Monday, November 19th, 2018
Good childhood dental care starts with regular visits to the dentist’s office. You can make that first appointment when the first teeth erupt, or at least by the time your child turns one. Why are early visits so important? Recognizing the early signs of tooth decay in children is not always easy. Your dentist can tell you how your little one’s teeth are doing and recommend anything to help protect against decay, like fluoride treatments or dental sealants. Also, it doesn’t hurt to get a few oral care pointers from a dental professional. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that could help you take better care of your child’s teeth.
Teaching your child proper oral care at a young age is an investment in his or her health that will pay lifelong dividends. You can start by setting an example; taking good care of your own teeth sends a message that oral health is something to be valued. And anything that makes taking care of teeth fun, like brushing along with your child or letting them choose their own toothbrush, encourages proper oral care.
To help your children protect their teeth and gums and greatly reduce their risk of getting cavities, teach them to follow these simple steps:
Monday, November 19th, 2018
As a woman you know that your health needs are unique. You know that brushing and flossing daily, diet, exercise and regular visits to your doctor and dentist are all important to help you stay in good shape. You also know that at specific times in your life, you need to take extra care of yourself. Times when you mature and change, for example, puberty or menopause, and times when you have special health needs, such as menstruation or pregnancy.
Did you know that your oral health needs change at these times too?
During these particular times, your body experiences hormonal changes. These changes can affect many of the tissues in your body, including your gums. Your gums can become sensitive, and at times react strongly to the hormonal fluctuations. This may make you more susceptible to gum disease.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by the bacteria and toxins in dental plaque, a sticky colourless film that constantly forms on the teeth. Gum disease affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, usually causes the gum tissue to swell, turn red and bleed easily. There is usually little or no pain at this time.
Sometimes swelling and bleeding can be seen only by the dentist. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to a more serious stage where the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth are damaged or destroyed. If still not treated, teeth eventually become loose and may be lost.
Without careful home oral care, including brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist, you put yourself at risk of gum disease. In addition, as mentioned before, hormonal changes at certain stages in life can be a contributing factor in your chances of getting some kinds of gum disease, or can make an existing gum problem worse.
The following will give you an idea of some of the symptoms you might experience with your oral health during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause and help to answer some of the questions you might have.
Puberty
During puberty, an increased level of sex hormones, such as progesterone and possibly estrogen, in a young woman’s maturing system causes increased blood circulation to the gums. This, in turn, may cause an increase in the gums’ sensitivity which leads to a greater susceptibility or reaction to any irritation, including food particles, plaque bacteria and calculus (or tartar).
There is also some evidence that the increased level of sex hormones increases the growth of some bacteria just beneath the gums around the teeth. The gums react to local irritants and swell. Since the cause of the swelling is due to local irritants, these must be removed by a dental professional. Afterwards, careful oral home care (including brushing and flossing) is necessary, or the swelling will return. If not treated, the bone and tissues surrounding the teeth can be damaged.
As a young woman progresses through puberty, the tendency for her gums to swell so much in response to a small amount of irritants will lessen. However, it is important that she remembers to brush and floss daily and seek regular professional dental care.
Menstruation
Gingivitis (red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums) can be much more prevalent during menstruation. Again, this is due to an increased amount of progesterone in your system before your period begins, accompanied by plaque accumulation. Occasionally, some women experience sore or bleeding in the mouth three or four days before their period begins. Another rare occurrence for some women is gingivitis during menstruation, which is marked by reappearing gingival (gum) bleeding, a bright red swelling of the gums between the teeth and sores on the tongue and inside of the cheek.
Menstruation gingivitis occurs right before a woman’s period and clears up once her period has started. As always, good home oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is important to maintain oral health, especially during these hormonal fluctuations.
Pregnancy
There used to be an old wives tale that said ‘A tooth lost for every child’. While it may be far fetched, it actually was based loosely in fact. Your teeth and gums are affected by your pregnancy, just as other tissues in your body. Most commonly, women experience increased gingivitis, beginning in the second or third month that increases in severity through the eighth month and begins to decrease in the ninth month. This condition, called pregnancy gingivitis, is marked by an increased amount of swelling, bleeding and redness in the gum tissue in response to a very small amount of plaque or calculus. This again is caused by an increased level of progesterone in the system.
If your gums are in good health before you get pregnant, you are less likely to have any problems. Pregnancy gingivitis usually affects areas of previous inflammation, not healthy gum tissue. If you experienced some swelling and bleeding of your gums before pregnancy, you might be at an increased risk for pregnancy gingivitis.
Just like any other type of gingivitis, if left untreated, pregnancy gingivitis can have damaging effects on the gums and bone surrounding your teeth, resulting in tissue (bone and gum) loss. As there will be a great increase of estrogen and progesterone in your system throughout your pregnancy, you may experience more gingival problems at this time. Because your oral tissues are more sensitive due to increased progesterone, they will react strongly to any local irritant present.
In order to reduce the amount of gingival problems, it is important to seek professional cleaning to remove irritants and keep up a diligent daily home oral care routine, including brushing and flossing. Now more than ever, regular examinations by your dentist are very important. If your dental check-up is due, don’t skip it. In fact, you might benefit from more frequent professional cleaning during your second trimester or early third trimester.
Remember, if tenderness, bleeding or gum swelling occurs at any time during your pregnancy, notify your dentist as soon as possible.
Occasionally, the inflamed gum tissue will form a large lump. These gum growths, called pregnancy tumours (or granuloma), usually appear in the third month of pregnancy, but may occur at any time during the course of pregnancy. A pregnancy tumour is a large swelling of gum tissue and is not cancerous in any way. It is an extreme inflammatory response to any local irritant (including food particles, plaque or calculus) that may be present.
A pregnancy tumour usually looks like a large lump on the gum tissue with many deep red pin-point markings on it. The tumour is usually painless, however, it can become painful if it interferes with your bite or if debris collects beneath it. If a pregnancy tumour forms, it may be treated by professional removal of all local irritants and diligent home oral care. Any further treatment or removal would need to be discussed with your dentist and doctor.
Pregnancy gingivitis and pregnancy tumours usually diminish following pregnancy but they do not go away completely. If you experience any gum problems during your pregnancy, it is important on completion of your pregnancy to have your entire mouth examined and your periodontal health checked. Any treatment you might need can be determined at this time.
Oral contraceptives
If you are taking any oral contraceptives (birth control pills), you may be susceptible to the same oral health conditions that affect pregnant women. As the hormones in oral contraceptives will increase the levels of progesterone in your system, any local irritants (food, plaque, etc) may cause your gums to turn red, bleed and swell. There are many medications (for example, antibiotics) that can lessen the effect of an oral contraceptive, so it is important for you to tell your dentist or doctor you are taking oral contraceptives before he or she prescribes anything for you
Menopause
For the most part, any oral problem you have while you are in menopause probably is not directly related to the changes going on in your body. If you are taking estrogen supplement during this time, these should have little or no effect on your oral health. However, progesterone supplements may increase your gums response to local irritants, causing the gums to bleed, turn red and swell.
On rare occasions, a woman may experience a condition called menopausal gingivostomatitis. This condition is marked by gums which are red and shiny, bleed easily and that range in colour from the normally pale to deep red. Other symptoms include a dry, burning sensation in the mouth, abnormal taste sensations (especially salty, peppery or sour), extreme sensitivity to hot and cold foods or drinks, and finally, difficulty removing any partial dentures. If you are diagnosed with menopause gingivostomatitis, your dentist or periodontist can help you manage your condition with special medications.
If you have any questions about your oral health, talk with your dentist or periodontist. They will be happy to address any concerns you may have. Each phase of a woman’s life brings with it many changes. As always, your oral health at these times continues to be of importance to your overall health and well-being. Nothing helps greet each day and each new change in your life like a bright, healthy smile.
Src: Women and Gum Desease . Oral health topics . healthy smiles.org . Newzealand Dental Association . web . 21sep2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
Your teeth and the structure of your mouth play important roles in your ability to eat and speak and stay healthy.
Most of us take our teeth for granted … until something goes wrong. Our teeth help us chew and digest food, play an important role in speech, and impact our health overall. And by brushing up on your dental health knowledge, you’ll be taking the first step toward giving your teeth the attention they deserve.
How much do you know about your pearly whites?
The Development of Teeth
Humans have two sets of teeth, primary (or baby) teeth and then permanent teeth, which develop in stages. Although the timing is different, the development of each of these sets of teeth is similar. Here are some facts about how people develop teeth:
The Parts o the Tooth
A tooth is divided into two basic parts: the crown, which is the visible, white part of the tooth, and the root, which you can’t see. The root extends below the gum line and anchors the tooth into the bone. Your teeth contain four kinds of tissue and each does a different job. These include:
Types of Teeth and What They Do
Teeth help you chew your food, making it easier to digest. Each type of tooth has a slightly different shape and performs a different job. Types of teeth include:
Your mouth is important. Don’t take your teeth or oral health for granted. For good dental health, brush and floss your teeth regularly, don’t smoke, eat a healthy diet, and see your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and checkups. A healthy mouth makes for a healthy body … and a pretty smile.
Src:Dental health . everyday health . Connie Brichford | Medically reviewed by Christine Wilmsen Craig, MD . 28Nov2011 . web . 7Sep2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
What Do Sore Gums Mean?
Millions of Americans have experienced sore gums. You’re brushing or flossing and notice a painful sensation in your gums. Sometimes, your sore gums may even start bleeding while you’re brushing or flossing.
Since the pain from sore gums isn’t usually very severe, and it’s such a common problem, many people don’t pay much attention to sore gums. Fortunately, addressing sore gums isn’t usually very difficult, especially in the early stages of gum disease.
Sore Gums And Gum Disease
Sore gums, or gums that are swollen or bleeding, are most often linked to gum disease. There are two stages of gum disease, both of which may cause sore gums.
If you notice sore gums, consult with a dental professional for evaluation and advice.
Stop The Pain From Sore Gums
When you notice sore gums, here are a few things to consider that might help you pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
In conclusion, sore gums can be a warning sign of gum disease and should be taken seriously. Early gum disease can progress to serious infection that can cause tooth loss and may have other overall health implications. Taking good care of your teeth and gums will help you maintain good oral health now and in the future.
Src: General Oral Hygiene . Oral Care Topics . Crest . web . 7Sep2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
There are many ways to help your kids have better dental health. You can encourage your kids to brush at least twice a day and floss once a day. You can take them for regular dental checkups every six months. You can make sure they avoid sugary treats and juices. But good nutrition for kids is one of the easiest ways to improve dental health. Here are 5 foods you can add to your child’s diet to help them have healthier teeth, based on recommendations from the American Dental Association (ADA):
1. Apples
Apples are a great addition to your child’s diet. In addition to adding vitamins that are good for their overall health, the process of chewing and eating apples can actually help remove plaque from teeth. Celery and carrots also provide this benefit, so try adding these healthy, crunchy snacks to lunches and snack time.
2. Spinach
Green, leafy veggies like spinach provide a variety of health benefits. Not only are they a great source of iron, but spinach and most other leafy greens are powerful antioxidants. They are also full of beta-carotene, which is needed for keeping tooth enamel strong.
3. Salmon and Other Fish
The Omega-3 fatty acids in fish are well known for improving heart health, but these same foods are great sources of vitamin D, which plays a critical role in keeping teeth and jaw bones strong.
4. Oranges
Oranges and other fruits and veggies are a great source of vitamin C. Without enough vitamin C, kids (and adults) can develop scurvy, which can cause bleeding, swollen gums.
5. Low-Fat Yogurt
Calcium is critical for healthy teeth, and yogurt is a great source of calcium that is fun for kids to eat. Mix a few berries into the yogurt for extra nutrition for kids.
In addition to healthy foods, good brushing and flossing habits, and regular checkups, the ADA recommends chewing sugar-free gum as a way to help minimize plaque. When your kids are old enough to safely have gum, it’s a great option, especially when they can’t brush their teeth right away.
Src: Shadra Bruce . Nutrition & Oral Health . Basics . Oral Care Center . Colgate.com . web . 7Sep2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
Do you know how many bacteria live on your toothbrush? Brace yourself! Researchers have found that a single toothbrush can be loaded with as many as 10 million germs and bacteria. In fact, recent studies even found that your toothbrush could be a breeding ground for tiny microorganisms.
But before you swear off brushing, know this: These bacteria aren’t a big threat to your pearly whites. According to Richard Price, DMD, a dentist in Newton, Mass. and a consumer adviser for the American Dental Association, the researchers who discovered those toothbrush-dwelling microorganisms found that they didn’t make people sick — toothpaste has an anti-germ component built into it, and the microbes need moisture to survive. So as long as your toothbrush is given time to dry after you use it, it should be safe.
Squeaky-Clean Toothbrush Tips
To take care of your teeth and your toothbrush, it’s important to use your toothbrush the way you’re supposed to, rinse it in tap water, and then let it air dry, Price says.
This starts with storing your toothbrush in an upright position. Most people don’t need to worry about storing it away from other toothbrushes — germs are airborne, but they don’t hopscotch from one brush to another. However, if someone in the household has an immune deficiency, you can’t be too careful, says Price.
If you’re really fastidious about dental care, you can soak your toothbrush in alcohol to kill the germs, Price adds. Mouthwash is also an antiseptic, so it works as a “toothbrush soak,” too, as does a solution of half water and half hydrogen peroxide. Another option is to dip it in boiling water for about five to 10 seconds.
Interestingly enough, toothbrush sanitizers haven’t shown to have much effect. And you should never put your toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave: You’ll just end up damaging it.
Time for a New Toothbrush?
The American Dental Association recommends getting a new toothbrush (or brush head, if you use an electric type) about every three months — more because of the wear on the bristles than germs.
And that depends on the brusher and not the brush, Price emphasizes. If you have a heavy hand, the bristles might wear out sooner. Remember that the key determinant is not the calendar but the shape the bristles are in. “You need to replace your toothbrush when the bristles spew in different directions,” Price says. Check your children’s toothbrushes regularly because they probably will need to be replaced more frequently.
Should you replace your toothbrush after an illness, like a cold? No, says Price. Just be sure it dries out between uses so that germs can’t survive.
Easy-to-Remember Reminders
Some toothbrushes have bristles that change colors to indicate they’ve worn out (a glaring reminder it’s time to buy a new brush).
You can also develop the habit of changing your toothbrush with every check-up (provided you see your dentist every six months) and then again midway before the next appointment. Or try timing the change to the first day of every season — and remember: To every toothbrush, there is a season.
Src:Dental health . everyday health . Beth W. Orenstein . Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH . 28Nov2011 . web . 7Sep2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
Tooth decay is an infectious disease — and it is a reality. All children are at risk. The ODA Special Report Tooth Decay in Ontario’s Children: An Ounce of Prevention — A Pound of Cure is a call to action for parents, government and the community — we all need to work together on prevention.
Tooth Decay Facts: Did you know?
Every parent, grandparent and caregiver must read this Special Report.
The time to act is now. We owe it to the children of Ontario.
An ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure.
Ten Tips for Parents
Before your baby has teeth, wipe the gums gently with a clean wet cloth after each feeding.
Read the Special Report: “Tooth Decay in Ontario’s Children”
Src: oda.on .Ontario Dental Association . 2015 . web . 19Aug2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
Health concerns about fat and cholesterol have prompted many people to become vegetarians, and the nutritional deficiencies that can sometimes result may reveal themselves during dental exams.
Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson Ludwig Leibsohn, DDS says he usually asks patients if they adhere to vegetarian or other special diets.
“Most adult vegetarians are very knowledgeable about nutrition,” says Dr. Leibsohn. “They maintain their diets in a proper fashion.”
Children, however, need a well-balanced and nutritionally complete diet for proper growth, and the potential for deficiencies is greatest among children and teenagers who put themselves on vegetarian diets without knowing enough about their nutritional needs.
Although vegetarian diets vary, some vegetarians, particularly those who do not consume any food of animal origin, can experience deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, vitamin B12 or complete proteins. Studies show that by eating the right amount of fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes, they can get the nutrients they need.
“An adult on a vegetarian diet for a prolonged period can be at increased risk for periodontal (gum) disease from a lack of vitamin D and calcium,” says Dr. Leibsohn.
Dr. Leibsohn recommends that anyone considering adopting a vegetarian diet seek counseling from their dentist or a nutritionist to learn about substituting foods to get all the necessary nutrients. He also suggests taking a multiple vitamin daily.
Teeth may soften when there is a shortage of vitamin D, becoming more susceptible to decay and periodontal disease. Vitamin D is produced in the body with sun exposure, so deficiencies are rare, but it can develop in those who do not consume milk or fish. Adding vegetable margarines or soy milk to the diet may solve the problem.
Diet is an important part of an individual’s medical history, and patients should always inform their dentist if they adhere to vegetarian or other special diets, says Dr. Leibsohn.
Src: “Dentist Should Advise Vegetarians on Good Oral Health” . InfoBites . KnowYourTeeth . Academy of General Dentistry . January 2012 . web . 19Aug2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
| What Is It?
|
| A sealant is a clear or tinted plastic protective coating for teeth. It is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These are the areas where most cavities form.
Molars and premolars have grooves and crevices. Dentists call these pits and fissures. Food can get stuck in these crevices. Some are so deep that the bristles of a toothbrush can’t reach in to them. Grooves and crevices provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and cause cavities. Sealants help to prevent this from happening. They cover the grooves and crevices so that food cannot get into them. |
What It’s Used For?
Sealants are applied to teeth to help prevent cavities. In the past, they usually were used only in children. But adults also can get sealants.
Not only are sealants very effective, they cost a lot less than filling cavities.
In children, sealants can be applied to baby molars to protect them from cavities. Eventually, these molars fall out and the new, permanent molars come in. These molars can be sealed, too. Most dentists recommend that sealants be applied to each permanent molar as soon as possible. This can be when the tooth is only partially erupted into the mouth. However, it can be done only if the tooth can be kept dry and free of saliva while the sealant is applied.
If your child has a high risk of cavities, your dentist may decide to seal the premolars, or bicuspids, as well. The premolars are the teeth directly in front of the molars.
Sealants can be used in adults who have an increased risk of developing cavities. Your dentist can suggest whether sealants are appropriate for you.
Sealants can be put on teeth that show early signs of decay. But once the decay has broken through the enamel, the tooth will need a filling.
Preparation
Applying sealants is quick and painless. It can be done during a routine dental visit. No injections are needed. However, it is very important to sit still so the tooth or teeth being worked on will stay dry. This allows the sealant material to stick properly to the tooth.
How It’s Done
The dentist cleans the area to remove any food or debris in and around the teeth. Then he or she makes sure the teeth are dry so that the sealant can stick. The sealant is applied in liquid form. It flows over and into the grooves and crevices. The sealant usually hardens (sets) within 20 to 60 seconds. Sometimes it is set with a special light.
Follow-Up
| Studies show that sealants can last a long time, sometimes as long as 15 years. But they don’t last forever.
The dentist will check the sealants during routine visits. If necessary, the sealants can be replaced. Remember, sealants work well, but they can’t keep teeth cavity-free without some help. Keep brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and visiting a dentist regularly. Children with sealants still should:
|
Risks
Although it is rare, sealants can cause problems in people who are allergic to plastics or components of plastics. There has also been some concern about the possible harmful effects of bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical is found in some sealants. However, studies show that any release of BPA from sealants is very small and limited to the time right after they are applied. The American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have found that sealants are safe.
When To Call a Professional
Ask your dentist to talk with you about the benefits of sealants. Most pediatric dentists (dentists who specifically treat children) use sealants routinely. However, not all dentists do so. Therefore, your dentist may not think to talk with you about them.
Src: simplestepsdental . preventing problems .”Dental Sealants” . Columbia University of Dental Medicine . January 20, 2012 . web . 19Aug2015
Monday, November 19th, 2018
Have you ever wondered why the American Dental Association and your dentist recommend you come back every six months? It’s because regular dental visits are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. And in between those examinations, it’s important that you work to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. If you need additional help, your dentist may even suggest more frequent visits.
What Goes on During a Regular Visit
Checking your teeth for tooth decay is just one part of a thorough dental examination. During your checkup appointment, your dentist (or dental hygienist) will likely evaluate the health of your gums, perform a head and neck examination (to look for anything out of the ordinary) and examine your mouth for any indications of oral cancer, diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Don’t be surprised if your dentist also examines your face, bite, saliva and movement of your lower jaw joints (TMJs). Your dentist or dental hygienist will then clean your teeth and stress the importance of you maintaining good oral hygiene at home between visits.
Many dentists will pay special attention to plaque and tartar. This is because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short time if good oral hygiene is not practiced between visits. Food, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well. If not removed, soft plaque can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue. If not treated, plaque can lead to gum disease.
During your regularly scheduled dental appointments, your dentist will likely look at your gums, mouth, tongue and throat. There are several routine parts to a dental examination.
The Head and Neck Examination
Your dentist will start off by:
The Clinical Dental Examination
Next, your dentist assesses the state of your teeth and gums by:
The Dental Cleaning
During the final part of the dental visit, your dental professional cleans your mouth using these methods:
Once your examination and cleaning have been performed, they’ll tell you about the health of your teeth and gums and then make any additional recommendations. It’s important that you see your dentist every six months and that they give you routine examination and cleaning. Remember, by seeing your dentist on a regular basis and following daily good oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
