There are many types of electric toothbrushes, including vibrating toothbrushes. Learn what to consider when selecting a new toothbrush. The American Dental Association (ADA) in the United States notes that they can be distinguished by the type of head movement they use. Some electric toothbrushes use a side-to-side movement to clean the teeth, while others spin in a circle. Other brush heads vibrate at high speed. If you're shopping for a powered toothbrush, you may wonder how effective these vibrating models are. How can a vibrating toothbrush benefit your dental health?
Why Vibrating Toothbrushes Boost Oral Hygiene
Some vibrating toothbrushes have speeds up to 32,000 strokes per minute, as an article from the International Journal of Preventive and Clinical Dental Research (IJPCDR, Ukraine) notes. This vibration is theorised to benefit dental health in several ways.
The article explains that the rapid vibration of the toothbrush may help move fluid around the teeth, dislodging from hard-to-reach areas, such as between the teeth and along the gumline. This may make it easier to keep your mouth clean and healthy. The main cause of cavities and periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is the sticky film of food and bacteria that forms constantly on your teeth. Therefore, removing it is very important for your oral health.
The IJPCDR article also mentions that some studies have shown that acoustic vibrations, such as those from a vibrating toothbrush, can make it harder for oral bacteria to stick to hard surfaces, such as your teeth. This may also contribute to keeping your teeth clean, but more research is needed to prove the effects.
Effectiveness of Manual Toothbrushes
If you're happy with your tried-and-true manual toothbrush, you don't necessarily need to trade it in for a vibrating model. As the ADA reports, manual toothbrushes can be just as effective as powered toothbrushes. As long as you follow the best tooth brushing practices, either type of toothbrush can help to keep your teeth and gums clean.
For some people, powered toothbrushes — including vibrating toothbrushes — may provide other desirable benefits. It is recommended to switch to an electric toothbrush if necessary. Arthritis or a decline in mobility may make it difficult to brush your teeth. Using an electric toothbrush can help eliminate a lot of the physical movement required to brush manually, doing most of the work for you. People with dental appliances, such as braces, may also prefer powered toothbrushes. If you're not sure which type of toothbrush is best for your needs, ask your dentist for advice.
Tooth Brushing Best Practises
No matter which type of toothbrush you choose to use, it's important to remember tooth brushing best practices. Proper tooth brushing can help you prevent cavities and gum disease. To effectively clean your teeth, keep these tips in mind:
Brush at least twice a day.
Brush no more than three times a day, and brush lightly.
Brush for at least two minutes, and fix a standard routine.
Always use a toothbrush with soft or extra-soft bristles.
Fix a standard routine. Always use a toothbrush with soft or extra-soft bristles. Change your toothbrush regularly. Electric is fine, but not always necessary.
There are many potential health benefits associated with vibrating toothbrushes, and for some people, they're easier to use than manual toothbrushes. If you like your manual toothbrush, rest assured that it can be just as effective as a high-tech model. For more help choosing the right toothbrush for you, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist.
Maintaining oral health is vital to your overall well-being. In fact, many experts believe that there is a strong correlation between oral health and overall health. That’s why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Oral Health And Overall Health
There are a number of ways that oral health and overall health are connected. For one, poor oral hygiene can lead to a number of different types of infections, which can then spread throughout the body. Additionally, dentists at Worden Dentistry have indicated that there is a link between gum disease and several chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
7 Reasons Why Dentists Are Vital For Oral Health
Here are seven reasons why dentists like dentist Tyler Texas are vital for your oral health:
They Can Help Prevent Cavities:
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, and they can be painful and expensive to treat. However, cavities are also preventable. Regular visits to the dentist can help identify early signs of cavities so that they can be treated before they become a serious problem.
They Can Help Prevent Gum Disease:
Gum disease is another common dental problem that can lead to a number of serious health issues. Again, regular visits to the dentist can help identify early signs of gum disease and ensure that it is properly treated.
They Can Help You Maintain A Healthy Smile:
Because your smile is one of the first elements that individuals notice about you, it’s critical to maintain it looking great. Dentists can assist you in achieving and maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile.
They Can Help You Avoid Painful Dental Procedures:
Dental procedures can be painful, but they are often necessary in order to maintain oral health. However, if you visit the dentist regularly, you can avoid many of these procedures altogether.
They Can Help You Save Money:
While dental care can be expensive, it is often less expensive than the alternative untreated dental problems. By visiting the dentist regularly, you can avoid more costly treatments down the road.
They Can Help You Prevent Bad Breath:
Bad breath is not only embarrassing, but it can also be a sign of poor oral health. Dentists can help you identify the cause of your bad breath and treat it accordingly.
They Can Help You Achieve Overall Health:
As we mentioned before, there is a strong correlation between oral health and overall health. By visiting the dentist regularly, you can help ensure that your mouth and your body remain healthy for years to come.
Dentists Are Smile Shapers!
Overall dentists are the smile shapers and they help you in many ways to maintain your oral health which is connected to your overall health. So, it’s important to visit them regularly for the sake of your health!
Conclusion:
As you can see, there are many reasons why dentists are vital for oral health. If you want to maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy body it’s important to visit your dentist regularly. So don’t wait and schedule an appointment today!
Causes:Exposed nerve roots, often from receding gums
Treatment: Lay off the whitening, tartar-control, and baking-soda toothpastes—they’re abrasive and can contain phosphates, which make teeth sensitive. Don’t brush too hard, which can lead to other dental problems, such as recessed gums, says Sherri Worth, D.D.S., a celebrity cosmetic dentist. If pain persists, visit your dentist for a prescription fluoride treatment to toughen up your choppers.
2.- Lost Tooth
Causes: Physical trauma
Treatment: Rinse it off and push it back in right away, then bite down gently on a soft cloth or moistened tea bag to hold it in place. Knocking out a tooth tears the periodontal ligaments, but some might still cling to the tooth. If reconnected early enough, they can reattach to the gums.
The tooth will feel strong in a few days and could be good as new in a month or two, says Dr. Worth. Want to make sure? See a dentist.
3.- Burned Palate
Causes: Hot food
Treatment: You might not think this can cause dental problems, but burning the roof of your mouth softens the tissue, making it more prone to infection, says Pia Lieb, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in New York City. She recommends using Kenalog in Orabase, a corticosteroid paste that creates a protective coating on the burn and speeds healing.
4.- Burned Tongue
Causes: Hot drinks
Treatment: Rinse your mouth with a solution of 1 teaspoon of salt and a cup of warm water. “It’s actually very soothing,” says Dr. Worth. The salt can draw infection to the surface of the tissue, where the body eliminates it, and salt helps neutralize the acidic environment that fosters bacteria.
5.- Jaw Soreness
Cause: Possibly temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, which can lead to splitting headaches marked by pain radiating down the front of your ears to your jaw. The improper alignment of your jaw leads to unconscious grinding of the teeth, often at night.
Treatment: “Your muscles are looking to find comfort, so you move your jaw around constantly,” Dr. Lieb says. Try sleeping on your side or back with a supportive pillow, instead of facedown.
6.- Canker Sore
Causes: There are numerous possible causes—but Doritos, salsa, and other sharp and spicy foods can further irritate the sore. Avoid mixing them.
The American Dental Association (ADA) supports a daily dental routine that prevents tooth decay and gum disease problems. Therefore, it is vital to brush each morning and evening and to floss once a day. When cleaning the teeth, make sure you focus on all the teeth and their surfaces. This means that you must concentrate on cleaning exterior surfaces, contours on the teeth, and the area behind the back molars in your mouth.
Why You Should Always Clean Back Of The Very Back Teeth
Behind the very back teeth or molars lies soft tissue pockets - pockets that can easily collect plaque and bacteria. Therefore, to ensure optimal dental health, you need to clean this area back of the molars. If you fail to clean behind the very back teeth, you can end up having problems with decay and infections.
How To Clean The Back Teeth And Behind Them
When you clean the back molars and the area behind the teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Use short strokes and move your toothbrush back and forth to clean all the surfaces - inside, outside, and on top of the molars. Clean the grooves and crevices, and place your brush behind the tooth, softly brushing the tissue and the side of the tooth. You may want to use a toothbrush with a smaller head to better navigate the brush and make it easier to clean.
Researchers know there’s a synergistic relationship between oral health and overall wellness. The American Dental Association says that the “mouth is a window into the health of the body.” Your Colorado Springs dentist wants to help you maintain your oral health because your teeth and gums affect your physical health and mental well-being.
Gum Disease and Health
Periodontitis, AKA gum disease, is an infection that damages the gums and can destroy the jawbone. Periodontitis is preventable, with good dental hygiene. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum disease is also associated with several other diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. Periodontitis causes your gums to be chronically inflamed, which causes other conditions related to chronic inflammation. Treating gum disease can help manage these conditions.
Oral Health Impacts Wellness
Dental hygiene and overall health isn’t limited to just your gums. Cavities, they are painful and can impact your ability to eat healthy. As a person looses more teeth, it can be more difficult to speak and chew. According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, pregnant women with poor oral health have a higher risk of premature birth or low birth weight. Sadly, millions of Americans do not get preventative dental care from the best dentist, which means they live with one or more oral diseases that are highly treatable.
Prevent Dental Problems
What can you do to take care of your oral health? For your overall health and wellness, see your dentist twice a year for a cleaning to remove the tartar that traps bacteria in your mouth. Talk to your dentist about problems with your teeth. If you notice bleeding gums or have persistent bad breath, you may be dealing with periodontitis or another oral disease. If you have loose teeth, let your dentist know. Tell your dentist about any health problems and medications you take, as some can affect your dental health.
Brush twice a day. Floss every day. Your dentist may recommend a mouth rinse with antibacterial properties. Choose dental products with the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval, indicating effectiveness and safety. Eat a healthy and balanced diet. Limit snacks, especially sugary foods that can stick to your teeth and cause bacteria to flourish. Drink plenty of water.
Your dentist can help you keep your mouth healthy, which leads to better overall health and wellness. You want to keep your happy smile, so take care of your teeth.
The next time you enjoy a delicious treat, you can thank your facial nerve. Why? Because it allows you to taste your food and to smile about it. This nerve is also referred to as the seventh cranial nerve. And it controls your taste sensation for the front two-thirds of the tongue as well as the muscles you use to make facial expressions. Needless to say, it's a pretty important nerve.
As you read on, we'll look at your facial nerve's location and function. We'll also examine what causes facial nerve problems, conditions related to the facial nerve, and how to maintain your oral hygiene with these conditions.
Location and Function
The facial nerve (seventh cranial nerve) starts in the brain stem and travels through the base of the skull. The nerve exits the skull at an opening in the bone near the ear's base called the stylomastoid foramen. The facial nerve has five main branches, the anatomy of which can vary somewhat between individuals.
The role of the facial nerve is to transmit information to and from the facial structures. And the various branches of the facial nerve allow the facial nerve to provide sensation to different oral and facial structures. The seventh cranial nerve has four main components with unique functions, as the University of Iowa explains:
Branchial Motor: These fibers make up the largest component of the nerve. It supports the muscles responsible for your facial expression.
Visceral Motor: This component is responsible for the salivary glands and mucous membranes
Special Sensory: This portion of the nerve provides taste sensation to the front two-thirds of the tongue.
General Sensory: This part provides general senses from the external auditory canal and auricle.
Causes of Facial Nerve Problems
Damage to the seventh cranial nerve can result in several conditions, depending on which nerve branch has been affected. Impairment of the nerve may temporarily paralyze certain muscles in the face, which can affect your speech or cause difficulty eating and drinking.
The most common condition affecting the function of the facial nerve is Bell's Palsy. According to The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, there's good news: 85 percent of cases experience spontaneous recovery, and most individuals eventually recover normal facial function. Other medical conditions that may impair the facial nerve include Lyme disease, salivary gland tumors, stroke, and trauma, such as a skull fracture. Very rarely, nerve paralysis may result from dental treatment involving local anesthesia, according to a report in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. If you're having a procedure with anesthesia and you have concerns, talk to your dentist about their process of protecting people from facial nerve damage.
Facial Paralysis and Bell's Palsy
So what is Bell's Palsy? Bell's Palsy is a condition where there's a sudden weakness in the facial muscles. When someone experiences Bell's Palsy, half of the face may appear to droop, and they may have trouble making facial expressions. This muscle weakness is associated with swelling or inflammation of the facial nerve, though the exact cause is unknown. In most cases, the paralysis is temporary and doesn't come back later in life.
What to do if you experience Bell's Palsy or other types of facial paralysis? Medical and dental professionals can work together to help you resolve concerns with the function of the seventh cranial nerve. A doctor will take tests to determine whether your muscle weakness is related to Bell's Palsy or another condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. They may suggest physical therapy or medications to help you recover and ensure no further damage is done to the nerve.
Can you go to your dentist for Bell's Palsy? Although your dentist can help you keep your oral health care on point if you're experiencing Bell's Palsy, it's best to check in with a doctor too.
Oral Hygiene Maintenance
Facial paralysis may make it difficult to brush and floss properly, especially on the face's affected side. Therefore, it's essential to pay special attention to your oral hygiene if you're experiencing facial nerve damage. Some issues with the seventh cranial nerve may also affect saliva production and lead to dry mouth. Talk to your dentist about a rinse or other treatment that might help you if you're experiencing dry mouth.
It's also important to let your dentist know if you're experiencing facial paralysis or if you have in the past. With professional attention and a regular oral care routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily, you can help ensure your mouth stays healthy while receiving treatment to address the nerve problem.
Now you know the 411 on your facial nerve anatomy. As we discussed, the facial nerve does a lot to help us with our facial expressions and taste. It's important, and if it becomes damaged, facial paralysis can occur, like Bell's Palsy. If you're experiencing any facial paralysis, contact your doctor right away. Also, stay connected with your dentist to ensure you're caring for your teeth in the best way possible as you treat your paralysis. It'll keep your smile healthy as you heal.
It can be alarming when you notice a bump on your gums, especially if it’s painful. While any time you experience changes in the soft tissues of your mouth or have oral pain, you should visit your dentist, not every bump is a sign of a serious issue. In this post, we’ll cover the causes and what to do to get relief.
Why Is There a Bump on My Gums?
Here are a few common reasons why you might have a bump:
An Abscess – An extremely sensitive, painful bump on your gums that looks like a pimple is likely an abscess. An abscess is due to a bacterial infection and occurs as pus collects under the gum, forming a bump or boil.
There are different types of abscesses, including a periodontal abscess, which is usually caused by periodontitis (advanced gum disease), and a periapical abscess, which is an infection at the tip of your tooth’s root from tooth decay or an injury. A periapical abscess usually presents as a bump on the gums above or below the affected tooth.
If you do have an abscess, it will often be accompanied by other symptoms including:
Swollen gums
Bad breath
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Fever
Discharge
Fatigue
Facial swelling
Persistent pain that may spread to the ear, jaw and neck
It’s important to have an abscess evaluated and treated. It won’t go away on its own. While it can drain and provide temporary relief, the infection will still be present and can spread to the jaw and supporting tissues. In rare cases, a dental infection can reach the brain and cause serious health complications.
Treatment for an abscess will involve treating the infection, whether through periodontal care or a root canal, and, sometimes, antibiotics. We might also drain the abscess to give you immediate relief.
A Canker Sore – We’ve had patients at our Naperville dental practice visit worried they had an abscess and it turned out they had a canker sore, or aphthous ulcer. Even though canker sores are benign and don’t cause serious issues, they can be extremely painful.
A canker sore usually looks like a flattish, yellow or white bump or blister on the gums surrounded by a red border. The sores can appear in a cluster and they make talking and eating difficult.
Canker sores are not contagious and no one knows exactly what causes them, though it’s thought that the following can play a role:
Stress
Vitamin deficiencies
Food allergies
Genetics
illness
Mouth injuries
Certain medications
The mouth ulcers don’t usually require treatment and tend to resolve on their own within two weeks.
Cyst – A cyst will look like a small, liquid-filled bubble, or bump, on the gums. Dental cysts tend to pop up around the root of diseased, malpositioned or impacted teeth. Many times, cysts are painless. However, they can grow larger and put pressure on the teeth and jaw or become infected, both of which will cause pain.
While you should have a cyst looked at by your Naperville general dentist, whether it requires treatment or not will depend on its cause and size. Most cysts resolve on their own, however, some need to be removed surgically.
Oral Fibroma – An oral fibroma appears as a smooth, hard bump on the gums. A fibroma is a tumor-like mass of connective tissue that’s almost always benign. Fibromas develop when an area of the mouth is constantly irritated or traumatized, such as from a habit like biting the inside of your cheek or from ill-fitting dentures or another oral appliance.
Treatment will depend on the size, location, type and cause of the fibroma. You may need to have your dentures or oral appliance re-fitted so that it stops irritating your mouth.
Though fibromas aren’t usually painful, if they get larger, they can become easily irritated, leading to discomfort. In those cases, surgical removal could be recommended.
Bony Growth – A bony, round, hard bump on the gums is known as a dental torus (or tori plural). It’s a bony protrusion that grows on top of existing bone. The bumps are usually smooth and covered completely in gum tissue.
The different types of dental tori are classified by their location. For example, a torus mandibularis is located on the inside of the lower jaw on the side nearest the tongue. A torus palatinus is a protrusion from the roof of the mouth, or palate.
Dental tori don’t usually interfere with function or cause pain. Rarely, a tori will continue growing and become irritated or get in the way of dentures. In these cases, it may need to be removed.
There isn’t a known cause of bony growths on the gums but some experts think bruxism, genetic factors, diet and/or stress on the jaw from a bad bite may be the cause.
Oral Cancer – While most bumps are benign, occasionally, a small growth or lump on the gum tissue is a sign of oral cancer. It might be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
A red or white patch on your gums
Thickening of the skin
A sore that bleeds and/or won’t heal
Jaw or tongue pain
Loose teeth
Sore throat
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Risk factors for oral cancer include:
A family history of oral cancer
Heavy drinking
Tobacco use
Having human papillomavirus (HPV)
Being over age 40
Having a weakened immune system
A lack of fruit and vegetables in the diet Can I Pop a Bump on My Gums?
No. You should never pop a bump on your gums. Even popping a harmless bump will cause irritation and pain, making the situation worse.
Though an abscess will sometimes drain on its own, popping it can damage the soft tissue and it will release bacteria into your mouth. If an abscess does drain on its own, gently swish with a saltwater rinse to get rid of the foul-tasting liquid and keep your mouth clean.
How to Get Rid Of Bumps on Gums
Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to get rid of bumps on your gums at home, in most cases. You should see your dentist for treatment if the bump doesn’t go away after a few weeks or it is accompanied by the signs of an abscess or oral cancer we noted above.
While you’re waiting to see your dentist, you can alleviate pain by:
Swishing with a saltwater rinse (½ teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water)
Avoiding irritating the bump when brushing or flossing or wearing an appliance
Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed
Tooth and gum problems can be painful, inconvenient, and sometimes costly to treat. Awareness of these issues and their causes is an essential step in preventing them. Here is a list of the most common dental problems and how they can be avoided:
Bad Breath
Bad breath (or halitosis) is a condition in which a person’s breath has an unpleasant smell. It is caused by several factors, but the most prevalent are the following: odour-causing foods, poor dental hygiene, oral infections, or dryness of the mouth. Bad breath can often be resolved by brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove bacteria. Brushing the tongue with a toothbrush or tongue scraper is also helpful.
In some cases, an underlying illness can be associated with bad breath:
A fishy odour might be a sign of kidney disease.
A fruity smell can be associated with diabetes.
A rotten egg-like odour can be a sign of liver disease.
Here are some ways to prevent bad breath:
Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste.
Clean all corners of your mouth, including hard-to-reach areas like the back of the tongue.
Floss at least once a day to remove tiny food particles stuck between teeth.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent dental problems worldwide. According to the Canadian Dental Association, about 60 to 90 percent of school-aged children and close to 100 percent of adults have tooth decay. This condition occurs when plaque forms on teeth and produces acids that eat away at the enamel. If not removed, plaque can result in the formation of cavities (dental caries) in the teeth.
Tooth decay is mainly caused by:
Failure to brush regularly
Excessive consumption of sugary foods and beverages
Smoking
Dry mouth
Lack of fluoride
With regular basic oral hygiene, tooth decay can be prevented. Use a toothpaste or mouth rinse containing fluoride, as this mineral helps build teeth’s resistance to decay by hardening the enamel. When a tooth has already been damaged by plaque, a dental filling may be required to stop the decay from affecting other teeth. Other treatment options include fitting a crown to replace the damaged part of the tooth or root canal to remove the infected pulp.
Mouth Sores
Mouth sores can be mild (e.g. irritation after biting one’s cheek) or more serious (when caused by an underlying illness). Common mouth sores include canker and cold sores, which can appear on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips.
Non-contagious canker sores may result from a number of factors, including:
Hormonal changes
Stress
Weakening of the immune system
Lack of vitamins (like iron or B12)
Preventive measures to keep mouth sores at bay depend on the type of sore. To avoid those that result from biting the inner cheek, chew food carefully and slowly. Exercise care when eating hot foods to lessen the likelihood of burn-related sores.
Cold sores are contagious, but over-the-counter creams and gels are helpful in treating pain or discomfort; prescription medications may be necessary to aid in staving off an outbreak. For canker sores, try dabbing the affected area with a paste of baking soda and water. (Always consult your doctor for appropriate treatment if a mouth sore is accompanied by fever, or if you experience drooling or difficulty chewing or swallowing.)
Tooth Sensitivity
The nerves of teeth are covered by a microscopic layer called dentin, which can become exposed due to a number of factors: gum disease, receding gums, age, brushing too hard, and teeth-whitening products. This exposure can cause irritation and pain when eating food and beverages that are hot, cold, acidic, or sugary. Teeth exposed to cold air can also lead to sensitivity. Some people with sensitive teeth may feel discomfort when brushing and flossing.
Brushing properly using a soft-bristled brush, flossing at least once a day, and cutting back on acidic food and drinks are some steps to avoid tooth sensitivity. For people who are already experiencing this problem, a dental checkup is advised to determine the cause of the sensitivity and the appropriate treatment.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease occurs when gums are infected by plaque. Two types of gum disease are:
Gingivitis – Milder and reversible, gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Periodontitis – A more advanced stage of gum disease, periodontitis is caused by plaque that spreads beyond the gum line. Gums can deteriorate and bones supporting the teeth may get brittle. If left untreated, tooth loss can occur.
Proper oral care like regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and bacteria is crucial in the prevention of gum disease. Patients diagnosed with certain health conditions (like diabetes) are at a higher risk of developing gum disease and should talk to their dentist for proper preventive care.
Toothache
Inflammation of the tissues within the tooth (called the pulp), emerging wisdom teeth, or gum infections can lead to a toothache. Biting your nails or chewing food that is too hard (like popcorn kernels or candy) may cause cracks in the teeth (or break a tooth entirely), causing discomfort. Never use your teeth to hold objects or open a bottle; these behaviours could result in small cracks that can eventually lead to bigger, more painful ones. If you experience a cracked tooth, see your dentist. He or she will determine the proper treatment, depending on how severe the damage is and which tooth is affected.
You try to take care of your skin, but despite applying sunscreen and regularly cleansing and moisturising your face, you may still notice a rash around your mouth. As far as skin conditions go, MedlinePlus notes that rashes around the mouth are most likely to affect young women and children, but can ultimately affect anyone. This condition is called perioral dermatitis, and its causes might surprise you. By understanding what it is and how to treat it, you can soothe your rash to reveal healthy, glowing skin once again.
Rash Around the Mouth: Causes
People with sensitive skin are most likely to suffer from perioral dermatitis, as it's generally associated with topical products. This means the very products you use to keep your skin and mouth healthy could be causing your rash break-out. Here are some of the most common causes of the condition:
Topical steroid creams
Inhaled steroids
Poor skin hygiene, such as failing to wash your face regularly
Using too many irritating topical products
Fluoridated toothpaste
Make-up
Hormonal changes or taking oral contraceptives
An oral infection
Different individuals may experience different symptoms of perioral dermatitis, but it generally manifests as red, flaky skin around the mouth, a burning sensation, bumps, and even an accompanying rash on the nose, forehead and cheeks.
Treatment Options
Perioral dermatitis is typically treated by a dermatologist, but your treatment plan will vary depending on the cause of the rash. MedlinePlus recommends stopping the use of any products that could be irritating your skin, including new make-up, harsh cleansers and sunscreen. Instead, substitute your usual cleanser with warm water and, with your doctor's permission, a mild soap. You can also talk to your doctor about any steroid medications you may be taking or applying, and adjust your dosage to account for your rash.
For stubborn cases, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology suggests stopping the use of fluoridated toothpaste. If your dermatologist thinks your rash may be due to using fluoridated toothpaste, consider using a fluoride-free toothpaste instead. It's unlikely that you'll have to swap out your toothpaste forever, since the condition can resolve itself with changes to your hygiene routine, habits and even hormones.
Your dermatologist may also be able to prescribe antibiotics to help clear up your skin and get rid of the embarrassing and often painful rash around your mouth. Together, you can come up with a treatment plan to help soothe your skin and balance out your complexion.
Even if you're taking all the necessary steps for a healthy skin, a rash can still break out around your mouth and make you feel like your favourite products and make-up are suddenly working against you. The good news is that, once you isolate the issue, you can work with your dermatologist and dentist to follow treatments and use products that help keep your skin calm, clear and rash-free.
You may have a friend who's a little rough around the edges. Perhaps you saw an early rough cut of a movie. Or maybe you're always telling your kids to stop the rough-housing. These are manageable situations that won't affect your oral health. But when your teeth feel rough, that's a different story. Sometimes this is due to tartar build-up. But often, rough teeth signal an issue with your enamel health and indicate that it may be eroding. Join us as we make this rough situation a little smoother by looking into the causes and prevention options below.
Tooth Enamel
Before diving into the cause and prevention of "rough teeth", we should break down what exactly feels rough when you touch the tooth with your tongue. More than likely, you are feeling the enamel: the outer layer of your teeth. It's the hardest substance in your body and acts as a shield against any germs or harm that could attack your teeth. While enamel is tough and strong, it still has vulnerabilities that can lead to erosion. When enamel erodes (usually from acid), this impacts the smoothness of your teeth. Fortunately, you're able to address and treat the erosion so your enamel is as healthy as possible. In return, your teeth won't feel so rough.
Causes of Enamel Erosion
There are many factors, scenarios, and situations that could be contributing to your enamel erosion and leading to rough teeth. The most likely causes for your enamel erosion include:
Citrus
Foods with acid can erode your teeth, but citrus fruits (especially lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits) are quite acidic. Although they have health benefits, these foods should be enjoyed in moderation.
Soda
The combination of sugar and acid found in nearly every fizzy drink is astounding. Try limiting your intake to 1-2 (or fewer) such beverages per week, rather than making them a daily treat.
Acid reflux
The highly acidic regurgitation from acid reflux doesn't help your enamel. If you suffer from acid reflux, it's best to avoid any foods or drinks that may trigger the unfortunate condition.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is also linked to causing increased acidity, which leads to erosion. Be sure to brush and use mouthwash regularly.
Chlorine
Swimming a lot in a chlorinated pool with the water occasionally coming into contact with your teeth could lead to erosion. It is recommended to let only non-chlorinated water pass through your mouth.
What do all these factors have in common? Acid. It doesn't need to be eliminated, but limited — especially the acid in your diet. Moderation is easier than you may think.
Strengthening Enamel
Can you restore your tooth enamel? Unfortunately, you cannot. However, you can strengthen it through remineralisation. To do this and fortify spots on your teeth that are beginning to erode, you must use oral hygiene products that contain fluoride and calcium.
Fluoride
Calcium
Many products can protect your teeth and prevent the eroding from getting worse.
Preventing Enamel Erosion
You've learned that you can strengthen your enamel. But what does it take to fortify your teeth to prevent enamel erosion? Good question. There are three big things you can try that should help:
Drink fluoridated water
The fluoride in water helps fight tooth cavities by remaining in your saliva, allowing it to absorb into your enamel.
Chew sugarless gum
By chewing on gum, you stimulate saliva production, which can cleanse your enamel and remineralise your teeth.
Brush with enamel-strengthening toothpaste
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste designed to harden your enamel and protect against cavities.
There are simple dietary, life, and oral health choices you can make to avoid tooth erosion, strengthen your enamel, and rid yourself of rough teeth. If you're unsure where to start, talk to your dentist. They'll make sure your rough going turns into smooth sailing.
