As you dine at your favorite restaurant surrounded by some of your best friends, you're probably not thinking about how vital your jaw is to this special pastime. But from chewing (mastication), biting, and clenching to speaking and singing, your lateral pterygoid muscle, also called the external pterygoid muscle, plays a pivotal role in your jaw's essential functions. Learning about this muscle may be especially helpful if you are ever diagnosed with a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. While we all take our jaw's functions for granted, it's when it begins to hurt that we realize how essential it is for our daily needs. We're here to tell you more about the anatomy of your lateral pterygoid muscle, how it may contribute to TMJ pain, and how to find relief!
Anatomy of the External Pterygoid Muscle
Your lateral pterygoid is a small, thick muscle found on both sides of your skull, just below the temples. This muscle has two "heads" that originate from sections of the skull's sphenoid bone, which has several other projected muscles. Both of the heads of your lateral pterygoid attach to the mandibular condyle. This is where the lower jawbone and the temporomandibular joint meet.
While that description has many terminologies you probably are unfamiliar with, what's most important to understand is that your lateral pterygoid has the primary responsibility of opening the mouth. It is the strongest muscle involved in moving your jaw side to side and forward and back, enabling you to grind and chew food, speak, and sing!
Trigger Points and TMJ Complications
If you've ever felt discomfort when chewing or a sore sensation in your jaw muscles when you first wake up in the morning, you are not alone! The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that more than 10 million Americans experience some type of TMJ disorder, with more women experiencing it than men.
Think about how many times a day you open your mouth to talk or chew food. It's no wonder the lateral pterygoid is one of the most heavily used working muscles of your mouth! According to a review published in the Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, it can develop a trigger point. A trigger point can lead to lateral pterygoid muscle pain. Think of this trigger point as similar to a knot you get in your neck when you sleep in an odd position. It's uncomfortable and pretty persistent until you get it out. And the trigger point found in your lateral pterygoid can actually lead to discomfort and pain in your TMJ. This is because it's related to the TMJ and plays a crucial role in TMJ dysfunction.
Still, you're probably wondering the exact relationship between your pterygoid muscle pain and a potential TMJ dysfunction. The lateral pterygoid is one of the muscles that can play a role in any number of TMJ disorders. But TMJ conditions are complex, and sometimes it's difficult to determine the precise cause of the issue. As noted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, there are three main groupings of conditions that your TMJ disorder can fall into:
Arthritis. A group of degenerative or inflammatory disorders.
Myofascial pain. Discomfort in the surrounding muscles that are responsible for jaw function.
Internal derangement of the joint. It could involve a dislocated jaw, displaced disc, or injury to the condyle (which the lateral pterygoid attaches to).
Treatment for TMJ Problems
While there's a potential for TMJ problems to go away on their own, but here are some recommendations to help ease your symptoms:
Eat soft foods and avoid chewing gum.
Apply ice packs or heat packs to your face.
Take prescription or over-the-counter pain relief medications.
Wear a mouthguard.
Practice muscle relaxation exercises to reduce stress and lessen tension in your jaw muscles.
Try physical therapy.
You should always consult a medical or dental professional if your TMJ pain persists or if it's so severe that you're unable to open your jaw. They can help you determine your pain source, recommend one of the above ways to relieve your TMJ pain, or discuss other solutions with you.
While the show must go on - eating, talking, singing, and laughing - keep in mind that your lateral pterygoid muscle can get overworked like any other muscle! If you have persistent lateral pterygoid muscle pain symptoms, we always recommend seeing a dental or medical professional vs. deciding to tough it out on your own. Getting a clinical evaluation will empower you to make the best treatment plan. It may also help you understand the root cause of your pain. Since we rely on our jaw muscles for so many everyday activities, it's no fun when they become sore. But we believe that taking concrete action like mindful at-home practices and consulting a professional will put you on the best path towards pain relief!
If you have a bleeding mouth sore or pain that lingers for more than a couple of weeks, don’t ignore it.
“We see patients all the time who had an irritation around their tooth that ends up being squamous cell cancer, which may have been bothering them for up to a year,” says ear, nose and throat specialist Brian Burkey, MD, MEd.
Some oral cancers are not obvious to us as we look in a mirror and can even be hiding behind the teeth or under the tongue.
“The good news is that when picked up early, these cancers are highly, highly curable,” says Dr. Burkey. “Early detection is key.”
Seven symptoms to look out for
It’s important not to ignore these symptoms, which could signal medical problems or, in limited cases, oral cancer:
Nagging mouth pain.
Bleeding sore in the mouth that won’t heal and lasts for more than two weeks.
Swelling in the neck that lasts for more than two weeks.
An area in your mouth that becomes discolored and stays that way.
A lump or thickening in your cheek that doesn’t go away.
Numbness in your tongue or another part of your mouth.
Constant feeling of something caught in your throat or a change in your voice that lasts longer than two weeks.
While not an exhaustive list, these are symptoms that can slip under the radars of our busy lives.
“That’s why it’s important to notice when they don’t resolve,” says Dr. Burkey. “If symptoms last for more than two weeks, get them checked out by a doctor or dentist.”
Regular oral cancer screenings are crucial
Besides watching for any symptoms, it’s important to get regular oral cancer screenings to catch problems at their earliest stages. Here, Dr. Burkey explains what you need to know — and what to expect:
Who does the screenings? Your dentist is often your first line of defense when screening for oral cancer, but oral surgeons and ear, nose and throat specialists can also perform screenings.
How often do I need a screening? While there are no official recommendations for screenings, it’s important to get screenings during your usual dental checkups, twice a year.
Do I need to request a screening from my dentist or are they routine? Screenings are generally part of your normal dental exam, but ask your dentist to do one if they haven’t.
How long to screenings take? Oral cancer screenings take less than 10 minutes. Your doctor or dentist will perform a visual screening and feel the tongue looking for abnormal color and firm lesions. You also fill out an information form so that the doctor or dentist can pay close attention to any specific areas of concern.
Do the screenings hurt? No, they are generally painless.
How to reduce your risk
Here are ways to lower your risk of getting oral and head and neck cancers:
Quit tobacco. About 90% of people with oral cancer use tobacco (smoking or chewing), and their risk increases with the amount and length of time they use. Tobacco is most closely associated with ‘oral cavity’ cancer specifically, which affects the mouth, including lips, teeth and gums.
Take precautions against HPV. There is a dramatic rise in oropharyngeal cancer, or cancer in the tonsil and base of tongue associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV). You can’t see this area yourself, so finding it requires an exam from an ear, nose and throat physician. HPV is a sexually transmitted disease and is preventable with a vaccine and/or appropriate safe sex precautions, depending on one’s age.
Drink alcohol in moderation. Though less a risk factor than those above, alcohol use can also increase your risk of oral cancers.
Limit time in the sun. You want to protect your face to combat skin cancer, but in particular, don’t forget to protect your lips with sunscreen. They are often forgotten but they need protection too. If you work outside, try to avoid being in the midday sun. You should also wear a hat that shades your face whenever possible.
Good oral hygiene. Alongside getting your dental checkups twice a year, continue good oral hygiene at home by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Talk to your dentist about which mouth rinse they recommend, especially if you have mouth sores.
Incorporate a healthy diet. Keeping your teeth health go beyond just brushing. The American Dental Association recommends having a diet filled with plenty of water, vegetables, whole grains, fruits and lean protein. Make sure to avoid sugary treats and snacks to help keep harmful bacteria away.
Nearly nine in ten types of diseases can produce symptoms in your mouth. That puts Troy Family Dental in the St. Louis Metro East on the front line for spotting severe health conditions growing silently in your body. This is one reason it’s so essential to see the dentist at Troy Family Dental two times annually for dental cleanings and checkups.
Troy Family Dental your local family dentist services Troy, IL; Edwardsville, IL; Alton, IL; Glen Carbon, IL; Collinsville, IL; O’Fallon, IL; Belleville, IL; Fairview Heights, IL, and all St. Louis metro east towns.
Jaw pain described as an aching pain or throbbing. It can start off mild and start to get more intense. Recognizing the underlying issues is the initial step in treating jaw pain. Here are a few conditions to look out for.
When considering your teeth and gums at home, it’s also important to recognize new problems in your mouth. They can be warning signs of more dangerous conditions in your body. Signs to look out for cover:
Bleeding gums
Gum, tooth, or jaw pain
Random loose or teeth that have fallen out
Reappearing bad breath
Sores, unusual patches, or bumps in your mouth
If you see any of these signs, please call Troy Family Dental right away at 618-667-8020 and set up a consultation. Dr. Richard Boatman, ’17 topDentist™ and Dr. Jordan Spencer can diagnose precise dental issues that may be developing. Call us today!
Toothache Causes
Toothache Symptoms
Toothaches along with jaw pain are the most common types of dental complaints when visiting Troy Family Dental. There can be bad pain or sensitivity to hot and cold drinks, along with food. Once you have finished eating or drinking the pain may last for 15 seconds. The more inflammation, the more severe the pain may become. Pain may be present in the cheek or ear as well, along with the jaw. Here are additional signs and symptoms:
Hot or cold sensitivity
Swelling at tooth
Inflammation of the jaw
Pain while chewing
Bleeding or secretion from around a tooth or gums
Damage or injury to the area where the pain is occurring.
These signs and symptoms may also be associated with:
Dental decay
Gum disease
Periodontal disease
Tapping on the infected tooth may make the pain more severe. This may point to a problem even know the tooth may look good from naked eye.
Grinding of the Teeth
Grinding may cause damage to your teeth. Teeth grinding is one of the main jaw pain causes. Also known as clenching the teeth. People may grind their teeth when they are stressed, some grind their teeth while sleeping, they may not be aware of it. Grinding your teeth can likely lead to some major dental problems. Reducing stress or wearing a mouthguard at night is one way to prevent grinding.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis moves through the bloodstream attacking bones and surrounding tissues. It is an infection. When someone has osteomyelitis in the jaw, temporomandibular joint, known as TMJ. is affected. This may create jaw pain, possible fever, and inflammation. Osteomyelitis is treatable with antibiotics or surgery to extract the parts of the bone that have been contaminated.
TMJ Disorder
Temporomandibular disorder, also identified as TMD, affects the temporomandibular joint in the jaw. In addition to discomfort, this disorder can cause the jaw to produce a clicking noise when opening the mouth or chewing. In critical cases, the disorder can even cause the jaw to shift permanently adhered in an open or closed position.
Other Dental Conditions
Gum disease
Cavities
Abscessed tooth
cold sores
Although many of these concerns don’t directly affect the jaw, the pain can spread into the jaw area. Good home health care regimen and visiting Troy Family Dental on a bi-annual (twice a YEAR) regular basis can help eliminate or control any of these conditions.
Jaw and mouth pain is a sign of stress.
Troy Family Dental can help you find the source of jaw discomfort; many times these are treatable conditions such as a toothache, sinus issues, or gum disease.
Pain or discomfort in the jaw are also symptoms to having a heart attack. It is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. It could help save your life or that of a family member.
An Abscessed Tooth
The abscessed tooth, possible causes by a dental pulp or nerve that is infected. When the bacteria from an infection materializes in the root of the tooth, it may affect any neighboring bone tissues. This may cause significant jaw pain. Having regular bi-annual dental exams at Troy Family Dental along with treating any dental cavities immediately, is one of the best ways to take care of this issue.
Sore Gums and Bleeding Gums
Gums with pain or bleed may be because of gum disease that is getting worse. Gum disease is may be more severe with people who have diabetes. Gum disease places your gums at risk for redness and inflammation because of the bacteria in plaque.
Diabetes may also have other symptoms:
Fruity-smelling breath
Dry mouth
Oral fungal contaminations
Loose or Lost Teeth
If you have teeth that are moving or all of a sudden falling out these are signs of advanced gum disease. Tooth loss may be early signs of osteoporosis that weakens the bones and decreases the density of the bones.
Your smile is one of the best things about you! Start the new year right by kicking bad habits that affect your dental health. Don’t wait to visit your dentist until you have a serious concern. Instead, use your dental benefits regularly to maintain your healthy smile.
Good oral health starts with good dental habits. To prevent expensive and serious dental problems, learn about five common habits that affect your dental health and decide what you may need to change.
Limit your carbonated sodas.
Carbonated sodas contain sugars and acids that weaken tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Try switching out soda for a glass of water or drinking with a straw to eliminate the exposure to your teeth.
Stop using your teeth as a tool.
Using your teeth to open a bag and chewing on plastic can cause cracking and wear down the natural enamel that is used to protect your teeth. Use your hands, scissors, or another sharp object to open items.
Avoid biting your nails.
Fingernail biting can cause stress on your jaw, chip your teeth, and damage your tooth enamel. Trim your nails regularly and opt to chew gum when you get the urge to bite your nails. Or even swap this habit with a harmless fidget toy such as a stress ball.
Quit the tobacco.
Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco is one of the leading causes of gum disease. It creates an infection that can affect the bone structure that supports your teeth. Quit this bad habit to protect your health and save money on expensive dental care.
Don’t grind your teeth.
While you may not realize you grind your teeth – you may do it while you’re sleeping – it can cause serious damage. Grinding teeth can cause jaw pain and even lead to TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. If you suspect that you grind your teeth, talk with your provider about the best solutions to correct this habit.
While these are just a few of the bad habits that can lead to dental problems, there are many more out there that can cause severe conditions. Taking charge of your personal hygiene and oral health is a great way to start the new year.
Remember, your dentist is on your side. Don’t be afraid to talk with your dentist about any problems you have noticed and ask for help when it’s needed. Preventing bad habits now can save you time and money spent in your dentist’s office in the future.
Bad breath doesn't have to be a problem. There are many ways to combat it and still enjoy the foods you love. Here are some foods that can cause bad breath and our tips for freshening up after consuming them.
Bad breath doesn't have to be a problem. Some medical conditions will cause bad breath, so it's not always food or hygiene-related, but many times it is best to be aware of the food you eat that may impact your breath. There are many ways to combat it and still enjoy the foods you love. Here are some foods that can cause bad breath and our tips for freshening up after consuming them.
Why Do Some Foods Cause Bad Breath?
All foods can impact your breath. When we eat, food debris can stick to our teeth and tongue, providing a nice meal for the bacteria in our mouth. When bacteria feed on food, especially carbohydrates, they produce acids that give off an odor. On top of mouth bacteria, strong-smelling foods also can cause bad breath when they enter the bloodstream. But, you don't have to avoid flavorful foods because they affect your breath. There are products you can use and habits you can adopt to freshen your breath after a meal.
Garlic, Onions, and Spicy Foods
Lots of spicy foods, including chiles, peppers, and spices, can give you bad breath. Garlic and onions also can stick around long after you finish the meal. When you digest garlic and onions, their chemicals enter your bloodstream, travel to your lungs, and you breathe them out!
Tip: Promptly chew sugar-free gum or brush your teeth after eating spicy or aromatic meals to help treat bad breath while eating the foods you love.
Coffee and Alcoholic Beverages
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, caffeinated and alcoholic beverages can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth does happen while we sleep, leading to "morning breath." But when you consume drinks that dry out your mouth, you can have morning breath any time of the day.
Tip: Make it a habit to drink water before and after enjoying caffeinated or alcoholic beverages to help reduce dry mouth and freshen breath.
Tuna and Other Fish
Tuna and other fish are filling, high in protein, and delicious! However, tuna and other canned fish have a specific "fishy" odor. According to the American Society of Nutrition, trimethylamine (TMA) causes this odor that can stick around long after your meal.
Tip: Splash lemon or vinegar onto fish before eating. Acidic ingredients can help TMA bind to water, reducing its potency. Or, chew some sugar-free gum and brushing your teeth after eating may also help with the odor.
How to Fight Bad Breath
Remember, a proper oral care routine can help your breath smell fresh, even if you indulge in these aromatic foods and beverages. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day or after meals will help remove food debris and bacteria. Cleaning between your teeth with floss, water flossers, or interdental brushes and rinsing with a mouthwash or antiseptic mouthrinse also help ensure you have fresh breath. Further, you can eat foods that fight bad breath. According to the University of Michigan, eating a low-fat diet with lots of fruits and vegetables can help you breathe easy.
Mouth ulcers are not uncommon and can result from many benign causes. However, in some instances, they may be a sign of a serious underlying disease or issue. This article will review several causes of mouth sores and other causes of oral discomfort.
We use our mouths constantly, so getting ulcers or lesions in your mouth can be the worst! Mouth ulcers are not uncommon and can result from many benign causes. However, in some instances, they may be a sign of a serious underlying disease or issue. If the roof of your mouth is sore, or you have other sores or lesions in your mouth, you may have one of these conditions:
1. Burns
Painful bumps on the roof of your mouth are sometimes just a burn or injury resulting from eating too spicy or hot foods. This phenomenon is known as "pizza palate," because fresh, hot slices of pizza are a common cause of irritation to this part of the mouth. However, pizza isn't the only food that can burn the roof of your mouth; any hot food and hot drinks, such as coffee or tea, can lead to similar burns.
A burned palate usually heals by itself within three to seven days. To ease your discomfort in the meantime, stick to soft foods and cold drinks. If the pain is severe, your dentist might recommend using a mouth rinse to ease your discomfort while your mouth heals. Mouth rinse options include warm salt water rinses or over-the-counter or prescription rinses. If the area is still sore after seven days, don't hesitate to see your dentist.
2. Canker Sores
Canker sores often develop on the inside of your cheeks and tongue but don't be surprised to feel them on the roof of your mouth. While the causes or etiology of canker sores are often unknown, there are some known triggers. These include stress, hormonal changes, immune or nutritional deficiencies or physical trauma. There are different variations of canker sores, such as:
Minor aphthous ulcers. These are the most common type of canker sores. These lesions are small and are usually smaller than 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) in diameter. They heal within a week or two, and they typically don't cause any scarring, reports the Mayo Clinic.
Major aphthous ulcers. These are a more severe type of canker sore, but fortunately, they're not as common as the minor variety. The sores are usually larger than 1 centimeter in diameter. In addition to being wider, they can also be deeper than minor canker sores. Major sores can be very painful. When they heal, which can take six weeks or more, they can leave behind extensive scars.
Herpetiform ulcers. These uncommon ulcers affect very few people with canker sores. Despite their name, the herpes virus does not cause them. These sores consist of clusters of anywhere between 10 and 100 sores, and these clusters of small lesions can sometimes merge into one large ulcer. Despite this, they usually heal in about a week, and they don't cause scarring.
Generally, the average person will get one to three canker sores per episode, but depending on which category you fall into, you may develop ten or more sores at one time. Unless you are dealing with the major aphthous ulcer, these often recurring sores usually hurt for a little over a week and may last for 7-10 days. If you have sores that are still present after two weeks, you should see your dentist or physician to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatment to help you feel better or, in some cases, lessen the severity or duration of the ulcers. In severe cases, your physician may recommend a steroid prescription to reduce the inflammation or a prescription for a topical anesthetic such as lidocaine to reduce pain. While you wait for your mouth to heal, you may benefit from eating bland foods to avoid irritating your sores.
3. Cold Sores
Sores in your mouth — particularly those that don't resolve right away — might ultimately be cold sores. Cold sores are common. They are chronic ulcers caused by the herpes simplex virus found on the lips and hard palate. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, these sores present themselves as painful, fluid-filled blisters; the blisters later rupture and crust over as less-painful lesions.
Cold sores usually become crustier within four days from initial appearance and will heal completely after eight to 10 days. Avoid touching or picking at them, just as you would for any scab. Before the scabbing phase, these lesions are highly contagious. The virus remains latent (hidden) in your body and may activate when stressed, if you have hormonal changes, are in the sun or wind or if you experience trauma. If the sores don't go away by themselves, as you know, your physician or dentist is happy to help.
Mouth ulcers are not uncommon and can result from many benign causes. However, in some instances, they may be a sign of a serious underlying disease or issue. This article will review several causes of mouth sores and other causes of oral discomfort.
4. Oral Cancer
Although the majority of mouth sores are harmless, not all of them are best left alone. According to the American Dental Association, there are two categories of oral cancer- those occurring in and around the mouth and those related more to the throat area (oropharynx). You need to see your dentist or physician as soon as you can for an evaluation if you have a sore on the roof of your mouth that hasn't healed after two weeks. Oral cancer is most treatable when caught early, so it's crucial to immediately bring suspicious sores to your dentist's attention.
What are some other associated conditions that may cause mouth sores?
Some systemic health conditions may cause a higher instance of canker sores. Your doctor or dentist can let you know about possible connections between canker sores and your other health conditions.
The group of digestive problems known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with aphthous ulcers. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause inflammation in the digestive tract, can also result in mouth sores. The gastrointestinal effects of celiac disease make it another one of the many conditions associated with canker sores. People with celiac disease have a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and other grains. Their inability to absorb this protein may be what causes oral problems.
Diseases that attack the immune system often cause aphthous ulcers, as well. People living with HIV often develop canker sores and other oral health problems as a result of being immunocompromised. The difficulty of eating and talking that ulcers can cause can make it difficult to take medication and stay well-nourished.
Lupus and Behcet's disease are also conditions linked to canker sores. This rare autoimmune disease causes inflammation throughout the body, and the mouth can be affected, too.
How Can I Treat a Sore Spot?
Most mouth sores will heal on their own over time. However, while your mouth is healing, there are a few things you can do to ease the pain and prevent further irritation. According to the American Dental Association, saltwater or baking soda rinses can relieve your discomfort. There are also over-the-counter topical anesthetics to provide relief. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe an antiviral drug.
What are Other Ways to Help Healing?
There are a few canker and cold sore home remedy tips may help ease the discomfort during the healing process.
While your canker or cold sores are healing, try to avoid any foods or drinks that could further irritate them. Some of the foods, drinks and other things to consider avoiding are:
Crunchy foods, like chips or toast
Acidic fruits, like citrus or tomatoes
Salty crackers or pretzels
Spicy foods or hot peppers
Very hot drinks, like tea or coffee
Alcohol
Tobacco products
While many foods can irritate mouth sores, don't worry — there's still plenty you can eat! Instead of irritating foods, opt for soft, bland foods. Yogurt, mashed potatoes and pudding are just a few examples. Your dentist or doctor may be able to recommend other suitable foods to eat during this time.
Dietary changes aren't the only way to ease the discomfort associated with these ulcers. Ice is another easy home remedy to try when you have painful mouth sores. The Mayo Clinic recommends letting ice chips slowly melt against the lesions to help relieve pain and swelling.
If you suffer from recurrent canker sores, try to identify your triggers for mouth sores, such as acidic foods or stress, so you can better prevent them.
If you have sores inside your mouth, don't assume the worst. Just take it easy and avoid irritating them. Most sores go away on their own, but if any oral related sores do not heal within two weeks, go ahead and see your dentist or physician. Sometimes mouth sores are asymptomatic, so regular checkups, including a head and neck exam, is an essential preventive measure to keep you healthy.
Mouth ulcers are not uncommon and can result from many benign causes. However, in some instances, they may be a sign of a serious underlying disease or issue. This article will review several causes of mouth sores and other causes of oral discomfort.
Brushing your teeth and flossing twice a day is excellent for optimal oral health. But what about your tongue? Cleaning your tongue thoroughly as part of your regular dental routine can leave you feeling even more refreshed. Discover how cleaning your tongue can improve your breath and gain tips on simple tongue cleaning techniques.
Why Should You Clean Your Tongue?
Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria. While daily brushing and flossing is a great way to clean your teeth and improve your mouth's overall health, it doesn't remove the bacteria that collects on your tongue. This bacteria can produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), leading to bad breath, also associated with certain health issues.
How to Clean Your Tongue
The easiest way to clean your tongue is with a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue scraper. A tongue scraper is soft, with flexible plastic that gently peels away the thin layer of debris and mucus-like coating from your tongue.
How to Clean Your Tongue with a Tongue Scraper
A tongue scraper can be used to clean your tongue either before or after you brush your teeth. Your tongue is sensitive, so it's essential to be gentle and not press the cleaner too forcefully.
Follow these tips for cleaning your tongue easily and quickly:
Place the scraper at the back of the tongue and pull the tool forward to the front of your tongue.
Move the scraper across your tongue multiple times at different angles.
Remove the excess food or debris from your tongue by rinsing your mouth with water.
Remove or rinse the tongue scraper each time you use it to keep it sanitary and clean.
How to Brush your Tongue
Put a small amount of toothpaste on your toothbrush.
Start at the back of your tongue and brush your way forward.
Use gentle but firm pressure in back-and-forth motions, just like brushing your teeth.
After cleaning your tongue, whether with a toothbrush or scraper, use a mouth rinse. Then, rinse the scraper or toothbrush with water. How do you check your tongue cleaning technique? You'll know when you're done cleaning your tongue because all that discolored debris disappears, leaving your tongue clean, pink, and refreshed.
How Often Should I Clean My Tongue?
Bacteria grow fast. The best way to reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth is to clean your tongue twice daily after brushing your teeth. Removing that debris from your tongue before bedtime can also help reduce bad morning breath and get rid of it when you wake up.
Making a habit of cleaning your entire mouth, including your tongue, will keep your breath fresh and keep your mouth healthy. It helps avoid bad breath and makes for a great oral health experience.
Sound dental health is very important for an individual but the busy schedule is often responsible for the negligence of the people that do not let people book an appointment with a dentist and get their regular dental checkup done. A routine dental checkup plays a vital role in keeping the teeth and gums healthy. Not only is it a great way to upkeep your oral health but having your teeth examined by a professional can avoid future complications. Note that the earlier a tooth issue is detected, the easier it is for the patient to recover from it. You should always know about the emergency dental clinic in your area.
Take Care of the Tooth
According to several surveys, gum disease is one of the prime causes of adult tooth loss. More than fifty percent of people, who are above 30, suffer from gum disease, while the percentage of people experiencing periodontal issues increased to 70% after the age of 65 years. The periodontal condition strikes when the gums are infected. These infected gums target your tooth bones. Eventually, bone loss results in tooth loss. Hence, one should see a dentist as soon as one notices swollen, red, or inflamed gums.
Keep Your Teeth White, Bright and Healthy
One doesn’t need to compromise your smile because of the causal stain problems. A regular dental checkup is the best way to get away from unnecessary tooth stains caused by coffee, tobacco, drinks, fruit juices, pizzas, sandwiches, and other favorite munchies. The primary tooth-cleaning process does just fine to help you get rid of yellowish teeth. That’s how; one can ensure a bright, white, and beautiful smile.
Keep a Sound Oral Health
If one is of an opinion that oral health has no impact on the overall health, he /she is on the wrong path. Recent studies tell that the majority of the people who undergo regular dental health checkups had to invest a considerably lower amount of money on their overall health issues than folks who took their gum and tooth problems for granted. A famous study suggests regular tooth checkup help women reduce the risk of heart strokes and attack by 33 percent.
What’s more? Have you heard of oral cancer? In today’s era where a large number of people embrace tobacco consumption and cigarette smoking, oral cancer is increasing day by day. Dental checkup involves the overall analysis of your teeth, and thus, the dentists also examine the cancer-related signs. Note that the sooner you detect oral cancer, the easier it is to recover from it. On the other hand, it can turn out to be a life-threatening disease if remained untreated for long. This way, you can ensure a healthy life by keeping your tooth in a healthy state.
Foul Breath Issues
Nothing can be more frustrating than having bad breath issues. But the good news is bad breath can be prevented. Bad breath is mainly caused due to tartar and calculus buildup. Though it isn’t a warning sign of a severe condition of most of the cases, you must visit a dental clinic regularly to maintain your overall health and keep bad breath at bay. The clear your mouth is, the fresher and happier you feel.
The Last Check-Up
A regular dental checkup is, therefore, highly recommended. Not only it helps you to get a brighter smile, but it can save you thousands of dollars by diagnosing the severe medical condition at the earliest possible stage. Hence, don’t put off your dental checkup. Book an appointment with your dentist immediately and fight off bad breath, plaque, yellow teeth, tooth decay, inflamed gums, and other oral issues.
Denture stomatitis is a very common condition. So much so that it is not unusual for patients to have it without even realizing it. In fact, patients are often taken by surprise when a dental professional talks to them about having denture stomatitis during a routine oral exam.
Since many patients are completely asymptomatic, they fail to understand the importance of changing their routine even after diagnosis. Read on to learn about the causes of denture stomatitis and more.
What Is Denture Stomatitis?
Denture stomatitis is characterized by inflamed, puffy, red tissue that follows the outline of a denture or other dental appliance that rests against the oral mucosa. Sometimes the swollen tissue is accompanied by pin-points of bleeding. Fortunately, denture stomatitis is not life-threatening or a condition that can be passed onto others.
Is Denture Stomatitis a Fungal Infection?
Denture-induced stomatitis is the result of a yeast infection caused by the fungus Candida albicans, an opportunistic fungal pathogen found as part of the normal microflora in the human digestive tract.
This variety is one of approximately 200 different species of Candida. Candida albicans account for up to 75% of all Candida infections. It is the same fungus that also causes thrush.
Is Denture-Induced Stomatitis a Bacterial Infection?
Not exactly. It’s an overgrowth of yeast that thrives in the same environment along with many strains of bacteria. Dentures provide a warm, moist, dark reservoir that acts as a petri dish for the proliferation of both fungus and bacteria. Left unchecked, overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the mouth can lead to other oral conditions.
What Does Denture-Induced Stomatitis Look Like?
Here is an example of denture stomatitis caused by a partial denture. Notice the fiery-red outline of the partial on the patient’s palatal tissue.
How Common Is Denture Stomatitis?
Candida is present in everyone’s mouth, and it usually causes no problems. However, it’s the overpopulation of Candida in the mouth that actually causes the symptoms of denture stomatitis.
Epidemiological studies report the prevalence of denture stomatitis among denture wearers ranges anywhere from 15% to over 70%, depending upon the age of study participants. Elderly patients and nursing home patients tend to have a higher incidence of the condition.
Who Can Get Denture Stomatitis?
Anyone who wears dentures, partials, or orthodontic retainers where a portion of the oral tissue spends the majority of the time covered by the dental appliance can experience denture-induced stomatitis.
Patients with underlying health issues such as medication-induced dry mouth, diabetes, or immune suppression (i.e., cancer patients) have an increased susceptibility to opportunistic fungal overgrowth.
What Are the Causes of Denture Stomatitis?
Candida species seem to have a particular binding affinity to the rough acrylic surfaces of dentures. In addition, dentures that don’t fit properly can cause trauma that damages the tissue, making it more prone to infection.
Poor hygiene –– not removing all of the bacteria and debris formed on denture and tissue surfaces with daily brushing –– allows the normal fungus to multiply and get out of control. Finally, wearing dentures 24/7 dramatically increases the risk of contracting denture stomatitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Denture Stomatitis?
Aside from the red outline of the dental appliance, nearly 30% of all patients with denture stomatitis experience no symptoms at all. Of the remaining patients, 20% to 70% of them may notice bad breath, slight bleeding and swelling in the area involved, a burning sensation, dry mouth, or altered taste sensations in addition to the red outline.
How Is Denture Stomatitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical appearance. The patient has denture stomatitis when the pattern of redness and swelling closely resembles the shape of the dental appliance in contact with the tissue. It occurs more frequently on the palate.
Further confirmation is usually not necessary. However, a definitive diagnosis may be obtained via microbiological swabs taken from the patient’s palate or the tissue side of the denture. Specimens will test positive for the presence of yeasts with Candida albicans being the most common yeast present.
How Is Denture Stomatitis Treated?
Primary denture stomatitis treatment involves the removal of dentures while sleeping and thorough cleaning of the dental appliances using a mechanical means to completely eliminate plaque and debris build-up.
For long-standing cases of denture stomatitis, the dentist may prescribe topical antifungal medications to apply to the denture-fitting surface and the oral mucosa. Oral antifungals can offer temporary relief of symptoms and reduce fungal count, providing an environment for the tissue to heal.
Are There Early Signs of Denture-Related Stomatitis?
Usually, the first sign of denture stomatitis is tissue redness in the shape of the denture. Since most patients don’t look inside of their mouths that closely every day, it usually goes undetected until a dental professional mentions it or actual symptoms occur.
Prevention of Denture Stomatitis
The best way to prevent denture stomatitis is to make removing your dentures before you go to sleep a habit. Your oral mucosa needs to be exposed to the air and to saliva that helps wash away bacteria and reduces the number of normal fungi present in your mouth.
Your dentures are a breeding ground for microorganisms and must be cleaned daily. The best way to accomplish this is to use a soft-bristle denture brush with liquid soap or a paste made especially for cleaning dentures to mechanically remove plaque and film that can lead to stomatitis.
Relying on soaking dentures in a cleansing solution alone doesn’t generate the agitation necessary to break up and wash away all of the debris hiding in the nooks and crannies of acrylic dentures.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums that results from a buildup of bacteria and plaque. This causes the gums to be inflamed and easily bleed. If you notice bleeding when you brush, it could be an early sign that you’re experiencing gingivitis. If you let gingivitis symptoms go untreated, the disease can develop into periodontitis, leading to the breakdown of tissue around your teeth as well as the possible loss of teeth.
Bad breath is also a sign that there is a buildup of bacteria and therefore a large number of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), or bad breath causing sulfur gas. Volatile Sulfur Compounds break down soft tissue, like gums, and put additional stress on your oral health and healing. If you notice ongoing bad breath, it could be a red flag that gingivitis has started settling in your gums.
What causes gingivitis?
The main cause of gingivitis is not following good dental care habits. If you aren’t brushing at least twice a day and not flossing on a daily basis, you aren’t maintaining your teeth or your gums.
Gingivitis can also result from:
Hormonal changes
Certain medications
Family history of oral health issues
Smoking or using chewing tobacco
Pregnancy
Seeing your dentist for regular checkups can actually help prevent and reverse the early stages of gingivitis.
Signs of gingivitis
Take a close look at your mouth in a mirror. Healthy gums should be firm, pale pink in color and tightly surrounding your teeth.
Signs of possible gingivitis include:
Tender gums
Puffy or swollen gums
Gaps between teeth and gums or loose teeth
Gums that are a darker shade of red
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
Ongoing bad taste or bad breath
Not treating your symptoms can lead to more serious health issues. For most people, subgingival bacteria levels are manageable with a return to healthy oral habits. However, if someone already has a weakened immune system, it can quickly get much more challenging to handle and reverse. Gingivitis can also cause problems for people who are diabetic.
Gingivitis can develop into periodontitis
When gingivitis progresses, it becomes gum disease that spreads to underlying tissue and bone. This is known as periodontitis. As the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, pockets begin to form and then continue to deepen. This is what can eventually cause tooth loss.
How far along the periodontitis has progressed will determine if a deep cleaning or a more specialized treatment is needed. In some cases, surgery may be required. Your dentist can help you with treatment options.
Bad breath is an early sign of gingivitis
If you’re still wondering, “Does gingivitis cause bad breath?” — a telltale sign of gingivitis is having continuous bad breath. If you aren’t brushing and flossing daily, the oral bacteria that live in your mouth will feed on the protein stuck in your teeth and gums. The direct result of this is sulfur gas, or volatile sulfur compounds, which is stinky breath when it’s exhaled.
If you make your dental care a daily priority and schedule regular appointments with your dentist, you can help keep gingivitis and bad breath out of your mouth. Using a mouthwash that is clinically formulated, like SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse, is another way to protect your teeth and gums. This zinc ion activated rinse is good for lessening existing gingivitis and helping to prevent future gingivitis and bleeding gums.
