any other surfaces in their mouths.
Trapped germs on the tongue can lead to bad breath and affect your sense of taste, and the bacteria can travel to other parts of your mouth. Overgrowth of bacteria can turn your tongue yellow, white or even black and hairy-looking.
Make it a habit to thoroughly clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth. You can use a tongue cleaner, a small tool designed to scrape the tongue; it comes in various shapes and sizes. Your regular toothbrush will also do the job. Try to reach right to the back. If this triggers your gag reflex, keep trying. Eventually, your reflex will ease up. You might also find that a tongue cleaner doesn’t trigger the reflex as easily as a toothbrush does.
2. Some tongues deserve extra care
If a tongue hasn’t had much attention, it may be coated and crusty. People who have problems with physical dexterity or rely on others for oral care, are mouth breathers or take medications that dry the mouth may be more likely to have a coated tongue.
If your tongue is too dry and crusty when you scrape it, you risk damaging the tissue. Try brushing it after cleaning your teeth, while the mouth is still moist. You can also cover your tongue with a mouth-moisturizing spray or gel and wait 10 to 15 minutes, then brushing it.
3. Tongues can get cancer
About 2,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, often only after it’s advanced. That’s because many oral cancers are missed in their early stages. A regular tongue inspection-say, once a week-can help to screen for oral cancer. “Stick your tongue out in the mirror and look around,” says Swan. Check the top, bottom and sides. Look for any skin changes, cuts or white or red patches that aren’t healing after a week or two.
Your dentist or dental hygienist should be examining your tongue during regular appointments, especially if you’re over 40. In a study in India, when tens of thousands of people were screened for mouth cancer, the death rate from this disease dropped by more than a third. If your dental care professional isn’t already giving your tongue a once-over, make a point of asking her to have a look.
4. Tongue jewellery hurts your mouth
Any body piercing carries a risk of infection. But according to the Canadian Dental Association, the risk of infection with tongue piercings is higher because our mouths are already loaded with bacteria. Plus, the metal in tongue jewellery can badly damage your teeth and gums, wearing away enamel, loosening gums and cracking teeth. Even the tongue-piercing procedure itself has been known to damage nerves, cause permanent drooling or alter the sense of taste.
Dentists generally do not encourage tongue piercings. But if you’re keen to go ahead, make sure you use an experienced artist and that you’re well informed about possible complications and how to manage them.
Dental professionals have identified six key indicators that may signal a serious medical condition, urging the public to stay vigilant about their oral health.
The warning signs include jaw pain, loose teeth, and other symptoms that may be a cause for concern. According to Dr Rizwan Mahmood, a dental expert from Ruh Dental, many diseases can manifest tell-tale signs in a person's mouth.
He stressed the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleaning, which can help keep the body in good health. In addition, individuals should be aware of any changes or pain in their mouth and seek medical attention promptly if they feel anything seems amiss.
He said: “People should visit their dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleaning. Analysing oral health regularly, along with brushing and flossing at home, can help keep your physical health in good order too.
"It’s also wise to be aware of any changes in the mouth, as well as pain. If you notice anything untoward, see your dentist or medical practitioner straight away."
Here are the six symptoms that Dr Mahmood says people should watch out for, as reported by Coventry Live:
1. Pain or discomfort in the jaw"Occasionally, pain or discomfort in the jaw could be indicative of a heart attack. Although the chances are rare, it’s important to recognise these symptoms which could save someone’s life," Dr Mahmood said.
The reason for jaw pain during a heart attack is due to the nerves that detect pain from the heart sharing the same pathway as those in the jaw. Therefore, the jaw may signal pain on behalf of the heart.
There is also a condition called Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD), which typically is not a serious condition but can impact jaw movement. Symptoms of TMD include pain in the jaw, ear, and temple areas, as well as clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, headaches around the temples, difficulty opening the mouth fully, and the jaw locking when opening the mouth.
2. Loose and wobbly teethDr Mahmood said that the reason your teeth become loose or fall out may be down to gum disease. It might also be the beginning of osteoporosis, a condition that erodes bone strength and density in the body.
“There have been studies showing links between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw which the teeth anchor into," he said. "This should be investigated further if you’re experiencing random tooth loss."
3. Changes on the surface of teethAccording to Dr Mahmood, changes in tooth enamel and tooth surface can indicate the presence of an eating disorder. Teeth that look "eroded and translucent" can be a tell-tale sign of conditions like bulimia or acid reflux.
Stomach acid can cause abrasion and gradual erosion of tooth enamel, while excessive vomiting can cause dry mouth, cracked lips, loss of tooth enamel, swollen salivary glands, and sensitive teeth.
Tooth decay can result from the overconsumption of sugary foods and drinks, as well as inadequate dental hygiene practices. Symptoms of tooth decay may include toothache, sharp pain while consuming hot, cold, or sweet substances, and the appearance of white, brown, or black spots on the teeth.
4. Smelly breathSmelly or bad breath is also referred to as halitosis and can be brought on by eating certain foods and beverages, having a dry mouth, or both. But Dr Mahmood says it can be a sign of gum disease or gingivitis.
“Bad breath can also be symptomatic for something underlying, something more serious. It could be a pointer to a sinus infection, diabetes, a chronic lung infection, liver or kidney disease," he explained.
According to the NHS, brushing your teeth gently twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is the best way to prevent bad breath.
5. Sore and bleeding gumsDr Mahmood has cautioned that bleeding or painful gums may indicate a more severe condition like gum disease. According to him, gum disease is common in people with underlying health problems such as diabetes, which can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infection.
“If you have diabetes, you’re more likely to suffer with a gum disease known as periodontal disease. This is inflammation in the gums and the bones around your teeth. Periodontal disease also causes bad breath (halitosis) and even loss of teeth," he explained.
Diabetes can also cause a dry mouth due to a lack of saliva, leading to ulcers and tooth decay. In addition, individuals with diabetes are more susceptible to developing oral thrush, which can impact the body's ability to fight infections, making their gums more vulnerable to inflammation caused by bacteria living in plaque.
Dr Mahmood also highlighted that other signs of diabetes may include oral fungal infections, dry mouth, and fruity-smelling breath. The latter could indicate a potentially life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, in which the blood sugar level becomes too high and turns acidic.
However, he noted that dentists are skilled in detecting this distinctive oral scent as they frequently work in the mouth.
6. Sores and lumps in the mouthCanker sores, which may be caused by fungal infections, are something to be aware of, according to Dr Mahmood. Symptoms to look out for include lumps and sores in your mouth and they should always be checked out by a professional.
He added: "Oral cancer often starts as a small white or red spot or sore in the mouth and it is more likely to affect smokers or alcohol drinkers. Signs of oral cancer include sores that don’t heal easily, hard spots, rough areas, discoloured tissues, numbness and changes in the way teeth fit together.
“Lumps or irregular tissue in the mouth or inner cheek, head or neck, should all be checked out too. Please note that oral cancer isn’t something you should try and diagnose at home, see your dentist who will refer you to a specialist if needed."
Teeth cleaning is the most basic type of dental service, but you may wonder how often you need to have this done. If you don’t notice any problems, can you skip cleanings for a while? Or are twice-a-year cleanings necessary for everyone?
What is the recommended number of dental visits a year?
For years, conventional wisdom has said that you should visit the dentist twice a year. This might be a good rule of thumb, but the truth is that everyone’s situation is unique, and you might have different needs. If you have little risk of having cavities or gum disease, twice a year may be an appropriate schedule for you. However, if you at a higher risk of dental disease, you should visit your dentist more often.
Just because you don’t see any problems with your teeth or have any pain, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to see the dentist. Regular visits can help catch and treat problems before they progress.
Why are teeth cleanings so important?
Teeth cleanings offer the following benefits:
Preventing cavities: As plaque builds up on your teeth, it can eat away at your tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Dental cleanings help remove plaque that can’t be removed by brushing or flossing.
Stopping gum disease and tooth loss: Built-up plaque can cause gum disease, which can result in tooth loss.
Brightening your smile: Teeth can become stained, especially as you age, and drinks such as coffee, tea, and wine can also stain your teeth. A teeth cleaning can help remove these stains.
Freshen your breath: Getting your teeth cleaned can help remove trapped bacteria that can lead to bad breath.
Improve your health: Maintaining good dental health may be linked to better overall health. In addition, your dentist can detect problems such as oral cancer during routine dental exams.
What else are they looking for during these appointments?
Teeth cleanings usually include the following:
Review of your medical history
Oral cancer screening
Evaluating gum tissue
X-rays
Checking biting and chewing patterns
Removing plaque, tartar, and stains
Applying fluoride
Polishing teeth
Recommending future treatment
Who should visit the dentist more often?
You should make more frequent visits based on your dentist’s recommendation. The following are some circumstances under which your dentist may suggest several visits a year:
Cold sores, frequently referred to as fever blisters, are a common condition. So common that 50 - 80% of American adults get them, according to Johns Hopkins.
What those Americans also have in common is the inability to rid the body of the virus that causes cold sores. Once contracted, it remains in the body for life.
That said, can you get these blisters on your lips from the sun? Let's consider some facts about sun blisters, and cold sores in general, to understand their causes and how to treat them.
Causes of Cold Sores
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), and it’s estimated that 3.7 billion people around the world under age 50 are infected with this virus, with the majority unaware they have it. There is no cure for HSV-1, and the infection is mostly asymptomatic.
Most people with HSV-1 contracted it as an infant or child. The virus can be spread by skin-to-skin contact with an adult who carries the virus, even if the adult isn’t showing sores.
What Triggers Cold Sores?
If you've had these painful blisters, you might know they can periodically reappear. Perhaps after spending a day out in the sun, you feel a familiar burning or tingling sensation. A day or so later, blisters may appear on the outer edge of your lip. Is this just a coincidence, or can you actually get a cold sore from sun exposure?
The Mayo Clinic explains that, between cold sore outbreaks, the virus hides in your skin's nerve cells. Sun exposure can trigger or "wake up" the dormant virus, which is why you can sometimes get a cold sore, or sun blister, from sun exposure or sunburn.
How To Prevent Outbreaks
If you notice you get cold sores from sun exposure, wear sunscreen and lip balm with SPF when you plan to spend time outdoors.
Another good measure is to avoid sharing high-contact items like lip balm, towels, or utensils, as they help spread the virus.
Cold Sore Treatment and Healing
As the Mayo Clinic reassures us, without treatment, cold sore blisters will usually go away within two to four weeks. However, there are some proven home remedies that could encourage your cold sore to heal more quickly.
One such remedy is simply applying toothpaste to the cold sore during the blister phase.
Another solution is holding a cool, damp cloth against your sore to promote healing and remove crusting.
Over-the-counter cold sore ointments that contain an antiviral ingredient may also help the sore heal faster.
Additionally, to relieve pain while the sore heals, you may want to try over-the-counter creams that contain numbing ingredients such as benzocaine or lidocaine.
By taking care with some basic measures, you can reduce both the transmissibility and irritability of the virus. And if you get frequent outbreaks, or if your cold sore doesn't go away on its own, ask your doctor or dentist for advice.
We’re all aware of the importance of brushing our teeth. It is a recommended daily ritual and a necessity to maintain a bright smile. More than that, to support our oral health, we need to visit the dentist regularly. However, a surprising number of us don’t brush our teeth often or well enough, let alone have regular examinations. While we might think the worst-case scenario will be an unwanted filling or two, the risks of ignoring our dental health are far greater.
Why People In Woden Ignore Their Dental Health
Even though we know we should maintain good oral hygiene, there are a vast number of reasons why we can let it slip:
Lack of pain – pain is the leading reason that people seek help from their dentists. However, once there is pain, the problem is a lot more advanced.
Dental Cost – there is no denying that dental procedures in Woden are costly. However, the cost of ignoring our dental health can be far more than purely financial.
Anxiety – children and adults alike have a fear of the dentist. However, going for regular check-ups rather than an emergency procedure is a lot less daunting.
Visibility – before dental problems become serious, they may not be visible to those around us. However, letting problems progress could result in decay and bad breath that has a much bigger social impact.
Availability – we all lead busy lives, and it’s easy to feel we don’t have time to make regular appointments. However, if we end up with a serious problem, we’ll lose much more time in the long run.
Embarrassment – once we have let our dental health slip, decayed, stained and chipped teeth can be an embarrassment. However, dentists are there to help not judge, and they can prevent the problem from getting worse.
While ignoring our dental health may seem easier than a dreaded trip to the dentist, this is never the case. Visiting the dentist in Woden may not be much fun, but it is far better than the alternative.
Oral Problems Caused By Poor Dental Health
The first area at risk if we ignore our dental health, is our mouth. Cavities and tooth decay are so common that we often don’t take them seriously enough. However, they can have serious and lasting complications. This will start with fillings but will then lead to procedures like root canals to try to save our teeth. However, these issues are just the tip of the iceberg. There are far more severe oral problems created by poor dental health:
Gum disease – this starts with milder gingivitis, causing red and swollen gums in response to the plaque build-up between our teeth. If it spreads, becoming periodontal disease, our immune system then begins to destroy tissues and bones in our mouths, creating pockets that can become infected.
Tooth loss – if decay causes cavities to become deep enough to reach the pulp in our teeth, then a filling won’t suffice. Teeth can be saved by root canals if caught early enough, but sometimes the only solution is extraction. Missing teeth can impact the health of our remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone as well as having a substantial social impact.
Bad breath – food particles that are left to linger in our mouths can start to smell. The more bacteria that we allow to build up in our mouths and on our tongues, the more likely we are to have bad breath.
How Dental Health Impacts General Health
The risks of ignoring our dental health are far greater than solely the threats to our mouths. The truth is that our oral health is strongly linked to our general health and wellbeing. It is now widely accepted that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with severe gum disease can play a role in certain diseases.
Periodontal disease results in a huge amount of unhealthy bacteria being lodged in our mouths; these bacteria can quickly spread to major organs and spur on new infections. Meanwhile, the inflammatory response caused by gum disease can release chemicals into our bloodstream that can have serious problems elsewhere in our bodies. Some of the most widely documented health risks associated with inadequate dental health include:
Cardiovascular disease – infections from bacteria in the mouth can lead to clogged arteries or strokes. The effects can be life-altering, if not deadly.
Arthritis – this inflammatory disease can be worsened by the gingivitis bacteria associated with gum disease.
Pregnancy issues – any infection when pregnant can be a risk to an unborn child. Both periodontal disease and gingivitis can lead to premature births.
Diabetes – gum disease can worsen the symptoms of diabetes and make it difficult to control as it impacts heavily on blood sugar levels.
Endocarditis – as bacteria move through the bloodstream, they can reach the heart. This infection starts within the inner lining and can be deadly if not treated.
Cancer – exercising poor oral hygiene by smoking can lead to oral and throat cancers as well as kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers.
How To Improve Your Oral Health
Prevention is always better than cure, especially when the stakes are so high. You can improve your oral health by brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and taking regular trips to the dentist. If you have a dental problem, then it is always better to seek treatment sooner rather than later. Even if you have missing or damaged teeth, all is not lost. Many people choose dental implants to win back their beautiful smiles and protect their future health. After all, by exercising good dental health, you’re doing much more than saving your teeth; you might just save your life.
