Dental Hygiene

Read more about the article Beyond Teeth: What’s Inside Your Mouth?

Beyond Teeth: What’s Inside Your Mouth?

The mouth, or oral cavity, is made up of numerous components that work together so that you can breathe, speak, eat and digest food. Following are the parts of your mouth:

  • Upper and lower lips and cheeks – Lips let air into your mouth for breathing and, together with cheeks, help you speak. They also keep food and saliva in your mouth while chewing.
  • Hard palate – Located at the front of the roof of the mouth
  • Soft palate – In the back of the roof of the mouth
  • Gums and Tongue
  • The uvula – The soft tissues that hangs from the soft palate
  • Tonsils – The balls of tissue on each side of the throat
  • Retromolar trigone – The connective tissues that join the upper and lower jaws
  • Underside of the tongue and the floor of the mouth
  • Oral mucosa – The mucus lining that coats and protects the inside of the mouth
  • Salivary glands – Organs that produce an enzyme that helps break down food and protects the mouth
  • Frenulum linguae – The flap that connects the tongue and the floor of the mouth
  • Teeth – The different kinds of teeth are incisors, canines, molars, premolars and wisdom teeth.

Keeping your mouth healthy

The moment you know your mouth well enough you will be in a better position to understand the way it works and take better care of it. The oral cavity needs special care and attention.

An oral hygiene routine that keeps all parts of the mouth healthy consists in brushing your teeth twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with dental floss. To keep those taste buds sharp, brush your tongue regularly as well.

It’s important to schedule regular dental appointments and professional cleanings, which remove the tartar and plaque your toothbrush can’t reach.

Although having a pretty smile is important to a lot of people, a healthy mouth is much more important. Keeping all the parts of your mouth in good working order won’t just ensure good dental health, but a healthy body too.

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Read more about the article Relationship between Oral Health and General Health

Relationship between Oral Health and General Health

Oral health is essential to general health and well-being at every stage of life. Oral conditions have an impact on overall health and disease. Bacteria from the mouth can cause infection in other parts of the body when the immune system has been compromised by disease or medical treatments.

Diabetes
Researchers have found a link a between type 2 diabetes and periodontitis, or gum disease. One reason could be that when infections in your mouth get bad enough, they can lead to low-grade inflammation throughout your body, which in turn lowers your sugar-processing abilities.

Ref: American Diabetes Association, Diabetic Forecast Mar 2016

Heart Disease
As with diabetes, the connection between poor oral health and cardiovascular conditions has been recognized – the two are often found together. Small amounts of bacteria enter your bloodstream while you’re chewing. “Bad” bacteria from an infected mouth may lodge itself inside blood vessels, ultimately causing dangerous blockages.

Ref: American Heart Association: “Dental Health and Heart Health”.

Pregnancy complications
For many pregnant women, gum infections stem from the fluctuating hormone levels that come with pregnancy. Scientists believe that gum disease or inflammation in the mouth possibly triggers an increase in a chemical compound called prostaglandin, which induces early labour. Research has also found a relationship between periodontal disease and low birth weight.

Ref: Saini R, Saini S, Saini S. Periodontitis: A Risk for delivery of premature labor and low birth weight infants; J Nat Sci Biol Med 2010 July-Dec;1(1):40-42.

Pneumonia
A study of elderly participants found that the number who developed pneumonia was higher in patients with periodontal infection than in those free from it. Even in a healthy mouth there are lots of bacteria, but bacteria in a not-healthy mouth can get aspirated into the lungs, causing pneumonia or aggravating COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. An improvement in oral health can lead to a reduction in respiratory infection.

Ref: J Can Den Assoc 2002; 68(6):340-5

Osteoporosis
Researchers have suggested that a link between osteoporosis and bone loss in the jaw. Studies suggest that osteoporosis may lead to tooth loss because the density of the bone that supports the teeth may be decreased, which means the teeth no longer have a solid foundation. Ref: Dentistryiq.com
Therefore, oral health can no longer be ignored in designing overall national health strategies. It is essential to protect natural teeth from decay and periodontal disease, and focus on early detection and prevention of these conditions.

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Read more about the article Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
Baby drinking from a babybottle

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay, or Early Childhood Caries. It happens when the child’s teeth come into contact with sugary foods and drinks often and for long periods of time. Among these liquids are milk, formula, fruit juice, sodas and other sweetened drinks. The sugars in these liquids pool around the infant’s teeth and gums, feeding the bacteria in plaque. Every time a child consumes a sugary liquid, acid produced by these bacteria attack the teeth and gums. After numerous attacks, tooth decay can begin.

The condition also is associated with breast-fed infants who have prolonged feeding habits or with children whose pacifiers are frequently dipped in honey, sugar or syrup. The sweet fluids left in the mouth while the infant is sleeping increase the chances of cavities.

Giving an infant a sugary drink at nap or night time is harmful because during sleep, the flow of saliva decreases, allowing the sugary liquids to linger on the child’s teeth for an extended period of time. If left untreated, decay can result, which can cause pain and infection. Severely decayed teeth may need to be extracted. If teeth are infected or lost too early due to baby bottle tooth decay, your child may develop poor eating habits, speech problems, crooked teeth and damaged adult teeth. Healthy baby teeth will usually result in healthy permanent teeth.

If your infant or toddler does not receive an adequate amount of fluoride, they may also have an increased risk for tooth decay. The good news is that decay is preventable.

Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Infants should finish their bedtime or naptime bottle before going to bed. A bottle should not be used as a pacifier. Frequent sips of sugary liquids can cause tooth decay. Clean and massage the baby’s gums to help establish healthy teeth and to aid in teething. Wrap a moistened gauze square or washcloth around the finger and gently massage the gums and gingival tissues. This should be done after every feeding.

Plaque removal activities should begin upon eruption of the first baby tooth. When brushing a child’s teeth, use a soft toothbrush and water. If you are considering using toothpaste before your child’s second birthday, ask your general dentist first. Parents should first bring their child to the dentist when the child is between 6 and 12 months old.

Remember that healthy baby teeth will lead to healthy permanent teeth.

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Read more about the article Coffee and Doughnuts: Worst Breakfast for Your Teeth

Coffee and Doughnuts: Worst Breakfast for Your Teeth

A cup of cappuccino or latte and a doughnut unfortunately has become a quick breakfast for people on the go. However, they don’t think about the serious adverse effects of sugar and caffeine on teeth.

Effects of doughnuts on teeth:

Doughnuts are packed with loads of sugar – five times as much as a plain oatmeal cookie!  In fact, they are worse than many other snacks in the market. Sugar plays a harmful role in tooth decay. The bacteria that form together to become plaque use sugar as a form of energy. They multiply faster and the plaque grows in size and thickness. Some of the bacteria turn the sugar into a kind of glue that they use to stick themselves to the tooth surface. This makes it harder for the bacteria to get washed away with your saliva. Bacteria also create acids that destroy the tooth enamel.  Cavities are a bacterial infection created by acids that cause your teeth to experience a hole in them. Without treatment, cavities can progress past the enamel and into the deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain and possible tooth loss.

Effects of sugar on teeth:

Coffee is the only thing that can get some people going in the morning. Here are the side effects of drinking coffee:

Like other acidic drinks, coffee can be very rough on the teeth depending on the amount you drink. The tannic acid in coffee settles into the grooves of your tooth enamel and can deeply stain teeth. Many people who have been drinking coffee for years develop a yellowish stain on teeth that can be hard to get rid of without whitening treatment.

To prevent staining, take a few sips of water after drinking coffee, and swish them around your mouth to wash off the tannic acid. Wait for approximately 20-30 minutes to brush.

See your general dentist regularly to have tips and advice about how to protect your teeth from sugar and caffeine.

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Read more about the article Is Your Toothbrush Making You Sick?

Is Your Toothbrush Making You Sick?

It is possible to become sick by using a germy toothbrush. According to researchers at the University of Birmingham School of Dentistry, there can be as many as 1.2 million bacteria on a single toothbrush. They have found the flu virus, staph bacteria, E. coli, yeast fungus and strep virus hanging out on used toothbrushes. Toothbrushes have the ability to be infected by a wide range of microorganisms, including viruses which can cause the common cold to even herpes. Pneumonia-causing bacteria also are found on a toothbrush. The germ problem lies in how and where we store our toothbrushes. Bathrooms are the perfect place for bacteria to grow — they are moist and steamy. In addition, most toothbrushes sit next to the toilet.

However, with the help of our immune system and everyday good hygiene habits, it is unlikely that your toothbrush will make you sick. But, there is still a chance for these bacteria to break through our defences.

To avoid a germy toothbrush, put these helpful tips into practice:

  • Wash your hands before and after brushing.
  • Change your toothbrush every three months or whenever you have the flu or a cold. You should also change when the bristles become worn.
  • Alternate between two brushes to make sure you use a completely dry brush.
  • Store your brush away from the toilet, and close the lid before flushing.
  • Do not share brushes and avoid storing toothbrushes together. Even storing your toothbrush too close to someone else’s is unwise because bacteria can jump from one brush to another.
  • Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after every brush with hot water.  Small amounts of food can remain in the bristles, and if they’re not removed, they can spoil and cause gastrointestinal problems. For a more effective rinse, submerge your brush in hydrogen peroxide or alcohol-based mouthwash.
  • Let your brush air-dry before putting a cap on the head or storing it away.
  • Use a different tube of toothpaste if you or someone else in your family is sick.
  • If you have severe oral or systemic diseases and those undergoing cancer chemotherapy, cardiac surgery, or organ transplantation should change toothbrushes more frequently.
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Read more about the article Brushing and Flossing to Fight Plaque

Brushing and Flossing to Fight Plaque

As you eat, your teeth, braces and appliances collect food. If food is left on teeth overnight, a thick plaque forms around the teeth and gums. Plaque causes bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease. Bleeding and swollen gums are a sure sign that plaque is not being properly removed. If your gums are swollen and inflamed, you will experience more discomfort during your treatment.

The best way to prevent plaque and tartar build up is to practice good daily oral home care, which includes brushing and flossing.

Brushing

  • Brush for at least 2 minutes, twice a day, with a fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to your back teeth, which may have more plaque on them.
  • Brush with gentle strokes so you don’t wear away your gums or teeth.
  • The high speed vibration of electric toothbrush can help break down the plaque and remove it.
  • Brush the teeth for two minutes. Remember, brush the outside, inside and tops of your teeth. Dentists recommend brushing at least twice a day.
  • For fresher breath, brush or scrape the tongue daily.
  • Examine your teeth for food and plaque and thoroughly clean all surfaces of the gums, teeth and braces. Re-examine your teeth to make sure all visible food and plaque have been removed. Extra care must be taken in the area between your gums and the braces.
  • Concentrate on brushing your gums and the gum line as well as your teeth. Two minute brushing, two times per day, is recommended.

Flossing

Some people think flossing is not as important as brushing – but it is! Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gum line, cavity-prone areas your brush can’t reach. If this plaque is allowed to build up under the gum line, gums can become irritated and eventually lead to gum disease. Dentists recommend flossing once a day, in the evening. Failing to floss leaves 35 to 40 per cent of your tooth’s surface uncleaned!

Using a mouthwash can also help fight plaque. If you’re not sure what kind to use, ask your general dentist.

Regular dental check-ups

Although you brush and floss every day, it is very important to continue to see your family dentist at least once every six months for a thorough examination and cleaning of your teeth. If you experience difficulty with good oral hygiene, you might need to see your general dentist more frequently.

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Read more about the article Aging and Dental Health

Aging and Dental Health

Good oral health habits and a healthy lifestyle can help you keep your gums healthy and your smile bright for a lifetime. The age of your teeth depends on how well you have cared for them over the years. Developing a simple daily routine of brushing, flossing and eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is even more important as we age. Poor dental hygiene and lack of dental care can lead to pain, infection, bad breath, difficulty eating, and social isolation.

Dental concerns for seniors

  • Cavities – In older people, these are found not only in the crown (chewing surface) of the tooth, but also in the root, which may become exposed due to gum recession. Regular dental check-ups are the best way to find and treat dental caries; left untreated, they can cause pain, require more complex procedures, and eventually lead to lost teeth.
  • Gum disease – It is another major oral health issue faced by older people — and it’s presently the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The disease is caused by plaque bacteria, which thrive on the sticky biofilm that clings to the surface of teeth when they aren’t properly cleaned. Poor-fitting dentures and the presence of certain diseases such as diabetes or cancer can make the problem worse.
  • Sometimes, decreased mobility (due to arthritis or similar conditions) makes routine brushing and flossing more difficult. Special brushes with larger grips and floss holders can help make daily cleaning easier. Therapeutic mouth rinses may be prescribed. In-office treatments can also be effective in bringing gum disease under control.
  • Oral cancer – Oral cancer is a concern at any age, but it’s more likely to show up in a person over 65. Early detection offers the best chance at controlling the disease, and improves survival rates significantly. A thorough screening for oral cancer should be a part of every older person’s routine dental check-up.
  • Dry mouth – It can be harmful to your oral health. Aside from its lubricating qualities, saliva contains beneficial digestive enzymes, acid neutralizers, and bacteria-fighting agents. A number of factors may cause the body to produce less saliva than normal — but in older adults, this problem is often due to side effects from prescription or over-the-counter medications. If you’re experiencing chronic dryness of the mouth, it’s sometimes possible to change your medication, and/or use products designed to relieve these symptoms.

Oral Hygiene for Life

Regular dentist visits can do more than keep your teeth healthy — they can tell a dentist a lot about your overall health. Good oral health is essential to good overall health. The best way to achieve good oral health is to prevent disease through daily brushing and flossing and visiting your general dentist regularly.

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Read more about the article Prevent Teeth Grinding

Prevent Teeth Grinding

Grinding teeth, called bruxism, may develop at any age. It is usually done unconsciously in sleep, but it can also occur when a person is awake.

Causes

Stress, anxiety, smoking, heavy alcohol, caffeine, depression and sleep disorders are all possible causes of teeth grinding.  Bruxism is found more frequently in people who snore or suffer from obstructive sleep and in people whose lifestyle includes smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine.

Treatment

The treatment for teeth grinding depends on its cause, which is evaluated by dentist with a comprehensive exam.

  • One way to protect your teeth and prevent tooth wear and fracture is to wear an occlusal appliance – such as, splints, bite guards, night guards, bite plates and bruxism appliances. These are custom made, plastic mouth pieces that fit over your top or bottom teeth. Wearing one of these appliances will help reduce jaw muscle pain and protect your teeth. The appliances are usually worn at bedtime.
  • If anxiety or stress is believed to be the cause of your grinding, then behavioural management is an option. Relaxation techniques, meditation and psychoanalysis can help manage the stress and anxiety.
  • If your bruxism is due to physical problems such as misaligned or broken teeth, your general dentist may have some suggestions for how to correct these problems with dental crowns or braces, or other techniques that may help resolve the grinding.
  • Stimulants and depressants have also been linked to various sleep disorders. Limit caffeine and alcohol to avoid developing a habit of teeth grinding.
  • If you’re grinding your teeth during the day, make yourself aware of when it happens and train yourself not to clench your jaw.
  • It may also be a side effect of some medications. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects before taking prescription drugs.
  • Limit chewy foods that give your jaw a workout, especially when jaw discomfort is at its worst.

If you’re still not sure what’s causing you to grind your teeth, see your general dentist. Not only will your general dentist help you find the solution to your problem, but regular dental visits will allow your general dentist to check for its signs and help you control it before the damage gets out of hand.

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Read more about the article Teaching Kids about Better Dental Habits

Teaching Kids about Better Dental Habits

It is very important to get our kids started the right way as far as their dental habits are concerned and we have to ensure that their dental health is strong at a young age. We obviously don’t want them to suffer from periodontal disease, oral cancer, or other significant dental problems.

Here are a few strategies you may want to try to ensure that your kids grow up with healthy teeth and gums.

  • Kids are more likely to imitate what they see from adults. In addition to talking to them about the importance of good dental habits, show them how you brush twice a day & floss daily, especially before going to bed at night.
  • Make brushing time a “together” time. Let your child “help” you with brushing, as you help him.
  • Let the kids choose their own toothbrush and make brushing fun. If they love the design on the toothbrush, they will love brushing too. You can even pick toothbrushes with lights, sounds and vibration to make brushing activity more exciting!
  • You can make brushing time a story time, so that kids will look forward to it. You can also make up a tooth brushing song and sing it for your kids, while they are brushing their teeth.
  • Hard to reach areas of our teeth may have food debris left even after brushing. Show your child how to floss early on to address this problem. Use plaque disclosing products to highlight areas of build-up they may have missed.
  • Kids love sugary food, which is a common culprit of tooth decay. Make it a point to have them rinse food from their mouth by drinking water, after having sweets.
  • Teach them to use a pea size amount of toothpaste on their brush and make sure they don’t swallow it.
  • Teach them to also brush their tongue while brushing. If the tongue is not clean, it can cause bad breath and tooth decay. Give small rewards like stickers after they brush, floss and swish every day.
  • Ensure with the help of a dental professional that your kids have good dental health. Work with your general dentist to make the experience fun and relaxing for your kids.
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Read more about the article Prevent Tooth Decay with Vitamin D

Prevent Tooth Decay with Vitamin D

The risk for developing cavities can be reduced through proper oral hygiene, nutrition, and twice a year examinations and cleanings. Calcium is important for strong and healthy teeth but it is important to get enough Vitamin D in the diet as well.
Vitamin D can help teeth become better mineralized and can better defend against decay. A deficiency in this vitamin may weaken teeth and lead to the increased risk of developing cavities or other problems. Vitamin D comes hand in hand with Calcium. Vitamin D is essential for Calcium to work and be effective in maintaining and sustaining healthy teeth and bones. Having Vitamin D deficiency can lead to weak teeth and bones. It can also lead to high risk of developing cavities and tooth decays. Vitamin D may also play a role in attacking the oral bacteria that cause cavities.
Gingivitis can also develop due to a lack of Vitamin D. Pregnant mothers need enough Vitamin D so that their infants have a good start with proper tooth development. Children need enough nutrition to grow healthy permanent teeth and adults need to maintain healthy teeth to prevent decay and disease.
You can get more vitamin D in your diet by spending a little bit of time outdoors every day. Your body makes vitamin D in response to sun exposure. You can also eat more egg yolks, fish liver oils and fatty fish. Supplementation may be an option for those who are unable to get enough vitamin D through their diet or for those who have a serious deficiency. Call us to schedule your appointment with our general dentist at Expressions Dental.

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