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Nightguards A Comprehensive Guide to Protection, Usage, and Benefits for Your Teeth

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Nightguards A Comprehensive Guide to Protection, Usage, and Benefits for Your Teeth

Introduction

We often view night as a time for our bodies to rest and rejuvenate. Unfortunately, for many individuals, it’s also a time when they unconsciously grind or clench their teeth, a condition known as bruxism. This can lead to a myriad of dental problems. Thankfully, a solution exists in the form of nightguards. This article delves into what nightguards are, their use, their benefits, and why seeking professional dental consultation for a custom-fit device is crucial.

  1. Nightguards: The Protective Shield

A nightguard, often called a dental guard, bite splint, or nocturnal bite plate, is a device placed over the teeth to mitigate the damaging effects of bruxism. It serves as a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing direct contact and resultant wear.

  1. The Purpose of Nightguards

Nightguards are primarily used to combat bruxism. They protect the teeth from excessive wear and tear, preventing problems like tooth fractures, enamel loss, and sensitivity. Additionally, they can reduce jaw strain and alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

  1. How to Use a Nightguard

Using a nightguard is straightforward. The device is typically worn during sleep when bruxism predominantly occurs. After thoroughly cleaning the teeth before bedtime, the guard is inserted onto the upper or lower teeth, protecting them throughout the night.

  1. Benefits of Wearing a Nightguard

The benefits of using a nightguard extend beyond mere protection against tooth damage. They can also alleviate jaw pain, reduce headaches associated with bruxism, minimize sleep disruption, and prevent the development of more serious oral health conditions.

  1. The Importance of a Custom-fit Nightguard

While over-the-counter nightguards are available, they often don’t provide the best fit. A custom-fit night guard, created from a dental professional’s impression of your teeth, ensures optimal comfort, effectiveness, and durability. In addition, it’s tailored to your mouth, providing more comprehensive protection.

  1. Professional Dental Consultation: The Key to the Right Nightguard

Before getting a nightguard, it’s crucial to consult with a dental professional. They can assess your oral health, determine if a nightguard is suitable, and guide you through getting a custom-made device. They will also provide instructions on cleaning and maintaining your nightguard.

Conclusion

Nightguards are a simple yet effective solution for individuals suffering from bruxism or TMD. Their role in protecting your teeth, ensuring a good night’s sleep, and improving oral health is invaluable. In addition, a professionally fitted nightguard promises optimal comfort and protection, making it a worthwhile investment for dental health.

Would you benefit from a nightguard?

At Apple Tree Dental, our experienced professionals are ready to provide you with a custom-made device tailored to your unique needs. Call us today at (519) 641-1411, email info@appletreedental.ca, or visit our website at www.appletreedental.ca. Let us help you protect your smile and enjoy a peaceful, restful sleep.

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Aging & Teeth Movement Understanding and Managing Dental Changes Over Time

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Aging & Teeth Movement Understanding and Managing Dental Changes Over Time

Introduction:

Our bodies inevitably undergo various changes as we age, and our oral health is no exception. However, one noticeable transformation often overlooked is the gradual shift of teeth positions, leading to functional and aesthetic issues. Despite these unavoidable changes, proper dental care can control and even correct some dental modifications, ensuring a lifetime of confident smiles.

  1. Understanding Teeth Movement with Age

The movement of teeth is a natural process that can occur at any age, but the changes tend to be more noticeable as we age. Over time, the jawbone naturally loses density, and teeth may gradually shift or rotate, causing crowding or spacing issues. This change can lead to difficulties in cleaning teeth properly, thus contributing to oral health issues such as gum disease and tooth decay.

  1. Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene practices are essential to manage teeth movement with age. Regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash can help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar that can worsen dental shifts by causing gum disease. Moreover, regular dental check-ups will allow your dentist to monitor any changes in your teeth alignment, offering early intervention if necessary.

  1. Wearing a Dental Retainer

One practical method of controlling teeth movement is by wearing a dental retainer. Custom-fitted by your dentist, retainers can help maintain the alignment of your teeth and prevent them from shifting over time. However, the effectiveness of this method depends mainly on the regularity and duration of wear, so commitment is key.

  1. Dental Treatments for Teeth Movement

For those who experience significant teeth movement, more advanced dental treatments may be needed. Options include braces or clear aligners, which can correct misaligned teeth over time. Dental implants or bridges may be considered to replace missing teeth and prevent further shifting for cases involving severe jawbone loss.

  1. Healthy Lifestyle and Diet

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and diet can help control teeth movement. Avoiding harmful habits such as smoking, which contributes to gum disease and bone loss, is a step in the right direction. Moreover, a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D can contribute to strong teeth and bones, reducing the likelihood of teeth movement due to bone loss.

Conclusion

Teeth movement with age is normal, but it doesn’t mean you should let it affect your smile and overall oral health. You can control and correct these shifts by understanding the changes that occur and taking proactive steps like maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing a dental retainer, seeking appropriate dental treatments, and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Maintaining your oral health as you age may require a little more effort, but the rewards of a healthy and confident smile are worth it.

Are you concerned about teeth movement or other dental issues? At AppleTree Dental, we are committed to providing personalized dental care for our patients. Reach out to us today at (519) 641-1411 or send an email to info@appletreedental.ca. You can also visit our website at www.appletreedental.ca to explore our comprehensive range of services. Your journey toward a healthier smile starts with us!

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

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Oral Health and Overall Health Understanding the Connection Between Your Mouth and Body

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Oral Health and Overall Health Understanding the Connection Between Your Mouth and Body

Oral health is often overlooked as an essential component of overall well-being. However, a growing body of research has shed light on the strong connection between oral health and overall health, highlighting the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene to prevent systemic diseases.

Introduction: 

When we think about our overall health, focusing on our weight, diet, and exercise routine is easy. However, what often slips our mind is oral health’s crucial role in maintaining our general well-being. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and poor oral health can lead to severe consequences for our overall health. This article will explore the connection between oral health and overall health, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing dental hygiene to prevent systemic diseases and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The Mouth-Body Connection: 

The mouth is home to diverse bacteria, some of which are beneficial and necessary for maintaining oral health, while others can cause diseases if not properly managed. When these harmful bacteria accumulate and cause infections in the mouth, they can readily travel through the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body. This connection between oral and overall health has been well-documented in scientific research, with several systemic diseases linked to poor oral health.

  1. Heart Disease: Research has shown that periodontal (gum) disease patients are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. The inflammation and infections caused by gum disease can lead to the narrowing of arteries (atherosclerosis) and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  2. Diabetes: There is a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and oral health. Poor oral health can exacerbate diabetes by making blood sugar control more difficult. Conversely, diabetes can increase the risk of gum disease due to increased blood sugar levels, providing fertile ground for bacterial growth.
  3. Respiratory Infections: Bacteria from the mouth can enter the respiratory system, causing pneumonia and bronchitis. Poor oral health, including gum disease and tooth decay, can increase the risk of respiratory infections.
  4. Pregnancy Complications: Oral health issues, specifically periodontal disease, have been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant women with gum disease are more likely to experience preterm birth, low birth weight, and preeclampsia.

Promoting Oral Health for Overall Wellness: 

Understanding the connection between oral and overall health underscores the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene. Here are some essential steps to prioritize your oral health and, by extension, your overall well-being:

  1. Brush and Floss Regularly: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are crucial steps in preventing the build-up of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
  2. Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist at least twice yearly for professional cleanings and oral examinations. These check-ups are vital for early detection and treatment of oral health issues before they escalate.
  3. Maintain a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet, low in sugar and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day can help wash away food particles and bacteria.
  4. Quit Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for gum disease and other oral health issues. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your oral health and reduce the risk of various systemic diseases.
  5. Manage Chronic Conditions: If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, it is crucial to manage it effectively to reduce the risk of developing oral health issues.

Conclusion: 

Oral health is a critical aspect of overall health that should be considered. By understanding the connection between the mouth and the body, we can better appreciate the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene to prevent systemic diseases and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Prioritizing oral health care, including regular dental check-ups, brushing and flossing, and a nutritious diet, can significantly improve our overall well-being. In addition, by integrating these practices into our daily routine, we can ensure a healthier and happier life for ourselves and our loved ones.

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

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The Cornerstone of Oral Health Understanding Dental Hygiene and its Long-Term Benefits

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The Cornerstone of Oral Health Understanding Dental Hygiene and its Long-Term Benefits

Introduction

A radiant smile can light up a room, but the path to that captivating sparkle starts with a solid foundation in dental hygiene. Dental hygiene refers to your daily brushing and flossing regimen and regular professional treatments designed to maintain oral health. Understanding these treatments’ frequency and benefits can help you make informed decisions about your dental care, paving the way for a lifetime of confident smiles.

1. The Essentials of Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene is a multi-faceted approach aimed at preventing oral health issues. From daily routines like brushing and flossing to professional cleanings, dental hygiene is an ongoing commitment that requires consistency. This dedicated care removes plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.

2. Professional Teeth Cleaning: A Vital Procedure

Professional teeth cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a procedure dental hygienists use to clean teeth thoroughly. This treatment goes beyond your daily brushing and flossing, targeting areas that are often missed or difficult to reach. It’s an effective method for the prevention of oral diseases.

3. Frequency of Dental Hygiene Treatments

For most individuals, dental professionals recommend professional cleaning every six months. However, the frequency can vary depending on a person’s oral health status. For example, those with ongoing dental conditions such as periodontal disease might require more frequent visits.

4. Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening Your Teeth

Fluoride treatments are a crucial part of dental hygiene that strengthen the tooth enamel and help prevent decay. This treatment, typically applied during your professional cleaning, provides extra protection against cavities and can even reverse early signs of deterioration.

5. Oral Cancer Screening: A Lifesaving Exam

Dental hygiene appointments also provide an opportunity for oral cancer screenings. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment, making this a vital part of your dental hygiene routine.

6. The Impact of Dental Hygiene on Overall Health

A clean and healthy mouth is more than just a beautiful smile. Recent research has revealed a connection between oral health and overall systemic health. Good dental hygiene can reduce the risk of health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Conclusion

Dental hygiene, comprising your at-home care and regular professional treatments, is an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. It’s a proactive approach that prevents dental issues, ensuring your smile remains as dazzling as ever. By understanding the importance of dental hygiene, you can take charge of your oral health and reap the long-term benefits.

Are you ready to enhance your dental hygiene routine? At AppleTree Dental, we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health. Reach out to us today at (519) 641-1411, or send an email to info@appletreedental.ca. You can also explore our comprehensive range of services on our website at www.appletreedental.ca. Partner with us for a lifetime of radiant smiles!

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

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The Importance of Timely Emergency Dental Care

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The Importance of Timely Emergency Dental Care

Emergency dental care is essential to prevent further damage, relieve pain, and maintain good oral health.

Introduction: 

Emergency dental care is a topic that, although not discussed frequently, is of utmost importance for maintaining good oral health. A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dental professional to alleviate pain, save a tooth, or stop ongoing tissue bleeding. Such emergencies can occur anytime, resulting from accidents, sports injuries, or untreated dental issues. This blog will discuss the importance of timely emergency dental care, its benefits, and how to recognize the signs that warrant a visit to the emergency dentist.

The Benefits of Timely Emergency Dental Care:

  1. Prevention of Further Damage: One of the primary reasons for seeking emergency dental care is to prevent further damage. When left unattended, dental issues can worsen, leading to more severe complications such as tooth loss, infections, and extensive dental procedures. Timely intervention can help preserve your teeth and oral structures, saving you from pain and expensive treatments in the future.
  2. Pain Relief: Dental emergencies can be extremely painful, and waiting to seek treatment can prolong your discomfort. You can alleviate the pain faster by seeking immediate dental care and returning to your daily routine. Many dental professionals offer emergency services to help you manage pain and provide appropriate treatment to address the root cause.
  3. Prevention of Infections: Untreated dental emergencies, especially those involving broken or cracked teeth, can leave your mouth vulnerable to infections. Bacteria can enter the tooth’s pulp, causing abscesses and eventually spreading to other body parts. Immediate dental care can prevent infections and help you maintain your overall health.
  4. Cost-Effectiveness: While it may seem counterintuitive, seeking emergency dental care can be cost-effective in the long run. Addressing dental problems right away can prevent the need for more extensive and costly treatments in the future. Emergency dental care can be a wise investment in oral health and well-being.

Recognizing Dental Emergencies:

Knowing the signs of a dental emergency can help you act quickly and seek the necessary care. Here are some everyday situations that warrant emergency dental treatment:

  1. Severe Toothache: A severe toothache can be a sign of an underlying dental problem, such as an infection or an abscess. If you experience sudden, intense pain in your tooth, it’s crucial to see a dentist immediately.
  2. Knocked-Out Tooth: If a tooth is knocked out due to an accident or injury, it’s essential to seek dental care immediately. In some cases, a dentist may be able to reattach the tooth if treated within an hour of the incident.
  3. Chipped or Broken Tooth: A chipped or broken tooth can cause pain and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat and speak. Seeing a dentist as soon as possible is essential to prevent further damage and infection.
  4. Loose or Dislodged Fillings or Crowns: If a filling or crown becomes loose or falls out, it’s crucial to seek dental care immediately. A lost filling or crown can expose the tooth’s sensitive inner layers, leading to pain and a higher risk of infection.
  5. Dental Abscess: A dental abscess is a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms due to a bacterial infection. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. Immediate dental care is necessary to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body.

Conclusion: 

Emergency dental care is crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing further damage. Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency and acting quickly can save your teeth, alleviate pain, and save you from costly and extensive treatments. By understanding the importance of emergency dental care and seeking prompt treatment, you are proactively safeguarding your oral health and overall well-being. Remember, when it comes to dental emergencies, time is of the essence, and seeking immediate care can make all the difference in preserving your smile.

If you have a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact Apple Tree Dental Today.

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

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Keeping Your Kids Teeth Healthy In The Summer

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Keeping Your Kids Teeth Healthy In The Summer

Introduction:

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it can only mean one thing: summer break is almost here!

We’ve put together this content that explains Keeping Your Kids Teeth Healthy In The Summer. Be aware and take care of your teeth.

[1]As parents, we understand the importance of good dental habits for a healthy, happy smile. While summer vacation sets the stage for fun, new experiences, it can also seriously disrupt your child’s dental health routine. To help protect your child’s overall well-being this summer, it’s important to encourage proper oral hygiene. Here are some tips for keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy while they are enjoying summer vacation.

Schedule A Checkup

Visiting the dentist regularly can help your child’s smile stay healthy all year long. Parents often schedule dental checkups around August, right before school starts, which is a great way to start the school year off right. However, if you want to ensure that your summer isn’t interrupted with dental concerns, we recommend scheduling a dental appointment right after class ends. This will significantly reduce the likelihood of a toothache during summer camp or sporting activities.

Stay On Schedule

Summer vacation can seriously disrupt bedtime routines. No matter how eventful your summer gets, it’s important to make sure your kids continue to practice good dental hygiene. Resist the temptation to let your kids skip brushing before a late bedtime, and be sure to supervise to make sure they are brushing twice daily for 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. The American Dental Association recommends that parents use brushing calendars to stay on top of kids’ brushing habits during the summer months. Also, don’t forget to clean between their teeth once a day. With consistent brushing and flossing habits, your kids will stay on track for healthy back-to-school dental visits.

Stock Healthy Items

Great dental care goes beyond brushing and flossing. A balanced diet that is rich in low-sugar foods can promote good dental health! When kids are home during the summer, make sure your children are grazing on healthy items by stocking your refrigerator and pantry with fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grain foods. Good snack choices for healthy teeth include low-fat yogurt, celery sticks, cheddar cheese, apples, and unsalted almonds.

[2]Lend Fruits And Veggies Into Smoothies Or Popsicles

Another way to include teeth-friendly fruits and veggies into your kiddos’ summer diet is blending their favorites into smoothies. Add yogurt, coconut milk, or nut milk for protein. Then take your smoothie blends to the next level and freeze them into popsicles!

Double-Down On Your Kids’ Oral Hygiene Routine

In summer, kids get a break from the rush to get to school in the morning, or the excitement of after-school activities and homework, so there’s more time to slow down and practice diligent oral hygiene. Ensure your kids brush their teeth twice a day and floss once. Kids who don’t brush their teeth regularly are at risk of plaque build up, tooth decay or cavities, and even gum disease.

Let’s go through oral hygiene for kids step by step. Brushing teeth for kids starts by making sure their toothbrush is in good working order. If it’s looking a little worse for wear, toss it and pick out a new, soft-bristled one. Change your toothbrush every three to four months. That’s how long it typically takes for toothbrush bristles to start fraying and lose their effectiveness. As for toothpaste, make sure to use one with fluoride. You should also have dental floss or floss picks at the ready.

Floss first, then brush teeth at a 45 degree angle, brushing all surfaces as well as the tongue, palate, and inside the cheeks. Finish with a swish (and spit!) of alcohol-free mouthwash for kids and your youngster is good to go.

Conclusion:

Summer might be your child’s favorite time of year, but typical warm weather activities can be detrimental to their teeth. All the possible ways are explained but never bound yourself. Keep looking for best suggestions for your good oral health.

For Assistance, Visit Apple Tree Dental

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

Article Reference Links:

  1. https://www.interdent.com/gentle-dental/blog/keeping-your-kids-teeth-healthy-in-the-summer/ ↑

  2. https://www.kidsmilehigh.com/6-ways-to-keep-kids-teeth-healthy-summer-2021/ ↑

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Fluoride – Nature’s Cavity Fighter

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Fluoride – Nature’s Cavity Fighter

Introduction:

One should be active and careful when it comes to oral hygiene. If you love fluoride, the details would be beneficial for you.

We’ve put together this content that explains Fluoride – Nature’s Cavity Fighter. Be aware and take care of your teeth.

[1]Are you a fan of fluoride? You should be! Fluoride is often called nature’s cavity fighter…and for good reason. It is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the outer surface of your teeth (enamel) more resistant to the acid attacks that cause tooth decay.

The benefits of fluoride reach both children and adults. Before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages, and dietary supplements makes tooth enamel stronger, making it easier to resist tooth decay. This provides what is called a systemic benefit. After teeth erupt, fluoride helps rebuild or remineralize weakened tooth enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay. When you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste or use other dental products with it in them, the fluoride is applied to the surface of your teeth. This provides a topical benefit. Also, the fluoride you take in from foods and beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth with tiny amounts of fluoride that help rebuild weakened tooth enamel.

Fluoride is naturally found in almost all water sources, rivers, lakes, wells, and even oceans. For the past 70 years, fluoride has been added to public water supplies to bring levels up to the amount necessary to help prevent tooth decay.

Community water fluoridation is like drinking milk fortified with Vitamin D or eating bread and cereals enriched with folic acid. Before water fluoridation, children had about three times as many cavities. Because of the important role it has played in the reduction of tooth decay, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has proclaimed community water fluoridation one of the great public health achievements of the 20th century.

[2]How Exactly Does Fluoride Work?

Cavities are caused by bacteria that live in our mouths. They feed on leftover food they find there, including sugary foods and drinks. When these bacteria consume sugars, they release acids that attack tooth enamel. Over time, damage to this protective outer layer of our teeth sets the stage for tooth decay.

Fluoride helps fight cavities by repairing the damage these acids can do to our teeth. The repair process is called remineralization.

How Fluoride Protects A Child’s Teeth From The Very Start

When infants are born, their baby (primary) teeth are already present in their jaws. Even before teeth break through the gums, they benefit from fluoride in the food and drink a child takes in. These early doses of fluoride strengthen the enamel on baby teeth, making them more resistant to cavities. (This is known as a systemic benefit.)

As a child’s primary teeth come in, fluoride helps rebuild any damage that happens when cavity-causing bacteria release acids in the mouth. This is why it’s important for children to use fluoride toothpaste and drink plenty of tap water, which usually contains fluoride.

Using fluoride toothpaste or getting a special fluoride treatment at the dentist’s office puts fluoride on the surface of a child’s teeth, creating a topical benefit. Also, the fluoride children get from foods and drinks becomes part of their saliva, bathing their teeth in tiny amounts of fluoride that help keep enamel strong and healthy.

How Do We Know Fluoride Is Safe And Effective?

For more than 70 years, the best scientific evidence has shown that adding fluoride to community water supplies is safe and effective. More than 100 health organizations recognize the cavity-fighting benefits of fluoridated water, including the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the American Dental Association.

Studies show that fluoride in water is especially helpful in fighting childhood cavities. In fact, one study revealed that children who live in communities without fluoridated water are three times more likely to end up in the hospital needing dental surgery.

Research also shows that fluoride in local water systems prevents at least 25% of tooth decay in people of all ages. Better dental health helps save money since when more people need treatment for cavities, we all pay in the form of higher insurance premiums and taxes. In fact, the average lifetime cost per person of adding fluoride to local water supplies adds up to less than the cost of a single dental filling.

Conclusion:

We hope the content lets you understand about oral health. All the possible ways are explained but never bound yourself. Keep looking for best suggestions for the use of Fluoride.

For Assistance, Visit https://appletreedental.ca/

Article compiled by https://appletreedental.ca/

Article Reference Links:

  1. https://www.sunshinesmilesfl.com/blog/fluoride-natures-cavity-fighter/ ↑

  2. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/fluoride/ ↑

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Consequences Of Poor Dental Hygiene And Unhealthy Teeth

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Consequences Of Poor Dental Hygiene And Unhealthy Teeth

Introduction:

Dental hygiene matters the most because it excels your overall personality. Unhealthy teeth damage your internal as well as external appearance.

We’ve put together this content that explains the Consequences Of Poor Dental Hygiene And Unhealthy Teeth. Be aware and take care of your teeth.

[1]You’ve heard that classic ditty that talks about your bones, right? Your toe bone is connected to your foot bone, which is connected to your heel bone, and so forth. While that speaks to your skeletal system, your entire body is interconnected similarly. What this means in dental terms is that your dental health can affect your overall health. While a cavity may not affect your endocrine system, severe gum disease could impact your health well beyond your mouth. Note how your oral health can affect your well-being below and what you can do about it today.

[2]Facts About Dental And Oral Health

Dental cavities and gum disease are very common. According to the World Health Organization Trusted Source:

  • Between 60 and 90 percent of school children have at least one dental cavity
  • Nearly 100 percent of adults have at least one dental cavity
  • Between 15 and 20 percent of adults ages 35 to 44 have severe gum disease
  • About 30 percent of people around the world ages 65 to 74 don’t have any natural teeth left
  • In most countries, out of every 100,000 people, there are between 1 and 10 cases of oral cancer
  • The burden of oral disease is much higher in poor or disadvantaged population groups

There are many steps you can take to keep your teeth healthy. For example, dental and oral disease can be greatly reduced by:

  • Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day
  • Flossing your teeth at least once a day
  • Decreasing your intake of sugar
  • Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables
  • Avoiding tobacco products
  • Drinking fluoridated water
  • Seeking professional dental care

[3]Oral Health Conditions

Oral health refers to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak and chew. Some of the most common diseases that impact our oral health include cavities (tooth decay), gum (periodontal) disease, and oral cancer.

More than 40% of adults report having felt pain in their mouth within the last year, and more than 80% of people will have had at least one cavity by age 34. The nation spends more than $124 billion on costs related to dental care each year.  On average, over 34 million school hours and more than $45 billion in productivity are lost each year as a result of dental emergencies requiring unplanned care.

Oral conditions are frequently considered separate from other chronic conditions, but these are actually interrelated. Poor oral health is associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. The oral disease also is associated with risk behaviors such as using tobacco and consuming sugary foods and beverages.

Public health strategies such as community water fluoridation and school sealant programs are safe and effective interventions proven to prevent cavities and save money.

Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Cavities are caused by a breakdown of the tooth enamel by acids produced by bacteria located in plaque that collects on teeth, especially along the gum line and in the crevices on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Eating and drinking foods high in carbohydrates cause this bacteria to produce the acids that can cause the outer coating of the tooth (enamel) or root surface to break down (demineralize).

Although cavities are largely preventable, they are one of the most common chronic diseases throughout their lifespan. Untreated tooth decay can lead to an abscess (a severe infection) under the gums which can spread to other parts of the body and have serious, and in rare cases fatal, results.

More than half of children aged 6 to 8 have had a cavity in at least one of their baby (primary) teeth.

  • Up to 10% of children aged 2 to 5 have untreated cavities.
  • More than half of adolescents aged 12 to 19 have had a cavity in at least one of their permanent teeth.
  • One-quarter of adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated cavities.
  • More than 90% of adults have had a cavity.
  • Community water fluoridation and school dental sealants programs are both cost-saving, proven strategies to prevent cavities.

Gum (Periodontal) Disease

About 4 in 10 adults aged 30 years or older had gum (periodontal) diseases in 2009–2014.5 Gum disease is mainly the result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bone that surround and support the teeth. Certain chronic conditions increase one’s risk for periodontal disease including diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor oral hygiene, and heredity. Tobacco use is also an important risk factor for gum disease. If early forms of periodontal diseases are not treated, the bone that supports the teeth can be lost, and the gums can become infected. Teeth with little bone support can become loose and may eventually have to be extracted.

Oral Cancer

In 2016, there were nearly 45,000 new cases of cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx diagnosed in the United States and more than 10,000 deaths. The 5-year survival rate for these cancers is about 61 percent. The mortality rate from oral cancer is nearly three times as high in males as it is in females (4 vs 1.4 for every 100,000 people) and nearly twice as high in white and black populations as it is in the Hispanic population (2.6 vs. 1.5 for every 100,000 people).6 Preventing high-risk behaviors, that include cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking, use of smokeless tobacco, and excessive use of alcohol are critical in preventing oral cancers. Early detection is key to increasing the survival rate for these cancers.

Oral Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted disease, can cause cancers in the back of the throat, called “oropharyngeal cancers.” More research is needed to determine whether HPV itself causes oropharyngeal cancers, or if other factors (such as smoking or chewing tobacco) interact with HPV to cause these cancers.

Conclusion:

The content explains all the scenarios related to poor dental hygiene and unhealthy teeth. All the possible ways are explained but never bound yourself. Keep looking for the best suggestions for your good oral health.

For Assistance, Visit https://appletreedental.ca/

Article compiled by https://appletreedental.ca/

Article Reference Links:

  1. https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/gum-disease/how-poor-dental-care-can-affect-your-overall-health ↑

  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health ↑

  3. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/index.html ↑

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4 Common Oral Hygiene Mistakes Women Make

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4 Common Oral Hygiene Mistakes Women Make

Introduction:

[1]Oral hygiene mistakes often create bigger problems. Many women do the same mistakes and don’t pay attention to their oral well-being.

We’ve put together this content that explains 4 common oral hygiene mistakes made by women. Be aware and take care of your teeth.

Did you know that your oral health is largely connected to your overall health and well-being? Common oral hygiene mistakes and what you can do to correct them to have better oral and overall health.

Not maintaining good oral hygiene.

The worst mistake that you can make for your mouth is poor oral hygiene. Follow these recommendations daily for better oral health:

Brush regularly

Brush your teeth for at least two minutes at least twice a day – or even better, within 20 minutes of eating. Use a smooth or soft toothbrush with an American Dental Association (ADA) approved toothpaste with fluoride.

Floss daily

Floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing is just as important as brushing as it gets little pieces of food unstuck from between your teeth and removes plaque and bacteria that cause decay and periodontitis (gum disease).

Use mouthwash

Consider finishing your oral hygiene routine with fluorinated mouthwash. Mouthwash can help clean areas in and around the gums and re-mineralize the teeth. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes as they dry out the mouth, which may lead to tooth decay.

Drink water

Water is the best beverage for keeping your mouth healthy and hydrated. If you are looking for a drink other than water, avoid acidic beverages such as citrus juices, soft drinks, and wine. The acid in the beverages can etch, or roughen up, the enamel. When the enamel gets etched, it collects plaque and bacteria easier, which causes the enamel to be eroded, resulting in tooth decay.

[2]Not having regular dental check-ups.

See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should be seeing the dentist every six months so that any issues can be caught early and your teeth can be cleaned by a professional.

Snacking

“Frequent snacking can raise a person’s risk for getting cavities, especially if the snacks contain sugar or starches,” Dr. Nagham Altalib says. “An occasional sweet treat is fine, but the prolonged, repeated exposure of teeth to sugar and other carbohydrates will accelerate both the start and growth of cavities.”

Eating acidic foods at night

“The acid stokes up the fire, the pitta dosha, keeping the saliva acidic, which in turn affects the health of the gums,” says Stoffer. “At night, it’s better to eat early, say at least two hours before going to bed, so the digestion works well and the state of the mouth returns to normal.”

Conclusion:

We hope the content lets you understand oral health mistakes. All the possible ways are explained but never bound yourself. Keep looking for the best suggestions for your good oral health.

For Assistance, Visit https://appletreedental.ca/

Article compiled by https://appletreedental.ca/

Article Reference Links:

  1. https://promedicanewsnetwork.org/general-health/5-oral-hygiene-mistakes-you-might-be-making/ ↑
  2. https://www.wellandgood.com/oral-hygiene-mistakes/ ↑

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How to Assess Your Tooth Decay Risk

 

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How to Assess Your Tooth Decay Risk

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “How to Assess Your Tooth Decay Risk“. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]Tooth decay is the cause of cavities, pain, tooth loss and infection. It is the main reason why people seek dental treatment such as fillings, root canal treatment, extractions, and other costly, complicated dental procedures. But here’s the good news: dental caries — the process that leads to tooth decay — is a preventable disease, and early dental caries can be reversed with early intervention.

[2]Causes

When decay-causing bacteria come into contact with sugars and starches from foods and drinks, they form an acid. This acid can attack the tooth’s enamel causing it to lose minerals.

This can happen if you eat or drink often, especially foods and drinks containing sugar and starches. The repeated cycles of these “acid attacks” will cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. Over time, the enamel is weakened and then destroyed, forming a cavity.

Symptoms

In early tooth decay, there are not usually any symptoms. As tooth decay advances, it can cause a toothache (tooth pain) or tooth sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold. If the tooth becomes infected, an abscess, or pocket of pus, can form that can cause pain, facial swelling, and fever.

Diagnosis

Tooth decay can be found during a regular dental check-up. Early tooth decay may look like a white spot on the tooth. If the decay is more advanced, it may appear as a darker spot or a hole in the tooth. The dentist can also check the teeth for soft or sticky areas or take an x-ray, which can show decay.

Treatment

Dentists commonly treat cavities by filling them. A dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue and then restore the tooth by filling it with a filling material.

What Are The Treatments For Tooth Decay And Cavities?

There are several treatments for tooth decay and cavities. Which treatment you get depends on how bad the problem is:

Fluoride treatments

If you have early tooth decay, a fluoride treatment can help the enamel to repair itself.

Fillings

If you have a typical cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue and then restore the tooth by filling it with a filling material.

Root canal

If the damage to the tooth and/or an infection spreads to the pulp (inside of the tooth), you might need a root canal. Your dentist will remove the decayed pulp and clean inside the tooth and root. The next step is to fill the tooth with a temporary filling. Then you will need to come back to get a permanent filling or a crown (a cover on the tooth).

Extraction (pulling the tooth)

In the most severe cases, when the damage to the pulp cannot be fixed, your dentist may pull the tooth. Your dentist will suggest that you get a bridge or implant to replace the missing tooth. Otherwise, the teeth next to the gap may move over and change your bite.

Strategies For Prevention Of Tooth Decay

[3]What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay (also known as dental caries or cavities) is a common diet-related disease that leads to the loss of minerals from adult and baby teeth. In its early stages it can appear as a white or dark spot on the tooth, but as more mineral is lost a cavity or hole may appear.

How Tooth Decay Occurs

Many bacteria live in your mouth and on your teeth in the dental plaque (food build up around teeth). These bacteria use the sugars in the food you eat as the energy they need to live.

When turning the sugar into energy, the bacteria in your mouth create acid as a waste product. This acid dissolves the crystals of your teeth and causes mineral loss, which can lead to signs of tooth decay such as white spots and cavities.

Your saliva works to prevent tooth decay from occurring. It washes sugar out of your mouth and into your stomach, stops acid from causing damage, fights bacteria and can repair the early stages of tooth decay by repairing tooth minerals.

If the amount of acid from the bacteria on your teeth outweighs the protective effect of your saliva, then tooth decay will occur.

Further mineral loss may lead to the cavity going into the center of the tooth (the pulp), which may lead to toothache.

Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as bread, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes in the teeth called cavities.

[4]To Prevent Tooth Decay:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride-containing toothpaste. Preferably, brush after each meal and especially before going to bed.
  • Clean between your teeth daily with dental floss or interdental cleaners, such as the Oral-B Interdental Brush, Reach Stim-U-Dent or Sulcabrush.
  • Rinse daily with a fluoride-containing mouthwash. Some rinses also have antiseptic ingredients to help kill bacteria that cause plaque.
  • Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacks. Avoid carbohydrates such as candy, pretzels and chips, which can remain on the tooth’s surface. If sticky foods are eaten, brush your teeth soon afterward.
  • Check with your dentist about using supplemental fluoride, which strengthens your teeth.
  • Ask your dentist about dental sealants (a plastic protective coating) applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars) to protect them from decay.
  • Drink fluoridated water. At least a pint of fluoridated water each day is needed to protect children from tooth decay.
  • Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.

Researchers are developing new means to prevent tooth decay. One study found that a chewing gum that contains the sweetener xylitol temporarily retarded the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay. In addition, several materials that slowly release fluoride over time, which will help prevent further decay, are being explored.

These materials would be placed between teeth or in pits and fissures of teeth. Toothpaste and mouth rinses that can reverse and “heal” early cavities are also being studied.

Conclusion:

Thank you for reading this article, and check back frequently for other dental health articles. Should you have any questions, please contact Apple Tree Dental today!

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

Article reference links

  1. https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/745/Tooth-decay-dental-caries-risk-assessment ↑

  2. https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay ↑

  3. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/Tooth-decay ↑

  4. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-decay-prevention ↑

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