Not all oral health problems cause symptoms. This is why it is important that you visit a dentist twice a year because these experts can spot serious conditions that are silently developing in the body. At home, when taking care of your teeth and gums, it is essential to watch for new problems in the mouth. If you notice any of the signs below, immediately see your dentist so they can diagnose specific health issues or refer you to another health care professional for treatment or further evaluation.
Mouth and Jaw Pain Mouth and jaw pain are usually a sign of stress, mostly accompanied with other symptoms like cold sores. Stress contributes to various mental and physical disorders. Your dentist can help determine the source of your jaw discomfort, which is caused by something treatable most of the time, like gum disease, sinus problems and toothache. Sore and Bleeding Gums Aching or bleeding gums can be caused by gum disease that has gone progressively worse. Gum disease is usually more severe among people with underlying conditions like diabetes that reduces the resistance of infection of the body. This places the gums at a high risk for inflammation because of the bacteria in the plaque. Loose or Lost Teeth Moving or falling teeth can be a sign of advanced gum disease. Lost teeth can also be an early sign of osteoporosis. Studies have shown a link between bone loss in the jaw and osteoporosis. This is common among the elderly, where tooth loss happens because of osteoporosis affecting the jaw. Osteoporosis can go undiagnosed until you break or fracture a bone. Tooth Changes Eroded or translucent tooth enamel and other changes in the tooth surfaces and enamel are usually signs of an acid reflux problem or an eating disorder. Excessive vomiting, which is mostly common among people with bulimia can lead to oral health problems like dry mouth, tooth enamel loss, swollen salivary glands, dry and cracked lips and sensitive teeth. Bad Breath Bad breath or halitosis can be caused by dry mouth, or the food items consumed. However, gingivitis and gum disease can also contribute to recurring bad breath. Persistent halitosis can result from underlying health problems that require immediate medical care such as diabetes, kidney or liver disease, chronic lung infection, sinus infection and gastrointestinal problems. Mouth Sores, Lumps and Patches Unusual sores or patches in the mouth can be a sign of something benign. However, it helps to still see a dentist to be sure because it might be something more serious. Oral cancer usually starts as a spot or sore in the mouth, usually among cigarette and tobacco smokers. It should not be diagnosed at home. If you see any unusual signs, see your dentist immediately. Although most oral health problems can be resolved and cured, it helps to always be on the cautious side and see a health care professional if we see or feel something unusual with our teeth, gums and mouth. This way, you can rest easy knowing that you are not developing any serious health problem. You Can Also Read More Article Visit Here.. D. Dental Blog- Read latest /Updated Articles
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A bright and dazzling smile is a dream of everyone. The good news is that this is very much achievable, thanks to the booming business of teeth whitening. From in-office bleaching treatments to over-the-counter do-it-yourself whitening products, you now have numerous options to brighten up your darkened or stained teeth.
Generally, teeth whitening is safe. For as long as you do not use tooth bleaching products more often than what is recommended on the label, you should have nothing to worry about. However, numerous research has shown that these products wear away small amounts of tooth enamel over time, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and even tooth decay. The active ingredient in teeth whitening products is carbamide peroxide that breaks down into hydrogen peroxide in the mouth. It does not increase your risk for oral cancer – which is something that was initially of concern to many people – but it does make the teeth more sensitive for up to 78 percent of people who had their teeth whitened. Hydrogen peroxide soaks from the protective outer enamel coating into the softer dentin layer underneath, irritating the nerves in the dental pulp at the tooth’s core. Microscopic leaks and cracks along dental fillings increase your chances of acquiring tooth sensitivity. About half of people using whitening trays experience some gum irritation, although this is temporary. Although tooth whitening is considered to be generally harmless, you might still experience some side effects from the treatment – whether you get the procedure done at home with a DIY kit or on the dentist’s chair. It helps to know what these common side effects are so you will know what to expect after the procedure and how to work around it accordingly. · Tooth sensitivity. Following teeth whitening, you might notice that your teeth have become more sensitive. You are bound to experience this during your first or second session, but rest assured that this will diminish with time. Your dentist might recommend that you treat this sensitivity with products that contain sodium fluoride and potassium nitrate. · Gum irritation. You should also expect some amount of gingival irritation, which happens when your gums become irritated. Gum irritation is a result of contact with the whitening product and should go away after a few treatments. In the meantime, try to go easy with your mouth first, and avoid taking in too cold or too hot beverages. Remember that you cannot whiten your teeth on a permanent basis. You will have to seek tooth whitening treatments every so often for both intrinsic and extrinsic discoloration. Take note that these products are used for natural teeth. Talk to your dentist on ways to unify the color of your teeth if you have dentures, bridges, crowns or implants. It is also important to keep in mind that keeping your pearly whites in their brightest will require touch-ups for a more prolonged effect. Those who are pregnant or nursing are advised by experts to avoid tooth whitening altogether because a swallowed whitening chemicals can have a potential impact on the developing fetus or the breastfeeding baby. You Can Also Read More Article here.. D. Dental Blog Invisalign is growing in popularity as an option for orthodontic treatment. Unlike conventional braces, the Invisalign aligners are clear and almost invisible, making them a good choice for patients with aesthetic concerns. Also, the aligners can be removed during meals, making both eating and clean-up less of a hassle. But here’s one question that is mostly asked about Invisalign: how long does it take to straighten teeth?
The simple answer is that it varies. Typically, it takes Invisalign anywhere between 12 and 18 months to straighten your teeth. For simple cases, the treatment time can go for as short as six months. In complex cases like crowded teeth, the treatment time can be as long as 24 months or longer. Crowding areas can be too severe for Invisalign to handle so orthodontists might recommend traditional braces combined with other orthodontic treatment methods. It is important to note that no two people have the same orthodontic treatment requirements; everyone’s teeth are slightly different which affects treatment time. Because every case is different, it is up to the orthodontist to advise on your specific requirements and estimate on the length of the treatment. The main factors that affect how long treatment with Invisalign will take include the following. · The distance your teeth has to move to get the desired outcome; the greater the distance, the longer the treatment · The pace of the teeth movement, which differs from one person to another; the slower the pace, the longer the treatment · The complexity of the case; the more complicated the case, the longer the treatment · The compliance of the patient to wearing the aligners for the required 22 hours every day; the less compliant the patient, the longer the treatment During your initial consultation, your orthodontist will give you an estimate on how long the orthodontic treatment will take. They will come up with a special treatment plan that includes the recommended treatments, estimated treatment time and the treatment cost. For as long as you wear your Invisalign aligners as directed, your orthodontic treatment should be close to the estimate of your doctor. Invisalign is an appealing because the clear aligners are virtually invisible. A person will have to start close to see that you are wearing aligners; they are practically undetectable in photos or from a distance. Another major advantage if Invisalign is you do not need to have diet alterations. Traditional braces prevent you from eating hard and sticky foods as they can break the wire or bracket. Just make sure that you take out the aligners before eating. Despite all these advantages and benefits, it is important to realize that Invisalign might not give the same final result as braces. It is a great option for some people; however, every case it unique so look into all your options first to determine the best treatment for your specific case. To do so, visit an experienced orthodontist or dentist to get all the information that you need before moving on with the treatment. You Can also Read More Article here D.Dental Blog Oral health goes beyond the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. The mouth is the main entryway into the body, so bad teeth can have negative effects on your whole body. Bacteria from the mouth can make its way to the bloodstream and cause inflammation and infection everywhere. Here are some of the most common health problems that can be caused by bad teeth.
· Cancer. Poor oral health practices like smoking and using tobacco products can lead to throat and oral cancers, but other kinds of cancer have also been linked to gum disease. People with bad teeth have a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer and blood cancers. · Cardiovascular disease. The same bacteria that cause periodontal disease (inflammation of the gums) can cause arteries to build up plaque and harden. This leads to atherosclerosis, which causes heart blockages and blood flow problems, increasing the likelihood of hypertension, stroke and heart attack. · Dementia. Substances released from infected gums can kill brain cells and result to memory loss. Studies have shown that dementia and even Alzheimer’s disease can be caused by gingivitis. This happens when bacteria from the mouth spreads to the nerve channels and gets into the bloodstream. · Diabetes. Diabetics are already more prone to infection but periodontal disease can make diabetes harder to control. Gum disease can cause blood sugar levels to go haywire, leading to the worsening of symptoms. People with bad teeth are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. · Erectile dysfunction. Chronic periodontal disease is an infection where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that allow bacteria to spread to the bone around the teeth. It is related with erectile dysfunction. This inflammation blocks the flow of the blood to the genitals so erections are more difficult. · Kidney disease. People suffering from gum disease usually have weaker immune systems, making them more likely to get infections. Those suffering from poor oral health usually suffer from kidney disease as well, which can be fatal when it leads to cardiovascular disease or kidney failure. · Infertility. Gum disease can lead to numerous health issues that can make it harder for women to conceive and sustain a healthy, normal pregnancy. A woman with bad teeth might find it significantly harder to get pregnant compared to someone who has good dental health. · Pregnancy complications. Pregnancy causes hormonal changes in the body that causes a pregnant woman to develop oral infections more easily, increasing her risk of suffering pregnancy complications. Oral health problems like gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to low birth weight and premature birth. · Respiratory infections. Bacteria from swollen gums and infected teeth can be breathed right into the lungs or get there via the bloodstream. From there, the bacteria can start to infect the respiratory system, leading to the development of diseases like pneumonia, acute bronchitis and COPD. Prevent these health issues by practicing good oral hygiene, including regularly visiting your dentist for routine checkup and cleaning. Keep in mind that oral health is an indicator of overall health. Preventing oral problems like periodontal disease and gingivitis can greatly help decrease your risk of developing serious health problems. You can Also Read Our article Here D. Dental Blog Have you experienced pain or discomfort in your teeth? Do you use whitening strips? You might be experiencing teeth whitening sensitivity. While getting those pearly whites will greatly help boost your confidence and improve your overall well-being, you might find yourself questioning if all of these is worth the pain. But if you experience discomfort, know that it will not cause any permanent damage. Also, this uncomfortable experience usually doesn’t last long.
If you notice continued tooth sensitivity, it is best that you consult a dental professional. But before you swear off getting that Hollywood smile because you’re afraid of teeth whitening sensitivity, you should know that there are certain whitening products made for every kind of tooth whitening need and want. Causes of Teeth Whitening Sensitivity Most over the counter and professional teeth whitening products have hydrogen peroxide as its active ingredient. Some people can have teeth that are sensitive to peroxide. During the whitening procedure, your teeth might start to ache, and you’ll feel discomfort when eating or drinking hot or cold products. This side effect is usually short-term, though, and will go away after some time. Avoiding Teeth Whitening Sensitivity · Stay away from extreme temperatures. Even mild products can cause sensitivity to some people. One way to minimize discomfort is to consume room temperature food and beverages after whitening. Extreme hot or cold food items can cause pain. · Look for products with shorter application times and lower peroxide levels. Generally, if you have sensitive teeth, go with products with at most 6 percent peroxide level and application times that only require a few minutes. Relief from Teeth Whitening Sensitivity Teeth and gums sensitivity is mostly temporary and will stop after the bleaching treatment. The frequency and severity of tooth sensitivity, however, can be affected by several factors, including the quality of the bleaching product, the technique used, and your unique response to these products and methods. Below are a few tips and techniques that can help you combat teeth sensitivity. · Avoid excessively using at-home bleaching treatments · Avoid teeth whitening for an extended period · Brush your teeth gently using a soft-bristled brush with lukewarm water · Change your diet and avoid cold or hot foods a few days after bleaching · Get varnish or any desensitizing treatment applied in the dental office · Increase the time between individual whitening treatments · Reduce the amount of time your teeth get in touch with the strips · Use a lower concentration of the whitening strips · Use a prescribed toothpaste or gel for teeth sensitivity · Use bleaching products that have desensitizing agents · Use desensitizing agents before and after whitening If you experience teeth sensitivity from using whitening strips, you might want to talk with your dentist about the other options available for you. If you’re trying out a teeth bleaching product and you experience painful sensitivity, immediately stop using it and visit a dental professional. Based on your experience, they can help you pick the right product that fits your unique whitening needs. You Can Also Read Our Blog Article here D. Dental Blog Teeth brushing is the foundation of good oral care, and is very essential in preventing dental problems. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can effective at removing plaque that causes disease and decay. For as long as you use those that have the Seal of Acceptance of the American Dental Association (ADA), any toothbrush is safe and effective. But is one of them better than the other? Read on and find out.
Electric Toothbrush The bristles of an electric toothbrush rotate or vibrate to help remove plaque buildup from the teeth and gums. This vibration allows for micromovements each time you move the toothbrush across your teeth. Pros of an Electric Toothbrush · More effective. Studies have shown that electric toothbrushes generally decrease more gingivitis and plaque compared to manual brushes. After three months of use, gingivitis is reduced by 11 percent, while plaque is reduced by 21 percent. · Easy to use. Because electric toothbrushes do most of the work, they are helpful for people with mobility problems like arthritis, carpal tunnel, and developmental disabilities. · Come with built-in timers. This feature helps you brush your teeth long enough for it to effectively remove plaque from your teeth and gums. · Can cause less waste. If you need a new toothbrush, you only need to replace an electric toothbrush’s head. This makes it less wasteful than throwing away a manual toothbrush. · Helpful for people with orthodontic appliances. Electric toothbrushes are helpful for people with braces and other orthodontic appliances because it makes brushing easier. · Fun for kids. Not all children are interested in brushing their teeth. An electric toothbrush has shown to be more engaging to a child, helping them accomplish and set good oral cleaning habits. · Safe for gums. When used properly, an electric toothbrush will not hurt your enamel or gums and instead promote good overall oral health. Cons of an Electric Toothbrush Electric toothbrushes are more costly compared to manual brushes. Also, finding the right replacement brush heads is not always easy because not all stores carry them. Finally, not everyone is a fan of the vibrating feeling. It should also be noted that toothbrushes create more saliva in the mouth so brushing can get a little messy. Manual Toothbrush Manual toothbrushes have been around and have been used for a long time. They might not have the additional features of electric toothbrushes, but they are still effective in cleaning the teeth nonetheless. Pros of a Manual Toothbrush · Accessible. Manual toothbrushes are available in practically almost any grocery store, dollar store, pharmacy or gas station. They do not need charging to function so they can be used anytime and anywhere. · Affordable. For just a couple of dollars, you can already get yourself a decent manual toothbrush. Cons of a Manual Toothbrush A study found that people are more likely to brush too hard with a manual toothbrush compared to an electric one. Brushing too hard can hurt your teeth and gums. Also, using a manual toothbrush makes it difficult to know if you’re brushing long enough since they do not come with timers. Using a kitchen timer can help you properly time your brushing sessions. With the right technique, both manual and electric toothbrushes are effective in cleaning your tooth. Choosing the right one is all about finding the one that works best for your specific needs. If you have any more questions about the right kind of toothbrush for you, talk with your dentist about it. |
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May 2019
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