Should I limit drinking soda? YES! Whether at school, home or on the weekends, teens are drinking more soda than they have in the past. In 1977, 12 to 19-year-olds drank 16 ounces of soda a day. In 1996, this same age group consumed an average of 28 ounces a day. Not only is sugar harmful to teeth, acidic flavor additives can also erode and damage tooth enamel. There are simple ways you can limit the harmful effects of sodas. Try sipping soda through a straw. It cuts down on the contact the beverage has with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after drinking soda. It can also reduce the risk of cavities. Why should I avoid oral piercings? Tongue piercing remains a teen trend, however it is not always a healthy choice for your …
Sports Dentistry
Whether you are a professional athlete or a weekend warrior, protecting your mouth, face, head, and neck should be a priority when you participate in your favorite sport or activity. Taking the appropriate protective measures while on the court, field, rink, or ring can save you from serious injury and costly dental repairs. What sports pose a threat to oral health? Any sport that presents the chance of contact or collision with another person, object, or surface can potentially cause injury to the teeth, jaws, and oral soft tissue. These sports include, but are not limited to, football, basketball, soccer, hockey, boxing, and lacrosse. Individuals who participate in sports, such as biking, inline skating, or skateboarding, also are at …
Sensitive Teeth
Why are my teeth sensitive? Exposed dentin is the likely reason. Dentin is the tissue that makes up the core of each tooth. Dentin is covered by a protective coating of enamel. When this enamel wears away or decays, the dentin becomes exposed and receptive to sensations, including pain. Dentin exposure and sensitivity also occur when roots are exposed due to gum recession. When does tooth sensitivity usually occur? You may experience tooth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity, after eating cold or hot foods, drinking cold or hot liquids, or breathing cold air. What causes dentin hypersensitivity? Causes of dentin hypersensitivity include brushing too hard, which wears away enamel, and gum disease. Other causes include cracked or …
Senior Oral Health Care
Proper oral care can keep you smiling well into retirement. Brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush are important. Flossing helps save your teeth by removing plaque between teeth and below the gum line that your toothbrush can’t reach. What problems should I watch for? Gingivitis. Most people don’t realize how important it is to take care of their gums. Gingivitis is caused by the bacteria found in plaque that attacks the gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen gums and possible bleeding when you brush. If you have any of these symptoms, see a dentist at once. Gingivitis can lead to a more serious form of gum disease if problems persist. Why should I be concerned about gum …
Periodontal Disease & Pregnancy
If you’re planning to become pregnant or suspect you’re already pregnant, it’s important that you see a dentist right away. Pregnancy may cause unexpected oral health changes due to hormones—particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone—which can exaggerate the way in which gum tissues react to plaque. Research continues to show that overall health and oral health coincide, so it’s especially important for you to maintain good oral hygiene throughout your pregnancy. Visiting your dentist will allow him or her to assess your oral condition and map out a dental plan for the remainder of your pregnancy. How does plaque build-up affect me? When plaque isn’t removed, it can cause gingivitis—red, swollen, tender gums that are more …
Periodontal Disease & Diabetes
It is estimated that up to 20 million people have diabetes, but only two-thirds of these individuals are diagnosed. Studies have shown that diabetics are more susceptible to the development of oral infections and periodontal (gum) disease―than those who do not have diabetes. This relationship causes great concern because serious gum disease may have the potential to affect blood sugar control and contribute to the progression of diabetes. That’s why it’s important for people with diabetes to visit a dentist on a regular basis and to keep the dentist up to date on the status of the diabetic’s oral and overall health. How are gum disease and diabetes related? Because diabetes reduces the body’s resistance to infection, the gums are …
Periodontal Disease & Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a class of disease that affects the heart and/or blood vessels. It is estimated that more than 80 million people in the United States have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease; these forms include high blood pressure, coronary heart disease (acute heart attack and angina pectoris), stroke, and heart failure. Studies have shown that there is a link between cardiovascular disease and periodontal (gum) disease, the chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissue. Forms of gum disease, such as gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (bone loss), can be indicators for cardiovascular problems, which is why it is important for individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease to visit a …
Periodontal Disease
Everyone knows to brush their teeth twice a day, but many people forget about their gums! The word disease sounds scary— and it can be if you don’t take care of your gums. Here is some information about what gum disease is, what causes it, and how you can prevent it. What is periodontal (gum) disease? Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed. Gingivitis is the mildest form of the disease. In this stage, the gums redden, swell, and bleed …
Pediatric Dentist vs General Dentist
Does my child need to be taken to a pediatric dentist? Pediatric dentists are specially trained to handle problems particular to children, such as dental developmental difficulties and root canals on adult teeth that have not fully formed. However, most children are treated by general dentists. A general dentist often has a relationship with the entire family and therefore has a great deal of family history knowledge, which may apply to your child. Also, when finances are taken into consideration, a general dentist often more affordable. If you’re having trouble deciding on the type of dentist to use for your child, ask your dentist or your child’s pediatrician for suggestions. …
Children & Pacifiers
Many babies are calmed and soothed by sucking on pacifiers during naps or at bedtime. Pacifiers can be a very positive experience for your children, especially during their first six months of development. In addition to its calming effect, studies indicate that pacifier use in infants can help decrease the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and aid in the development of jaw muscles. While generally a healthy habit within the first two years of life, continued or improper use of pacifiers may ultimately negatively impact your child’s health. Potential Pacifier Problems Pacifier use is typically acceptable after an infant is one month old and has had sufficient time to develop a healthy breastfeeding habit. However, pediatric …