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How To Protect Tooth Enamel

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How To Protect Tooth Enamel

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “How To Protect Tooth Enamel”. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]The surface of your teeth is called enamel. It helps protect them from decay. Some wear and tear is normal, but there’s plenty you can do to keep that barrier strong. Take these simple steps for a healthy mouth and a winning smile.

1. Limit Sugary Foods And Drinks

Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar from foods and drinks. Then they make acids, which soften and wear away your enamel. Chewy candies that stick to your teeth can also cause damage. Soft drinks may have extra acids.

Soft drinks with artificial sweeteners are a smarter choice than ones with sugar, but they’re also acidic and will wear down enamel over time.

The best choice when you’re thirsty? A glass of plain water. Many flavored drinks of water are acidic.

2. Eat Foods That Protect Enamel

Calcium in food counters acids in your mouth that cause decay. It also helps keep your bones and teeth strong.

Milk, cheese, and other dairy products help protect and strengthen enamel, says Pamela L. Quinones, past president of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association. Choose low-fat or fat-free items to help keep calories down.

If you don’t eat dairy, look for foods with calcium added.

3. Avoid Over-Brushing

You can wear down your enamel if you brush too fast and hard. Hold a brush with a soft bristle at about a 45-degree angle to your gums. Then move it back and forth in short, gentle strokes, about the distance of one tooth.

Wait for up to an hour after eating sweets or citrus fruits before you brush your teeth. Acidic foods can soften enamel and may make it easier for you to damage it.

4. Use Fluoride

The American Dental Association (ADA) calls fluoride “nature’s cavity fighter” because it strengthens your enamel and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay. Fluoride also makes your teeth more resistant to acids that come from foods and from bacteria in your mouth.

The ADA recommends fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears and throughout your life. Rinsing with a mouthwash that has fluoride can also help prevent cavities and keep your enamel strong.

5. Treat Heartburn And Eating Disorders

If you have severe heartburn, stomach acids may escape and eventually reach your mouth, where they can erode enamel. The eating disorder bulimia, in which people vomit food after they eat, is another threat to your enamel.

If you have either condition, talk to your doctor about treatment.

6. Beware Of Chlorinated Pools

When swimming pools aren’t chlorinated properly, the water may become too acidic. When that happens, the water can damage teeth that get wet.

Check with the recreation center or gym where you swim to make sure the pool’s chlorine levels are checked regularly. While swimming, keep your mouth closed so your teeth don’t get wet.

7. Watch Out For Dry Mouth

Saliva helps wash away food and bacteria that can lead to cavities. It also fights the effects of acidic foods. Drink water often to keep your mouth clean and moist.

If you exercise hard, be sure to rehydrate during and after your workout. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless hard candy can also help keep saliva flowing in your mouth.

Some medical conditions and medications can cause dry mouth. Talk to your doctor about treatments.

8. Avoid Grinding Your Teeth

Some people grind their upper and lower teeth together, especially at night. Over time it can wear down the enamel.

Talk to your dentist if you’ve got the grinding habit. They may suggest a custom-fitted mouth guard that can protect your teeth.

7 Daily Ways To Protect Your Teeth

Some say the eyes are the window to the soul. But if you really want to know what someone’s about, check their smile. A welcoming show of pearly whites makes a great first impression, while a tight-lipped smile or whiff of bad breath does the opposite.

  • Brush Two Times A Day For Two Minutes

    Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day, says the American Dental Association (ADA). This will keep your teeth in top form. Brushing your teeth and tongue with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste cleans food and bacteria from your mouth. Brushing also washes out particles that eat away at your teeth and cause cavities.

  • A Morning Brush Fights Morning Breath

    The mouth is 98.6ºF (37ºC). Warm and wet, it’s filled with food particles and bacteria. These lead to deposits called plaque. When it builds up, it calcifies, or hardens, on your teeth to form tartar, also called calculus. Not only does tartar irritate your gums, it can lead to gum disease as well as cause bad breath. Be sure to brush in the morning to help get rid of the plaque that’s built up overnight.

  • Don’t Overbrush

    If you brush more than twice a day, for longer than four minutes total, you could wear down the enamel layer that protects your teeth.

    When tooth enamel isn’t there, it exposes a layer of dentin. Dentin has tiny holes that lead to nerve endings. When these are triggered, you might feel all sorts of pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 20 percentTrusted Source of American adults have experienced pain and sensitivity in their teeth.

  • Don’t Turbocharge

    It’s also possible to brush too hard. Brush your teeth like you’re polishing an eggshell. If your toothbrush looks like someone sat on it, you’re applying too much pressure.

    Enamel is strong enough to protect teeth from everything that goes on inside your mouth, from eating and drinking to beginning the digestive process. Children and teens have softer enamel than adults, leaving their teeth more prone to cavities and erosion from food and drink.

  • Make Sure You Floss Every Day

    Want to avoid minimal scraping at your next checkup? Flossing loosens the particles that brushing misses. It also removes plaque, and in so doing prevents the buildup of tartar. While it’s easy to brush plaque away, you need a dentist to remove tartar.

  • It Doesn’t Matter When You Do It

    You finally have an answer to the age-old question: “Which comes first, flossing or brushing?” It doesn’t matter, according to the ADA, as long as you do it every day.

  • Stay Away From Soda

    Sip All Day, Get Decay” is a campaign from the Minnesota Dental Association to warn people of the dangers of soft drinks. It’s not just sugar soda, but diet soda, too, that harms teeth. The acid in soda attacks teeth. Once acid eats away at the enamel, it goes on to create cavities, leaves stains on the tooth surface, and erodes the inside structure of the tooth. To avoid drinking-related tooth decay, limit soft drinks and take good care of your teeth.

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.webmd.com/oral-health/features/tooth-enamel-damage ↑

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Dental Implant Failures Are Tied To Certain Health Factors

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Dental Implant Failures Are Tied To Certain Health Factors

Introduction:

Although dental implant surgery (DIS) has a high success rate, it is not suitable for everyone. It also has the potential to cause long-term complications.

We’ve put together this content that explains “Dental Implant Failures Are Tied To Certain Health Factors” Be aware and take care of your teeth.

[1]Early And Late Dental Implant Failure

A dental implant is a metal post that’s surgically attached to the jaw bone to support an artificial tooth. Once in place, a restorative dentist or oral surgeon mounts a replacement tooth to the implant.

Dental implants have a high success rate, but some people experience dental implant failure. It’s estimated that about 5 to 10 percent of dental implants fail, either shortly after a procedure or months or years later.

If you’re scheduled to have dental implant surgery, or if you currently have an implant, here’s what you need to know about implant failure and other potential complications.

[2]Potential Complications From Surgery

There are several potential complications that can occur following DIS. The sections below will outline some of these.

Below are some of the more common problems that may develop following DIS.

Infection

An infection at the implant site is the most common complication Trusted Source of DIS.

Treatment for an infection depends on the severity and location of the infection. For example, a bacterial infection in the gum may require antibiotics or a soft tissue graft. A bacterial infection in the bone may require the removal of the infected bone tissue and possibly the implant, followed by a bone and soft tissue graft.

Gum Recession

In some cases, a person may find that the gum tissue around the implant begins to recede. This can lead to inflammation and pain. Getting a prompt assessment from a dentist is essential to prevent the removal of the implant.

Loose Implant

In the first few weeks of Trusted Source following DIS, the dental implant will grow and fuse with the jawbone. This process is called osseointegration, and it is crucial to the long-term success of the implant. This process can take many months.

If the implant fails to fuse with the bone, the dental surgeon may remove it. A person may be able to reattempt the implant procedure once the area has healed.

Nerve Or Tissue Damage

Sometimes, a dental surgeon may inadvertently place a dental implant too close to a nerve. This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain. Short-term symptoms are most common in dental implant surgery, but a person may experience long-term symptoms.

A nerve or tissue problem requires immediate attention. Injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in the lower jaw can be potentially serious Trusted Source. Some possible symptoms of an IAN injury include:

  • Persistent numbness on the side of the implant, including the lower lip and chin
  • Persistent pain or discomfort
  • Tingling, tickling, or burning sensations in the gums and skin

Less Common Problems

DIS may also result in some less common problems, such as sinus issues and damage to the dental implant itself.

Sinus Issues

Upper jaw dental implants can protrude into the sinus cavities, causing inflammation of the sinuses. This is known as sinusitis.

Some potential symptoms of sinusitis include:

  • Pain, tenderness, or swelling around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead
  • Green or yellow nasal mucus
  • A blocked nose
  • A reduced sense of smell
  • Sinus headaches
  • Toothache
  • Bad breath
  • A high temperature

Damage From Excessive Force

As with any tooth, excessive force or impact can cause a dental implant to crack or become loose.

Some people may apply excessive force to dental implants without even realizing it. For example, some people grind, or brux, their teeth while sleeping. People who are prone to this behavior may need to wear a mouthguard to prevent damage to the implant as well as their natural teeth.

Long-Term Issues

Peri-implantitis is a type of gum disease that causes loss of the bone supporting the implant. It develops due to chronic inflammation at the site of the implant.

According to one 2017 reviewTrusted Source, peri-implantitis can take about 5 years to progress and cause symptoms. These symptoms typically include bleeding or swelling around the site of the dental implant.

There is also a rare possibility of the body rejecting a dental implant. Based on a 2019 review, researchers are investigating the risks of using dental implants made from titanium or other metals. Some people have a rare metal sensitivity that causes their body to reject metal implants. The researchers recommend that people undergo metal sensitivity testing before receiving such implants.

Conclusion:

DIS is not suitable for everyone. A person will need to undergo an extensive dental examination by a surgeon to determine whether or not they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

For Assistance, Visit Apple Tree Dental

Article compiled by Apple Tree Dental

Article Reference Links:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-implant-problems ↑

  2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dental-implants-problems ↑

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Soothing Sensitive Teeth from Summertime Sweets

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Soothing Sensitive Teeth from Summertime Sweets

Introduction:

Sensitive teeth increase discomfort and people would not be able to behave properly. Using some smart tips you can minimize the discomfort.

We’ve put together this content that explains Soothing Sensitive Teeth from Summertime Sweets. Be aware and take care of your teeth.

[1]For many people, warmer weather means ice cream, Popsicles, and plenty of cold drinks. For people who have sensitive teeth, however, it’s not so easy to indulge in traditional summertime sweets. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, here’s how you can ease your discomfort.

Understanding The Cause

According to the Journal of the American Dental Association, one in eight adults suffers from some form of tooth sensitivity. Most of the time, this stems from cavities, worn enamel, receding gums or decaying dental work. Discomfort tends to amplify when affected areas come into contact with hot or cold foods and beverages. In turn, many people are forced to avoid some of their favorite indulgences, because they simply cannot tolerate the pain.

Getting Relief

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, there are a few things you can do to reduce discomfort, including:

  • Strengthen enamel by brushing daily with fluoride-enriched toothpaste.
  • Avoid acidic foods and drinks, which can exacerbate pain and wear down tooth enamel.
  • Avoid smoking or chewing tobacco, which also contributes to tooth sensitivity.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, which is less abrasive than hard-bristled brushes.
  • Avoid over-the-counter whitening agents, which can thin tooth enamel.

According to the American Dental Association, desensitizing toothpaste can also help reduce discomfort because they contain compounds that block sensation traveling from the tooth surface to the nerve. If desensitizing toothpaste prove ineffective, dentists generally recommend in-office treatments involving fluoride gels or special desensitizing agents. If this proves ineffective, fillings, crowns, inlays or bondings may be needed to treat decay or correct other underlying causes. In some cases, people require surgical gum grafts to replace lost gum tissue, protect the root and reduce sensitivity.

[2]Ways To Soothe Your Sensitive Teeth From Summer Sweets

Having sensitive teeth is something that occurs very often, especially during the summertime, when people tend to indulge in sweets like ice cream, popsicles, and candy bars. When you consume too many sweets, your teeth sometimes become very sensitive, which makes it hard to chew, or even enjoy beverages. The good news for people suffering from sensitive teeth is that it doesn’t require a trip to the dentist, unless it is severe and persistent, because there are a few things you can do to treat the issue, which is listed below.

Practice Good Oral Care

This is the best advice you will ever get from a dentist. If you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss daily, while making regular trips to your dentist’s office, you can prevent situations like this from occurring.

Switch To Toothpaste Made For Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth are sensitive, an easy cure for it is to change the toothpaste that you are currently using, to one that is designed for sensitive teeth. After using it regularly for a period of time, the sensitivity in your teeth will gradually reduce.

Use Dental Products That Have Fluoride

When it comes to sensitive teeth, fluoride is a big deal because it can help strengthen the surface of your teeth which has been affected by bacterial acids over the years. You should check to make sure that both your toothpaste and mouthwash have fluoride, to reduce any sensitivity that you are feeling.

Use A Soft Bristle Toothbrush

Using a soft bristle toothbrush helps to keep your teeth’s protective layer as strong as possible because you aren’t scrubbing away the enamel protecting your teeth. Instead, it helps you clean your mouth without causing damage to your teeth and gums.

Avoid Acidic Foods And Drinks

If you have sensitive teeth, you should stay away from acidic foods like fruits, and drinks like wine and soft drinks, because they add to the pain and sensitivity that you are feeling. Some sugary foods can also have the same effects, so you will also have to sacrifice those to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth.

Avoid Smoking And Chewing Tobacco

Like acidic foods and drinks, smoking and chewing tobacco also contribute to the sensitivity of your teeth, so you should stay away from them also.

These are a few things that you should do if you are experiencing sensitive teeth, and most of the time, they do work. If your pain is persistent, you should make an appointment to see your dentist, who will be able to help you reduce the sensitivity.

Conclusion:

The content explains all the scenarios related to sensitive 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.interdent.com/mdco/blog/soothing-sensitive-teeth-from-summertime-sweets/ ↑

  2. https://danawaltersdds.com/blog/ways-to-soothe-your-sensitive-teeth-from-summer-sweets/ ↑

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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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Treating Gum (Periodontal) Disease

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Treating Gum (Periodontal) Disease

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “Treating Gum (Periodontal) Disease“. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]What Is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a common infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Without treatment, the alveolar bone around the teeth will gradually erode.

Periodontitis means inflammation in the supporting structures around the tooth. Bacteria and other microorganisms stick to the surface of the tooth and in the pockets surrounding the tooth. As they multiply, the immune system reacts, leading to inflammation.

Untreated periodontitis will eventually result in tooth loss and may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems.

Periodontitis is a chronic or long-term inflammatory disease. Good oral hygiene practices can help manage or prevent it.

In this article, find out why periodontitis happens, who is at risk, and how to treat and prevent it.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of periodontitis include:

  • Inflamed Or Swollen Gums
  • Discolored Plaque Or Tartar On The Teeth
  • Bleeding While Brushing Or Flossing
  • Halitosis, Or Bad Breath
  • Pain When Eating Or Chewing
  • Sensitive Teeth
  • Receding Gums, Which Make The Teeth Look Longer
  • Extra Spaces Between The Teeth
  • Pus Between The Teeth And Gums
  • A Metallic Taste In The Mouth
  • Loose Or Lost Teeth
  • Source In The Way The Teeth Feel When Biting
  • Changes In The Fit Of Partial Dentures
  • Treatment
  • Treatment Aims To Clean Out Bacteria From The Pockets Around The Teeth And Prevent Further Destruction Of Bone And Tissue.

Scaling And Cleaning

Removing plaque and calculus can help restore periodontal health.

This involves:

  • Scaling and debridement to clean the surfaces of the teeth above the gum line and in the pockets
  • Polishing to smooth rough areas on the teeth, which helps prevent the buildup of plaque
  • Treating the teeth with fluoride

How often a person needs treatment will depend on how much plaque and tartar accumulate.

[2]Treatments For Gum Disease

There are a variety of treatments for gum disease depending on the stage of the disease, how you may have responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health.

Treatments range from nonsurgical therapies that control bacterial growth to surgery to restore supportive tissues.

Non-Surgical Treatments For Gum Disease

Professional Dental Cleaning

During a typical checkup, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar (plaque that builds up and hardens on the tooth surface and can only be removed with professional cleaning) from above and below the gum line of all teeth. If you have some signs of gum disease, your dentist may recommend professional dental cleaning more than twice a year. Dental cleanings are not a treatment for active gum disease. They are, though, an important preventive measure that can help you stave off its development.

Scaling And Root Planing

This is a deep-cleaning, nonsurgical procedure, done under a local anesthetic, whereby plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line are scraped away (scaling) and rough spots on the tooth root are made smooth (planing). Smoothing the rough spots removes bacteria and provides a clean surface for the gums to reattach to the teeth. Scaling and root planing is done if your dentist or periodontist determines that you have plaque and calculus (hardened plaque, also called tartar) under the gums that need to be removed.

Surgical Treatments For Gum Disease

Some treatments for gum disease are surgical. Some examples are:

Flap Surgery/Pocket Reduction Surgery

During this procedure, the gums are lifted back and the tartar is removed. In some cases, irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. The gums are then placed so that the tissue fits snugly around the tooth. This method reduces the size of the space between the gum and tooth, thereby decreasing the areas where harmful bacteria can grow and decreasing the chance of serious health problems associated with periodontal disease.

Bone Grafts

This procedure involves using fragments of your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone to replace bone destroyed by gum disease. The grafts serve as a platform for the regrowth of bone, which restores stability to teeth. New technology, called tissue engineering, encourages your own body to regenerate bone and tissue at an accelerated rate.

Soft Tissue Grafts

This procedure reinforces thin gums or fills in places where gums have receded. Grafted tissue, most often taken from the roof of the mouth, is stitched in place, adding tissue to the affected area.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Performed when the bone supporting your teeth has been destroyed, this procedure stimulates bone and gum tissue growth. Done in combination with flap surgery, a small piece of mesh-like fabric is inserted between the bone and gum tissue. This keeps the gum tissue from growing into the area where the bone should be, allowing the bone and connective tissue to regrow to better support the teeth.

Bone Surgery

Smoothes shallow craters in the bone due to moderate and advanced bone loss. Following flap surgery, the bone around the tooth is reshaped to decrease the craters. This makes it harder for bacteria to collect and grow.

In some patients, the nonsurgical procedure of scaling and root planing is all that is needed to treat gum diseases. Surgery is needed when the tissue around the teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with nonsurgical options.

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.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/242321#symptoms ↑
  2. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-disease-treatments ↑

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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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The Right Diet For Your Teeth

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The Right Diet For Your Teeth

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “The Right Diet For Your Teeth”. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]You’ve probably heard the saying, you are what you eat; well that’s particularly true for your teeth and gums. Those starchy or sugary foods we love are also loved by the bacteria in your mouth that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

The difference between a healthy smile and frequent visits to the dentist has a lot to do with your diet. Even with a good oral hygiene routine (brushing twice a day, flossing once a day), it can still be hard to keep your teeth healthy over the long term.

Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods from all food groups promotes healthy teeth and gums. This means maintaining a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein foods, calcium-rich foods, and whole grains for a healthy smile as well as a healthy body.

So, which foods are best for teeth and gum health?

Some of the best foods for healthy teeth are fresh fruits and veggies because of their high nutritional value and added teeth-cleaning benefits. Then, there are calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt and cheese, fortified soy drinks, tofu, canned salmon, almonds, and dark green leafy vegetables that help promote strong teeth and bones. Chewing on crunchy foods gets the saliva going, which along with water, helps to wash away plaque-causing bacteria and food particles.

[2]Best Foods And Drinks For Healthy Teeth, Gums, And Whole Body

Cheese, Milk, And Yogurt

Cheese is one of the best foods for healthy teeth for a number of reasons. First, it is low in sugar and high in calcium. It contains casein, which is a protein that is particularly useful for fortifying tooth enamel. Cheese is high in calcium, which is important for maintaining bone density. Cheese is also high in phosphate content, which helps balance pH levels in the mouth, which helps to preserve tooth enamel. Another great reason cheese is a friend to our teeth is that chewing it increases saliva production, which helps to wash away bacteria in the mouth.

Aside from good old-fashioned fluoridated water, milk is the best drink when it comes to your teeth. It’s rich in calcium and other important elements. Milk, like cheese, also lowers the acid levels in the mouth, which helps fight tooth decay.

Yogurt is packed with calcium and probiotics that protect you against cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath.

Water

Water is unlike any other drink, and is by far the healthiest drink available. Our bodies are made of 60% water, and staying hydrated helps your system distribute healthy nutrients, gets rid of waste, gives your skin a healthy glow, and keeps your muscles moving. And drinking water really helps your teeth stay healthy – especially if it’s fluoridated. Drinking water with fluoride, which is “nature’s cavity fighter,” is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to help prevent cavities. And, water helps wash away food particles and keeps your saliva levels high.

[3]Leafy Greens

Leafy greens typically find their way onto any healthy foods list. They’re full of vitamins and minerals while being low in calories. Leafy greens such as kale and spinach also promote oral health. They’re high in calcium, which builds the enamel on your teeth. They also contain folic acid, according to the Indian Academy of Sciences. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that has numerous health benefits, including possibly treating gum disease in pregnant women, according to the International Journal of Health & Allied Sciences. If you have trouble getting leafy greens into your diet, add a handful of baby spinach to your next salad or throw some kale on a pizza. You can also try adding some greens to a smoothie.

Apples

While the ADA recommends steering clear of most sweet foods, there are some exceptions. Fruits, such as apples, might be sweet, but they’re also high in fiber and water. The action of eating an apple produces saliva in your mouth, which rinses away bacteria and food particles. The fibrous texture of the fruit also stimulates the gums. Eating an apple isn’t the same as brushing your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride, but it can tide you over until you have a chance to brush. Pack either a whole apple or apple slices in your lunch to give your mouth a good scrubbing at the end of the meal.

Carrots

Like apples, carrots are crunchy and full of fiber. Eating a handful of raw carrots at the end of the meal increases saliva production in your mouth, which reduces your risk of cavities. Along with being high in fiber, carrots are a great source of vitamin A. Top a salad with a few slices of raw carrot, or enjoy some baby carrots on their own.

Celery

Celery might get a bad reputation for being bland, watery, and full of those pesky strings, but like carrots and apples, it acts a bit like a toothbrush, scraping food particles and bacteria away from your teeth. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, two antioxidants that give the health of your gums a boost. Make celery even tastier by topping it with cream cheese.

Almonds

Almonds are great for your teeth because they are a good source of calcium and protein while being low in sugar. Enjoy a handful of almonds with your lunch. You can also add a handful to a salad or to a stir-fry dinner.

Along with adding more leafy greens, dairy products, and fibrous vegetables to your diet, pay attention to what you’re drinking. Since it has no calories or sugar, water is always the best pick, especially compared to juice or fizzy drinks. Your diet makes a big difference when it comes to a healthy smile.

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://dentistry.uic.edu/news-stories/the-best-foods-for-a-healthy-smile-and-whole-body/ ↑

  2. https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/healthy-foods-list-seven-best-foods-for-your-teeth-0214 ↑

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Common Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

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Common Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “Common Symptoms of a Root Canal Infection”. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]Infections of the root canal space and their sequelae can be extremely painful and potentially dangerous, yet they do not necessarily have to be. Chronic, asymptomatic inflammatory lesions around the apex of a tooth with a necrotic dental pulp or an insufficient root canal treatment can develop unnoticed by the patient and remain so for years. The course of disease is modulated by both the virulence of the microbiota established in the root canal space and the capacity of the immune system to curb the infection. To both ends, highly convincing investigations to help us understand when and why the tissues around an endodontically involved tooth become acutely inflamed are missing. We will discuss how recent advances in molecular identification of microorganisms have altered our understanding of root canal infections, and which information is currently missing to link clinical experience with observations from experimental research.

[2]Root canal infection is a microbial infection of the tooth that is the most common cause for tooth pain. Knowledge of root canal pathogens and the inflammatory responses they elicit is a prerequisite to our understanding of the pathogenesis of root canal infections. Root canal infections are mostly accompanied by some clinical signs and symptoms such as pain, periapical lesion, tenderness to percussion, swelling, and sinus tract. These symptoms may be the consequence of the presence of bacterial irritants causing an inflammatory response of the periapical tissues. While many different bacterial species are able to colonize the dental root canals, it has been shown that there is a correlation between the presence of specific bacteria and some endodontic symptoms and signs. Knowledge regarding the nature of endodontic microbiota depends upon the recognition of those microorganisms present in the root canal system of teeth with necrotic pulp and failed endodontic treatment.

The literature on root canal infections shows that root canal harbors an array of microorganisms.

[3]Why You May Need Retreatment After A Root Canal

Even when every step of the procedure goes smoothly, a tooth that is treated with a root canal may experience prolonged sensitivity or reinfection. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), certain circumstances may prevent a tooth treated with a root canal from healing properly:

If the dental professional misses tiny, hidden canals or curved canals during the first treatment, the bacteria inside them may not be entirely removed and can cause infection.

Immediately after the root canal, the dental professional often places a temporary filling to provide a short-term seal for the root canal before placing the permanent restoration (such as a crown or filling). If there is a delay in placing the permanent restoration, there is a greater chance that the root canal can get reinfected.

If bacteria in the saliva get under the filling material before the filling is placed, the canal can become reinfected.

If the patient doesn’t maintain proper oral hygiene, new cavities can form on the same tooth that already received a root canal.

A filling or crown placed on the tooth that received the root canal can crack, loosen or break, allowing a new infection to start.

Symptoms Of Lingering Endodontic Problems

When any of the previous circumstances occurs with your root canal tooth, you may experience a range of symptoms. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time to make an appointment with your dental professional, according to the AAE:

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold, or lingering pain after consuming hot or cold food
  • Sharp pain when biting down or when tapping the teeth together
  • Constant pain and pressure
  • Swelling of the gums, with or without the presence of a pimple-like bump near the tooth on the gums
  • A dull ache experienced consistently in the same area

These symptoms indicate there may be an issue with the pulp of the tooth, which is the interior portion of the tooth treated by a root canal procedure.

How A Dental Professional Can Help

Your general dentist or endodontist will usually take X-rays to assess the condition of the tooth in question. The AAE notes that endodontists are specialized dental professionals who have received two to three additional years of education to diagnose and treat infections inside the tooth.

When you experience issues with a previously treated tooth, it may be necessary for an endodontist to reopen the tooth, explains the AAE. This process, called endodontic retreatment, allows the dentist to remove the original root canal filling material and reclean and reseal the canals. Following this procedure, they will place a temporary filling and you will receive your permanent restoration at a later appointment.

If you have a severe toothache or other old root canal infection symptoms, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with your dentist. When these conditions are addressed early, your dental professional can successfully retreat teeth and maintain your smile.

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.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4601489/ ↑
  2. https://www.saudiendodj.com/article.asp?issn=1658-5984;year=2016;volume=6;issue=2;spage=82;epage=86;aulast=Vineet ↑
  3. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/root-canals/why-old-root-canal-infection-symptoms-return-and-what-to-do-next ↑

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Fluoride – Myths and Facts

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Fluoride – Myths and Facts

Introduction:

We have compiled this article on “Fluoride – Myths and Facts”. The reference links are at the bottom of the article.

[1]Fluoride is a mineral that can be found everywhere, but we consume it most often through our drinking water. You may be wondering why fluoride has been added to our water and if it’s healthy. This article will give you the facts on fluoride.

Fluoride Sources

Fluoride is a mineral that can be found in nature, such as in soil, air and water, and in very small amounts in most foods. We also get exposed to fluoride through dental products, like mouthwash and toothpaste, and by drinking tap water.

What does fluoride do for our teeth?

Fluoride helps to make our tooth enamel (the tooth’s outer layer) stronger. Strong tooth enamel can help prevent cavities.

[2]Fluoride occurs naturally in water, though usually not at a high enough level to protect teeth.

  1. Fluoride is a mineral that exists naturally in all water supplies: lakes, rivers, and groundwater.
  2. Some U.S. communities, such as El Paso, Texas and Jacksonville, Florida, have enough natural fluoride in their water to prevent tooth decay. But most communities must add a small amount of fluoride to reach the recommended level.
  3. There are proven benefits to our health from having the right amount of fluoride — just enough to protect our teeth — in drinking water.

Fluoride has been recognized as an important nutrient for healthy teeth.

  1. Fluoride is a mineral and in the right amount, fluoride in drinking water strengthens teeth. Fluoride is not a medication.
  2. Fluoride is one of several examples of everyday products fortified to improve our health — iodine is added to salt, folic acid is added to breads and cereals, and Vitamin D is added to milk.
  3. U.S. court decisions have rejected the argument that fluoride is a medication.

Community water fluoridation is the most cost-effective way to protect oral health and advance health equity.

  1. Fluoridation is the least expensive way to provide everyone in the same community with a proven form of cavity prevention.
  2. A 2021 report by the National Institutes of Health praised water fluoridation “for its effects in reducing socioeconomic disparities” in tooth decay.
  3. A 2021 report by Public Health England focused on closing oral health disparities. The report cited four studies that “consistently found that inequalities . . . were less pronounced in fluoridated areas.”

Fluoridation actually saves money by preventing tooth decay.

  1. Evidence shows that across the U.S. people in fluoridated communities save an average of $32.19 per person (in 2013 dollars) every year in reduced need for dental treatment compared to those without fluoridation.
  2. In Texas, the state saved $24 per child, per year in Medicaid expenditures because of the cavities that were prevented by drinking fluoridated water.
  3. Water fluoridation saves the state of Colorado nearly $150 million each year by avoiding unnecessary dental treatment.

[3]Fluoride concerns

Children

Young children (under 6 years of age) who are still forming teeth can develop dental fluorosis. This is a condition that occurs when fluoride causes white and brown spots to appear on the teeth. While not pleasing to look at, this condition is not harmful and can be treated by the dentist. Dental fluorosis does not usually occur in adults or older children.

The reason some younger children have dental fluorosis is because they are being exposed to more fluoride than they need to keep their teeth strong. Not only are they getting fluoride from tap water, but also other beverages made with water that has fluoride added, as well as toothpaste that is swallowed by accident.

Health Canada recommends that children under six use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. They should be supervised while brushing and taught not to swallow the toothpaste. Children under three should have their teeth brushed by an adult, without toothpaste, unless deemed high risk.

If you’re concerned about the amount of fluoride your child may be getting, speak to your dental provider.

The bottom line

Fluoride is a mineral that can help make our teeth stronger and prevent cavities. Public health measures such as adding fluoride to the water have contributed to reducing the rates of tooth decay, especially in children. Most Canadians are not exposed to harmful levels of fluoride and should feel safe about the affect of fluoride on their dental health.

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.unlockfood.ca/en/Articles/Dental-health/Fluoride-Facts.aspx ↑
  2. https://ilikemyteeth.org/fluoridation/fluoride-myths-facts/ ↑
  3. https://www.unlockfood.ca/en/Articles/Dental-health/Fluoride-Facts.aspx ↑

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