Dental Hygiene

Read more about the article Difference Between Overbite and Underbite

Difference Between Overbite and Underbite

What Is the Difference Between an Overbite and an Underbite? An overbite occurs when the upper teeth or dental arch overlaps significantly over the lower teeth, while an underbite is the opposite — the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper arch. Both are forms of malocclusion (misaligned bite) that can affect your oral health, jaw function, and facial appearance. A licensed dentist can assess the severity of either condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Understanding Overbite A small degree of overbite is completely normal — in fact, most people have a slight vertical overlap of the upper front teeth over the lower. However, when the overlap becomes excessive, it is considered a dental concern that may require treatment. Common Causes of Overbite Genetics: Overbites are frequently inherited from parents and may relate to the size or shape of the jaw and teeth. Childhood habits: Prolonged thumb sucking, extended use of a bottle or pacifier, and tongue thrusting during developmental years can all contribute to overbite formation. Jaw development: Discrepancies in upper and lower jaw growth can result in significant overlap. Health Effects of an Overbite Difficulty chewing or biting food properly Increased stress on the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint), which may lead to TMJ-related discomfort Accelerated wear on tooth enamel Speech difficulties in some cases Aesthetic concerns affecting facial profile and self-confidence Understanding Underbite An underbite occurs when the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth when the mouth is closed. This condition is typically caused by overgrowth of the lower jaw, undergrowth of the upper jaw, or a combination of both. Like overbite, underbite can run in families. Common Causes of Underbite Genetics: Jaw size and growth patterns are often hereditary. Childhood habits: Similar habits to those linked with overbite — such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and prolonged pacifier use — can also contribute. Jaw discrepancy: Overgrowth of the lower jaw or undergrowth of the upper jaw are the most common skeletal causes. Health Effects of an Underbite Difficulty chewing and biting effectively Increased risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gingivitis — because misaligned teeth make it harder for a toothbrush to reach all surfaces Jaw pain and potential TMJ dysfunction Speech impediments Uneven wear on the teeth over time Because misaligned teeth create hard-to-clean areas, patients with either overbite or underbite benefit greatly from regular professional cleanings. Our dental hygienist team in Calgary can help manage plaque build-up and monitor your oral health between orthodontic treatments. How Are Overbite and Underbite Treated? While misaligned teeth are often visually apparent, it is strongly recommended that you visit a licensed dentist for a thorough assessment before beginning any treatment. The right approach depends on the severity of the malocclusion, your age, and your overall dental health. Common Treatment Options Orthodontic treatment: Braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign in Calgary NW are among the most effective non-surgical options for correcting mild to moderate overbite and underbite. Dental appliances: Palate expanders and other orthodontic appliances…

Read more about the article Dental Health Care for Seniors

Dental Health Care for Seniors

Dental Health Care for Seniors: What You Need to Know As we age, our oral health needs change significantly — seniors are at higher risk for conditions such as gum disease, root decay, dry mouth, and tooth loss. With proper daily care and regular professional dental visits, it is entirely possible to keep your natural teeth healthy and functional for life. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental team understands the unique challenges that come with aging and provides compassionate, tailored care for older adults. Common Dental Problems Seniors Face Even with consistent brushing and flossing, certain oral health concerns become more common as we get older. Understanding these issues is the first step toward preventing or managing them effectively. Root Cavities and Tooth Decay One of the most prevalent dental issues among older adults is decay on the root surfaces of teeth. As gums recede naturally with age, the roots of teeth — which lack the protective enamel covering found on the crown — become exposed and vulnerable to decay. To reduce your risk: Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste Floss once a day to remove plaque between teeth Attend regular dental checkups and professional cleanings Ask your dentist about fluoride treatments or tooth-coloured fillings if early decay is detected Tooth Sensitivity Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages is increasingly common in seniors. This occurs when gums recede over time, exposing the softer dentine layer of the tooth that is not protected by enamel. Using a desensitising toothpaste can provide relief for mild sensitivity. However, if sensitivity is persistent or severe, it is important to visit your dentist, as it may indicate a deeper issue such as decay or a cracked tooth that requires treatment. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease) Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in older adults, and it often progresses silently without obvious pain. Symptoms include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and loose teeth. Seniors are at greater risk due to factors such as reduced immune response, certain medications, and years of accumulated plaque. Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible with professional treatment and improved home care. Advanced gum disease requires more intensive periodontal care to manage and prevent further bone and tissue loss. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Many seniors experience dry mouth as a side effect of medications or as a result of certain health conditions. Saliva plays a critical role in neutralising acids, washing away food particles, and preventing decay — so a persistent lack of saliva significantly increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. To manage dry mouth: Drink water frequently throughout the day Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco Ask your dentist about prescription-strength fluoride or saliva substitutes Tooth Loss and Replacement Options Tooth loss is not an inevitable part of aging, but it does become more common in later years due to untreated decay or gum disease. Missing teeth affect your ability to chew,…

Read more about the article Avoid Wrong Brushing Techniques

Avoid Wrong Brushing Techniques

Common Brushing Mistakes That Harm Your Teeth (And How to Fix Them) Using the wrong brushing technique is one of the most common — and most preventable — causes of tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel damage. Brushing correctly for at least two minutes, twice a day, with the right tools and method, can protect your oral health and help you avoid costly restorative dental treatments. Here is what every Calgary NW patient should know about brushing their teeth properly. Choosing the Right Toothbrush Your toothbrush is your most important tool for daily oral hygiene, and selecting the wrong one can make brushing far less effective — even when your technique is correct. Size matters: Choose a toothbrush head that fits comfortably in your mouth and can easily reach your back molars. A brush that is too large will miss tight corners and areas behind your teeth. Bristle type: Most dental professionals recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush. Medium or hard bristles can wear away enamel and irritate your gum line over time. Bristle design: Angled or crisscross bristle patterns are more effective at cleaning the crevices between teeth and along the gum line. Replace regularly: Replace your toothbrush or electric brush head every three months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Brush for the Right Amount of Time One of the most widespread brushing mistakes is simply not spending enough time doing it. Most people brush for only 45 seconds on average — far less than the two to three minutes recommended by dental health guidelines. To make the most of your brushing routine: Use a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in two-minute timer. Divide your mouth into four quadrants and spend approximately 30 seconds on each. Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces of every tooth. Brush your tongue gently to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Even with a busy morning schedule, investing two to three minutes in proper brushing can save you from far more time-consuming treatments like root canal treatment or dental fillings down the road. Do Not Rinse with Water Immediately After Brushing This is a brushing habit that many people do not realise is reducing the effectiveness of their oral hygiene routine. After brushing, rinsing your mouth with water immediately washes away the fluoride left behind by your toothpaste — and fluoride is what helps remineralise enamel and protect against cavities. Instead of rinsing with water, follow these steps after brushing: Spit out excess toothpaste but do not rinse with water right away. Use a fluoride mouthwash at a different time of day — for example, after lunch — to extend fluoride protection throughout the day. Wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking after brushing to allow fluoride to work effectively on your enamel. The Importance of Flossing Daily Brushing alone cleans only about 60% of your tooth surfaces. The spaces between your teeth — where cavities and gum disease often begin — can only be effectively cleaned…

Read more about the article Reducing The Risk of Tooth Loss

Reducing The Risk of Tooth Loss

How to Reduce the Risk of Tooth Loss Tooth loss can often be prevented with the right daily habits and regular professional dental care. Whether caused by gum disease, decay, injury, or neglect, losing teeth affects both your oral health and your confidence. The good news is that most Calgary NW patients can significantly reduce their risk by following a few straightforward but effective steps. Why Tooth Loss Happens Understanding the causes of tooth loss is the first step toward prevention. The most common reasons include: Periodontal (gum) disease – a bacterial infection that damages the gum tissue and bone supporting your teeth Extensive tooth decay – when cavities are left untreated, they can progress to the point where a tooth cannot be saved Dental trauma or injury – accidents can cause teeth to be knocked out or fractured beyond repair Poor oral hygiene habits – insufficient brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up, leading to decay and gum disease over time If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, learning more about periodontal care can help you understand your treatment options and how to slow or stop its progression. Key Steps to Reduce Your Risk of Tooth Loss 1. Maintain a Thorough Daily Oral Hygiene Routine Brushing and flossing remain the foundation of tooth loss prevention. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once daily to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that, if not removed regularly, hardens into tartar and triggers both decay and gum disease — two of the leading causes of tooth loss. Consistent home care dramatically reduces this risk. 2. Attend Regular Professional Teeth Cleanings Even with excellent home care, plaque can harden into tartar in areas your toothbrush and floss cannot reach. Routine teeth cleaning in Calgary by a licensed dental hygienist removes this buildup before it causes lasting damage. Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning every six months, though those with gum disease may need more frequent visits. At Expressions Dental, we also offer Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) — an advanced, comfortable method of removing biofilm, plaque, and tartar using gentle technology for a thorough and precise clean. 3. Find a Dentist You Feel Comfortable With Dental anxiety is one of the most common reasons patients in Calgary NW delay or avoid dental care entirely — and unfortunately, putting off visits can allow small problems to become serious ones. Finding a caring, patient-focused dental team you trust makes it far easier to stay on top of your oral health. If anxiety has kept you away from the dentist, you are not alone. Expressions Dental offers several sedation options to help patients feel at ease, including nitrous sedation, oral sedation, and IV sedation dentistry. Our team is committed to making every visit as comfortable as possible. 4. Address Dental Problems Early Small cavities, minor gum inflammation, and…

Read more about the article Prevention of Cavities and Treating Tooth Decay

Prevention of Cavities and Treating Tooth Decay

How to Prevent Cavities and Treat Tooth Decay Cavities are one of the most common dental problems in Canada, yet they are largely preventable with consistent daily habits and regular professional care. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that gradually erode tooth enamel — often without any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. The good news is that with the right oral hygiene routine and timely dental visits, most people can avoid decay entirely or catch it before it becomes a serious problem. What Causes Tooth Decay? Tooth decay begins with plaque — a soft, sticky film of bacteria that continuously forms on the surfaces of your teeth. When you eat sugary or starchy foods, those bacteria feed on the sugars and produce acids as a byproduct. Over time, these acids weaken and erode the hard outer layer of your teeth (enamel), creating small holes known as cavities. Left untreated, decay can progress through the enamel into the deeper layers of the tooth — the dentine and eventually the pulp — leading to pain, infection, and the need for more involved treatment. In advanced cases, a tooth may require root canal treatment or, where the tooth cannot be saved, tooth extraction. Understanding how decay develops is the first step toward preventing it. Several factors increase your risk of developing cavities, including: Frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks Poor or inconsistent brushing and flossing habits Dry mouth (reduced saliva flow) Deep pits and grooves in the back teeth Infrequent professional dental cleanings Certain medications that affect saliva production Essential Oral Hygiene Habits to Prevent Cavities Brush Properly and Consistently Brushing is your most important daily defence against tooth decay. To get the most benefit from brushing, follow these guidelines: Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed. Use a fluoride toothpaste — fluoride strengthens enamel and helps remineralise early areas of decay before they become full cavities. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush — soft bristles are effective at removing plaque without damaging your enamel or gums. Replace your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. Use the correct technique — hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gumline and use small, gentle circular motions. Brush all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of every tooth. Don't brush immediately after acidic foods or drinks — wait at least 30 minutes to allow your saliva to neutralise the acids first. Floss Daily Flossing removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth — areas your toothbrush simply cannot reach. Cavities between teeth (interproximal cavities) are extremely common and entirely preventable with consistent flossing. Floss at least once per day, ideally before your evening brush. If traditional floss is difficult to use, consider floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser as effective alternatives. Use Mouthwash Wisely An antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your daily routine, reducing…

Read more about the article Prevent Gum Disease From Ruining Your Healthy Smile

Prevent Gum Disease From Ruining Your Healthy Smile

How to Prevent Gum Disease and Protect Your Smile Gum disease is one of the most common — and most preventable — causes of tooth loss in Canadian adults. Because it is usually painless in its early stages, many people do not realise they have it until significant damage has already occurred. The most reliable ways to protect your gums are consistent daily home care, regular professional cleanings, and routine dental check-ups. Why Your Gum Health Matters Your gums do far more than frame your teeth. They form a protective seal around each tooth and provide the soft-tissue foundation that keeps teeth stable and secure. When that foundation is compromised, teeth can loosen, shift, and eventually be lost entirely. Despite their importance, gums are frequently overlooked — largely because gum disease often develops without pain or obvious warning signs. For families in Calgary NW, staying on top of gum health is an essential part of overall wellness, not just oral health. A growing body of research links chronic gum disease to serious systemic conditions including heart disease and type 2 diabetes, making prevention more important than ever. What Causes Gum Disease? Gum disease is primarily caused by the build-up of dental plaque — a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which can no longer be cleared at home and requires professional dental tools to remove. Once tartar accumulates along and below the gum line, it triggers inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. Left untreated, this inflammation progresses from early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) to a more serious condition called periodontitis, which can cause irreversible damage to the bone and tissue supporting your teeth. Common Risk Factors for Gum Disease Infrequent or ineffective brushing and flossing Smoking or tobacco use — significantly increases risk and slows healing Diabetes — impairs the body's ability to fight infection Hormonal changes — pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can affect gum sensitivity Certain medications — some drugs reduce saliva flow or cause gum overgrowth Genetics — some individuals are naturally more susceptible Dry mouth (xerostomia) — reduces the cleansing effect of saliva Crowded or misaligned teeth — harder to clean effectively, allowing plaque to accumulate Recognising the Warning Signs Because gum disease is often silent in its early stages, knowing what to look for can make a significant difference in catching it before serious damage occurs. Signs You Should Not Ignore Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing Red, swollen, or tender gum tissue Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth (recession) Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth Teeth that feel loose or have shifted position Sensitivity along the gum line Visible pus between teeth and gums If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to book a dental appointment promptly. Early-stage gum disease is highly treatable — advanced gum disease is not fully reversible. If you…

Read more about the article The Importance of Choosing The Right Toothbrush

The Importance of Choosing The Right Toothbrush

How to Choose the Right Toothbrush for Your Teeth and Gums Choosing the right toothbrush is one of the most important — and most overlooked — steps in maintaining good oral health. With hundreds of options on pharmacy shelves, it can be difficult to know which toothbrush will actually do the best job for your teeth, gums, and mouth size. This guide breaks down exactly what to look for so you can make a confident, informed choice. Why Your Toothbrush Choice Matters A toothbrush is your first line of defence against plaque, cavities, and gum disease. Using the wrong size, shape, or bristle type can mean inadequate cleaning — or worse, damage to your enamel and gum tissue. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, our licensed dental hygienists often find that small adjustments to a patient's brushing tools make a significant difference in their overall oral health. If you're overdue for a professional clean, our teeth cleaning service in Calgary can help reset your oral hygiene routine alongside the right home care habits. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Toothbrush 1. Size — Match Your Brush to Your Mouth The size of your toothbrush head matters more than most people realise. A brush head that is too large will struggle to reach the back molars and tight spaces between teeth, leaving plaque behind. As a general rule: Adults should use a toothbrush with a head roughly 2.5 cm (1 inch) long and 1.25 cm (half an inch) wide. Children need a smaller brush head sized specifically for their age group — your dentist or hygienist can advise on the right fit. Learn more about dental care for children in Calgary. The handle should be long enough to hold comfortably, giving you full control while you brush. If you find it hard to reach your back teeth, try switching to a toothbrush with a smaller head — you may be surprised at the difference it makes. 2. Shape — Angled Heads Reach Where Flat Ones Cannot The shape of the brush head affects how well it can clean tight corners, the backs of teeth, and the gumline. Look for: A rounded or contoured head rather than a flat rectangular one, which cleans more surface area with each stroke. A tapered or angled tip that can access the tight spaces behind your back molars — an area that is frequently missed and a common site for decay. Flexible neck designs that help reduce the pressure applied to teeth and gums. 3. Bristle Type — Soft Is Almost Always Better This is arguably the most important factor. Hard or medium bristles are not recommended by most dental professionals, including those at Expressions Dental. Stiff bristles can: Wear away tooth enamel over time Irritate and recede the gumline Cause sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks Soft or extra-soft bristles clean teeth just as effectively when used with the correct technique, without causing damage. Opt for rounded bristle tips for added comfort…

Read more about the article How To Floss and What Precautions To Take?

How To Floss and What Precautions To Take?

How to Floss Properly and What Precautions to Take Flossing once daily removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth and along the gumline — areas your toothbrush simply cannot reach. Done correctly, it significantly reduces your risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Done incorrectly, it can irritate or damage your gums, which is why technique and precautions matter. Why Flossing Is Essential for Your Oral Health Brushing alone cleans roughly 60% of tooth surfaces. The remaining 40% — the tight spaces between teeth — can only be cleaned effectively with floss or an interdental cleaner. When plaque is left to build up in these areas, it hardens into tartar and contributes to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Regular flossing, combined with professional teeth cleaning in Calgary, forms the foundation of a strong preventive oral hygiene routine. What Type of Floss Should You Use? There is no single "best" floss — the right choice depends on your teeth spacing, gum sensitivity, and personal preference. Here are the most common options: Waxed floss: Slides more easily between tight contact points; a good starting choice for most people. Unwaxed floss: Slightly thinner; can squeak against clean teeth, indicating good plaque removal. Floss picks / floss sticks: Convenient for travel or for those with limited dexterity; less flexible than traditional floss. Dental tape: Broader and flatter; ideal if you have wider gaps between teeth or find standard floss shreds easily. Water flossers: Use a pressurised stream of water to flush debris; excellent for people with braces, dental implants, or bridges, though they should complement rather than replace traditional floss. Interdental brushes: Small brushes that fit between teeth; particularly effective for larger gaps or around orthodontic appliances. If you are unsure which type suits you best, ask your dental hygienist at your next visit. Our dental hygienists in Calgary are happy to make personalised recommendations based on your oral anatomy and health history. Step-by-Step: How to Floss Correctly Follow these steps to floss effectively without harming your gums: Step 1 – Choose the Right Length Break off approximately 45–50 cm (18 inches) of floss. This gives you enough clean floss to use a fresh section between each pair of teeth. Step 2 – Wind and Secure the Floss Wind most of the floss around the middle finger of one hand and the remainder around the same finger on the other hand. Hold the floss taut between your thumbs and index fingers, leaving about 2–3 cm of working floss. Step 3 – Guide Between Teeth Gently Slide the floss gently between your teeth using a zigzag or sawing motion. Never snap or force it down — this can cut your gum tissue. Work carefully until the floss reaches the gumline. Step 4 – Curve Around Each Tooth Once at the gumline, curve the floss into a C-shape around the tooth. Gently slide it up and down against the side of the tooth, going just slightly below the gumline to dislodge plaque…

Read more about the article Remedies for Teeth Sensitivity

Remedies for Teeth Sensitivity

Remedies for Teeth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity is a sharp, sudden pain or tingling sensation triggered by hot or cold foods, beverages, or even cold air. It can affect one tooth or several, and may occur occasionally or persistently. The good news is that there are effective at-home remedies and professional dental treatments that can provide real relief. What Causes Tooth Sensitivity? Sensitivity typically occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth wears down, or when gum recession exposes the underlying dentine layer. Dentine contains tiny tubules that connect directly to the tooth's nerve, making it highly reactive to temperature and pressure changes. Common contributing factors include: Brushing too aggressively with a hard-bristled toothbrush Consuming highly acidic foods and drinks that erode enamel over time Teeth grinding (bruxism), which wears down enamel Gum disease or gum recession exposing root surfaces Tooth decay, cracked teeth, or worn fillings Overuse of whitening products that temporarily irritate enamel At-Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth For mild to moderate sensitivity, the following at-home strategies can make a meaningful difference: 1. Use a Desensitising Toothpaste Desensitising toothpastes contain compounds such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride that help block the dentinal tubules and calm nerve responses over time. Use a fluoridated formula — not a whitening toothpaste, which can aggravate sensitivity. For added benefit, try spreading a thin layer directly onto exposed root surfaces before bed and leaving it on overnight. 2. Switch to a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush Hard or medium-bristled brushes can accelerate enamel and gum tissue wear. A soft-bristled brush used with gentle, circular strokes helps clean effectively without causing further damage to sensitive teeth. 3. Rinse with a Fluoridated Mouthwash A daily fluoride rinse helps strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity over time. Look for alcohol-free formulas, as alcohol can sometimes irritate already-sensitive teeth and gums. 4. Avoid Highly Acidic Foods and Drinks Citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, vinegar-based foods, and wine are highly acidic and can erode enamel with repeated exposure. Rinsing your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods — and waiting 30 minutes before brushing — helps minimise enamel damage. 5. Address Teeth Grinding If you clench or grind your teeth at night, the enamel can wear down significantly over time, worsening sensitivity. A custom-fitted nightguard from your dentist can protect your teeth while you sleep. If you suspect bruxism may be contributing to your discomfort, ask your dentist about TMJ treatment options in Calgary NW. Professional Dental Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity While at-home remedies are a good starting point, it is always best to see a licensed dentist to determine the true underlying cause of your sensitivity. What feels like simple sensitivity could sometimes indicate a deeper issue, such as a cracked tooth, decay, or gum disease, that requires professional care. At your appointment, your dentist will ask about your symptoms, review your dental and medical history, and may take digital X-rays to get a clearer picture of what is happening beneath the surface. Depending on the cause, your dentist in Calgary NW…

Read more about the article Managing Burning Mouth Syndrome

Managing Burning Mouth Syndrome

What Is Burning Mouth Syndrome? Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic oral condition characterised by a persistent burning or scalding sensation affecting the tongue, lips, cheeks, or the entire mouth — often without any visible cause. Symptoms typically begin in the morning, build throughout the day, and peak in intensity by evening. If you are experiencing this type of ongoing oral discomfort, it is important to speak with a licensed dental professional as soon as possible. Common Symptoms of Burning Mouth Syndrome The hallmark symptom of BMS is a continuous or recurring burning sensation in the mouth. However, patients may also experience a range of related symptoms, including: A feeling of scalding or tingling on the tongue, gums, or inner cheeks Dry mouth and increased thirst Altered taste, including bitterness or a metallic flavour Numbness or soreness in the mouth Discomfort that worsens throughout the day In most cases, symptoms are present daily and can significantly affect eating, speaking, and overall quality of life. What Causes Burning Mouth Syndrome? BMS can be classified as either primary (no identifiable underlying cause) or secondary (linked to an underlying medical condition). Understanding the cause is essential to selecting the right treatment approach. Primary Burning Mouth Syndrome Primary BMS is believed to be related to dysfunction in the sensory nerves or central nervous system. Nerve damage affecting taste and pain pathways may contribute to the chronic burning sensation experienced by patients. Secondary Burning Mouth Syndrome Secondary BMS occurs when an underlying condition triggers the symptoms. Common contributing factors include: Nutritional deficiencies — particularly iron, zinc, folate, and B vitamins Endocrine disorders — such as diabetes or thyroid conditions Oral infections — including fungal infections like oral thrush Food allergies or sensitivities Adverse reactions to medications — especially certain blood pressure drugs (ACE inhibitors) Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Dry mouth (xerostomia) caused by medications or systemic conditions Psychological and Emotional Factors Research consistently shows a connection between BMS and psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. While this does not mean BMS is "all in your head," addressing emotional wellbeing can be an important part of an effective management plan. Patients experiencing these challenges are encouraged to work alongside both their dental and medical care teams for comprehensive support. How Is Burning Mouth Syndrome Diagnosed? There is no single definitive test for BMS. A licensed dental professional will typically conduct a thorough review of your medical and dental history, perform a clinical oral examination, and may order blood tests or refer you to a physician to rule out underlying medical causes. At our family dental care practice in Calgary NW, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing oral health concerns so that nothing is overlooked. Treatment Options for Burning Mouth Syndrome Treatment for BMS depends on whether a primary or secondary cause has been identified. Your care team will develop a plan tailored to your specific situation. Treating Secondary BMS When an underlying condition is identified, treating that condition first is the…