What is plaque and how does it affect your teeth?

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that covers our teeth and, when we eat something, these bacteria release acids that attack the tooth enamel.

When these attacks are repeated over time, the enamel will break down and this will eventually lead to cavities.

When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and cleaning it hardens into calculus or tartar. When tartar collects above the gum line, brushing and cleaning between the teeth becomes more difficult.

The gum tissue can become swollen or may bleed. This is called gingivitis and it is the early stage of periodontal (gum) disease.

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself against this happening:

– Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
– Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner
– Eat a balanced diet and limit the number of snacks between meals
– Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams
– Ask your dentist about sealants – these are protective coatings that can be applied to the back teeth where decay often starts.

If you take steps to remove the plaque each day, you have a greater chance of avoiding tooth and gum problems.

How to take care of your teeth with braces

Braces are orthodontic apparatus used to help fix crooked and crowded teeth.

While modern braces can be comfortable and inconspicuous, you may have to take extra steps to care for your teeth when wearing them.

It’s important that you continue good oral hygiene practices while wearing braces.

You need to continue brushing regularly, following the approach suggested by your dentist, as well as flossing daily and making regular visits to the dentist.

People with braces should stick to a balanced diet and limit the number of snacks between meals.

Your dentist may suggest that you avoid certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. This can include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods such as chewing gum or caramel.

You can still continue to enjoy sports and other activities but a protective mouth guard is often recommended to reduce the risk of injury to the mouth or jaw. Your dentist will suggest an appropriate mouth guard when the braces are in place.

Braces can make a big difference to your smile and your future dental health. Modern technology and following good practices means you should be able to wear them with comfort and confidence.

Making living with dentures easy and comfortable

Your dentures were made to fit you precisely and, if they are cared for properly, they do not change shape.

But you may sometimes find that they can become loose due to natural changes in the gums and bone supporting them. As the jawbone begins to shrink, so do the gums.

If you find your dentures no longer fit properly, see your dentist as soon as possible so adjustments can be made.

Trying to change the fit of your dentures yourself can damage them and make them unrepairable so this would be a costly experiment!

Ill-fitting dentures repaired at home can also irritate the gums, tongue and cheeks.

In an emergency, you could use denture adhesives to keep the dentures stable until you are able to see the dentist.

Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, it’s still important to see your dentist regularly for an oral examination.

The dentist will examine your mouth to check for any problem with the gum ridges, the tongue and the joints of the jaw, as well as screen for oral cancer.

For a variety of reasons, many older adults are more susceptible to oral diseases, including oral cancer. About 95 percent of all cancers are found in people over age 40. However, many of these cancers are treatable if detected early.

Oral tissues are also checked for signs of other diseases that can first manifest themselves in the mouth.

Living with dentures can be comfortable if you continue to care for your oral hygiene and make regular visits to your dentist for a checkup.

Diagnosing jaw problems and pains – TMD and TMJ

More than fifteen percent of American adults suffer from chronic facial pain.

Common symptoms can include pain in or around the ear, tenderness of the jaw, clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth or even head and neck aches.

There are two joints and several jaw muscles which make it possible to open and close the mouth. They work together when you chew, speak, and swallow.

These structures include muscles and ligaments, as well as the jaw bone, the mandible (lower jaw) with two joints, the TMJ’s.

The TM joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. Located on each side of the head, these joints work together and can make many different movements, including a combination of rotating and gliding action when chewing and speaking.

Several muscles help open and close the mouth. They control the lower jaw (mandible) as it moves forward, backward, and side-to-side.

Both TM joints are involved in these movements. Each TM joint has a disc between the ball and socket. The disc cushions the load while enabling the jaw to open widely and perform rotating and translocational movements.

Any problem that prevents this complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones from working together properly may result in a painful TMJ disorder.

If you are suffering from this type of pain, your dentist can help identify its source with a thorough exam and appropriate x-rays.

Often, the problem is a sinus or toothache or it could be an early stage of periodontal disease.

But for some pain, the cause is not so easily diagnosed.

The pain could be related to the facial muscles, the jaw or temporomandibular joint, located in the front of the ear.

Treatments for this pain may include stress reducing exercises, muscle relaxants, or wearing a mouth protector to prevent teeth grinding.
They’ve been successful for many and your dentist can recommend which is best for you.

How mouth protectors can save your teeth

If you take part in sports that carry a significant risk of injury, you should wear a mouth protector.

Accidents can happen during any physical activity and, if you participate in sports such as football, hockey, basketball, baseball, gymnastics and volleyball, you might be grateful for the extra protection one day.

Something as simple as a misdirected elbow in a game, or a spill off a bicycle, can leave you with chipped or broken teeth, nerve damage to a tooth or even tooth loss.

Mouth protectors usually cover the upper teeth and they can cushion the effect of a blow to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth.

In addition, if you wear dental appliances such as braces on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as well.

A properly fitted mouth protector will stay in place while you are wearing it, making it easy for you to talk and breathe. The three main types of mouth protectors are:

Stock: These are inexpensive and come ready to wear. But they often don’t fit very well and they can be bulky making breathing and talking difficult.

Boil and bite: These can also be bought at many sport stores and may fit better than stock mouth protectors. You first soften them in water, then insert them and allow them to adapt to the shape of your mouth.

Custom-fitted: Protectors that are specially made for you by your dentist are more expensive but are likely to fit better than one you buy off the shelf.

Choosing to wear the right mouth protector can help you avoid serious long-term damage to your teeth and mouth.

Why a dental abscess should be treated quickly

If you have any kind of swelling in your gum, it almost certainly indicates a serious infection that should be treated urgently.

Dental abscesses result from a bacterial infection in the teeth or gums.

For example, it may come from an untreated cavity. Cavities result when some of the bacteria in our mouths mix with sugars and starches in our diet to produce acid.

This acid attacks the hard enamel coating of our teeth and, as the cavity gets deeper, it eventually infects the nerve and blood supply of the tooth.

In some cases, a dental abscess is caused by an infection of the gum. Bone loss from gum disease can create a pocket between the tooth, gum and bone.

When bacteria and other debris get into this pocket, an abscess can form.

The treatment for an abscess depends on how severe the infection is.

If the abscess has been caused by decay, root canal treatment may be needed or the tooth may even have to be removed.

If the abscess has been caused by the gum, the gum will need deep cleaning or surgical treatment. Again the tooth may need to be removed.

Sometimes, a small incision may be made into the gum to drain the abscess. If this happens, antibiotics and pain medication may be used to relieve discomfort.

If you wait until the gum is severely swollen before seeking treatment, the situation can become very serious.

The abscess at this stage can prevent you breathing properly and can be life-threatening.

So if you have any signs of swelling in your gum, contact your dentist immediately.

How medication and anesthesia can help make your visit to the dentist easier

Your dentist will do everything possible to make your visit as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

Depending on the treatment you are receiving, there are several medications available to help.

Some drugs control pain, some help you relax and others put you into a deep sleep during dental treatment.

The best approach will depend on the type of procedure being undertaken, your overall health – including any history of allergies – and the degree of anxiety you feel.

Some of the options your dentist might discuss include:

Analgesics: These are the most commonly used drugs for relief of toothache or pain following dental treatment. They includes aspirin, acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen. There is a separate category of ‘narcotic analgesics’ – such as those containing codeine – which are used for more severe pain.

Local anesthesia: Topical anesthetics are applied to mouth tissues with a swab to prevent pain on the surface level. They may also be used to soothe mouth sores. Injectable local anesthetics prevent pain in a specific area of your mouth during treatment by blocking the nerves that sense or transmit pain and numbing mouth tissues.

In other cases, your dentist many recommend sedation or general anesthesia.

Your dentist will discuss the best approach to suit your needs.

Your saliva and why it’s so important

You probably don’t give too much thought to the saliva in your mouth, but if you think of it like a bloodstream you’ll realize how important it is.

Like blood, saliva helps build and maintain the health of the soft and hard tissues.

It removes waste products from the mouth and offers first-line protection against microbial invasion that might lead to disease.

Saliva is derived from blood and therefore can also be used to detect disease.

Saliva enhances enamel protection by providing high levels of calcium and phosphate ions. It contains the minerals that maintain the integrity of the enamel surface and helps protect against caries.

When salivary flow is reduced, oral health deteriorates – much in the same way body tissues suffer if blood circulation is disrupted.

Patients with dry mouths (xerostomia) experience difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing. A major cause of dry mouth is medication – almost eighty percent of the most commonly prescribed medications lead to dry mouth.

Chewing gum after a snack or meal stimulates salivary flow, clearing food from the mouth and neutralizing plaque acid.

Your saliva is important to your oral health both for preventing disease and in helping to diagnose problems.

Should you be concerned about thumbsucking?

Some children suck on their thumbs and parents often wonder if it is harmful.

Sucking on something is a child’s natural reflex. It can help them feel more secure so they start to suck on their thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects.

Since thumbsucking is relaxing, it may also help them sleep.

However, after the permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and the alignment of teeth. It can also cause changes in the roof of the mouth.

Whether or not dental problems will result depends on the intensity of the sucking.

A child who vigorously sucks their thumb is more likely to have difficulties than one who rests their thumb passively in their mouth. Young children who suck their thumbs aggressively may even cause problems with their baby teeth.

If you notice changes in your child’s primary teeth, consult your dentist.

Usually children will stop sucking their thumbs between the ages of about two and four. They should have ceased sucking by the time the permanent front teeth are ready to erupt.

If your child is continuing to suck their thumbs, here are some tips:

– Praise them for not sucking, instead of scolding them when they are
– If they are sucking because they feel insecure, focus on correcting the cause of the anxiety
– For older children, involve them in choosing the method of stopping

If necessary, your dentist can help by encouraging the child and explaining what could happen to their teeth if they do not stop sucking.

How scaling and planing can help clean your teeth properly

Dental plaque is a film that builds up on your teeth and, if it is not removed through good oral hygiene, it can lead to tooth decay and gum problems.

Over time it can ultimately form a hard, rough sediment known as dental tartar or calculus, which attracts further plaque buildup.

Calculus has to be removed by a trained professional such as a hygienist or dentist.

They may do this by manual tooth scaling or using an ultrasonic device.

If the buildup is light or moderate, the dentist or hygienist may use manual scaling instruments of various shapes and sizes.

If the buildup of tartar and stains is heavy, an ultrasonic cleaner may be used. This may be followed by hand scaling.

Build up of plaque can cause inflammation of the gums leading to breakdown of the connection between the teeth and the supporting structures.

Root planing is a procedure to treat gum disease by thoroughly scaling the roots of teeth to establish a smooth, calculus-free surface.

This treatment may require local anesthesia to prevent pain. Thorough periodontal scaling customarily involves several dental visits

If conditions are more advanced, surgery may be needed for complete debridement of the roots to arrest the disease process.

Some people tend to have more buildup of calculus than others and some may be more prone to periodontal inflammation or the development of tooth decay.

It’s therefore important to follow your hygienist’s advice on how often to return for regular cleanings – even if your insurance only covers two a year.

What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

If you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants can provide a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. But what are dental implants, and how do they work? Let's take a closer look.

Dental implants are small, titanium posts that are surgically implanted into your jawbone. Once in place, they serve as a sturdy foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth or teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants do not rely on adjacent teeth for support.

The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps. First, your dentist will examine your mouth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. They may also take x-rays or other imaging tests to assess your jawbone density and determine the best placement for the implants.

Next, the implants are surgically placed into your jawbone. Over time, the implants will fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong, stable base for the artificial tooth or teeth.

Once the implants have fully fused with the jawbone, your dentist will attach abutments to the top of the implants. These abutments serve as connectors between the implants and the artificial teeth.

Your dentist will attach the custom-made artificial tooth or teeth to the abutments. These teeth are designed to look and function like natural teeth, so you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss that involve surgically implanting small titanium posts into your jawbone. Over time, the implants fuse with your jawbone to create a strong foundation for artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth. If you are interested in dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are a good option for you.

The benefits of a bright, white smile: How cosmetic dentistry can enhance your appearance

A bright, white smile is often associated with health, youthfulness, and attractiveness. Unfortunately, factors like aging, diet, smoking, and certain medications can cause teeth to become stained or discolored over time, which can negatively affect a person's confidence and self-esteem.

Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry offers various solutions to improve the appearance of discolored or stained teeth. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, and it can effectively brighten teeth by several shades. In-office teeth whitening treatments can be completed in a single appointment, while at-home whitening treatments involve using custom-made trays and a bleaching gel over several weeks.

Dental veneers are another popular cosmetic dentistry solution for improving the appearance of teeth. These thin, custom-made shells are placed over the front of teeth and can improve the color, shape, and size of teeth. Veneers can also be used to correct issues like gaps between teeth, misshapen teeth, and chipped or cracked teeth.

In addition to improving the appearance of teeth, cosmetic dentistry can also have a positive impact on a person's overall appearance. A beautiful smile can enhance a person's facial features and give them a more youthful and vibrant appearance. It can also make them appear more approachable and confident, which can be beneficial in personal and professional relationships.

Cosmetic dentistry can help improve the appearance of teeth and enhance a person's overall appearance. Whether you opt for teeth whitening or dental veneers, the benefits of a beautiful smile can be life-changing, boosting confidence and self-esteem, and leading to a happier, more fulfilling life.

Why dry mouth can be a problem and what to do about it

Your saliva plays an important role in your oral health and reduced saliva flow can lead to health problems.

Reduced saliva flow can lead to a dry mouth and this is a common problem among older adults.

It can be caused by various medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers and diuretics.

Dry mouth can be associated with various problems such as a constant sore throat, burning sensation, problems speaking, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal passages.

Drying irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, which can make them inflamed and more susceptible to infection. Without the cleansing effects of saliva, tooth decay and other oral health problems become more common.

So, if dry mouth is not treated, it can damage your teeth.

Without adequate saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive decay can occur.

Your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture. Sugar-free candy or gum stimulates saliva flow, and moisture can be replaced by using artificial saliva and oral rinses.

The secrets of avoiding gum disease as an older adult

Gum disease also known as periodontal disease often progresses slowly, without pain, over a long period of time and that’s one reason it is common among older adults.

The longer the disease goes undetected and uncontrolled, the more damage it causes to gums and other supporting tissues.

Although periodontal disease is caused by plaque, other factors can increase the risk or severity of the condition, including:

•  Food left between the teeth
•  Tobacco use smoking and smokeless tobacco
•  Badly aligned teeth
•  Ill-fitting bridges or partial dentures
•  Poor diet
•  Systemic diseases such as anemia

Although periodontal disease is common, it can be controlled and, if caught in its early stages, it can be reversed. However, in advanced stages, it may require surgery.

Look out for the following warning signs and see your dentist if you notice any of them:

•  Bleeding gums when you brush
•  Red, tender or swollen gums
•  Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
•  Pus between your teeth and gums when the gums are pressed
•  Loose teeth or teeth moving apart
•  Any change in your bite
•  Any change in the fit of your partial dentures
•  Constant bad breath or bad taste

Keeping an eye out for these problems and having regular dental checkups can help you stop gum disease becoming a major and expensive problem.

Oral Hygiene: Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Smile

Oral hygiene is an essential part of overall health that often gets overlooked. A healthy mouth not only leads to a brighter smile, but it can also prevent a host of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. In this blog, we will discuss some tips and tricks for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Brush and floss regularly

The foundation of good oral hygiene is brushing and flossing regularly. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove any food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

Use mouthwash

Mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and has fluoride to help prevent cavities.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth clean by flushing out any food particles and bacteria. Water also helps prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath and tooth decay.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Try to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, or consume them in moderation.

Quit smoking

Smoking can lead to a host of dental problems, including gum disease, bad breath, and oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting can improve your overall oral and overall health.

Visit your dentist regularly

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can identify any early signs of dental problems and provide treatment before they become more serious.

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing dental problems. By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your teeth and gums in top condition. Remember, a healthy mouth is a happy mouth!

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups: What to Expect

Dental health is an important aspect of overall health that is often overlooked. Regular dental checkups are crucial in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and preventing serious dental problems down the line. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of regular dental checkups and what to expect during your visit.

Why are regular dental checkups important?

Regular dental checkups can help prevent a host of dental problems, including cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. During these checkups, your dentist can identify any early signs of dental problems and provide treatment before they become more serious. This can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

What happens during a dental checkup?

During a typical dental checkup, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. This may include X-rays to check for hidden problems such as cavities or impacted teeth. Your dentist will also clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

Your dentist may also provide advice on how to improve your oral hygiene habits and recommend treatments to address any issues that are found. For example, if your dentist notices signs of gum disease, they may recommend a deep cleaning procedure to remove bacteria and tartar from your teeth and gums.

How often should you schedule a dental checkup?

The frequency of your dental checkups may depend on your individual needs and risk factors. In general, most people should schedule a dental checkup every six months. However, some individuals may need to visit their dentist more frequently, such as those with a history of dental problems or those with certain medical conditions.

Regular dental checkups are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By scheduling routine appointments with your dentist, you can catch any problems early on and prevent serious dental issues from developing. Don't wait until you have a dental emergency – make an appointment with your dentist today.

The Benefits of Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview

Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. They are designed to replace the missing tooth root and provide a strong foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth. There are numerous benefits to dental implants, and in this blog post, we'll take a comprehensive look at what they are.

First and foremost, dental implants are the closest thing to natural teeth. They look and feel just like your natural teeth, so you can speak, eat, and smile with confidence. They are also extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.

Another benefit of dental implants is that they prevent bone loss. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone beneath it can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants prevent this by stimulating the bone and keeping it healthy.

Dental implants also offer improved oral health. Unlike dentures, which can be difficult to clean, dental implants can be maintained with regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. This means that your overall oral health is likely to improve.

Dental implants are a convenient solution for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which can slip or become loose, dental implants are permanently anchored in place. This means that you don't have to worry about them falling out or shifting while you eat, speak, or laugh.

Dental implants can improve your overall quality of life. When you have a missing tooth, it can impact your self-esteem and confidence. Dental implants can restore your smile and give you the confidence to pursue your goals and enjoy your life to the fullest.

Dental implants are an excellent option for anyone who is missing one or more teeth. They offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, convenience, durability, and a natural-looking appearance. If you're considering dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are the right solution for you.

What is cosmetic dentistry, and how does it differ from traditional dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of teeth, gums, and bite. Unlike traditional dentistry, which primarily focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, orthodontics, and dental implants. These procedures can help correct various cosmetic dental issues, such as stained or discolored teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and missing teeth.

Traditional dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems that can affect a patient's oral health. These problems include cavities, gum disease, root canals, and tooth extractions. While traditional dentistry can also improve the appearance of teeth, its primary goal is to promote dental health and prevent further complications.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures are elective and are not typically covered by insurance. Traditional dentistry procedures, on the other hand, are necessary and are often covered by insurance.

While traditional dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile. Both types of dentistry are important and work together to help patients achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful smile.

The keys to keeping your mouth healthy

A healthy mouth is a good indication of your overall health and helps you to keep a great smile and continue eating what you want for many years to come.

There are a few steps you can take to make sure your mouth is as healthy as possible:
– Brush your teeth twice a day using a good quality toothbrush
– Renew your toothbrush regularly. It will only keep your mouth healthy if the brush is in good condition and the bristles are strong. You should replace it at least every three or four months
– Clean between your teeth. Your toothbrush can’t reach everywhere and bacteria can linger between the teeth so it’s important to clean between them every day using floss or an interdental cleaner
– Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning and oral examinations

Your dentist will be able to give you tips on what other products you should consider to help improve your oral health.

For example, antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes can reduce the germs in your mouth and reduce the risk of gum disease.

Also, fluoride mouth rinses can help reduce and prevent tooth decay. Studies have shown that using mouth rinses provides valuable protection over and above that provided by fluoride toothpaste alone.

Look out for the ADA seal when buying toothbrushes and other dental products. This is a sign that the product has met American Dental Association standards for safety and effectiveness.

Following these steps can help ensure that you continue to enjoy great oral health.

How a baby’s first teeth develop

A newly born baby usually has no teeth visible but most have begun to develop primary or baby teeth.

These generally begin to appear about six months after birth.

Over their first few years, they will develop all 20 primary teeth and will usually have them all in place by age three.

The teething process is uncomfortable for many babies and they can become sleepless and irritable. They also might lose their appetite or drool more than usual.

If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, call your physician.

Sometimes when a tooth erupts, an eruption cyst may develop. The tooth will eventually rupture this as it pushes through the gums and these cysts are usually harmless and should be left alone.

If a baby has sore or tender gums when they are teething, it can help to gently rub the gum with a clean finger, a small, cool spoon or a wet gauze pad.

When this happens, your dentist or pediatrician may suggest a pacifier, teething ring or a special “numbing” salve for the gums.

When the teeth begin to erupt, you should brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a little water to prevent tooth decay.

Toothpaste is not recommended until a child reaches age two. When a child begins using toothpaste, you need to supervise the brushing to make sure they don’t swallow it.

Regular dental checks should begin after your child’s first tooth appears or by their first birthday.