CLEANING IN BETWEEN TEETH AND AROUND GUMS IS IMPORTANT IF YOU WANT TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY MOUTH. MANY PEOPLE USE FLOSS, BUT AN INTERDENTAL BRUSH OFFERS AN EASY, PRACTICAL ALTERNATIVE.
Cleaning in between teeth and around gums is important if you want to maintain a healthy mouth. Many people use floss, but an interdental brush offers an easy, practical alternative.
In fact, studies have shown that interdental brushing is actually a more effective way to remove plaque than flossing, when used in conjunction with normal toothbrushing.
What Are Interdental Brushes?
Usually thin, round or cone-shaped, these brushes have a small head with bristles held on by wire. Some brushes have a short or specially shaped handle to make gripping easier, while others have long handles similar to toothbrushes. They are designed to be inserted between the teeth gently.
Interdental brushes come in different sizes, so make sure to choose one that comfortably fits between your teeth without having to force it. You might like to choose a different size for front and back teeth depending on the amount of space between your teeth.
They can be reused several times and should be rinsed just like a normal toothbrush after going between each tooth. The brushes should be replaced when the bristles are worn or if the wire is bent.
Who Might Benefit?
Anyone who finds flossing difficult might benefit from trying these brushes including:
People with limited mobility: People suffering from joint problems or with limited mobility may find the brushes easier to maneuver than floss, especially when cleaning the back teeth. Brushes can also be a good option for elderly people who find it hard to use floss. The brushes can help clean the spaces in between dentures, bridges, implants and gums, as well.
People with braces: Flossing is not usually possible for people with fixed braces, but the thin brushes can be used to remove food and plaque both from between teeth and from around the edges of the brackets.
People with spaces between teeth: If you have large gaps between your teeth, the surfaces of your teeth are uneven or your gums are receding, it can be hard to clean adequately with floss, which may not fill the gaps properly. In these cases, brushes are more effective in removing plaque and food debris.
People who don’t like to floss: Anyone can be put off by flossing simply because they find it difficult or do not like the feel of it. If you don’t feel comfortable using floss, then brushes may be a better option. Plus, it’s easier to use!
Of all the possible sores found in the mouth and on the lips, some of the most common ones are caused by herpes, a type of sexually transmitted infection (STI). Read on to learn about how prevalent herpes inside the mouth is among Americans, how it's contracted, and treatments that can relieve the symptoms.
How Common Is Herpes in the Mouth?
According to the World Health Organization, about 67 percent of the world's population lives with a herpes infection (HSV-1). During 2015-2016, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey estimated that the prevalence of HSV-1 among Americans was 47.8 percent.
How Is Herpes in Your Mouth Contracted?
Oral herpes can be easily transmitted from one person to another by contact, such as kissing and shared utensils or toothbrushes. Children often contract the virus because of their curiosity and their affinity for exploring objects with their mouths.
Once a person contracts HSV-1, it can lie dormant for months or years. Factors such as stress, excess exposure to sunlight, and trauma to the lips and oral cavity may cause a breakout of sores on the lips and mouth. Female patients may also experience an outbreak in the mouth due to the hormonal changes initiated by menstruation.
Where Does It Occur?
Herpes in the mouth is located mostly on the lips or near the mouth. However, sores may also appear elsewhere on the face, tongue, or gums. Make sure to practice good hygiene and avoid touching the sores or picking at scabs when sores are healing to prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of your body.
What Exams and Treatments Are Available for HSV-1?
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, oral herpes can be difficult to diagnose. It is often confused with many other infections and can only be confirmed with a virus culture called PCR, blood test, or biopsy. The treatment for each case of oral herpes may vary due to factors such as severity and location.
Symptoms may last from seven to 10 days in the first outbreak. Subsequent outbreaks may heal completely in eight to 10 days. Medications like acyclovir, which can be administered in a pill, ointment, or cream form, can sometimes eliminate symptoms faster than if they were left to heal without intervention. Ask your physician or dentist about over-the-counter and prescription antiviral medications that can be used to treat herpes.
Medication is most effective when the symptoms are just starting (prodromal stage) and can arrest the virus if treated early. However, once herpes in the mouth forms raised, blister-like lesions known as vesicles, the medication is not as effective.
Talk to your primary care physician or dental professional if you suspect a herpes outbreak in or around your mouth. They will be able to properly diagnose your condition and help get you on the road to recovery and a pain-free smile.
A loose tooth is no big deal when you’re a kid. Some kids even welcome a wobbly tooth since it means a visit from the Tooth Fairy! But if you’re an adult, a loose tooth is more like a nightmare come true.
Loose teeth in adults can result from poor dental hygiene, advanced gum disease, a facial injury, teeth grinding, or even pregnancy. There’s a chance that a loose tooth will tighten back up, but it depends on the cause. It’s best to immediately consult your dentist if you’re an adult with a loose tooth.
Learn how to notice a loose tooth, what causes one, and how to fix a loose tooth.
WHAT DOES A LOOSE TOOTH FEEL LIKE?
Loose teeth lack structural support and are in the process of detaching from the bone and gum. You might notice that a tooth feels “off” and wiggly while brushing, flossing, or eating. Beyond the looseness, you may also experience bloody gums, swollen gums, and gum recession.
WHAT CAUSES LOOSE TEETH IN ADULTS?
Adult teeth should last a lifetime. If you have a loose tooth as an adult, there’s a clear reason.
GUM DISEASE
Gum disease is the result of continuous poor dental hygiene. If you don’t brush, floss, and have routine cleanings, tartar and bacteria can build up under your gums and cause an infection — gum disease. Advanced gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth. Gum disease is treatable when caught early, and if your loose tooth is the result of gum disease, there’s a chance that it could tighten back up with treatment and better hygiene practices.
INJURY
A fall or blow to the face is a common way for adult teeth to chip, break, or loosen. Also, grinding or clenching teeth can wear down the tissue to the point that teeth can become loose. If your loose tooth is the result of grinding or clenching, your dentist may be able to treat the issue with a special mouthguard before your teeth become permanently damaged.
PREGNANCY
During pregnancy, changes in hormone levels can affect the periodontium — the ligaments and bones in the mouth that support teeth and hold them in place. Teeth can feel loose when the periodontium is affected.
Fortunately, these changes will resolve on their own after pregnancy. Still, see your dentist if you experience loose teeth during pregnancy so you can rule out other triggers, like gum disease.
And remember — it’s safe to go to the dentist while pregnant! “Preventive, diagnostic, and restorative dental treatments are safe throughout pregnancy,” notes the American Dental Association.
OSTEOPOROSIS
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones in the body and makes it easier for them to break. Hip, spine, and wrist bones are affected most often by osteoporosis, but the disease can weaken any bone in the body.
“Research suggests a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw,” reports the National Institutes of Health. The bone in the jaw supports and anchors the teeth. When the jawbone becomes less dense, tooth loss can occur, a common occurrence in older adults.”
HOW TO FIX AN ADULT LOOSE TOOTH
Can a loose tooth be saved? Yes, but it depends on the reason the tooth is loose.
If a tooth is loose because of gum disease, it might tighten back up with consistent and proper dental hygiene. A deep cleaning with a hygienist called Scaling & Root Planing is typically the best treatment option.
If a tooth is loose because of an injury, it likely won’t tighten back up. Depending on the severity and type of damage to the tooth, your dentist may remove it and replace it with a dental implant or bridge.
If a tooth is loose during pregnancy, it will tighten up after pregnancy has ended. Even so, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist if a tooth is wiggly during your pregnancy to confirm the cause.
If a tooth is loose due to osteoporosis, you have a couple of treatment options. Regenerative bone and gum grafting can help rebuild the bone and tissue around the teeth. Once rebuilt, dental implants can be installed to strengthen and restore your smile. Composite bonding is another option for reshaping the teeth to hide gaps.
If you’re an adult, a loose tooth might be the first sign of a more significant issue that needs to be addressed.
Finding out the reason for your tooth pain can help when it comes to solving the tooth problem you are currently experiencing. When one or more of your teeth are causing you pain, it means there is definitely something wrong with your oral health. Sometimes the tooth pain can be compared to a dull and achy pain, while at other times it can be a sharp and throbbing pain.
While it may be tempting to try and fix your tooth pain by yourself, an experienced dentist is someone who can get you the root of the problem.
Why a tooth hurts when someone bites down
Sometimes a tooth will only hurt when someone bites down. This can include biting down on foods or nothing at all, which is going to depend on the underlying reason for why the tooth is hurting in the first place. If a tooth only hurts when someone bites down it is probably due to one of the following three reasons – a crack in the tooth, decay in the tooth or a filling that is loose.
A cracked tooth can often occur when someone bites down on something very hard or when they have a very large filling. These two situations can create hairline fractures in the tooth. Over a period of time, these fractures can lead to larger cracks in the teeth. Once a tooth sustains damage, the pain will often gradually increase.
When a decay is present in a tooth it makes the tooth much weaker. When teeth are already weak it is easy for them to become more susceptible to breakage, which is eventually going to lead to pain. When a filling becomes loose, it can cause pain since the tooth is in danger and there is no more protection. The filling may even eventually fall out, leading to even lower oral problems.
What to do?
It is necessary to see a dentist anytime someone is suffering from tooth pain. A dentist is able to perform the necessary procedures in order to repair the tooth so that the patient is no longer experiencing any tooth pain.
Even though many people think the pain is not serious enough to make a dentist appointment, too long of a delay can greatly increase the chance of damaging the dental pulp inside the tooth. If the pulp sustains damage, a dentist may need to make a referral to an endodontist for tooth repair.
Got tooth pain?
If you are currently experiencing tooth pain, including when you bite down on something, you are going to need to see a dentist so they are able to make the necessary tooth repairs. If you happen to be someone who avoids going to the dentist, understand that visiting the dentist is crucial. We can provide you with any special accommodations necessary to make your dental visit more enjoyable.
Hypersalivation, also known as sialorrhea or ptyalism, is when a person has too much saliva in their mouth. It can result in drooling. Possible causes range from using dentures to a jaw fracture.
Depending on the cause, hypersalivation can either be constant or intermittent. It can also be temporary or chronic. Often, it can cause a person social anxiety.
Hypersalivation is not a disease but usually a symptom of another underlying condition. These other factors can range from easily treated and common causes to rare diseases.
Saliva is a clear liquid produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. It moistens food and aids swallowing. It also contains enzymes that help with digestion.
Saliva can help to heal wounds and remove germs from the mouth, as well as prevent dryness and act as a barrier against irritants and toxins.
On average, a healthy person produces between 0.75 and 1.5 liters of saliva each day. Saliva production peaks when a person is eating and is at its lowest during sleep.
Too much saliva can cause problems with talking and eating, along with chapped lips and skin infections. Hypersalivation and drooling can also cause social anxiety and diminished self-esteem.
Causes
Hypersalivation can be the result of:
excessive saliva production
an inability to effectively swallow or clear saliva from the mouth
difficulty keeping the mouth closed
Causes of excessive saliva production, leading to hypersalivation, include:
morning sickness or nausea during pregnancy
sinus, throat, or peritonsillar infections
poisonous spider bites, reptile venom, and poisonous mushrooms
false teeth
ulcers, inflammation, or pain in the mouth
poor oral hygiene
severe infections such as rabies or tuberculosis
severe or sudden pain
regurgitation of saliva during heartburn
jaw fractures or dislocation
Difficulty swallowing or clearing saliva from the mouth can be caused by or associated with some underlying conditions, including Down syndrome, autism, ALS, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease. If a person also has a sensory dysfunction, they may not always realize that they are drooling.
Causes of an inability to keep the mouth closed, which can result in drooling, include poor neuromuscular control of the muscles around the mouth. Cerebral palsy is an example of such a condition.
Difficulty keeping saliva in the mouth can also be due to:
poor head and lip control
a constantly open mouth
impaired tactile sensation
an enlarged tongue or poor tongue mobility
poor teeth alignment
nasal blockage
Hypersalivation can also result from non-medical conditions, such as seeing, smelling, or tasting food, or even just thinking about food. It can also be caused by chewing gum or by feelings of excitement and anxiety.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypersalivation include drooling, spitting, and excessive swallowing.
Other related symptoms include:
chapped lips
softening and damage to the skin around the mouth
infection of the skin around the mouth
bad breath
dehydration
speech disturbance
pneumonia
poor sense of taste
Hypersalivation and drooling may also cause psychological complications and social anxiety, as well impact their ability to eat or speak.
People who experience hypersalivation are more likely to inhale saliva, food, or fluids into their lungs, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia. This may happen when the gagging and coughing reflexes are impaired.
Diagnosis
The aim of diagnosing hypersalivation is to pinpoint the underlying cause and then to recommend the best available treatment for each affected person. A diagnosis is important, as some of the potential causes of hypersalivation have serious complications.
To diagnose hypersalivation, a doctor may include an examination of the following:
the mouth, teeth, and surrounding skin
tongue control, swallowing ability, and jaw stability
tonsils and nasal airways
alertness and emotional state
hydration, hunger, and head posture
A doctor will usually consider it necessary to assess other criteria, including:
existing medical conditions and ongoing medication
how and when hypersalivation occurs
the amount of extra saliva produced
whether or not the problem is constant or intermittent
any adverse effects on daily life
Once the cause of hypersalivation is established, a doctor may take the following factors into account when recommending a treatment:
severity and complications
age and mental status
whether hypersalivation is chronic or temporary
associated neurological conditions
Treatment and management
Dealing with hypersalivation is about treating the underlying condition that is causing it, as well as managing the immediate effects of excess saliva in the mouth.
Depending on the cause, the treatment can include certain types of therapies, medications, and home remedies. In extreme cases, surgery may be considered.
Therapy: This can include behavioral modification and speech therapy. People experiencing hypersalivation may benefit from help with posture and head control. They can also learn techniques for lip closure, better tongue control, and swallowing.
Medication: The aim of medication for hypersalivation is to reduce salvia production. Anticholinergic medication may be used, although it has a range of side effects, including drowsiness, restlessness, irritability, urinary retention, constipation, and flushing. Treatment can also include a beta-blocker or botulinum toxin (Botox).
Home remedies: Drinking plenty of water can reduce saliva production. Tooth-brushing and rinsing with mouthwash can also temporarily dry out the mouth.
The successful management of hypersalivation and the resulting drooling can improve a person’s confidence and self-esteem.
Outlook
Some causes of hypersalivation may clear up over time without treatment. Such causes include pregnancy, anxiety, and minor injuries.
Other causes can pose more serious medical challenges. This category includes neurological causes and nerve disorders.
If chronic conditions are the cause, treatment may include lifelong management of a person’s hypersalivation.
Brushing and flossing are the foundations of a good oral hygiene routine ‚ but mouthwash can also be a useful addition, thanks to the many oral health benefits it has to offer. If you've recently started using mouthwash, you may be wondering how you should incorporate it in your routine. Is it better to use mouthwash before or after brushing? And what else can you do to boost your oral health?
Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash may be best known for freshening your breath, but adding it to your daily oral care routine can provide many other benefits, too.
The American Dental Association (ADA) explains that mouthwash can reach areas that your toothbrush can't, which can help to reduce your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. As the American Academy of Periodontology notes, untreated gum disease can lead to complications such as gum recession and tooth loss, but using mouthwash can help boost your prevention efforts.
Mouthwash achieves these oral health benefits by helping to control plaque, which is a thin, bacterial film that builds up on your teeth. When plaque isn't removed, it eventually hardens into tartar. The ADA reports that mouthwash can actually slow down the formation of tartar, too.
When to Use Mouthwash
When you first add mouthwash to your oral care routine, you may wonder‚ should you use mouthwash before or after brushing? This is a good question, and it doesn't have a simple answer. The scientific research is limited, and reputable organizations offer different recommendations.
The Mayo Clinic recommends using mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth. However, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends avoiding mouthwash right after brushing, since this may wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, the NHS recommends using mouthwash at a different time of day.
The ADA states that you may choose to use mouthwash before or after brushing based on personal preference. That said, mouthwash manufacturers may recommend an order based on their product's ingredients, so check the label on your product to ensure that you maximize its effects.
Other Ways to Boost Your Oral Care Routine
Mouthwash can enhance your oral care routine, but remember: It's not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth, and floss once a day to clean between your teeth and along your gumline.
If you want to make further improvements to your daily oral care routine, consider these tips from the Mayo Clinic and the ADA:
Eat a well-balanced, tooth-healthy diet.
Limit high-sugar foods and drinks, such as candies and sodas.
Avoid frequent snacking.
Drink fluoridated water.
Change your toothbrush every three to four months‚ or sooner if it looks worn or frayed.
See your dentist regularly for checkups.
While it's not a replacement for brushing and flossing, mouthwash can play an important role in your oral hygiene routine. It can help to freshen your breath, remove plaque and reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. For help deciding whether to use mouthwash before or after brushing, talk to your dentist.
Having a recurring sore throat or sleep-disordered breathing can be a sign of tonsil inflammation, also known as tonsillitis. Even though tonsils are an important part of the body, sometimes a doctor will recommend tonsil removal, a procedure called a tonsillectomy.
When to Have Tonsils Removed
Patients of any age — children and adults — can have a tonsillectomy. According to an article published in the Times of India, symptoms of tonsillitis includes sore throat, fever, pain while swallowing, hoarseness, visibly red and swollen tonsils and enlarged glands in the neck. The tonsils may be enlarged, which can lead to snoring, and a patient may have a slight fever or neck pain.
To eliminate these symptoms, a doctor may suggest the patient has their tonsils removed. If you are having recurring problems with your tonsils or throat, consult a dental or medical professional.
Tonsillectomy Procedure
An ear, nose and throat doctor will most likely conduct the procedure in an outpatient surgical centre. The surgery usually lasts between one and two hours and the patient will be sent home shortly after the operation.
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are a few steps that a patient should take prior to surgery. They should avoid any intake of medications containing aspirin for two weeks prior to the procedure and should provide their doctor a list of medications they take regularly. The patient will receive instructions from their doctor regarding how long to refrain from eating and drinking before surgery.
On the day of the surgery, the patient will be sedated by an anaesthesiologist through an IV prior to the doctor's treatment. The doctor will remove both left and right tonsils from the back of the throat. Afterwards, the patient will likely feel soreness and experience some swelling. They should plan for at least 10 days of recovery time.
Care After a Tonsillectomy
After a few days, scabs will form where the incisions were in the mouth. The doctor may prescribe painkillers to help relieve rawness and soreness in the patient's throat. It is imperative to drink lots of ice water and cold fluids after tonsil removal, but avoid drinking through straws, as it may be difficult. Eating soft foods and ice pops may help avoid irritation in the area. If the patient loses weight, they should try drinking nutritional beverages to add some calories to their diet.
The patient must be careful to not eat chips, nuts or foods that can be sharp in the back of the throat. Postoperative bleeding can occur, and in severe situations it may require a trip to the emergency room. For at least two weeks after the tonsillectomy, the patient should stay mostly at rest and allow their throat to heal before resuming activities. The doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the patient's healing.
Removing the tonsils — which can be as long as two to three inches across — can bring relief to patients with tonsillitis. After the procedure, they can look forward to fewer sore throats and resolved snoring issues. Always speak with your dentist or doctor if you're concerned about your sore throat or sleep troubles.
Electric toothbrushes have become a popular option for people looking for an efficient and convenient way to keep their teeth clean. However, recent research suggests that many people may not be using their electric toothbrushes correctly.
According to a survey conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation, more than half of people who use electric toothbrushes do not brush their teeth for the recommended two minutes. In addition, many people do not replace the brush head on their electric toothbrush as often as they should.
Experts warn that failing to use an electric toothbrush correctly can result in a buildup of plaque and other bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
So, what are some of the most common mistakes people make when using their electric toothbrushes, and how can these mistakes be avoided?
Mistake #1: Not Brushing for Long Enough
As mentioned earlier, many people do not brush their teeth for the recommended two minutes when using an electric toothbrush. This is a problem because it takes at least two minutes of brushing to remove all the plaque and bacteria from your teeth.
To avoid this mistake, it is important to set a timer or use an electric toothbrush that has a built-in timer to ensure that you brush for the full two minutes. Many electric toothbrushes have a timer that pauses briefly after 30 seconds to remind you to move on to the next section of your mouth.
Mistake #2: Brushing Too Hard
Another common mistake people make when using an electric toothbrush is brushing too hard. It is tempting to press the toothbrush hard against your teeth in the belief that it will remove more plaque, but this can actually cause damage to your teeth and gums.
To avoid this mistake, use a light touch when brushing your teeth with an electric toothbrush. Let the brush do the work for you, and focus on making gentle circular motions around each tooth.
Mistake #3: Not Replacing the Brush Head Often Enough
Many people do not replace the brush head on their electric toothbrush as often as they should. Brush heads should be replaced every three to four months, or as soon as the bristles start to look frayed and worn.
Using a worn-out brush head can be less effective at removing plaque and bacteria, and can also damage your teeth and gums. To avoid this mistake, set a reminder to replace your brush head every three months, or check the bristles regularly to ensure they are still in good condition.
Mistake #4: Using the Wrong Brush Head
Electric toothbrushes often come with a variety of brush heads, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, some brush heads are designed for sensitive teeth, while others are designed for deep cleaning.
Using the wrong brush head can result in ineffective cleaning and can even cause damage to your teeth and gums. To avoid this mistake, choose a brush head that is specifically designed for your needs, and consult with your dentist if you are unsure which brush head to use.
Mistake #5: Not Cleaning the Brush Head Properly
Finally, many people do not clean their electric toothbrush brush head properly, which can lead to a buildup of bacteria and other germs.
To clean your brush head properly, rinse it thoroughly with water after each use, and allow it to air dry. You can also use a small amount of toothpaste or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the brush head more thoroughly.
In conclusion, electric toothbrushes can be a convenient and effective way to keep your teeth clean and healthy, but only if used correctly. To avoid common mistakes when using an electric toothbrush, make sure to brush for the recommended two minutes, use a light touch, replace the brush head regularly, use the right brush head for your needs, and clean the brush head properly after each use.
Additional Tips for Using an Electric Toothbrush
In addition to the common mistakes outlined above, there are a few other tips that can help you get the most out of your electric toothbrush:
Use the Right Technique: To get the most effective clean, hold the brush head at a 45-degree angle to your teeth and gums. Use gentle circular motions, making sure to brush each tooth individually, including the back teeth and molars.
Use the Right Toothpaste: Using the right toothpaste can also make a difference when it comes to the effectiveness of your electric toothbrush. Look for a toothpaste that contains fluoride, which can help to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay.
Brush at the Right Time: It is also important to brush your teeth at the right time. Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. Brushing after meals can also be helpful, but be sure to wait at least 30 minutes after eating to avoid damaging your enamel.
Use Mouthwash: Using mouthwash can help to kill bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride for extra protection against tooth decay.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Finally, it is important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can help to identify any problems early on and provide you with tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
Electric toothbrushes can be a great tool for maintaining good oral hygiene, but only if used correctly. To get the most out of your electric toothbrush, be sure to brush for the recommended two minutes, use a light touch, replace the brush head regularly, use the right brush head for your needs, and clean the brush head properly after each use.
Abnormal tongue conditions can look alarming. Atrophic glossitis is one of these conditions. Luckily, with a dental professional on your side, they can put your mind at ease and get your tongue back to its normal self.
Spotting a Tongue Problem
Glossitis is a general term referring to all conditions that cause inflammation of the tongue. Atrophic glossitis occurs when the small doorknob-like projections on the tongue, called papillae, are worn away. The condition affects both the filiform and fungiform papillae, altering the color and texture of the tongue. This condition is also known as Hunter glossitis, Moeller glossitis, or Möller-Hunter glossitis.
Its symptoms typically include a glossy, shiny appearance on the dorsal surface of the tongue, sometimes with a bald or smooth area. The tongue may appear to have large polka dots. Burning of the tongue and discomfort may also result from glossitis.
What Causes Tongue Inflammation?
Glossitis can be caused by various irritants, such as:
Acidic beverages or foods
Spicy foods
An allergic reaction to food or medication
Vitamin or mineral deficiencies
Trauma to the mouth (like biting the tongue)
Other viral or systemic conditions
Often, glossitis can result from more than one of these conditions at a time, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. Additionally, glossitis can be hereditary and therefore have no defined cause.
Treatment
The management and treatment of atrophic glossitis involve eliminating the source of irritation, disease, trauma, or allergic reaction. As with any abnormal mouth condition, a prompt appointment with a dental professional is recommended for assessment and treatment options. In some cases, additional evaluation, testing and long-term monitoring of the condition may be necessary to rule out malignant lesions. Oral care specialists want to be certain all abnormal areas of the tongue are monitored, since some oral lesions can be early manifestations of systemic conditions.
Your dental provider is the best source for recommendations and referrals for addressing oral complications, so don't hesitate to make an appointment!
Tooth brushing seems simple, but not everyone does it the right way. You can make tooth brushing more effective if you take tooth brushing advice from your dentist in Long Beach CA. The following tips can help as well.
1. Choose the Right Brush
Gums and teeth are sensitive, and can be damaged or worn down by constant brushing from a hard-bristle tooth brush. Hard bristle brushes can contribute to gum recession, and may also wear down the enamel on your teeth over time. To avoid a problem, it’s important to choose a soft-bristle brush. When you use the tooth brush, use it gently.
2. Brush Your Tongue
Your tongue can harbor disease, just like other parts of your mouth. Brushing your teeth can help eliminate bacteria from your mouth. Doing this can reduce problems with bad breath, and can also keep your mouth cleaner overall.
When you brush your tongue, you may react by gagging at first, if you brush too far at the back of your tongue, or if you push too hard. Over time, you’ll get used to the sensation that you feel when you brush your tongue. You’ll notice a gag reflex less and less.
3. Use an Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are far more effective than most non-electric tooth brushes. You’ll get better results when brushing your teeth if you use an electric toothbrush. Electric tooth brushes are available for a range of prices, so if you’re on a budget, shop around. Get a recommendation from your dentist to find out which budget electric toothbrush is best for you.
4. Get Tips from Your Dentist
Next time you go to your dentist’s office, ask the dentist for tips about brushing your teeth. Your dentist can show you how to brush your teeth without doing damage to your gums or tooth enamel. If you brush your teeth in front of the dentist, your dentist can also show you what you can do to improve your tooth brushing procedure.
