4 Good Reasons Why You Need To See The Dentist

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Why Do You Need To See The Dentist?

Going to a dentist these days is not like it used to be. Procedures are much shorter, they are more effective, and the overall experience is almost painless. This is because dentistry techniques and technology have evolved significantly in a very short time. More importantly, modern dentistry can help you in many different ways when you think about it. And here are just some of the more common sources of motivation to schedule regular visits. For another interested read, check out Should You Invest In An Electric Toothbrush?

Strong Healthy Teeth

1. Prevention Is Better Than Treatment

If it’s not broken, why fix it, right? This is not the type of approach you want to use when it comes to your teeth and gums. Instead, you want to be proactive. Because for the same reason you get your car serviced, you should see a dentist. While you might not notice any issues with your teeth right now, it does not mean problems aren’t waiting down the line.

Preventing dental problems is ALWAYS better than getting treatment. Why? Because prevention is cheaper, and there is a good chance you won’t feel any type of discomfort or pain beforehand. But if you wait for that cracked or chipped tooth to start throbbing, you are likely to experience a whole lot of pain and discomfort. With regular checkups, your dentist can spot problem areas before they get out of hand. At the end of the day, taking a proactive approach means holding on to your natural teeth much longer.

Here is a excellent video on Dental Anatomy from a dentist in New Jersey

2. Keep Your Teeth Strong And Functional

We are all guilty of taking our teeth for granted. For example, teeth are responsible for cutting and chopping big chunks of food. Not only does chewing prevent us from choking, but it also takes the pressure off the digestive system, making it easier for the stomach to do its job.

The truth is we use our teeth several times a day without thinking about the wear and tear. And eventually, the wear and tear begin to surface in many unpleasant ways. From chronic headaches to sharp pains when you eat, the condition of your teeth can literally bring your day to a complete stand-still. Hence the reason for seeing a dentist regularly and keeping your teeth healthy and functional.

3. Get A Deep Clean With Some Valuable Advice

Good for you if you follow a strict brushing and flossing routine. But even a strict routine cannot clean all the areas where plaque and bacteria can settle. On the other hand, a dentist has all the necessary tools to perform a thorough cleaning and bring back your natural shine.

There is an added bonus when you go back to a dentist you trust and feel comfortable with. He or she can give you critical advice about things that directly influence your dental health. For instance, they might give you tips on how to brush for better results. Or they might advise you to stay away from certain foods and beverages if you have particularly sensitive or vulnerable teeth.

Healthy Smile

4. Maintain Confidence With A Healthy Smile

Smiling is one of the most pleasant ways to communicate with others. And you don’t even have to know a person to share a quick smile. But when you are self-conscious about your teeth, especially in public, it is bound to have an impact on your social life. Because how do you smile with confidence then?

When you see a dentist regularly, you have everything to gain and nothing to lose. At the very least, make sure you keep your confident smile, as well as the convenience of functionality.

Sleep Apnea – Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

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What Is Sleep Apnea?

Ever heard of a sleeping disorder that causes you to stop breathing momentarily and not just once but multiple times in your sleep? That’s sleep apnea. Patients who have this disorder experience breathing lapses during their sleep. This condition can have severe consequences for their health. Sleep apnea minimizes the quality of sleep and interrupts the supply of oxygen to the brain. PS. For another interesting read, check out Should You Invest In An Electric Toothbrush?

Sleep Apnea Snoring

 

In the United States, sleep apnea is among the most common sleeping disorders. Sleep apnea doesn’t care what age or sex you are, male or female, young or old; it can affect anyone. However, surveys indicate that sleep affects men more.

Not many people know about sleep apnea, but it’s slowly becoming prevalent. Because of the potential health risks sleep apnea poses, it’s necessary that people know all about sleep apnea, what it is, its causes, symptoms, and how to treat it. Learn more below.

Types Of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can occur in three ways:

– OSA(Obstructive sleep apnea): Temporary lapses in sleep result from physically blocking the throat’s airway.

– CSA(Central sleep apnea): Happens when the brain fails to control respiratory muscles causing shallower and slower breathing.

– Mixed sleep apnea: Happens when an individual experiences central and obstructive sleep apnea simultaneously.

OSA and CSA have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Is Sleep Apnea Common?

Studies estimate that Obstructive sleep apnea affects 2-9 percent of adult Americans. The number of OSA could be higher, but many cases go undiagnosed. It affects women less in comparison to men.

Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, affects 0.9 percent of Americans above 40 years. It occurs more often in men.

From these statistics, we can conclude that OSA is more prevalent than CSA. That is why when most people speak about sleep apnea, they are generally referring to OSA. One thing that these statistics agree on is the fact that sleep apnea affects men more, especially the older ones.

Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive, central, and mixed sleep apnea share some symptoms.

– Intermittent breathing, which labors an individual’s respiration. Breathing can stop for a whole minute.
– Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
– Headaches in the morning
– Grumpiness and irritability
– Short attention span

Sleep Apnea Complication Chart

Most of these signs and symptoms occur because of poor quality sleep and low amounts of oxygen in the brain, which results from the intermittent breathing.

Obstructive sleep apnea has some symptoms of its own like:

– Extreme loud snoring that causes one to choke, gasp for air, and snort, which makes the patient wake up briefly.
– Having a dry or sore throat in the morning.
– Nocturia, a condition that causes you to frequently wake up when sleeping to urinate.

Although chronic snoring is the most prevalent symptom in Obstructive sleep apnea, it doesn’t mean that all people who snore have sleep apnea. Snoring is not common in people diagnosed with CSA.

Generally, people with sleep apnea are strangers to their condition. It takes someone close to them like a roommate, a family member, or a partner to make them aware of their situation. Loners are most likely to notice that they have sleep apnea by experiencing excessive fatigue and sleepiness during the day.

Causes Of Sleep Apnea

OSA happens when there is an obstruction in an individual’s airway when sleeping. The risk of obstructive sleep apnea and blockage can increase due to several factors:

1. Personal anatomy of an individual

The placement and size of an individual’s neck, jaw, tongue, tonsils, and other tissues around the back of a person’s throat can affect airflow.

2. Obesity

The leading cause of OSA is obesity. The underlying risk factor of 60% of obstructive sleep apnea is obesity. Being overweight contributes to a person’s airway getting narrower. Recent studies have found that a 10% rise in body weight increases your risk of getting OSA six times more.

3. Use of Alcohol and sedatives.

Prolonged use of sedative drugs or medication relaxes the tissues around the throat, which somehow obstructs the airway.

4. Genetics.

People who have obstructive sleep apnea in their family history are more likely to develop it.

5. Smoking

Studies show that OSA is more likely to develop in smokers, particularly heavy smokers.

6. Sleeping while facing up.

People who sleep on their backs are likely to develop OSA because tissues around the throat and airway collapse easily in this position.

CPAP MACHINE

Treatment Options For Sleep Apnea

You should talk to a doctor if you have experienced the symptoms of sleep apnea. First, you will need to know your sleep apnea’s root cause before you can commence treatment. Sometimes, doctors may suggest to study you overnight to assess your sleep and your breathing. Here are a few treatment options for sleep apnea:

– Lifestyle Changes

Once a diagnosis is complete, the doctor may recommend changing your lifestyle as a treatment plan. To remedy some OSA cases, a doctor may suggest that you:
Lose weight
Reduce the use of alcohol and sedative drugs
Sleep on your side

– Special Medical Devices

For more severe cases, a doctor may also recommend using special devices that keep your airway open during sleep like the CPAP(continuous positive airway pressure) and BiPAP(bi-level positive airway pressure).

Plastic Mouthguard to Help Sleep Apnea

– Mouthpieces

For persons whose anatomy is the issue, a doctor may suggest using a unique mouthpiece that holds your tongue or jaw in a position allowing the free flow of air in the airway during sleep. They are called sleep apnea mouthguards. Ask your dentist about this solution.

– Surgery

As a last resort option, a doctor may suggest that you go under the knife to rid the back of your throat of excess tissue to expand the airway.

In some instances, doctors may prescribe medication for some symptoms like daytime fatigue or supplemental oxygen for poor respiration patients. If ignored, sleep apnea can lead to costly health problems down the line, hours of lost productivity, and public safety problems.

Discover What Beverages Harm Your Teeth?

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Can Beverages Harm Your Teeth? Find Out Here!

Except for water, just about every beverage you consume can damage your teeth in different ways. Some can stain your teeth, causing dark marks or yellowing. Others are acidic, causing the hard enamel covering that protects your teeth to deteriorate. And then there are the beverages containing sugar that is the preferred source of food for bacteria, causing plaque and tartar build-up resulting in cavities.

However, some beverages are more harmful than others. Check out this list of drinks that can do the most significant harm and book an appointment with Whittier Square Dentistry today:

Cup of Coffee

1. Tea And Coffee

Tea and coffee contain tannins that are naturally included in many different types of plant-based foods and beverages. These tannins cause stains on the enamel of the teeth. Darker teas and coffees are the most significant culprits, whereas lighter teas like green tea are less likely to cause stains.

While a cup or two a day isn’t going to stain your teeth instantly, staining can occur over time. It is recommended to rinse your mouth well with water or mouthwash after drinking tea or coffee to wash away those stain-producing tannins. If you are a heavy coffee drinker, brush your teeth more regularly.

2. Red Wine

Just like tea and coffee, red wine contains tannins. However, the tannins in red wine are harsher. They are more likely to stain the teeth, especially if you indulge in a glass or more regularly. Once again, rinsing after drinking red wine can significantly decrease the stains that develop over time.

Brushing after a couple of glasses is also recommended. Teeth whitening is a great solution to fade stains that have developed on your teeth.

3. Fruit Juice

There is a common misconception that fruit juice is healthy and can, therefore, do no harm. However, all types of fruit are acidic in nature, and drinking these beverages weakens that strong protective layer of the teeth. This can result in porous enamel, which will eventually cause the teeth to crack or break, compromising the dentine, which is the tooth’s soft pulpy layer. The sensitive root of the tooth lies. Tooth sensitivity is a common sign of enamel that has weakened.

Cosmetic dentistry such as crowns, bridges, and veneers are most commonly used to repair teeth that have broken or cracked due to a deterioration of the enamel. If fruit juice is your preferred beverage of choice, try drinking it through a straw to protect the enamel. Also, rinsing with water after drinking fruit juice will wash away the harmful acid. Remember that some fruit juices are more acidic than others, such as citrus so forego that slice of lemon in your drinking water.

*It is not recommended to brush teeth after consuming acidic beverages. Brushing can force the acid deeper into the teeth, causing more significant harm. Rinsing with water is advisable before brushing.

Coke Beer and Wine

4. Sodas And Other Sugary Beverages

Sugar is the biggest enemy of strong, healthy teeth. It is the primary food source for plaque building bacteria in the mouth, which is the leading cause of painful and damaging cavities or caries developing.

So if you want healthy, strong teeth, it is best to avoid sugary beverages altogether. Be aware of the sugar that you put in your tea and coffee, as well as mouthwash that may contain sugar. Rinsing with water after drinking a sugary beverage is recommended, as is brushing your teeth.

5. Diet Soda

Diet soda doesn’t contain sugar, so it can’t be harmful to your teeth – right? Wrong.

The sweeteners used in diet soda are acidic and can be more damaging than sugar. Not to mention the coloring that can also stain your teeth.

6. Milk

Milk is the only beverage other than water that isn’t going to damage your teeth. It is packed full of calcium, which is the building block for strong, healthy teeth. However, it is still advisable to give your mouth a good rinse with water after drinking milk as it can cause sour, bad breath.

9 Interesting Facts About Canker Sores

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Facts About Canker Sores That You Didn’t Know

Ever had to deal with excruciating pain from small, open, shallow lesions in your mouth? Seemingly harmless until you take a gulp of your favorite orange juice, and you wish that time would stop? These small white sores are known as canker sores, commonly confused with cold sores. Unlike their counterpart, however, canker sores only develop inside the mouth. If you want healthy teeth, reach out and book a d

Here are 9 interesting facts about canker sores that you didn’t know:

Canker Sore vs Cold Sore

1. They go by a different scientific name

They’re commonly known as canker sores to laymen. Still, scientifically, they go by the name aphthous ulcers or recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

2. They can also appear on the tongue

Most people get them on the inner part of their lips, base of their gums, and cheeks. However, they can develop on any area of the soft tissues in the mouth, including the tongue. They also do not occur on the lip surface and are not contagious.

3. They will go away on their own

Within a week or two after they appear, canker sores usually disappear on their own. They may take up to 3 weeks in children, so delayed recovery is not a cause for concern. Nevertheless, if a canker sore seems to be taking too long to heal or is very painful, a doctor’s prescription can hasten recovery. Note, however, that canker sores come in 2 categories, simple and complex.

Simple canker sores can appear 2 or 3 times in a year and clear on the own. They are typically about a millimeter in diameter. On the other hand, complex canker sores are less common and can last up to a month. They usually need medical attention since they signify an underlying health issue.

4. Most are less than 1mm in diameter, but they can be bigger

If you’ve experienced the pain of a canker sore that is less than an mm in diameter, you’ll be appalled to know that they can be as big as an inch in diameter! How disturbing!

5. They announce their arrival

Even before you spot a white or yellowish ulcer in your mouth, you’ll have known it’s on its way. Canker sores first cause a tingling or burning sensation before they appear. Following this, a small red bump or spot appears, then it can turn white. If you feel a tingling sensation in any of the moving parts of your mouth, a canker sore could be on its way. Moreover, canker sores could pop up alone or show up in clusters.

6. Painful as they may be, they’re pretty harmless

Luckily, canker sores come and go quite easily. They may be painful, making it hard to eat, drink, and sometimes talk. Still, they clear quite quickly, usually without the need for medication. They’re also not contagious, and unless you have a canker sore that lasts longer than 3 weeks, you have nothing to be worried about.

NOTE: If you experience complex canker sores along with a fever, physical sluggishness, and swollen lymph nodes, contact a physician immediately.

7. They’re more common in teens and women

Anyone can get canker sores, but they are more prevalent in people between 10 and 20 years. They occur more often in teens and young adults, particularly those of the female gender. People with a history of canker sores disorders are also more likely to get recurrent canker sores.

Canker Sore Image

8. They come in different colors

Canker sores can either be white, yellowish, or gray in color, with a red edge or border.

9. Their actual cause remains a mystery

To date, the exact cause of simple canker sores is still unknown. Highly acidic foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, have been known to trigger canker sores, as well as stress and tissue injury. However, the truth of the matter is that the rationale behind canker sores is yet to be explained entirely. Some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are also thought to cause canker sores. On the other hand, complex canker sores can result from immune systems disorders such as AIDS, lupus ad Crohns disease.

Wind Up

Canker sores usually are not a cause for alarm, but when they seem to be causing too much discomfort, especially in kids, treatments should be found. There you have it! 9 interesting facts about canker sores that you probably didn’t know but now know!

Top Five Benefits of Using Fluoride Treatments

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Best Benefits for Using Fluoride Treatments

If you take a close look at most kinds of toothpaste ingredients, you will see that they contain fluoride. Well, this is a natural mineral that helps to develop healthy teeth and prevent cavities. It has been a fundamental mineral for oral health for many decades. It supports the growth of healthy, strong enamel. But why is this mineral so dominant in the oral health niche?

Today, we have put together the top five benefits of using fluoride treatments to understand how they are beneficial to your teeth.

If you’re looking for titanium implants in Whittier area, read more about our service here.

Flouride Treatment for Asian Girl

What Are Some Types of Fluoride Treatments?

You can get a professional fluoride treatment from your dentist. It is a quick and straightforward procedure. All they do is to dry your mouth and apply the fluoride gel or foam on your teeth. They can either paint it or place it in a tray that you will need to wear for a few minutes.

This is perhaps one of the most important and widely appreciated roles of fluoride treatments. The enamel is the outer protective layer of each tooth. Over time, this layer can break down after continuous interaction with liquids that contain a lot of acids. When it deteriorates, your tooth remains exposed to all the foodstuffs and drinks you take, which could be anything. The teeth have nerves sensitive to extremely hot or cold substances.

Fluoride treatments help sustain the protective layer, thus keeping you safe from the unpleasant sensation associated with the interaction between your nerve endings and hot or cold drinks. Treatments range from simple brushing of teeth using fluoride toothpaste to extensive fluoride treatments at the dentist’s place. It all depends on the seriousness of the damage on the enamel.

Excellent video explaining why fluoride is good for your teeth.

Replenishes the Teeth

The interaction between your teeth and foodstuffs not only wears down the enamel, as it also breaks down the teeth’s structure. Note that teeth are made of calcium and fluoride, among other minerals, and they can react with the chemicals in the food you take to bad effect. This process is a long term one, and it is vital to replenish the teeth structure using fluoride treatments.

Fluoride treatments help to add more minerals back to your teeth in a process called remineralization. Besides fluoride, these treatments replenish the lost calcium and phosphorous on the teeth, helping them regain their original structure. No one can avoid the wear and tear of teeth. Remineralization is an essential process in sustaining healthy and strong teeth.

Prevents Tooth Cavity

It is impossible to avoid the build-up of bacteria in our teeth. When we consume sugar and starch, they get stuck in the spaces between our teeth, and in some cases, routine brushing cannot clear them out. Over time, they decay and produce an acid that breaks down the enamel. This process poses a significant danger to your teeth unless it is combatted effectively.

Fluoride treatments are the best option for battling tooth cavities. Brushing your teeth using fluoride toothpaste and going for the treatments will help keep you safe from cavities. Note that children are not the only ones who experience these issues as adults are susceptible too. Fluoride helps to clear away the bacteria, long before it produces the acid that will create a cavity.

Tooth Getting Flouride Treatment

Reduces the Cost of Dental Care

Understand that most of the things that affect our oral health do not do it overnight unless you are hit and lose your teeth. Decay, cavity, and degraded enamels take time, a reason why you are advised to be consistent with your fluoride treatments. Besides the dental health benefits, you will end up saving a lot of money in the long run.

Dental procedures can be costly, and the best way to save money is to stay up to date with your fluoride treatment. This way, your teeth will always be healthy, and you will find yourself in fewer instances where you are in a dental emergency and require a costly procedure.

Suitable for a Perfect Smile

Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that is one of the best treatments for your teeth. It is a holistic treatment that has several benefits for your teeth and will surely help you get a beautiful, natural smile.

10 Interesting Facts About Your Teeth

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Improve Your IQ About Your Teeth

Your teeth are an integral part of your health, but most people don’t know what makes them unique. It’s the little details that are important and will help shed light on this magnificent part of the human body.

Here are 10 fun facts about your teeth and what they’re all about.

By the way, we’ve been answer your questions regarding dental implants here: when should you get a dental implant?

Hispanic Family With Beautiful Smiles

1) Only 2/3 of Your Teeth are Visible

The naked eye tends to see a person’s teeth up to the gumline. However, your teeth don’t stop there and extend well past the gumline.

This means 2/3 of the tooth aren’t visible until they are removed from the gum. As a result, it’s essential to care for what you are seeing and what’s hidden. This is why flossing and caring for your gums is highly recommended to stop tooth decay.

A well-rounded regimen should involve using toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash.

2) Brushing Teeth Early Can Harm Them

It’s never a good idea to brush your teeth right after eating specific types of food. The reason has to do with damaging the enamel due to it being softer after eating. If you brush too soon, the enamel begins to wear down, which has prolonged consequences later on in life.

What is the best way to brush your teeth after eating?

Wait at least an hour or so before grabbing your toothbrush and working on your teeth.

3) Teeth are SOFT on the Inside

While the outer layer is rock hard, the rest of your tooth is quite soft. The enamel is tough and allows you to chew all types of food in your mouth, but the tooth inside is soft to the touch.

4) Your Teeth are Unique

Even if you have your mother’s smile, there are differences between your teeth and her’s. These subtle differences are just like fingerprints, and each person has a unique set of teeth that make them special in their own way.

5) Yellow Teeth Indicate Wear and Tear

Looking at your teeth and noticing a bit of yellow can be frustrating. However, what does the yellow tinge on your teeth mean when it comes to your oral health?

It generally indicates that the white enamel is beginning to break down, and it is now becoming translucent. It is a sign of weakness for your teeth, and it will only worsen with time as the enamel continues to decay.

The dentine underneath tends to have a yellow hue, which you will notice as the enamel withers away.

Tooth With Root Showing

6) Teeth are Not Bones

Your teeth might seem rock hard (and they are!), but they are still not bones. While both are made of calcium, look white, and are hard, this doesn’t mean they are the same.

Bones are different because they can break and heal themselves, including growing back to how they were. On the other hand, you don’t gain access to the same advantages with teeth. They don’t heal on their own.

7) Teeth Take Shape in the Womb

Your teeth are a part of your life as soon as you form in the womb. Over time, you are born, and they come out as baby teeth before falling out and turning into permanent teeth.

8) Humans Brush Teeth for 38+ Days of Their Life

Research shows the average human being will brush their teeth for at least 45 seconds each time during the day. While the average human ends up brushing for at least 38 days throughout their lives as the seconds start to add up.

9) Teeth are the Hardest Part of a Human Body

The enamel is the hardest part of the human body, and that includes your bones.

10) Tooth Decay is a Common Disease in Humans

After the common cold, tooth decay is cited as the most common disease among humans. Studies show at least 1/4 of all humans will deal with tooth decay at one point or another in their lives.

Final Thoughts

For those who want to rock a beautiful smile, it’s all about caring for your teeth and understanding what they’re all about.

These 10 fun facts should help illustrate why your teeth are a wonderful part of your life and deserve to be treated well.

Why Athletes Need to Take Care of Their Teeth

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Athletes Need to Take Extra Care of Their Teeth

Athletes are built to perform when it comes to their sport of choice. This can be entertaining, unique, and challenging, but most athletes forget about its impact on your teeth.

Yes, your teeth won’t do well if you aren’t taking care of them, especially as a modern-day athlete.

Here are five of the most important reasons why athletes need to take care of their teeth.

PS. Not sure if you need implants?  To find out get a consultation with Dr Winston.

Soccer Players care for Teeth

1) Constant Dehydration

Athletes tend to sweat a lot, and that means needing constant access to a bottle of water. However, what about those periods when you are not consuming enough water and try to power through? This is common in sports, which is why athletes try to chug water during their breaks.

While dehydration isn’t good for the body as a whole, it’s also troublesome for your teeth.

Athletes will start to see an increase in oral health issues because of dehydration. This isn’t a good environment for your teeth to be in, and it will do quite a bit of damage over the long haul.

2) Increased Changes of Impact Injuries

Impact injuries are never a good thing, and they are something you want to avoid as an athlete. However, it’s not just about your bones and/or muscles. Instead, you also have to think about your teeth because they can easily get rattled by a high-impact incident.

For example, let’s assume you are playing a game of football and go for a tackle. Suppose you hit your mouth the wrong way. In that case, you may end up with a severe dental injury that will require immediate attention.

These are some of the reasons why you should use a mouthguard to help protect your teeth. Most of these sports mandate these solutions, but you should also wear them during practice sessions.

3) Heightened Corrosion from Mouthguards

Mouthguards are highly recommended, and they should always be used, but only in unison with good dental habits. Mouthguards can lead to bacteria developing and getting onto the teeth. This can be damaging over the long-term if you do not take the time to brush your teeth and floss as often as possible.

It’s all about creating a comprehensive, personalized oral hygiene routine. This way, you will remain on top of what’s going on in your mouth throughout the sports seasons.

4) Increased Consumption of Sugar

Sugar consumption is noted for being higher among athletes.

This has to do with wanting to maintain a certain level of carbs in the body. To do this, you are not going to find it easy to get those carbs through “healthy” foods, which is why many athletes try to feast on junk as a way to bolster their number of carbs.

Athletes will always have a reason for doing this, but you have to think about the teeth.

Your teeth won’t do well with this sudden increase in sugar, and it’s going to end up leading to tooth decay. Many athletes point to this concern due to the added sugar intake. If you are doing this, it’s recommended to brush your teeth multiple times per day to make sure the bacteria don’t spread and do damage.

5) Constant Grinding and Chomping of Teeth

Depending on the sport, athletes will often grind their teeth while playing. This is usually done as a way to extract every ounce of energy (imagine a bodybuilder lifting a heavy barbell!) and trying to push through a challenging physical scenario.

While this is great for maximizing your energy output as an athlete, it doesn’t bode well for your teeth. If you do this enough times, it will start chipping away at the enamel.

Final Thoughts

These are the main reasons why athletes need to take care of their teeth throughout the year. Playing sports is terrific for your heart and body, but it’s also essential to think about your dental health. Otherwise, you are going to be dealing with a long list of oral health issues.

With these five reasons in mind, it’s possible to craft a plan that involves using a mouthguard and a comprehensive oral hygiene plan.

Do You Have a Cavity? Want To Know The Signs To Look For?

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Here Are A Few Signs You May Have A Cavity!

Cavities are challenging to deal with, but it’s important to spot them early on. The more this issue is prolonged, the worse the outcome will be when it’s time to fix things.

This is why dentists recommended good oral hygiene and regular appointments. By doing this, you understand what’s going on with your dental health both in the short and long-term. Check out our services today.

What if you are unsure about your teeth and potential cavities? Well, it’s time to look for key signs that stand out in situations such as these.

tooth cavity

1) Teeth Sensitivity

Let’s assume you have grabbed a hot drink and are ready to enjoy the beverage. Well, what happens if you take a sip, and all of a sudden, it seems like an electric jolt has been sent through your teeth? This is an excellent example of teeth sensitivity, and it tends to happen with new cavities.

Why does this happen in the first place?

When you have a cavity, the tooth becomes weaker from that spot, and that can start to make the area sensitive. You will begin to feel as if a nerve has been touched, and it’s not a pleasant feeling at all.

2) Discoloration

If you aren’t dealing with any type of pain and everything seems normal, it’s always smart to look at your teeth’ color.

Cavities are often preceded by some form of discoloration in the teeth. It starts to happen slowly, but it does become noticeable after a while, and it’s something you should pay attention to. If there is discoloration, then it might be time to speak to a dentist right away.

3) Bad Breath

Do you notice constant bad breath? Is it something that bothers you a lot?

Bad breath doesn’t always have to happen due to cavities, but it is a potential cause to explore as an individual.

Another example of this can be individuals that deal with odd experiences with food where the taste is off. The reason the taste is terrible might have to do with your cavities. It’s essential to look at what’s happening if your breath doesn’t smell right.

If you don’t do this, it’s possible to have a situation where the cavity gets worse.

4) Swelling/Bleeding Gums

A common sign that is noticed by people has to do with their gums. Gums often become sensitive and prone to bleeding when cavities play a role in your oral health issues.

If you have started noticing small pockets of pus developing along the gum line, this is a clear-cut sign something is off, and it’s best to visit a dentist.

Cavities can start to create symptoms like these, and they are not comfortable at all. Eventually, the swelling is going to turn into bleeding. It will get worse with time until the problem is resolved.

Tooth Pain

5) Tooth Pain

This is a sign that you will notice, and it won’t be easy to ignore. Toothaches happen for several reasons, and this is one of the more common causes.

If you have a cavity, you will deal with regular sensitivity, and it is going to turn into discomfort. You will have pangs of pain rush through your jaw, and it won’t go away easily.

This pain isn’t ideal, and it’s something you have to think about when it comes to your health. It’s a sign that should send the alarm bells ringing about your oral health.

6) Holes in the Teeth

If there are noticeable holes in the teeth, this means you are starting to see the tooth rot. It is a clear-cut sign, something is wrong, especially if the tooth hasn’t been the victim of an impact-injury.

When there are holes in your teeth, this means something is off, and it might have to do with a lingering cavity.

Final Thoughts

These are the main signs to look for if you are worried about your oral health. Yes, cavities are common, but it’s essential to act fast, so things don’t get to the point of no return. If you take the time to analyze your options, you will have a much better time staying out in front of the issue.

Teeth Grinding – Causes, Treatments, and Consequences

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Teeth Grinding Can Be A Serious Issue

Studies show at least 10% of the world’s population deals with some form of teeth grinding, with the number rising to 15% in children.

This is a staggering figure and illustrates the seriousness of this problem. It’s time to look at what teeth grinding is all about for those trying to understand the root cause of their dental worries.

Here’s a look at the leading causes, treatment options, and consequences of teeth grinding.

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Man with Toothache

What is Teeth Grinding?

Teeth grinding or bruxism refers to the clenching, grinding, and/or gnashing of the upper and lower teeth. In some cases, the condition occurs during the day (i.e., awake bruxism), while others do it unconsciously during their sleep.

It’s a problem that can result in significant symptoms that reduce a patient’s quality of life.

Causes of Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding is often seen as an unconscious reality for sufferers. This means patients will often exhibit all of the symptoms associated with teeth grinding and not realize it’s happening.

To better understand what teeth grinding is all about, it’s time to look at some of the symptoms.

The leading causes include:

* Sleep Disorders
* Medications
* Stress/Anxiety
* Lifestyle Changes

In some cases, patients will list 2-3 of these reasons behind their teeth grinding worries. A medical professional needs to look deeper into these symptoms and figure out how to alleviate the patient’s concerns.

Most patients have to make changes to their sleeping habits, lifestyle, and/or use of medications right away.

Treatment for Teeth Grinding

1) Mouthguard

This is a standard treatment option for patients that has both short and long-term benefits. The idea is to wear the mouthguard before going to bed to make sure sleeping doesn’t worsen it.

This is a treatment often prescribed to patients that deal with nighttime bruxism.

2) Muscle Relaxants

If the muscles around the oral cavity remain tense/clenched, this can lead to persistent teeth grinding. Patients may not realize its happening, but the problem will worsen with time.

Medical professionals often prescribe muscle relaxants to reduce tension in the area to get rid of the issue.

3) Dental Corrections

With severe cases, the number one suggestion is to look for a long-term solution. This means making dental corrections to the teeth/jaw to re-align how the teeth sit. This can make it easier to prevent teeth grinding.

4) Stress Management

It’s recommended for many patients to seek stress management therapy and/or implement changes to their lifestyle for reducing stress.

When stress levels are high, patients will often exhibit symptoms associated with teeth grinding. This usually revolves around clenching their teeth due to the unrelenting stress.

Teeth Grinding Bruxism

Consequences of Teeth Grinding

1) Headaches

This is a common consequence of teeth grinding since the muscles around the oral cavity remain tense. Due to the increased tension around the face, it can lead to headaches and neck pain.

This pain can become challenging to handle when it’s unrelenting and doesn’t disappear with regular pain medications.

Patients often require therapy for headaches over the long-run. This includes using stronger pain medications to alleviate the pain around both the head and jawline.

2) Jaw Pain and Tenderness

When the muscles around the oral cavity remain clenched all the time, this can lead to tenderness and/or pain in the jaw.

This becomes a persistent problem for patients that deal with bruxism around the clock. While it may not be an issue in the short-term, it does add up if the problem persists.

3) Worn-Down Teeth

Due to the unrelenting teeth grinding, whether it’s during the day or night, patients begin experiencing noticeable tooth decay. This means the enamel starts chipping away, which can result in significant cavities and rotting teeth. The more this happens, the worse a patient’s pain becomes.

Worn-down teeth are generally the last symptom but can have a troubling impact on a person’s health and quality of life.

Final Thoughts

It’s essential to seek medical assistance with issues such as teeth grinding. This can have a tremendous impact on a person’s dental health both in the short and long-term.

By seeking assistance, it’s possible to come up with a specialized plan before the problem worsens.

Are Dental Xrays Safe?

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Is It Safe To Undergo Dental X-Rays?

X-rays are commonly used to diagnose dental conditions, and they are not considered safety risks. The doses of radiation that patients are exposed to via digital x-rays are extremely low. Other types of imaging procedures produce far more radiation.

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Dental XRay Machine

Suppose you have concerns about x-rays or are worried that a medical condition. In that case, you may want to learn more about what these x-rays entail and why they are commonly used.

Your dental technician will take proper precautions when an x-ray is performed, there are minimal safety risks. Suppose you receive four bitewing x-rays during an examination. In that case, you will be exposed to about as much radiation as you would on a two-hour airplane flight.

When Are X-Rays Necessary?

X-rays serve as a diagnostic tool for dentists. They make it possible to spot problems that can’t easily be identified during an examination. Dental x-rays make it possible to diagnose issues so that they can be treated.

Dental x-rays allow dentists to see:

Tooth decay, even when it’s beneath fillings or between teeth.
Bone loss caused by gum disease
Abscesses, a type of infection found between the gum and the tooth or at a tooth’s root.
Tumors
Root canal changes

These x-rays can also serve as a reference. This can assist dentists with dentures, implants, braces, and an array of other dental treatments.

Are Dental X-Rays Suitable For Children?

Because children are more radiation-sensitive than adults, it’s common for parents to have concerns about the safety of x-rays. Thankfully, because the amount of radiation used is very low, these x-rays are still child-safe. Teeth and jaws go through numerous changes as children grow and develop. That’s why it’s essential to monitor them closely. X-rays can benefit pediatric dentists in multiple ways.

They make it possible to:

Confirm that a child’s mouth is large enough for teeth that are coming in
Keep track of wisdom teeth as they develop.
Check to see if primary teeth have become loosened, which will allow permanent teeth to come in.
Spot gum disease and tooth decay early on

Children will need dental checkups regularly and receive x-rays according to a dentist’s recommendations. The appropriate x-ray schedule will be determined by a child’s dentists.

Can Pregnant Women Receive Dental X-Rays?

It’s typically recommended that women do not undergo dental x-rays during pregnancy. Even though radiation exposure is extremely low, it’s advised to avoid any exposure while a fetus is still developing. If you may be pregnant, you will want to inform your dentist.

With that said, dentists may still recommend that a pregnant woman receives an x-ray in certain situations. For example, x-rays may be used for dental emergencies or when a patient is in the midst of a treatment plan. Prenatal health and appropriate dental care must be balanced. It’s best to follow your dentist’s recommendations. Periodontal disease can increase health risks during pregnancy, so good dental care is essential during this time.

Additional safety precautions can be used to keep pregnant women safe as they undergo x-rays, including thyroid collars and leaded aprons. It’s best to discuss these issues with your dentist and follow the instructions that they give you.

Dental xRay Whittier

What Kinds Of Precautions Are Used During X-Rays?

Dentists can limit radiation exposure during dental x-rays in numerous ways. For example, a dentist can significantly lower exposure by capturing one image instead of several images. You may also request that your dentist uses the lowest possible radiation setting. Wearing leaded coverings can provide some protection from the radiation.

How Can You Determine If Dental X-Rays Are Needed?

While radiation exposure can be limited in several ways, x-rays should still only be conducted when necessary. X-rays do not have to follow any sort of schedule. Instead, dentists must decide whether x-rays are needed. Many factors will be considered when making this decision, such as:

The patient’s age
The patient’s oral health
Dental development stage
Symptoms
Risk factors

According to research, proper clinical evaluations can lower x-ray frequency by around 43% percent without leading to more undiagnosed diseases. If exposure is a concern for you, you can request a visual examination before any x-rays. However, you should still be aware that it isn’t always possible to diagnose conditions without x-rays.

Suppose you want to decrease the necessity of x-rays. In that case, you should also transfer over any x-rays from dentists you have seen previously.

You shouldn’t be afraid to have a discussion with your dentist about x-rays. Learn more about the steps you can take to work towards better dental health.