How to Prevent Dental Diseases

Maintaining proper oral health is important. There are some common ways to keep your mouth healthy, such as visiting the dentist, flossing, and brushing your teeth regularly. Here are some extra precautions you can take to prevent oral and dental diseases.

Tooth Protection

Protecting your teeth is hugely important to keeping your smile looking pretty. Certain activities and participating in contact sports puts your mouth at risk for injury that can contribute to dental diseases. Mouth guards protect teeth from getting knocked out and from teeth breaking.

Mouth guards are also helpful to patients who grind their teeth at night. Bruxism is common and many people do not even know they grind their teeth. Signs may include waking up with a headache, face pain, and fatigue. While it may seem insignificant, grinding teeth can cause broken teeth, loss of tooth enamel, and potentially overtime, loss of teeth.

Eating Habits

A healthy diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D and other necessary nutrients is important to bone health and strong teeth. Eating the proper amount of dairy, calcium-fortified foods, and green vegetables is sufficient for children and young adults. Food like broccoli, kale, milk, and orange juice are healthy ways to get the proper amounts of calcium.

Avoiding carbohydrates, candy, and sticky foods can stick on the teeth and remain on the surface of the tooth, unless you brush your teeth soon after eating. The complex sugars in carbohydrates turn into bacteria that lives in the mouth, and when mixed with saliva, it turns into acid which eats at the teeth.

Limiting sugary drinks like soda is important to protecting teeth and preventing oral and dental diseases. The acid in soda eats away at the enamel and can create cavities. It also leaves stains on the surface of the tooth that can erode the structure of the teeth. Cavities can cause long-term dental damage if they go untreated.

Dental Visits

Seeing a dentist regularly for cleanings is important to your overall oral health. Taking certain precautions like having X-Rays performed at routine cleanings can monitor your oral health and check for early signs of decay.

Getting your teeth professionally cleaned can also help prevent gum disease and inflammation and bleeding by removing built up plaque. Your dentist may use fluoride treatments and sealant to help your teeth fight tooth decay.

Proper Brushing Techniques

While it is important to brush your teeth, improper brushing can do damage to your teeth. Over brushing can damage the tooth enamel and if you brush for longer than 4 minutes total each day, you run the risk of wearing down the enamel and exposing the dentin (the inside layer of teeth).

Brush your teeth like you are polishing an eggshell – gently and carefully. If your toothbrush gets flattened after brushing, you are brushing too hard. Flossing your teeth with each brushing helps remove any debris or food stuck in between your teeth.

Brushing at least twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste, before and after bed is a great way to help prevent any oral issues and dental diseases.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

How Your Dental Health Can Be Affected By Osteoporosis

Keeping your bones healthy has a great affect on the health of your mouth.  It seems odd, but when you think about the bones that construct the jaw and hold your teeth in place, it makes sense to care for your bones just like you care for your teeth. Bone diseases like osteoporosis have a significant affect on your oral health and dental bones. 

Dental Bone Loss

The jawbone supports our teeth, and that bone is known as the alveolar process. There is a correlation between the loss of alveolar bone and increase in tooth loss. This is because when the bone starts to weaken, the teeth become loose and can even fall out.

Periodontitis is an oral health infection that affects gums and the bones that support the teeth. Bacteria eats away at the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place. Loss of the alveolar bone and the break down of the mineral bone density leaves the bones more prone to tooth loss.

The break down in bone density can be caused by chronic diseases. There is a clear relationship between periodontitis and other diseases that affect bone density, such as osteoporosis. Although osteoporosis affects everyone, women with osteoporosis are more susceptible to have issues with oral surgical procedures or have poorly-fitting dentures.

Osteoporosis and Oral Health

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that causes bones capable of breaking easily and can trigger low bone density, causing a major impact on the jawbone that supports the teeth. The main causes of osteoporosis are aging, menopause, and lack of nutrients like vitamin D.

Because of this, osteoporosis can have a direct negative effect on gum and periodontal disease, leading to loss of teeth. Osteoporosis has a huge impact on the jawbone that supports the teeth.  When the jawbone is affected by chronic bone diseases, other dental issues are eminent. In fact, studies show that osteoporosis is an aggravating factor in periodontal destruction. 

Women’s Health and Dental Health

Because women are more susceptible to suffering from osteoporosis, it is no surprise that women also have a higher likelihood of having dental issues and oral health problems.

This is especially true for women who are entering, or already in, their menopausal phase because of hormone imbalances. Menopause can trigger the resorption of bones, triggering a decline in bone density. This increases bone loss and can even be the cause of bone disease like osteoporosis. The bones can become porous and increase the bones’ risk of fractures or breaks. Women can help lower their risk by taking supplements, increasing their calcium intake, or by undergoing hormone therapy to encourage a healthy hormone balance.

Women who suffer from osteoporosis are more likely to experience difficulty with healing after oral surgeries, dental procedures, or have ill-fitting dentures.

Risk Factors Associated with Osteoporosis and Periodontal Disease

There is a direct correlation between osteoporosis and periodontal disease due to a number of risk factors.

  • Smoking – Smoking is a leading cause of oral health issues that can trigger bone diseases and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
  • Diet – A diet lacking proper nutrients like vitamin D and calcium can eventually lead to bone disease and periodontal disease.
  • Hormone imbalance – The use of corticosteroids due to a hormone imbalance caused by menopause or low estrogen levels have been known to cause medical disorders that lead to poor bone health and dental issues.
  • High caffeine intake – A high intake of caffeine can lead to immune dysfunctions, increasing the likelihood of bone disease.

Prevention

A high-calcium diet is key to preventing osteoporosis and oral health issues. Taking a supplement is not sufficient in providing the body with enough nutrients that come from calcium-rich foods. Foods such as broccoli and kale have fortified calcium, as well as dairy products such as milk and plain yogurt.

Patients who rely on supplements oftentimes experience negative side effects such as constipation, indigestion, and an increased risk of kidney stones. A study by JAMA’s Internal Medicine shows that more than 11,000 deaths can be related to heart diseases caused by continual use of calcium supplements.

If you have oral health issues due to osteoporosis, speak to your doctor today.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

6 Common Oral Infections

One of the most important parts of the body is your mouth. It has a variety of functions and allows you to like eat, breathe, sing, speak, and begins the digestion process. That’s why when you have a problem that affects your mouth, it’s important to see a dentist right away.

Oral infections are not uncommon – in fact, many only last a few days and can go away from simple at-home treatments. They are most common in small children and older adults who are more susceptible to infections due to weak immune system. Some of these oral infections are preventable with proper oral hygiene in place. However, other oral infections require the help of a dentist and professional treatments.

6 Common Oral Infections

  1. Gingivitis: Gingivitis is caused by a variety of bacteria in the mouth. It is the early stage of gum disease – when bacteria settles into the gum line and produces toxins. Gingivitis causes gums to become inflamed and swollen, which is why your gums may bleed when brushing. If left untreated, gingivitis leads to periodontal disease. It is very common – 50-90% of adults will experience gingivitis at some point in their lives.
  2. Periodontal Disease: When gingivitis goes untreated, it will worsen and cause periodontal disease. Bacteria spreads below the gum line and affects the bone and supporting tissue. This causes severe inflammation and bone loss, causing the teeth to loosen. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults – 8-10% of adults suffer from periodontal disease. Because the bacteria lives in your mouth, when you inhale, it can affect your lungs and cause pneumonia or make chronic lung conditions worse.
  3. Oral Herpes: Between 50 and 80% of adults carry the herpes simplex virus. The infection can cause flu-like symptoms, blisters and ulcers on the tongue and gums, or it may not display symptoms at all. With proper care, the infection can stay dormant, but once infected, the virus has a permanent presence in the body. Outbreaks can last from a week to 10 days. Kids who carry the simplex virus occasionally develop a condition called herpes gingivostomatitis – a condition where the gums swell and create small blisters. Children may run fevers, feel fatigued, or become irritable. Like adults, the virus will remain in their bodies, with flare ups caused by stress, trauma, or exposure to a lot of sunlight.
  4. Herpangia: Herpangia is most common in children aged three to ten. It is frequently seen during the summer and fall. The infection generally lasts 3-5 days and causes blisters to form at the back of the mouth. When the blisters rupture, large ulcers form. It is related to Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease.
  5. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is most common in toddlers and school-aged children. The “Coxsackie A16” virus is responsible for this infection. Hand, Food, and Mouth disease causes a sore throat and a fever, with painful blisters appearing inside the cheek and tongue. These blisters also appear on the palms, soles of the feet, and on the buttocks. The infection and symptoms typically disappear within three days.
  6. Canker Sores: Canker sores – aphthous ulcers – are small lesions that develop on at the gumline or on the soft tissue in your mouth. Canker sores are not contagious and do not appear on the surface of your lips. They can make eating and talking difficult, but most canker sores go away on their own within a week or two. Canker sores can cause tingling or burning before they are visible as round, yellow or white sores.

Treatments for mouth infections vary, depending on the problem, but it is important to care for your mouth and keep it clean by adopting an at-home oral health routine. Brushing, flossing, and being mindful about what you eat can help prevent oral infections. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral infections. Combined with this routine, be sure to visit your dentist regularly.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

Oral Health Tips for Kids

Teaching children good oral habits can be a struggle, but good pediatric oral care is crucial to your children’s overall health. Healthy adult teeth begin with healthy kid’s teeth.

Take good care of your child’s teeth. Although they eventually fall out, baby teeth play a crucial role in helping your child bite, chew, and speak clearly. These are some good pediatric oral care tips to teach your child:

Brushing and Flossing

Parents should help brush their children’s teeth until the age of eight and assist in flossing until the age of ten, according to the AAPD. Having health teeth build confidence and participation in your child’s education and social life. Encouraging healthy habits can be difficult if your child won’t cooperate, but here are some ways to make brushing fun.

  • Buy children’s toothpaste with your child’s favorite character on it. Let your child pick it out so they are more likely to use it when the brush.
  • Create a reward chart that your child can add stickers to when they’ve brushed each morning and night. When the chart is full, let your child have a small reward like a trip to the playground or their favorite meal for dinner.
  • Have a brushing song. Let your child pick out a song to play when they brush their teeth. This will make brushing more fun and ensure your child is brushing for the appropriate length of time.
  • Using a light-up timer toothbrush can be fun for children. The light flashes until they brushed for the correct length of time. Interactive toothbrushes are a good way for your child to be involved in their oral health habits.

Tooth-Friendly Food

Offering healthy, tooth-friendly food options to your child will help encourage healthy teeth and build good oral habits. Provide fruits, nuts, vegetables, and cheese for snack instead of cookies or sweets. Children may need encouragement to try these foods, but these tips can help:

  • Let your child pick out healthy snacks. Have your child go to the store with you and pick out healthy fruits and snacks so they are more willing to eat it at snacktime.
  • Share and “feed” the health snack to your child’s favorite toy. They will be more willing to try a new food or eat fruit if they can share it with someone else first.
  • Have healthy snacks be convenient. A hungry child won’t want to wait for you to slice an apple or wash and cut grapes. Having these snacks prepared in an easy-to-reach container or bowl in the fridge makes having healthy snacks a breeze.
  • Save starchy foods for mealtime. Eating them in conjunction with other foods and beverages reduces the risk of cavities, as opposed to eating them as a snack.

Reduce Sugar

Sweets, juice, and candy can cause cavities because they eat away at the tooth’s enamel. Here are some tips to help reduce sugar and combat the effects of sugar on your child’s teeth:

  • Limit candy and sugary desserts for after mealtime. This is when there is the most saliva in the mouth to help protect your child’s teeth.
  • Store candy from holidays like Easter and Halloween in a sealed container and create specific times for when your child can have a treat. This will pace the amount of sugar they consume.
  • Encourage your child to drink more water to help prevent tooth decay. Water with fluoride can reduce the number of cavities children get in their baby teeth.
  • Floss after eating sweets. Flossing helps remove tiny particles that get stuck in your child’s teeth, which cause cavities.

Lead By Example

Kids follow by example, so it is important to be a good role model and demonstrate good oral habits for them. Brush and floss with your child instead of having them do it alone. Treat it like a routine instead of a chore they have to do.

By practicing healthy oral habits, your children will see your actions and it will translate into their lives. Show them that it can be fun and important to your overall health.

Serve Milk at Meals

Drinking milk acts as a buffer to the acid that causes tooth decay.  The enzymes in the dairy protect the teeth from oral bacteria that contributes toward tooth decay and erosion of tooth enamel.

Teaching your children proper oral health habits can be easy – it’s putting it into practice that can be difficult. However, teaching children how to care for their teeth will set them up for good oral habits they will carry into adulthood.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

 

Best At-Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

Having sensitive teeth makes eating and drinking pretty painful. However, it is a common and treatable condition that 1-in-8 people experience.

Tooth sensitivity happens when your tooth’s enamel is stripped away, leaving the layer of dentin and nerve roots exposed. The enamel protects the tooth, and with it gone, you may experience sharp pain or hypersensitivity.

If you have sensitive teeth, it is important to visit your dentist so they can determine the underlying cause of your pain. In the meantime, here are some at-home remedies you can use to reduce tooth pain and relieve discomfort.

At Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth

  1. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic and is often used as a disinfectant to clean wounds and cuts. But peroxide is also effective as a mouthwash to heal gums and prevent inflammation. To use hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash, use equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water and swish for 30 seconds. Spit and rinse with water to remove any remaining hydrogen peroxide. It is important to not swallow this mixture.

Studies show that using a hydrogen peroxide mouthwash prevents gingivitis, kills bacteria, and has healing properties.

  1. Green Tea

Green tea is known for its healthy benefits, such as cancer prevention and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also helpful to oral health.

For sensitive teeth, unsweetened green tea acts as a great mouthwash. Swish and rinse twice a day to reduce inflammation and strengthen teeth. An extract in green tea, called EGCG, fights bacteria, resists plaque build up, and decreases the risk of tooth erosion: all symptoms that contribute to tooth sensitivity.

  1. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is a tried-and-true remedy that uses natural ingredients and substances to improve oral health around the tooth and gum line. Coconut oil has many health benefits. It is also useful in improving oral health, as well as helping with sensitive teeth.

The process is simple: swish coconut oil around in your mouth for a short time every day. Oil cuts through plaque, removes bacteria and toxins from the gums, and fights off cavities. Using coconut oil means there are no harsh chemicals and it doesn’t taste as bad as other oils.

  1. Garlic

Garlic contains naturally-occurring compounds that are beneficial to your overall health.  It contains strong antibacterial and natural anesthetic qualities.

Garlic is traditionally used in folk medicine to relieve tooth pain from sensitivity. A 2011 study discovered that chewing on garlic releases a substance called allicin. Allicin is what gives garlic its use as an antibacterial agent and natural anesthetic. It is because of this that garlic helps relieve tooth sensitivity and can even prevent issues like tooth decay. The antibacterial properties kill germs that cause oral infections and cavities.

  1. Essential Oils

A popular remedy for many medical conditions, essential oils can be used to improve the health of your gums and teeth. The three most popular essential oils for oral health are:

  • Peppermint Oil – Peppermint oil is an antiseptic and kills bacteria to help prevent gum diseases and protect dentin and enamel. Its flavor also helps fight bad breath.
  • Clove Oil – This type of oil contains a germicidal property and is used in dentistry because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Clove extract, called eugenol, has particular analgesic effect, which helps treat sensitive teeth.
  • Cinnamon Oil – Another oil with antibacterial properties, cinnamon oil fights tooth decay by killing bacteria and preventing teeth from getting sensitive.

  1. Capsaicin

Capsaicin naturally occurs in chili peppers – the substance responsible for the spice and heat. In a 2011 study, capsaicin proved to relieve some types of pain. It numbs nerve fibers, making them less receptive to pain signals. Applying capsaicin gel to the gums reduces pain from tooth sensitivity.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

Bad Breath: How It’s Caused & What You Can Do About It

Having bad breath is embarrassing and can even cause anxiety. But halitosis affects 25% of people, whether it is lingering morning breath or chronic halitosis. It is no surprise that millions are spent annually on products to freshen our breath and keep our mouths clean.

Oral hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath, but there are a number or causes for why you have offensive breath. But the real culprit is a bacterium that lives in your mouth. There are simple, at-home remedies. In some cases, your dentist may recommend using different toothpaste, toothbrushes, or having more frequent visits in their office.

Causes and Solutions for Bad Breath

Diet

It’s a no brainer: what you eat affects your breath. Diets that are low in carbohydrates (ketone diets, specifically) cause bad breath because of the way your body burns fat as its main energy source. The end product is ketones, which causes an acetone-like odor on your breath.

Foods with strong odor have negative effects on breath. Vegetables that are Alliums – like garlic and onions – commonly contribute to smelly breath because they contain high concentrations of sulfur compounds. Other foods such as strong spices (like curry), aged cheeses, fish, and acidic beverages (like coffee) contribute to foul breath. This is because after these foods are digested, they filter into the bloodstream and into the lungs, where your breath is affected.

Solution: Immediately after eating, brush and floss to get rid of any food particles that may be stuck to your teeth. Garlicky breath can stick around for up to 2 days, so don’t be surprised if you still smell garlic on your breath. Mouthwash and sugar-free gum can help freshen your breath and aid in rinsing away any residual food particles.

Dry Mouth

Saliva washes away bacteria in your mouth, deterring foul breath. But if you suffer from dry mouth (xerostomia) you may experience bad breath as a result. Dry mouth is caused by a problem with salivary glands, which can be affected by certain medications and diseases. Medications used for blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, diuretics, and many other conditions can cause the salivary glands to malfunction. This causes them to not produce enough saliva to keep you mouth wet.

Solution: Sipping on water throughout the day can work well to prevent dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum and sucking on sugar-free candy or lozenges between meals may also make a difference, because they stimulate your salivary glands. If you have chronic dry mouth, your dentist may recommend a saliva substitute.

Medical Conditions

Conditions and medical disorders can cause halitosis, mostly due to the medication patients take. Medications contribute to dry mouth, while others breakdown chemicals that produce a foul odor that is carried on your breath. Some conditions cause your body to react differently to medications, types of food (in the case of reflux and lactose intolerance), or internal processes, such as liver disease.

Some conditions that can cause bad breath are:

  • Periodontal infections – Gum disease & tooth decay are a common cause, since the infection is in your mouth.
  • Tonsillitis – Tonsillitis is caused by viruses or bacteria on your tonsils, which can become inflamed and infected, causing foul odor.
  • Respiratory infection – bacterial infections in the lung affect the air in your lungs that you exhale.
  • Diabetes – Diabetes can cause your blood to have high levels of ketones – acetone being one chemical – and can cause your breath to smell like nail polish remover.
  • Reflux – Reflux is the acidic regurgitation of stomach contents and causes heartburn and a sour or bitter taste in the mouth.
  • Liver or Kidney disease – When your liver does not process chemical substances in your body properly, the odors do not get filtered properly and cause bad breath.
  • Lactose intolerance – Lactose intolerance is the body’s inability to digest the sugars in milk. The undigested sugar microbes put off a sulfurous pungent odor that causes a foul smell on your breath.

Solution: If you have chronic bad breath and typical remedies like constant brushing, flossing, and products to freshen your breath do not work, it’s important to see your dentist to identify any underlying health concerns.

Tobacco Products

Smoking along causes foul mouth odor. Smokers and oral tobacco users are more likely to experience gum diseases and are at an increased risk for tooth decay. Gum disease and tooth decay are both common factors in cases of halitosis.

Poor Dental Hygiene

It is no surprise that poor dental hygiene causes halitosis. When plaque builds up on your teeth, it irritates the gums and causes inflammation between the teeth and gums. Your tongue is a breeding ground for bacteria. The back of the tongue has many grooves and crevices that trap bacteria and food particles. It’s hard to clean the back of the tongue without triggering your gag reflex, even with a tongue scraper. This bacteria can build up and causes a particularly foul odor on your breath.

Solution: Seeing your dentist regularly is important to having a clean mouth. But a professional cleaning only keeps plaque away for a short period of time. A good at-home oral routine is essential for maintaining clean teeth. Toothpaste has antibacterial properties, but the key is using proper brushing technique to remove the bacteria and food residue from your teeth. After brushing, flossing helps remove any leftover particles that get stuck between your teeth. Using an antiseptic mouth rinse also helps reduce bacteria on the tongue and teeth.

If you experience embarrassing bad breath and at-home remedies are not being effective, contact your dentist today to schedule an appointment.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

How Dry Mouth Can Cause Cavities

Dry mouth, called xerostomia, is the medical condition of not having enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. It can happen to anyone – especially when they are stressed or nervous. When untreated, it can make chewing, swallowing, and even talking difficult.

Dry mouth increases the risk for tooth decay or infections, and is a common cause for cavities.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a result of not drinking enough water during the day or rehydrating after exercise. Sometimes, temporary dry mouth comes from stress or nerves – such as the kind that comes from speaking in front a group of people or performing.

More times than not, having dry mouth is a side-effect of medication.  In fact, nearly 20% of seniors experience it as a result of medications they are taking. Hundreds of medications cause the salivary glands to produce less saliva, such as medications for:

  • High blood pressure
  • Antihistamines
  • Pain pills
  • Decongestants
  • Overactive bladder medications
  • Antidepressants
  • Diuretics
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Medication for Parkinson’s Disease
  • Medication for anxiety

Other conditions that can cause chronic cases of dry mouth include autoimmune diseases, AIDS, diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, and cancer. Treatments for cancer like radiation therapy and chemotherapy cause dry mouth because the salivary glands can be affected during these types of treatments.

How Dry Mouth Causes Cavities

Cavities are created as a result of tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when there is damage to the tooth, from plaque that is clinging to the teeth. The acid in plaque eats away at your tooth’s enamel, creating holes called cavities.

Dry mouth increases your chances for cavities because the primary function of saliva is to help wash away any food debris left in your mouth after eating. Enzymes in saliva help break down food and aid in digestion. Without saliva, the food does not get broken down enough and gets stuck to your teeth easier.

Saliva also contains bicarbonate, calcium, and phosphate which neutralizes plaque acidity and helps rebuild and restore tooth enamel.  Without saliva, your mouth is much more at risk for developing cavities and experiencing tooth decay.

Issues Associated with Dry Mouth

Dry mouth causes other issues, too – not just cavities. If dry mouth goes untreated, severe tooth decay and gum disease is common.  In fact, 30% of tooth decay in elderly adults is caused by dry mouth, according to the Oral Cancer Foundation.

Untreated dry mouth can lead to other health issues, such as:

  • Trouble speaking
  • Fungal infections
  • Hoarseness
  • Difficulty chewing and swallowing food
  • Dry nasal passages
  • Difficulty wearing dentures

Treatments to Improve Your Oral Health

There are many effective ways to treat dry mouth and improve oral health. Your dentist might prescribe medication to help increase saliva production or they may recommend a saliva substitute.

Some at-home tips for treating dry mouth include:

  • Sugar-Free Gum or Mints: Mints and gum help battle dry mouth by stimulating saliva production. Look for products that contain xylitol – a sugar substitute that helps prevent cavities.
  • Brush and Floss Regularly: Practicing proper oral health hygiene prevents plaque buildup. When plaque gets built up on your teeth, the acidity it what breaks down your tooth enamel, increasing the risk for cavities.
  • Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated increases saliva production and helps keep your body health. Drinking water with a meal will help rinse away any residual food debris.

Depending on the severity of your dry mouth, some dentists may recommend having in-office treatments or sealants. These are coatings applied to the surfaces of the teeth to protect them against decay.

If you experience dry mouth, talk to your dentist right away to determine the source of the problem.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

How to Prepare Children for their First Pediatric Dentist Appointment

The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children see a pediatric dentist within 6 months of their first tooth eruption or by their first birthday. This ensures they get their teeth checked before any problems can arise.  In most cases, a dentist visit every 6 months is recommended for preventative measures.

There are numerous reasons for taking your child to the dentist while they are young.  Dentists are able to advise on how to clean teeth at home and identify any problems and fix them right away. This also teaches your child that going to the dentist is a part of self-care and that dentists can help prevent problems that stem from the mouth.

Pediatric dentists often take X-rays during early visits to show any decay between the teeth and to determine whether the teeth are growing in properly as they should. Dentists are able to see if teeth are coming in crooked or if the mouth is too crowded, which can cause problems.

Although baby teeth will fall out to make room for adult teeth, it’s important to keep the baby teeth healthy. If a baby tooth becomes infected or damaged, it can cause issues with your child’s oral health for years. Infections enter the bloodstream through tooth decay and can cause other health concerns.

Going to a pediatric dentist from an early age will help teach your child proper oral hygiene habits that will keep their mouths healthy throughout their lives.

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Dentist Visit

The dentist can be scary for children if they don’t know what to expect. Schedule their appointment for the morning when they are most away and alert.  Having an afternoon appointment that is close to nap time or after they’ve been playing all day can result in a poor first experience.

If your child is a toddler or preschooler, talk to them and help them understand what they can expect from the dentist visit.  Build excitement! A pediatric dentist is trained to make the visit as calming as possible, and many offices even have toys and games for their younger patients.  Your child does not harbor any negative feelings towards their new dentist so do your best to keep any concerns to yourself. It is a brand new experience for your child, so it is up to you to make it as fun as a trip to Grandma’s – without the candy, of course!

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit

The first appointment will likely be short and sweet. So the child doesn’t get scared, the dentist will talk to them and show them proper brushing techniques. Depending on the age of your child, you may be asked to hold the child or have them sit on your lap while the dentist pokes around in their mouths.

This first visit is mostly a meet-and-greet for your child and their new dentist. It is a way for them to familiarize themselves with one another and for the dentist to build a relationship with your child so going for regular cleanings is a positive experience. They will look around at your child’s teeth to check for any issues or cavities.  It’s possible they will save that for the second visit. Your child’s dentist will also speak with you, the parent, about good oral hygiene habits and how you can promote good habits at home.

The first appointment is a great time to bring up any concerns or questions you have for the dentist. This includes thumb-sucking, whether you should be encouraging fluoride use, how often to brush, and even what kind of toothpaste to use.

When children are younger, they should visit the dentist every 6 months.

Overcoming Fear of a Pediatric Dentist

Some children do have anxiety about visiting medical offices, and a pediatric dentist is no different. But there are ways to help your little ones overcome any fear they may have about these routine check-ups.

Play Pretend: At home, make it a game to play pretend and play “dentist office.” This will let your child step into the role of the dentist and they can look at your teeth. Have them pretend with baby dolls or stuffed animals – cleaning and polishing their teeth.

Be a Cheerleader: A parent is their child’s greatest cheerleader. Encourage your child and get them excited about visiting the dentist. The more positive you are about it, the more likely your child will be comfortable during his/her appointment.

Plan a Reward: After your child’s appointment, reward them with a trip to the park or playground for their good behavior and clean bill of health. Knowing this will also help keep your child’s mind off of the dentist visit.

Be Prepared: To make your child as comfortable as possible, it can help to bring along their favorite stuffed animal or toy. Something familiar and comforting can help ward away any scary thoughts they have about being in the dentist chair.

How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth At Home

Having a good dental hygiene routine at home can make dentist appointments much more enjoyable for your child.  Getting them used to brushing and caring for their teeth prevents cavities and other issues that may make the dentist visit scarier.

  • Before your child’s teeth erupt, clean their gums with a damp, soft cloth.
  • Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush, only using water before the age of 2. After they reach 2 years old, introduce a small dab of toothpaste. Teach your child to spit out the toothpaste after brushing.
  • Avoid giving your child a bottle or milk or juice at bedtime or when you put them down for a nap to prevent baby bottle tooth decay.
  • Assist your child in brushing their teeth until they reach 6 years old. Have your child watch you brush to learn good brushing habits and patterns to minimize missing any spots.
  • Avoid sticky foods and treats, as they can increase the chances of tooth decay. Foods like sweetened juice and drinks, hard or sticky candies, and sticky snacks are some top offenders in children. Provide your child with health snacks like fruit that have natural sugar as well as fiber and other healthy benefits.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

Leading Causes of Oral Cancer

Unlike other types of cancer, oral cancer includes cancer of the lips, tongue, cheek, throat, and sinuses.  It is life threatening if not caught early enough and treated properly.  Children and young adults have minimal risk for oral cancer, but the odds increase over the age of 45. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with oral cancer over women.

Despite the numerous varieties of oral cancer, there are similar symptoms and signs. The most common symptoms are:

  • Swollen lumps or bumps inside the mouth and on the gums
  • Velvety patches in the mouth
  • Bleeding or numbness in any area of the mouth or neck
  • Sores on the face, neck, or mouth that last longer than 2 weeks
  • Trouble chewing or swallowing (moving the jaw)
  • Ear pain
  • A change in how your teeth fit together
  • Dramatic weight change

These signs should not be ignored, and if you are seeing any of these symptoms, contact your dentist.  The symptoms above are confirmed risks that lead to oral cancer if they are not treated in a timely manner.

Oral Cancer may produce those signs and symptoms, but what causes oral cancer? It is impossible to rank the causes by absolute certainty because there are so many factors in diagnosing cancer. Here are some of the most common causes of oral cancer.

Leading Causes of Oral Cancer

Smoking & Tobacco Products

Smoking cigarettes, cigars, or any tobacco product increases your chance of developing oral cancer by six times. This includes smokeless products like chewing tobacco and dip. Those who use smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco and dip are 50 times more likely to have oral cancer in the lip, cheek, and gums.

The longer you use tobacco, the greater your risk.  Continuation of smoking or partaking in smokeless tobacco products after receiving treatments for oral cancer increases your risk for developing a second type of oral cancer.

Studies show that second-hand smoke may increase the risk of oral cancer. If you do smoke, be mindful of those around you as to not pass along second-hand smoke.

Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the leading risks for oral cancer. The more you drink, the more likely you are to develop cancer. Alcohol helps harmful chemical enter the cells that line the mouth, throat, and esophagus. When alcohol and tobacco are used in conjunction, your risk increases. Alcohol slows down cell repair when their DNA is damaged by chemicals found in tobacco.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Many strains of HPV are spread through sexual contact, including oral sex. If the infected cells make contact with the mouth or throat, there is a greater risk for oral cancer.  With over 100 different types of HPV viruses, they are given a number used to identify the strains. Infections with HPV-16 and HPV-18 strains are more likely to cause oral cancer over the other varieties.

Previous Cancer

If you have had cancer before, there is a greater chance of developing cancer again.  Once the cancer has been treated and there is continued alcohol and tobacco use, your risk is very high. Patients who suffer from throat, esophageal, and lung cancer are more susceptible to getting oral cancer if they do not follow their doctor’s advice and treatment plan.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure increases the risk of developing lip cancer. This is especially true for fair-skinned people or people who work outside without proper skin protectant.  Wearing a hat that shades your face and wearing lip balm with SPF protectant can help reduce the risk of lip cancer. It is common to see cancer spots on the bottom lip, as it gets more sun exposure.

Diet

A diet lacking fruits and vegetables can lead to oral cancer. A component of food, carcinoids, is crucial to helping prevent cancer. Your diet must be optimized – reduced caloric intake, monounsaturated fat, and processed meat – to reduce the risk of cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma, the most common oral cancer.

Focus on a diet that consists of fruits, vegetables, and grains, which are a main source of vitamins and fiber. Other preventative measures include consuming micronutrients like vitamin C, E, antioxidants, zinc, beta-carotene, and folate.  Eating fried and broiled foods and using the microwave to cook food should be avoided because of the increased risk of heterocyclic amines. Not only does this cause cancer in the mouth, but can cause salivary gland tumors.

Weakened Immune System

After an organ transplant or treatment for immune system diseases, your immune system can weaken. People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for oral cancer, particularly lip cancer. Certain drugs that suppress your immune system can increase the risk of cancer, too. HPV infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems, since their blood cell count varies and antibodies are unable to determine the good and bad cells.

How Can it Be Treated?

Oral cancer is treated the same way as other cancers: removal of the cancerous growth, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy to kill the remaining cancer cells.

Have regular dentist appointments and routine cancer screenings from your dentist. It is recommended to have cancer screenings every 3 years for people over 20 and annually for those over 40. Early detection of cancer spots or growths improves the likelihood of successful treatment.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.

What is Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Gingivitis is, in short, inflammation of the gums. It is common and, fortunately, a mild form of gum disease (periodontal disease) that causes your gums to be red and swollen around the base of your teeth. Gingivitis, if not treated, can turn into a serious disease called periodontitis. This disease causes infection that destroys the soft tissues that support the teeth. In some cases, this includes the periodontal ligaments and bone.

Causes of Gingivitis

Gingivitis is caused by the short-term effects of plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is made of bacteria, food residue, and saliva that builds up on the exposed parts of the teeth. If the plaque is not removed by daily brushing and regular visits to the dentist, it turns into hardened deposits called tartar. This becomes stuck at the base of your tooth along the gum line. Tartar irritates the gums, causing them to become inflamed and irritated. The bacteria and toxins tartar produces causes the gums to become red, swollen, and sore.

The most common cause of gingivitis is poor oral hygiene. Other factors that contribute to a higher risk of gingivitis are:

Diseases: Cancer, diabetes, and HIV are linked to a higher risk of gingivitis.

Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormones, such as puberty, menopause, and pregnancy, can cause your gums to become more sensitive, increasing the risk of inflammation.

Smoking: Regular smokers are at a higher risk of gingivitis and gum disease, compared to non-smokers.

Diet: A poor diet and Vitamin C deficiency raises the risk for gum disease.

Genetics: Family history increases the risk of gingivitis. If your parents had gum disease, there is a greater chance that you will also develop the disease. This is thought to be related to the type of bacteria we acquire early on in life.

Old Age: The risk of gingivitis increases as you get older.

Misaligned Teeth: Teeth or dental restorations such as dentures, bridgework, and braces that are ill-fitting can make teeth difficult to clean.

Medication: Certain drugs and calcium channel blockers used for high blood pressure or epileptic seizures can affect the gums, making your mouth more susceptible to gingivitis.

Maintaining proper oral health habits can help prevent, and in early cases, reverse, gingivitis. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and getting regular check ups with your dentist.

Signs & Symptoms of Gingivitis

Symptoms of gingivitis include:

    • Swollen, inflamed gums
    • Bright red or purple gums
    • Tenderness
    • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
    • Bad breath (halitosis)

In mild cases, there may not be any noticeable symptoms.

Risks and Complications

If gingivitis goes untreated, it can progress into serious gum disease that spreads to the tooth’s soft tissue and bone. This can lead to tooth loss.

Chronic gingivitis has been associated with systemic diseases, such as respiratory diseases, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Research suggests that the bacteria responsible for periodontitis enters your bloodstream through gum tissue. The bacteria then affects your heart, lungs, and other parts of the body. It has not been confirmed, but research is ongoing.

Another complication of gingivitis, if left untreated, is trench mouth. Also known as necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (NUG), it causes painful, infected gums and ulcerations. Trench mouth is rare in developed societies, and adversely, it is more likely in countries that have poor living conditions and nutrition.

Professional Treatment for Gingivitis

The goal of oral treatments is to reduce swelling remove the tartar and plaque buildup. Prompt treatment can reverse the effects of gingivitis and prevents it from turning into a more serious mouth condition.

Professional care includes a dental cleaning, restoration (if needed), and ongoing care for preventative measures.

Your initial cleaning will include the removal of all plaque, tartar, and bacterial products. This procedure is called scaling and root planing. Scaling removes tartar from the surface of your teeth and along the gum line. Root planning removes bacteria that is a result of inflammation and discourages further buildup. This can be performed using a laser or ultrasonic device.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend fixing dental restorations, if they are the cause of your gum disease. Ill-fitting crowns, bridges, or even braces make cleaning your teeth difficult to clean on a daily basis, leading to an increase of plaque and tartar buildup.

Even after the gingivitis clears up, it is important to continue good oral hygiene. Your dentist will help you plan an effective at-home care program and schedule regular appointments for thorough teeth cleanings.

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.