Regularly visiting your dentist is one of the best things you can do to make sure your teeth last a lifetime.
When your dentist spots oral health problems early, treatment will be simpler and more affordable. Additionally, the presence of certain types of oral bacteria may be a sign of serious sickness and disease; thus, regular dental checkups can serve as a window into your overall health.
Every patient is different. We typically recommend visiting your dentist at least once a year for a basic examination and/or cleaning, but twice a year is better for most patients. If you are experiencing problems, more frequents may be necessary.
Yes – a good oral health routine includes flossing at least once a day.
It’s widely believed that flossing is important because it removes the food in between your teeth, but this is only partially true. The real value in flossing is because it removes plaque – the invisible, sticky film containing millions of bacteria. These microscopic creatures feed on the food particles left on your teeth. Brushing removes the bacteria on the surface of your teeth, but what about in between? This is where flossing comes in.
If plaque is not removed, it will eventually turn into dental calculus, or tartar. You can’t remove tartar through brushing and flossing; it’s too hard. Your dentist can remove it using special tools, but if left untreated, tartar continues to attack the teeth and gums. It can eventually lead to cavities and tooth decay. If it continues to advance, your teeth will eventually loosen or even fall out.
Make sure to maintain a good oral health routine, including brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Your dentist can show you the proper way to brush and floss.
Another way to prevent cavities is to limit the amount of sugar in your diet. Bacterial feasts on sugar, so the less you eat, the harder it is for bacteria to survive. Be especially wary of eating sticky foods like peanut butter or candy. If you do eat sweets, try to eat them only at meal times and be sure to clean your teeth afterwards. (At the very least, rinse your mouth out with water.) Chewing sugarless gum may also prove helpful, as it stimulates the flow of saliva which is the body’s natural defense against plaque.
Make sure to brush with a toothpaste containing fluoride, which contains properties that strengthen tooth enamel, and be sure to see your dentist regularly to help identify cavities early.
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, speak to your dentist. He or she may be able to recommend a sensitivity toothpaste that works to slightly numb your teeth. Other toothpastes block the tubules (microscopic pores in tooth enamel) that lead to the nerve of the tooth.
You might also consider limiting your intake of highly acidic foods and beverages, including citrus fruits, tea and soda, as these can also contribute to tooth sensitivity.
Advanced periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis or gum disease) is a severe infection of the gums. This condition causes the inner layer of the gum to pull away from the teeth, creating small spaces or pockets that collect bacteria, worsening the infection. Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis has advanced to the point when the body can no longer contain or reverse the infection on its own.
If you’re suffering from periodontitis, you may show the following systems:
- Discolored gums (red or purple)
- Gums that are tender or painful to touch
- Swollen or receding gums
- Bleeding (especially after brushing and/or flossing)
- Bad breath
- Mouth sores
- Appearance of deep pockets between teeth and gums
- Loose (or shifting) teeth
If left untreated, periodontal disease could lead to tooth loss. However, early diagnosis and treatment can reverse the effects.
Recent years have seen a drastic increase in the number of over-the-counter tooth whitening options; however, these produces aren’t all equal and produce different results. More importantly, since some of these contain harsh abrasives, improper or overuse could damage tooth enamel and lead to other problems.
If you are considering a tooth whitening product, speak to your dentist and he can give you the information you need to make a good decision.
Bleeding gums are typically a symptom of a more serious problem, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. You might be tempted to brush less frequently to avoid pain or further bleeding, but this may actually cause the condition to worsen.
If you suffer from bleeding gums, make an appointment with your dentist right away. He can diagnose the problem and get you on the road to recovery as soon as possible.
Oral piercing has increased in popularity in recent years. However, if you are considering a piercing you should be aware of the potential problems it brings.
Oral piercings may contribute to pain in the mouth, swelling, infection, abnormal drooling, or a loss of taste. You may also experience scarring, chipped teeth, or difficulty speaking as a direct result of a piercing.
Before getting an oral piercing, talk to your dentist.
About 50% of pregnant women develop a condition called pregnancy gingivitis. In addition to being uncomfortable, pregnancy gingivitis may cause gums to swell, bleed, or become red or tender.
However, these symptoms could also be an indication of a more serious condition – periodontal (gum) disease. This condition could harm your baby; some research indicates that pregnant women with periodontal disease are seven times more likely to deliver pre-term.
If you are pregnant and suffer from the above symptoms, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Radiation and chemotherapy may directly or indirectly cause various problems in the mouth, including:
- Sores
- Infections
- Dry mouth
- Bleeding of the gums
- General soreness or pain
Additionally, since radiation treatment and chemotherapy suppress the body’s natural immunity, it may be increasingly challenging to control these symptoms.
If you are undergoing cancer treatment, make an appointment with your dentist and he can develop a treatment plan to fit your specific circumstances.