Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, mostly caused by a bacterial infection. When left untreated, it can turn out to become a more serious infection also known as periodontitis. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the major causes of tooth loss in adults, according to Indian Dental Association. Gum infection may cause severe pain and swelling, including swelling of the cheeks.
Gingivitis is caused usually by an overgrowth of dental plaque. Additionally, along with improper dental hygiene, there can be many contributing factors, such as:
Your gums are attached to the teeth at a lower point, which forms a small space called a sulcus. Food and plaque are accumulated in this particular space and causes gum infection which is also known as gingivitis. Now how do we define plaque? Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria, which constantly forms on the surface of your teeth.
As the plaque on our tooth advances, it gradually hardens and becomes tartar. You can develop a gum infection when plaque extends below the gum line. When treated at initial stages, it is less painful and cures faster, than at later stages. When left unchecked, gingivitis can cause the gums to separate from the teeth. This can cause:
Practice good oral hygiene to treat gingivitis. Smoking should be strictly avoided. Quitting smoking may be very difficult, but a doctor can help you with this, by providing you anti-nicotine-chewing gums. However, there are other treatments of gingivitis. Let us look at them:
A gum infection is actually an infection of the mouth, which is very harmful for our mouth and the surrounding tissues, because it causes damage and inflammation in the gums and jaw. Gum infections commonly arise from poor dental hygiene practised repeatedly over time, as this can allow bacteria to make place between the gums and teeth, where it can grow freely. However, several other factors play a key role in gum infections and gum disease.
When it comes to your oral or dental health, it’s not always about how straight or crooked your teeth is or how your smile looks. Don’t forget about your gums. They are the ones who hold your tooth together.
Even if your tooth is cavity-free, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to gum disease, and can never get them. Since it’s initially painless, most people absolutely have no idea that anything can be wrong with their gums, till the situation aggravates. Gum disease is preventable with a little care and consciousness about dental health.
Most people get tooth and other problems because they take their tooth for granted. As a result plaque buildup happens leads to cavities and finally periodontitis.
Gum disease is easily preventable. Here are a few ways you can keep your gums healthy.
1. Floss
Floss every day for maintaining your tooth and oral health. This helps to get rid of the plaque and food particles that’s beyond the reach of your toothbrush. It doesn’t matter when you floss. Doing it in the whole day at least once or twice is what really matters.
2. Get regular dental cleanings
Your dentist can detect early gum disease symptoms if you see visit them on a regular basis, or frequent intervals. That way diseases can be treated before they appear and become too serious. Professional cleaning is the only way to remove plaque and tartar. It can also get rid of any food particles, you missed when brushing or flossing. If you have gingivitis, following proper dental hygiene such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings can help reverse it, quickly, without causing much pain and complication.
3. Quit smoking
4. Brush twice a day
Smoking is detrimental to gum health. It is strongly associated with the onset of gum disease. Smoking also weakens your immune system, and makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. Plus, smoking makes it difficult for your gums to heal once they’ve been damaged. Smoking is an addiction, which is difficult to leave, but with practice it can happen. Quitting smoking has long term benefits, for maintenance of overall health.
Brush your teeth after every meal, if possible. If not you should at least brush twice. This helps remove the food and plaque trapped between your teeth and gums. Scrub your tongue, since it retains food particles and bacteria.
5. Try an electric toothbrush today.
Consider buying a battery-powered or electric toothbrush. These can help reduce diseases such as gingivitis and plaque considerable, more than manual brushing, by hand. Change toothbrushes every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles start to wear away.
6. Use fluoride toothpaste
Use a fluoride toothpaste suggested by dentist, for best results. There are lot of toothpaste brands available in the market, which claims to reduce gingivitis and cavities, but actually fail to do so. So, it is best to opt for toothpaste recommended by doctor.
7. Use a therapeutic mouthwash
Therapeutic mouthwashes can help reduce plaque, cavities to some extent, clean tongue, prevent or reduce gingivitis, reduce the speed with which tarter develops, or a combination of these benefits. A rinse helps remove food particles and debris from your mouth, though it’s not a substitute for flossing or brushing.
It doesn’t matter whether how you brush, floss, or rinse. Just doing it right using the right products, is important.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains several antiseptic and antibiotic properties and can help get rid of bacteria and plaque. Simply mix one drop of tea tree oil with your regular toothpaste, and brush your tooth properly at least twice. Make sure not to add too much of tea tree oil, as it can lead to a burning sensation. Also do not swallow it accidently.
Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Oil pulling is an ancient method of cleansing the teeth and gums by pouring oil and water in the mouth and swishing with it. Coconut oil, is particularly very effective in oil pulling. Spit the oil and water out after sometime. Next drink a glass full of water, and brush your teeth.
Oil pulling is quite safe to practice and is best if done first thing in the morning, just after you wake up. Be careful not to swallow it, as the bacteria pulled from the tissue in your mouth, can infect the body.
Honey
Honey is a natural antiseptic and also known to contain natural anti-bacterial properties that help eliminate bacteria causing gum infection. Simply applying raw honey over the gums after brushing or washing mouth can have beneficial effects for people suffering from periodontal disease and gingivitis. It can also be done in other time of the day.
Turmeric Powder
Turmeric Powder contains curcumin and has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. When mixed with milk, it cures cough and cold as well as stomach ailments. When utilized as a toothpaste, turmeric can help in eliminating bacteria. Creating a paste with turmeric and water and brushing with it two times a day is a great approach to keeping gum disease under control.
Nutrition
Nutrition supply to the body is vital for your overall health, including your oral health. Particularly calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D allows calcium to be absorbed by bones and teeth.
Salt
Rubbing salt on gums can be very effective and can help reduce inflammation of the gums and tooth. Although salt is very effective in helping to treat gum disease, salt cannot itself cure gum disease.
Salt has been effective in healing negative effects and diseases since ancient times. Salt water is very effective in healing body aches and joint pains. For that reason, doctors suggest visit the sea side to keep away certain diseases and healing some.
There are specific nutrients that are needed for maintaining healthy teeth and gums:
As you start implementing these home remedies, you can expect to see fairly rapid improvements in milder cases of gum disease. However, these are not a permanent solutions to your gum disease and tooth problems. You should still visit a dentist at regular intervals and get yourself checked.
Our mouth has numerous functions. We speak with the help of our mouths. We eat food and liquid with the help of our mouths. Saliva in the mouth aids in digestion. Teeth chew the food for us, the tongue supports us in speaking etc. Therefore, preserving mouth health is very essential and for this regular visits to dentist and maintaining proper oral health is very essential.
Gums hold our teeth and are softer as compared to teeth. Preserving gum health also ensures the longevity of our tooth till old age.
Oral health is the most important prerequisite of our overall well-being and good quality of life. There is an obvious relationship between oral and general health. Bad tooth condition ranges from diseases and conditions that include dental caries, periodontal disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.
Bad breath is the result of many conditions, which can often be detected and often it is not possible to detect them at all. Chronic acid reflux, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a medical condition, in which acid the stomach flows back towards the oesophagus, carrying reflux of undigested food, regurgitated bile, and stomach acids into our oesophagus.
This leads to bad breath, and the acid may cause the destruction of the tooth. This condition can further cause heartburn, a bitter or sour taste in mouth. Bad breath is not essentially a disease of the mouth. It is the result of many other factors apart from mouth. It can be controlled by maintaining overall good health, proper eating habits, changing sleeping patterns, meditation, yoga etc.
Bad breath can be socially intimidating. A person having bad breath can face embarrassment in social settings or public gatherings, often without any fault of his own. Often using mouthwashes and chewing mint gums, be a temporary solution that can prevent embarrassment in a public gathering. However permanent solution can only be given by dentist or specialized doctors, who can find out the cause behind the same and treat it accordingly.
Lifestyle changes are the most important factor in arresting the issue of bad breath. Lifestyle change can prevent reflux, which can help a lot in controlling GERD and bad breath as a result.
First, and foremost, smoking should be avoided and stopped at all costs. Smoking itself causes bad breath. Some people also have the habit of consuming tea just after smoking which only aggravates the problem, making it worse. Smoking also increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, lymph glands, oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, and colon.
Secondly, wait for at least 2-3 hours after a meal before you sleep.
Thirdly, sleep on a small pillow placed over your base pillow to elevate your head and reduce pressure on your torso.
Fourthly, check if you are lactose intolerant. People who consume milk and are lactose intolerant, may face issues such as acid and bad breath.
Fifthly, eat smaller meals throughout the day, rather than having three larger meals. It will also help your body to better digest the food, without much pressure.
Sixthly, try to maintain a healthy weight.
Seventhly, drink plenty of water throughout the day, to flush out any toxins that might have accumulated and causing bad breath.
Lastly, chewing gum can be used as a temporary solution in freshening breath and treating acid reflux.
Foods to be avoided to control GERD.
GERD is irritation of the lungs due to acid reflux from the stomach. Eating foods rich in fibers is important to fight bad breath. Fiber eases digestion, and prevents acid and gas.
Foods containing fibers keeps you feeling full for a longer period of time and may help you maintain your weight. GERD has been directly linked to being overweight, so consult your doctor about losing weight to relieve acid reflux and heartburn. Yoga and exercises can help you reduce weight considerably over time.
Losing weight also decreases risk of a hiatal hernia, which can increase GERD symptoms. Drinking water is an excellent solution to ease stomach problems including bad breath. Water is the only beverage that almost always soothes and relieves all problems.
Certain foods are known to trigger GERD, which are best avoided for best results. Let us have a look at them:
Many drugs lead to dry mouth, due to decreased saliva production, such as the drugs for diabetes and high blood pressure and thyroid. Decreased saliva production in the mouth can also lead to the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth and cause bad breath. Saliva is a natural antiseptic and prevents our mouth from various diseases. It also heals mouth sores and ulcers. If bleeding happens, sucking with saliva can help in blood clotting, and stop blood from oozing out. Drugs that can effectively treat GERD are:
Some chewable antacids, contain chewable breath freshening ingredients which serve both the purpose.
Dry mouth can also happen due to other underlying condition in the body, which is yet to be detected. It is best to see a doctor and immediately treat the symptoms to avoid further problems in the future.
Bad breath in the mouth is often ignored and not taken very seriously. It is far from being thought of as a cause of some underlying disease. But people more conscious of themselves take it up seriously and treat it well to eliminate the problem from its roots.
In order to reduce bad breath, cavities should be avoided at all cost. Also, gum disease, contributes to bad breath, due to the accumulation of bacteria inside the gums. Consistent practice of good oral hygiene is must to prevent this problem. Treatment for bad breath can vary depending on the cause behind it. If the bad breath is thought to be caused by an underlying disease, and your dentist can detect it, he will likely refer you to your primary care provider.
For causes related to oral or dental health, your dentist can best take steps or measures:
Mouth rinses and toothpaste: If bacteria (plaque), buildup on your teeth is the reason for your bad breath, your dentist may recommend a mouth rinse that kills the bacteria. Your dentist may also recommend a toothpaste or gel that contains an antibacterial agent to kill the bacteria that causes plaque buildup, and bad breath.
Treatment of dental disease. If you have gum disease, you may be referred to a gum specialist (periodontist), by your dentist. Gum diseases can fill the gums with odour causing bacteria and pull the gums away from your teeth. They can also create deep pockets inside the gums, filled with bacteria. Sometimes, professional cleaning is the only way of removal of these bacteria. Your dentist might also recommend replacing faulty tooth restorations, which is a breeding ground for disease and odor causing bacteria.
To reduce or prevent bad breath, there are some simple home remedies that can be followed to reduce the accumulation of bacteria, balance the saliva in mouth and preventing dry mouth, reduce the acid content in the body. Let us look at few remedies to ensure good oral health:
It is already clear that there are numerous reasons of bad breath. Bad breath can occasionally occur from small stones that occur in the tonsils and are covered with odor-producing bacteria. Infections or chronic inflammation in the nose, sinuses or throat, can also cause bad breath.
Bad breath can also be the result of metabolic disorder or more rarely cancer. Although in most cases bad breath is nothing to worry about, but sometimes it can signal something more dangerous such as cancer or other life threatening diseases.
It will be surprising to note that bad breath can also be induced through stress. Stress hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline and noradrenaline can increase the production of odour causing bacteria, making the breath smell bad. Your liver and kidney are responsible for flushing out toxins away from your body.
When they fail to work properly, it can be indicated through bad breath or foul smell in breath and through nose. For people with liver and kidney problems, these toxins from the body aren’t released properly. This leads to foul smell inside the body, which comes through the mouth and nose. This condition is known as halitosis.
Lungs are responsible for supplying oxygen to our bodies. But they are often inflamed with bacteria and viruses, causing diseases. When inflammation occurs, exercises and medicine can provide immediate relief. Further to make your lungs function well and detoxify itself, certain precautions are important such as yoga, breathing exercises, consuming green tea, milk with turmeric, ginger, lemon, honey.
Inhalers and nasal sprays can also help prevent infections and keep the lungs clean and healthy. However, when infections occur, it is best to consult your physician and get the symptoms and the disease treated well.
It is important to remember that lungs are self-cleaning organs and does not require external cleaning, but also external support and flow of nutrients to work properly. Once the inflammation is healed, the lungs clear up the cough and mucus by themselves.
But, if somehow you notice a brown, yellow or bloody cough, you need to immediately visit the doctor and complete the tests suggested by him. Congested lungs can also lead to bad breath, so we should always try and keep our lungs healthy, since they are vital organs of our body.
Warm water is an excellent cleanser, of both lungs and mouth. When consumed with ginger or honey, it can kill the bacteria of the throat, lungs and mouth. Consuming warm water, early in the morning can significantly bring changes to our overall health and metabolism.
The honey warm water is particularly helpful to reduce and fight the pollutants that has caused infection of the lungs. Fruits such as berries and apples are also very good that help fight bacteria in the mouth and entire body. They are rich in vitamin C, and provide our body the immunity to fight away infections. Many doctors say that consuming an apple every day after dinner, is best to ward off infections, and balance the lipid profile of our body.
Eggs are an excellent source of vitamin D, and very good for lungs. They help the lungs repair from respiratory diseases. It might be unknown to us, but eggs have anti-inflammatory properties. The vitamin D in eggs, controls the inflammatory response of the lungs. But excess egg consumption may also cause bad breath. It is important to have them in moderation to prevent bad breath and other issues like gas, acidity and bloating.
Most problems come with solutions. Similarly, there are homemade as well as medicinal remedies for bad breath. These remedies or medicines needs to be taken regularly to ward off the problem of bad breath permanently and live confidently.
Bad breath leads to a lack of confidence and holds us back from conversing freely with our friends, colleagues and family members. Some people are convinced that they have bad breath and are conscious all the time about themselves. Whereas many others may smell horrible without they even realizing it. There is never a reason to worry, because we can work it out with simple efforts. Let us look at few remedies, in preventing bad breath.
These are home remedies to follow to prevent or keep away bad mouth odors. However, these are not fool-proof remedies. If after observing or following the above, still the problem of bad odors persist, it is best to consult a physician and get yourself treated for any underlying problem inside the body that needs urgent attention.
Teeth are covered in an outer coating called enamel. Each day, a thin layer of bacteria called dental plaque builds up on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can harm enamel and cause cavities. Brushing and flossing your teeth every day, can prevent decay, but once a cavity forms, a dentist must fix it with a filling, to avoid damage.
Toothpaste containing fluoride protects your teeth from decay. If you are at a higher risk for tooth decay you might need more fluoride. Your dentist may give you a fluoride treatment, if he suspects a possible dental infection or plaque buildup.
Gum disease begins when plaque builds up on your teeth and tooth cavities. Plaque causes an inflammation that causes the gum and bone to pain, which holds your teeth in place. A mild form of gum disease may make your gums red, tender, and more likely to bleed. This problem, called gingivitis, can often be fixed by brushing and flossing every day. A severe form of gum disease, called periodontitis, must be treated by a dentist. If not treated beforehand, this infection can lead to sore, bleeding gums, painful chewing problems, and even tooth loss.
Herbs play an important role in Ayurveda. Herbs relieve stress and tension, strengthens heart health, and makes our bones strong and healthy. Herbs also have an important role in tooth health. Peppermint is an important herb that freshens our breath and also has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also anti-bacterial which helps to fight against oral disease. Mint is used in lemonades, food and in teas.
Green tea is also an important natural ingredient very good for tooth. It eliminates the harmful bacteria inside the mouth. Green tea contains naturally occurring fluorine, which protects our teeth and mouth, and prevents tooth decay. Green tea can also be used to gargle or swish to prevent throat infection. Green tea can also be used as mouthwash. Green tea also helps eliminate bad bacteria of the gut, enabling digestion. Green tea also burns fat and helps in metabolism.
Licorice root is an important herb, which helps slow down tooth decay and gum disease. Chewing on licorice root, wards off bacteria since it has antimicrobial properties. However, it is important to remember that licorice is not the same as licorice candy. Licorice is available in local drug stores and is best known for its toxicity-fighting properties, treatment tooth decay, and gum disease.
In addition to natural remedies, general changes in diet can also help to slow the advance of tooth decay. Consuming sweet, sugary snacks and sweetened drinks such as fruit juices or sodas, on an everyday basis helps the tooth decay to spread by feeding the harmful bacteria. Reducing your consumption of sugary snacks and beverages and using a straw while consuming drinks like soda and fruit juices, so the sticky sugars does not touch your teeth can help.
Brushing and flossing immediately afterward, followed up by a good antibacterial mouthwash, can retain and restore teeth. The whole idea here is to prevent sugar residue from remaining in your mouth and feeding the harmful bacteria, which will allow them to multiply and spread.
Brushing with Neem sticks or chewing on the leaves or seeds destroys cavity-causing bacteria. The powerful oil in this plant acts as a powerful remedy for oral infections, tooth decay, and for preventing bleeding and sore gums. All over India, sticks of neem are used as chewing sticks to reduce oral bacteria and naturally clean, whiten and brighten teeth and even fight bad breath.
When it comes to herbs and spices, the first and foremost thing everyone can relate to is turmeric powder. Because of its medicinal properties, turmeric helps in better and faster healing of the gums. The anti-inflammatory action of curcumin present in turmeric fights against gum infections and reduces gum swelling.
We are very fond of onions, whether raw or cooked since it adds a lovely flavor to the food. Onion when consumed raw may lead to bad breath but it is at the same time very good in killing the bacteria in the mouth. Onions have anti-microbial properties that prevent gum diseases and prevents cavities and plaque. You can simply place onion on the painful tooth or chew it. Onion is also very good for hair and is often used along with oil for hair growth.
Another important component for relieving tooth ache and dental problems are garlic. Garlic contains allicin. Allicin is an anti-bacterial agent that helps in relieving tooth pain. For sudden tooth problems, chills and pain, one can simply chew on a clove of garlic to reduce pain and infection.
Thyme leaves are small herbs, which are excellent seasoning agents. Along with having antiseptic properties, it is also anti-fungal in nature. Using thyme leaves or thyme oil can prevent various infections in the mouth and our body. It is used as seasonings so as to prevent the accumulation of bad bacteria in our gut or stomach. Thyme oil can be directly added to teeth if you want. They are very small leaves and you can even chew them, if you want.
Cinnamon Bark is used in various foods and desserts for its flavor. Apart from that it can also be chewed raw, for its anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties. The high aldehyde content of this bark, firms and strengthens oral tissue, reduces surface inflammation and creates a protective layer from infection. Including cinnamon in our diet has a range of benefits that also works as a painkiller to relieve toothaches. Also bay leaves boiled in water reduce bad breath.
Lavender is widely for its healing property. This oil comes is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic and has stimulant properties, in treating natural dental and oral remedies. Lavender is also very effective against preventing bad breath, healing damaged tissue and provides soothing relief from mouth pain. Its aroma is so powerful a sedative that it calms your nervous system. It is, therefore, an amazing stress-buster. Lavender is also used in essential oils, for body spa and message, for the relaxing and rejuvenated feeling.
As we all know, clove is a great pain reliever that even dentists use it on their patients after surgery, being a natural analgesic and antiseptic, primarily because of its component eugenol. Clove oil is known for reducing pain and inflammation and has a powerful numbing effect on the mouth.
Clove oil is also an excellent natural antimicrobial, antifungal and antiviral and can treat various ailments such as indigestion, headaches, and asthma, stress and blood impurities. However, the most important and common use of clove oil is in dental care for its excellent antiseptic ability to numb and relieve pain.
Eucalyptus is another important herb, known widely for its aroma. It has antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic and stimulating properties. Eucalyptus boosts blood circulation and aids in healing. It is ideal for reducing oral infections and in treating mouth ulcers.
Holy Basil is native to India also known as Tulsi. It has antibacterial and astringent properties which help to keep away bacteria from the mouth. It is a well-known herb which is known for its antibacterial properties for more than thousand years. Tulsi leaves are very effective in treating oral infections and infections of the digestive tract.
Sage is part of the mint family and has several nutrients. It contains vitamin K, known for its important role in bone health and blood clotting. Sage is loaded with antioxidants that may help protect cells, prevent gum diseases and inflammation, and other oral diseases, and in wound healing.
Rosemary is another herb of mint family that is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties and contains anti-oxidants, that boosts the immune system, helping in blood circulation. Rosemary promotes good oral health. Calcium present in rosemary strengthens tooth enamel and bones.
Outdoor gardening is also good for your overall health because it is moderate exercise. Not only can you reap the oral health benefits of the herbs you grow, but make sure to protect your oral health while gardening by:
• Put on a wide-brimmed hat and use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher to protect yourself from sun damage and cancer.
• Always avoid dry mouth by staying hydrated with water.
• Prevent yourself from accidents by taking care when you use gardening tools.
• When gardening, you come in contact with various micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi, so make sure to wash your hands before touching your mouth and face.
The best natural and home remedies required for strengthening your tooth enamel revolve around better tooth care and certain hygiene or lifestyle habits. Natural tooth enamel remedies to strengthen and protect your teeth include the following:
Try non-acidic foods: Certain foods and vegetables, dairy products such as milk, and foods or drinks containing fluoride – notably spinach, grapes and black tea – are helpful for you and will be useful to naturally restore enamel.
Choose non-sugar alternatives: Opting for a sugar-free alternative to your favourite chewing gum, soft drink or other high-sugar indulgence is a good habit to start, since sugar wears down your enamel. Most soft drinks have diet or sugar-free varieties. Nowadays even desserts are available in sugar free options.
Use fluoride toothpaste: A proximal fluoride toothpaste will give you a better chance of maximizing how effective your brushing routine is for your teeth. Good oral care is the most significant thing you can do to prevent enamel erosion.
Drink water: Increase your water intake to rinse saliva and bacteria from your teeth after eating. Hydration is important for many functions in the body and most people do not get enough. Water is completely harmless to the teeth and the body, so it is a perfect drink.
Take supplements: If you are lacking the necessary vitamins and calcium opt for supplements, to restore them in your body.
The above-mentioned points are simple habits and natural home remedies on how to prevent teeth erosion. These tips can strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth from forming a yellow layer, but you will need to see a dentist to confirm you do not require further treatment.
Cheese, Milk, and Yogurt
Many of us may be unaware of the fact that cheese is one of the best foods for healthy tooth. First, because, it is low in sugar content and high in calcium content.
Cheese contains casein, a protein that is particularly useful for fortifying tooth enamel. It is high in calcium, important for maintaining bone density. Cheese also has a high phosphate content, which helps balance pH levels in the mouth, which helps to preserve the tooth enamel.
Another great reason cheese is great for our teeth is that chewing it increases saliva production, which helps to wash away bacteria in the mouth.
Milk is still the best drink when it comes to your teeth and overall body. It’s rich in calcium and other important elements. Milk, just like cheese, also lowers the acid levels in the mouth, which helps fighting tooth decay. Yogurt is packed with calcium and probiotics that protect you against cavities, gum disease and even bad breath.
Water
Water is by far the healthiest drink available, and the one our body can’t do without. Our bodies are made of 60% water, and staying hydrated helps our system get rid of waste, gives your skin a healthy glow and keeps your muscles moving. Drinking water keeps the saliva production intact. It also contains fluoride that helps maintain tooth health. Swishing with water removes all the food particles stuck in tooth.
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce, Kale)
Leafy greens, such as Spinach, Lettuce and Kale are rich in calcium, folic acid and lots of important vitamins and minerals that your teeth and gums love. Crunchy fresh greens in salads and sandwiches help in cleaning your teeth.
Apples and Pears
Eating apples and other hard fruits can help clean your teeth and increases salivation, which can neutralize the citric and malic acids left behind in your mouth. Sugary apple juice may contribute to tooth decay, fresh apples are less likely to cause problems. The fibrous texture of apples stimulates your gums, reducing cavity-causing bacteria and increasing saliva flow.
Nuts
Nuts are packed with tons of important elements like calcium, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B6 and phosphorus. Almonds, Brazil nuts and cashews, are very beneficial to help fight bacteria that lead to tooth decay.
Cashews are known to stimulate saliva and walnuts contain everything from fiber, folic acid, iron, thiamine, magnesium, iron, niacin, vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium and zinc.
Meats and Fatty Fish
Chewing meat produces saliva. Saliva is good, because it decreases acidity in your mouth, aids digestion and washes away particles of food that lead to decay. Red meat and even organ meats are especially beneficial. Fatty fish (like salmon), and tofu are loaded with phosphorus, an important mineral for protecting tooth enamel.
Tea and Coffee
Green and black teas are rich in polyphenols and offers a number of other health benefits. Tea particularly green tea and black coffee is beneficial for tooth health. Green tea, particularly has anti-inflammatory properties that has a range of benefits.
With the sprawling spreading of covid-19 all over the world, people have abided themselves inside the doors and there have been major changes in everybody’s life. Though there are several challenges during the tough times of the pandemic that doesn’t stop you from achieving the jovial smile that you owe. Just like keeping yourself sanitized every time in order to protect yourself staying safe and healthy with Invisalign during the tough time of Covid-19 is a very essential thing.
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought some major changes in our lives and the pandemic has brought a change in the course of our daily lives too. During the time of the pandemic, we have realized that staying safe and maintaining hygiene are important things to do. Staying safe with Invisalign during the time of Covid-19 is a convenient and manageable thing to do, it is all because of its flexibility. The treatment process of this innovative system is both safe and effective with the added benefit of being easier to navigate while practicing social distancing. Just keep reading below to learn why more patients than ever are choosing Invisalign for all their orthodontic needs!
During the beginning of the pandemic, we were told to maintain proper hygiene constantly and were reminded to keep our hands away from our faces and mouths as this would help to limit the spreading of germs. Though there are many people who successfully end up following this habit while maintaining proper hygiene. There are some people who are able to successfully break this habit, while Invisalign patients do not have the option to avoid touching their mouths. This means that it is an important thing to maintain proper hygiene in order to maintain the radiance of the smile.
Aligner treatments have been popping up everywhere in the past few years, which means that even those who have never personally received an orthodontic procedure are most likely aware of them, and what are they used for. The design of Invisalign is extremely simple, but its effect is incredibly effective.
The best part is that it is easy to care for both your oral health and aligners when you are using Invisalign. Aligners are designed in a way for your comfort, and they could be removed before eating, drinking anything other than water, and even while you are brushing and flossing your teeth. While removing the aligners you need to keep one thing in mind, before removing your aligners, you need to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. While washing your hands you need to pay careful attention to the fingernails and fingertips since these come into the closest contact with your mouth and aligners. If you can’t wash your hands with soap and water right away, sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be used as a substitute.
Keeping your hands away from your mouth and face during the time of the pandemic is one constant recommendation that we get during the time of COVID-19. Following this habit limits the spreading of germs and not just that it also slows down the rate of infections.Unfortunately, Invisalign patients can’t avoid touching their mouths during the treatment process. That means that it is more important than ever to practice good hygiene.
Patients with Invisalign find it a simple task to care for both oral health and their aligners. The trays of the aligners are made to be removed before eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing and flossing your teeth. While it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before removing your aligners, paying special attention to your fingernails and fingertips, since these will come into the closest contact with your mouth and aligners.
Once you have removed the aligners, they should be always placed in a clean, sealed container or they could be left to soak in an approved solution. Following this, it keeps them safe from germs and bacteria, and it also prevents them from being accidentally misplaced. And before putting aligners back in your mouth, you need to wash your hands again and you need to rinse your aligner with water for better cleaning. Caring for your aligners this way becomes a part of your daily routine in no time at all, and helps in protecting your oral and overall health. You need to be careful with your oral health and aligners will help in protecting your total body health, too!
Though braces and aligners might look quite different from each other, both of them work similarly and their functions are the same which is to straighten smiles. Both methods use an orthodontic appliance which puts gentle pressure on the teeth. Over the passage of time, this moves them into the desired positions. The only difference between braces and aligners is, braces are fixed in a proper position while on the other hand aligners are removable appliances. This means that you will need to wear them for 20-22 hours every day in order to make them do their job in a proper manner. You’ll also be responsible for switching each aligner out for the next one in the series every 1-2 weeks, which allows them to keep up with the movement of the teeth. When you stick to these guidelines, and rules aligners can work just as well as braces at correcting many common orthodontic issues.
By using Invisalign it makes it easy to keep your oral health on track and your aligners clean and intact. The clearer aligners are designed in a way with which they could be removed prior to eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. Before you remove your aligner, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to pay special attention to your fingernails and fingertips since these come into the closest contact with your mouth and aligners.
Taking care of your aligners is an important part of the treatment process. When you remove an aligner, you should always place it in a sealed container or leave it soaking in an approved cleaning solution. This protects your aligners from germs and also prevents you from accidentally throwing them away. Once you’re done eating or your teeth are brushed and flossed, wash your hands again and rinse your aligner thoroughly while putting them back in your mouth.
This routine may sound like a lot of steps at the very beginning, but it will eventually become a habit. Being careful with your oral health and aligners in this way will also help to protect your total body health, too!
The basic rule which everyone needs to follow is to maintain proper hygiene, wash hands, and maintain social things are the prime things to do. Wearing aligners proves you with comfort as it is made of a smooth thermoplastic material that’s custom-designed to fit firmly over your teeth. They do not have sharp or protruding edges to rub against your cheeks or gums, your aligners will take very little getting used to and provide a pain-free treatment process from start to finish.
Aligners are also less likely to result in an orthodontic emergency since there are no brackets or wires like braces that potentially tend to bend or break. That being said, they can still be lost or damaged if they’re not handled properly. Whereas some damaged aligners can still be worn until it’s time for the next in the series, your dentist still needs to make a replacement, and hence if you face any problem it is an important thing to get checked if you are facing any issues with the aligners.
It is not something new that you need to maintain proper dental hygiene in order to maintain a proper radiance in your smile. Hence even if you are using aligners, you need to maintain proper hygiene for your teeth as well as for your aligners too. If you are the one who is wearing aligners, then you need to make sure that while you are cleaning your teeth you need to clean your aligners too, so that they help you in maintaining proper hygiene.
Traditional braces are made up of brackets and wires that they tend to bent or break. If this happens it can occasionally lead to orthodontic emergencies that require immediate medical attention. Since Invisalign aligners are just one piece and are made from a durable material which is called SmartTrack, hence emergencies with them tend to be few and far between by giving safety. They are not indestructible, though, even aligners can still tear, crack, or break, especially if you do not handle them with the care that they require.
Though aligners don’t easily tend to break or damage you need to still take care of it. If by chance your aligner breaks, you should refrain from using it. Because if any aligner has cracked or split in a way that prevents it from holding its shape, could cause several problems for you. When aligners break, besides causing potential pain, they won’t be able to provide the consistent pressure that is needed to move the teeth. During this case, your dentist would recommend you use different aligners.
From the earliest days of COVID-19, experts have been reminding us to keep our hands away from our faces and mouth, as this could be dangerous for us. Following the rules of maintaining proper hygiene, limits the spread of germs and also slows down the rate of infection, but the truth is, that Invisalign patients really can’t follow this advice. While you are wearing aligners this means you are touching your mouth multiple times a day, which is why it is more important than ever to practice good hygiene!
Fortunately, this becomes a habit with Invisalign clear aligners. The trays are designed to be removed before eating and drinking anything other than water. They should also be taken out before brushing and flossing the teeth. It is also recommended that all patients should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before removing the aligners from the mouth.
To produce the force needed to move the teeth, the aligners must be worn for 20-22 hours each day. Additionally, each aligner is switched out for the next in the series every 1-2 weeks to keep up with the movements the teeth are making and to introduce new movements for the teeth. When you’re compliant with these guidelines, Invisalign is just as effective as braces at correcting many of the most common orthodontic issues. Even in the midst of a pandemic, Invisalign helps in making it easy for you to achieve a healthier smile safely and effectively!
With traditional metal braces, you do not need to visit the office every month to have your wires changed and your progress monitored. Invisalign works differently, with a series of different clear aligners. Instead of brackets and wires that are only accessible to your orthodontist, you’re able to switch to your next set of Invisalign aligners on your own. We’ll dispense a few sets of aligners at a time so that you’re able to progress at home. This way, you can spend less time in the office without compromising your straightening process.
Braces are composed of so many different finicky pieces as they combine brackets, archwires, metal bands, o-rings, and potentially many more. These components are intended to work together harmoniously, but it’s not uncommon for an orthodontic emergency to arise when you are using braces. When a wire is poking your cheek, or a bracket is hanging off a tooth, you need to seek out urgent attention for yourself. This means extra time spent in the office this is something that you are trying to avoid during the tough time of the pandemic.
Invisalign involves smooth plastic aligners instead of the metal and wires that are used in braces. This means that orthodontic emergencies are far less likely. This means that you’ll be comfortable and confident at the same time while your treatment is progressing, and you won’t need to seek emergency care for a popped wire.
Aligners are easy to use, and they don’t cause many problems, Invisalign comes with more streamlined instructions than metal braces. There’s less you need to be careful about from your end well all you need to do is simply take out your aligners when you’re eating, drinking, or while you are performing oral hygiene. While you are using aligners, you don’t need to worry about damaging your delicate braces or avoid certain dangerous foods like candy or gum. And during an endlessly stressful time like the pandemic, every opportunity to simplify life is always a precious thing.
If you want to maintain that sparkling smile of yours, then Invisalign aligners are the best option available. Invisalign aligners are clear plastic, and at times you won’t even feel that you are wearing them. If you’re working from home or taking classes online, chances are that the people on the other end of your Zoom call won’t have any idea you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment. The aligners are already subtle in person, but even less detectable over your video call.
During the pandemic, it is always advised to maintain proper hygiene, like washing hands and sanitizing yourself are the most important and prior things to do in order to keep yourself safe while the tough times of the pandemic.
There are a few special tips to remember when you’re completing Invisalign during COVID. Although treatment has a lot to offer in terms of convenience, you’ll want to be sure you take care to stay safe. Any treatment involving an oral appliance creates an additional risk since you’re touching your mouth throughout the day. Be sure to prioritize these daily steps:
We may not be completely clear about the COVID-19 pandemic just yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take the first steps toward a healthier smile with Invisalign.
Humans have a total of 32 permanent teeth that is one pair each of upper and lower central incisors, lateral incisors, canines, first bicuspids, second bicuspids, first molars, second molars, and third molars also known as wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth vary from one individual to another that is —not everyone gets all four wisdom teeth in their lifetime, and some people do not get any wisdom teeth at all.
Our teeth are the hardest substance in our body. They help us in chewing our food and also in speech. Let us have a look at parts of the teeth:
A normal adult mouth has a total of 32 teeth. The crown of each teeth is visible in our mouth. The root of each tooth in present inside the jaw. The human tooth functions to voluntarily break down items of food by cutting and crushing them down to make it digestible.
While caffeine isn’t bad for us, too much consumption of caffeine can damage our teeth as well as our body. Mainly tea, coffee and soda are the main elements that damage our teeth. But if we are careful enough then it might not harm our teeth. Coffee is beneficial in many cases.
Coffee consumption can keep away liver diseases and most importantly cirrhosis of liver. It can also reduce fibrosis in the liver along with scar tissue formation. Excessive coffee consumption can also make our mouth acidic, causing bad breath, and acidity in the stomach. Excessive stomach acid may cause harm to the esophagus or food pipe, causing permanent damage. There are some steps that can be followed to reduce the harmful effects of caffeine:
Having a bite of cheese after drinking coffee can also lessen the effects of caffeine on teeth. Cutting out on sugar and milk in coffee can also help reduce the effects of caffeine on teeth.
A cup of coffee early in the morning is a great way to start our day, and there’s no reason why we should avoid coffee if you have a great oral health. But if your tooth is suffering decay or loss of enamel, cutting on coffee intake might help in further worsening of situation. But for people who are coffee addicts, it might be very difficult.
The remedy is to consume coffee at the same time taking precautionary measures. Rinsing your mouth immediately after consuming food and drinks can help reduce damage. Brushing multiple times can also help in removing all food and drink particles off your mouth. One thing you must remember is that coffee is highly acidic in nature. Drinks and food with high acidic content can welcome bacteria and plaque and cause cavities. Consuming coffee is alright but must be done with precautions so that we can consume it well throughout our lives.
Caffeine in moderate amounts are considered safe to consume, but consuming large amount of drinks and foods containing caffeine can cause damage to your teeth. It is well known that the amount of caffeine you consume can directly affect the health and appearance of your teeth. Knowing this can help you restrict your caffeine intake and how much you consume each day. Consuming caffeine at intervals for the entire day is considered way too much, and must be avoided at all cost.
Staining
Drinks containing caffeine leave sticky stains behind on our teeth, which are difficult to get rid of and makes our teeth appear dirty. Cutting down on the amount of caffeine can certainly help with preventing your teeth from further staining. But often cutting down is not an easy and viable option. For people who are coffee addicts, cutting down totally on coffee can impact their health and work. For them prevention and taking alternatives such as caffeine supplements etc. can help.
Enamel Damage
The enamel on your teeth is the hard substance that helps in keeping your teeth strong and healthy. As you consume sweets and beverages, your teeth is getting exposed to acidic contents and becoming more and more vulnerable to damage and disease. Caffeinated beverages always are rich in sugar and acid content.
Certain sweet drinks are known to contribute to eroding our teeth enamel or cause dental erosion, just because of their high sugar content. Consuming caffeine safely can help avoid cavities and dental disease.
Coffee is a much craved for drink worldwide. Irrespective of its effect on teeth, people have not stopped consuming coffee, rather with the upcoming café culture amongst the younger sections, its consumption is seen to increase day by day. Apart from drink it is now widely used in cake and cookies, because of the flavor and taste it offers. But since anything consumed beyond limit is harmful, the same applies for coffee as well. Although consuming coffee has its own benefits but too much consumption has its own hazards.
To get its benefits, people have switched from milk coffee to espresso or black coffee without sugar. Black coffee does not have milk and sugar and hence good for our oral health. Although it can also stain our teeth, but since it is not washed by unnecessary sugar content, it is relatively less harmful.
Let us have a look at some of the key benefits of coffee:
Coffee could help extend longevity, thanks to its multitude of potential health benefits. Research has suggested that people who drink coffee have a longer life. More than having a longer life, having a healthier life is essential. Since coffee keeps our heart and liver healthy, it can be assumed that along with longevity health will also be ensured.
There are numerous teeth whitening products available in the market, including whitening toothpastes, whitening gels, strips, trays, rinses, and other whitening products available in drug stores and also suggested by a dentist. Using homely remedies can also ensure teeth whitening such as using baking soda and water and rubbing it on teeth can also ensure fresh and clean teeth.
Teeth whitening is appropriate for people having unhealthy, unrestored teeth and gums. Individuals with yellow, brown and reddish tones on their teeth respond best. However, dentists do not suggest or recommend this cosmetic procedure for everyone.
White and bright teeth are always in demand and looks fresh and clean. Although teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, still people take the risk of tooth whitening to brighten their face and feel confident. Whitening may also be done at home, but you must consult your dentist first before applying this. If your dentist allows you to do it at home, you can easily do it at home.
All toothpaste remove surface stains, because they contain abrasives. Some toothpaste contain gentle polishing agents that automatically helps remove stains and does not let any stain stick to our tooth. However naturally maintaining your teeth is more useful than going for any cosmetic procedure, as cosmetic procedures comes with their own set of complications. Just a little bit of more care can ensure that you are at your health’s best.
It is interesting to know that one cup coffee each day is enough for staining our teeth and making it reddish. However hard stains are caused by years and years of unruly consumption of coffee without limits. Not only coffee, consuming black tea also leads to teeth staining. Some people have the habit of consuming both tea and coffee. Tea is equally responsible for teeth staining. Along with both the above smoking and tobacco also leads to tooth staining. Tobacco causes tooth staining yet faster than tea and coffee. Tobacco stains are often irremovable. It also leads to tooth decay and even blackens the gums of the mouth.
Tooth stains are caused due to excessive acid in the stomach. Excessive acid in the stomach may also destroy our tooth lining. So teeth whitening is not only done for coffee staining on teeth, but also due to lot of other factors, and conditions.
Hence in order to maintain that perfect smile of yours you need to follow the common dental routine that includes brushing twice a day and flossing regularly can help in maintaining the radiance of your smile all day long.
A dental extraction is the removal of teeth from its socket in the alveolar bone. Extractions are done for a variety of reasons, but most commonly extraction is essentially done to remove teeth which no longer is healthy and serve good purpose but rather cause pain, either due to cavity through tooth decay, periodontal disease, and dental trauma, associated with toothache.
Sometimes wisdom tooth causes infections of the gums, when all other treatments have failed. This happens because, they are not able to grow out properly due to lack of space in the gums. In orthodontics and dental care, if the teeth are crowded, healthy teeth may be extracted to create space so the rest of the teeth can be straightened.
Whether you get a simple extraction or extraction done through surgery, the process almost always begins with an anaesthesia for the tooth, gum, and surrounding tissue. Initially, you might feel a bite of the needle and thereafter during the surgery you are going to feel nothing at all. After the effect of anaesthesia has gone, you might feel some patients, however many patients have said that they do not feel any pain at all.
After tooth extraction, patients are generally asked to rest for 48-72 hours, so that the area treated can clot, after which they can return to their normal physical activity. The soft tissue usually takes about 3-4 weeks to heal. Let us have a look at the extraction process:-
Tooth extraction usually is a minor surgery. However, when infection spreads deep inside gums, it might require major surgery to remove the infected teeth completely from its roots. It might take longer to heal in case of major surgery.
Most dental surgery do not require stitches. But if your dentist cuts into the gums which is also known as gum tissue, you may need stitches. You dentist will let you know whether the stitches are going to dissolve on their own or you require to visit the dentist again to get them removed. Some extractions may not require stitches at all. The first night your extraction done is its best to sleep by your side for best results and healing. You might experience more swelling if you sleep on your back. It can also increase your pain.
Some patients, undergoing tooth extraction or removal or surgery, may want to take a day off from work just to ensure they can rest well and arrest the immediate side effects of the procedure. Other patients may not require to spend a day for recovering and are able to return to work the very next day, as long as it is not physically exhausting.
Tooth extraction can be painful. Immediately after tooth extraction, we should strictly avoid these activities:-
Immediately call your dentist if:-
Healing rate is different for individuals and varies. While some patients may recover in a week’s time others may take 2 weeks or even more to repair completely.
There are no such rules on the quantity of tooth that can be extracted. Numerous tooth can be extracted at once, but this procedure is only done when tooth decay happens, and they ought to be removed to avoid infecting other healthy tooth adjacent to the decayed tooth. However, a full mouth extraction may require you not to consume anything for 8-12 hours before the surgery, as it’s an oral surgery, and ought to be treated as any other surgery happening in the body.
Your dentist will make you aware of what is expected of you before the time comes so that you can be prepared. It is very important to remember to never sleep with the gauze in your mouth, because it can lead to choking while you sleep.
It is also essential to be mindful that you do not sleep, while the gauze on if you are taking medicines that cause drowsiness. After the dental procedure is done, some discomfort, swelling, sensitivity, or pain is naturally expected. The pain experienced is mainly due to the underlying gum inflammation.
Pain is usually going to stay over for the next four to five days normally. If it persists beyond that you should immediately seek the help of dentist, without any further delay. It is found that Molar teeth are the most frequently extracted, with an increased number of extracted first premolars as a result of orthodontic treatment.
Antibiotics are given just before or after the surgery to reduce the risk of infection or inflammation and dry socket after the removal of teeth by dental surgeons. Antibiotics heal the wound quickly and prevents infection from dev eloping and spreading in the body.
Tooth extraction is done with a purpose in mind and makes room for something better. It can help prevent your other healthy tooth from getting infected and also preserve your smile and confidence.
It is important to remember that tooth extraction isn’t going to be hassle-free or without pain, whether it is a whole tooth or a broken tooth, pain is very common and likely to happen. If not pain some discomfort is expected. Discomfort such as swelling, irritation, tenderness is more common. Although these are treatable and recoverable over time, but can be overwhelming to face.
If your tooth breaks off suddenly, immediately visit a dentist as soon as possible. Immediate visit can recover back the lost tooth. A broken tooth is not something to be ignored. It can cause severe infection if left untreated and open.
Tooth extraction offers a large number of benefits. It reduces the action of harmful bacteria that can damage your teeth and gums completely. When left untreated, a damaged tooth can wreak havoc on your dental health, causing a further domino effect of problems. Removing your affected tooth gives you the best chance for optimal oral health. Additionally, a tooth extraction can help ease dental pain almost immediately — especially if your tooth is severely broken, with no chance of repair.
Tooth extraction is an emergency that can happen to anybody at anytime. But again if you are a diabetic or have high blood pressure levels, you need to be careful and must make a mention of it to your dentist before the surgery. Having high blood glucose means you are more prone to infections and inflammation and any surgery that is done to a diabetic patient requires time to heal. Any surgery done to a diabetic must be done first by normalizing the blood sugar level, and then operating the wound.
Post-surgery also a diabetic patient needs to be extremely careful and take his medicines on time. He should only consume the foods suggested by his doctor and seek medical attention immediately if any problem arises. Diabetic patients are more susceptible to infections and inflammation on a daily basis. So, they are to be handled with utmost care just as is done for small children and infants. People with uncontrolled diabetes cannot heal properly or quickly after surgery, because blood flow to the treatment can be damaged.
During the surgery of diabetic patients, anaesthesia can aggravate their condition. Patients with poorly controlled blood glucose may have serious complications such as ketoacidosis, circulatory failure, postoperative infectious complications and even death.
Healing is delayed in diabetes since higher blood glucose levels can lead to stiffer blood vessels, causing slower circulation and microvascular dysfunction, which causes reduced tissue oxygenation. When you have diabetes, your body produces comparatively lesser enzymes and hormones that makes our immune less effective. Some of the foods to be totally avoided by diabetics are:
If you need a tooth extracted, your dental professional will remove your tooth from its bony socket in the upper or lower jaw. The bone then must heal. Sometimes during this process, complications arise, like dry socket and infection. Details for each follow:
Dry Socket: A very common complication after the removal of tooth is dry socket. It occurs when the blood clot that fills the void left by the extracted tooth becomes dislodged. The clot acts as a bandage within the mouth during healing process, whereas its total absence can leave the nerves exposed and cause discomfort. Have you ever noticed that in patients, post-surgery, the bone in the socket is visible, when experiencing severe pain in the days following extraction? see your dental professional immediately?
Infection in the Mouth: Following an extraction, another potential complication is the development of a dental infection. That’s because, after any surgery or dental procedure, there’s a high chance of bacteria entering the body, and creating infection. There are certain signs of an infection in the mouth, you may notice which includes bad breath, a sour or bitter taste, fever, sensitivity to hot and cold, and swelling or tenderness in the gums, neck, or jaw.
The main thing is to report any symptoms of complications early, so you can treat the issue right away and decrease the chances of developing complications any further.
The easiest answer to this is no. Because our cheeks are solid enough to support or jaws and hence as long as we are young, our face alignment does not change, due to extraction. It only happens to older adults, who have no other option left than to opt for false tooth. Tooth extraction is not an easy process. Neither is it something very essential. Safe and healthy lifestyle can ensure healthy tooth and gums.
Dentists do not prefer extracting tooth in the first instance. They try to cure the dental disorder, with the help of medicines first of all. Only when there lies no other remedy apart from tooth extraction, do they opt for it. Dentists try their best to complete the procedure in such a way that will cause minimum complication and pain to patients. However, If an upper tooth is removed, it may cause asymmetry, and result in some parts of the face looking sunken in, and when a lower tooth is extracted, it may lead to an under-bite or asymmetry.
There are certain factors that lead to facial asymmetry such as injury in the face, aging, smoking habits, and such other factors can contribute to asymmetry. There are some asymmetry that’s mild and has always been there and is normal. However, some new changes in facial alignment or asymmetry may be a serious sign or serious condition, arising out of Bell’s palsy or stroke.
A normal reaction to facial surgery is swelling. Twenty-four hours post-surgery, the application of moist heat, slowly to the face with the help of a tissue or handkerchief is beneficial in reducing the swelling. During the first 3-5 days after surgery, it is completely normal to have one side be more swollen than the other side.
Many people have the fear that teeth extraction might ruin their facial alignment leading to a distorted face, which can take away their facial beauty and leave them less confident. It might often happen. But it’s wiser to get a teeth, causing problems removed, than to keep it with cavity and let the other tooth get infected. Oral infections can also lead to digestive problems and inflammation of the whole body. Food enters our body through the mouth. Any if our mouth itself is a store house of infection, our entire body is under possible threat. So, it is always wise to treat any oral infection, sore, cavities, gum disease with utmost precaution and care.
Researchers have found that gum disease is associated with and increased risk of developing heart disease. Poor dental health increases the risk of bacterial infection in the bloodstream which can damage the heart valves. Oral health and hygiene is particularly important if you have artificial heart valves. For this reason, any tooth with cavities or infections that has spread to its roots must be removed on an immediate basis. When the blood vessels are inflamed it may cause tiny blood clots, heart attack and the chances of stroke may increase. Even antibiotic treatment cannot cure inflammation that cause damage to blood vessels.
When the body’s immune response fails- it leads to inflammation that cause damage to the vascular system of heart and brain. So infection and inflammation of any part of body, should not be ignored and should be given immediate attention.
Although there is no direct connection between heart health and tooth extraction or oral disease, but oral disease when aggravates to cause serious illness, can damage certain cells and body parts, including the heart and even the brain. Cardiac health is of prime importance because, our heart is the lifeline of our body. It is the regulator of the entire body as well as the central nervous system.
Our heart is responsible for pumping blood and supplying oxygen to all parts of the body. Maintaining heart health is of primary importance. For this everyday yoga and meditation is of great help. Yoga and meditation keeps away many diseases and prevents the body from infection and infestations.
Heart disease and Cardiac health are related largely due to smoking habits. Smoking can injure your heart and lungs and affect your immune system. Smoking is injurious to health, it can spread a local infection to the entire body, and affect normal body functioning. It also damages tooth and gums, aggravating already infected ones.
According to research more than 80 percent of Americans suffer from periodontal disease which are often left untreated and undiagnosed. This may happen because a patient may not feel anything till the time inflammation aggravates to become worse.
Calcium intake is very important for our teeth and bones. As we start ageing, calcium in our bones and teeth start fading away, particularly for women, and must be restored to ensure smooth and healthy functioning of body and mind. Research has shown that prolonged tooth and gum problems can even lead to depression.
Each organ of our body is connected to another and hence, we must maintain a healthy diet and living in order to lead a healthy life. Tooth can also be extracted because lower calcium intake may erode it leading to no way out apart from extracting it completely from its roots. We must ensure that our tooth is enriched with calcium. We must avoid toothpastes that erode the tooth enamel, or food that causes damage to the tooth enamel.
Tooth are vital parts of our body, with the help of which we chew our food and help our body get the essential nutrients. The saliva secreted during chewing also helps in digestion. Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping one’s mouth clean and germ free by developing good habits such as brushing teeth twice a day, flossing, avoiding sugar rich food. Oral health is related with the healthy functioning of all other body parts. Often ignored and considered as secondary, oral health should be taken very seriously and regular dental checkup should be strictly followed, along with regular oral hygiene practices. Irrespective of age oral hygiene must be followed to keep oral diseases at bay.
Tooth extraction is the last resort to opt for when there is no other alternative left with us. Milk is a calcium rich food that is very important for our health. It provides us with the necessary calcium required by our body. Many people are lactose intolerant and cannot digest milk. They can opt for vegan options such as soy milk, to make sure that their body is supplied with the necessary nutrients and is healthy.
Both for teeth and bones, calcium is very important. Along with calcium, Vitamin D is also very important. It helps the absorption of calcium possible for our body.
Hormones play an important role in regulating our bodies, particularly for women. Women face an increased sensitivity to dental health because of the unique hormonal changes they experience in their bodies. Due to these changes, women are more vulnerable to periodontal disease at a certain stage of their lives, as well as to other oral diseases. Women in general, have heightened immunity, but yet are more vulnerable to diseases.
What are the causes and symptoms of hormonal changes that may affect oral health in women?
A woman’s life is divided into different stages, which come along with hormonal changes, making them more susceptible to certain diseases. Let us have a look at different stages of a woman’s life and the associated hormonal changes and how they affect dental health:
If you plan to visit a dentist for treating these problems, make sure you tell your dentist about oral contraceptive pills that you are consuming. There are certain medicines or antibiotics that your dentist might prescribe to lower the overall effectiveness of oral contraceptives, at least, to reduce the negative effects of contraceptives.
It is surprising to know that hormone surges can have impact on gums and oral health. We would never have thought this way or even have had the idea that hormones can have impact on oral health and tooth. The main players’ estrogen and progesterone can bring about drastic changes in our body, without we may even noticing it.
Although hormones are not the primary cause of tooth problems, but is one of the cause that might even affect our mouth as well. Tooth problems are majorly caused by lack of maintaining proper oral hygiene, lack of essential nutrients, vitamins and most importantly calcium.
Hormones not only affect women, but also men at large. A low testosterone in men can lead to poor health and other serious issues like loss of jaw bone over time, and other dental problems such as chipped teeth, lack of tooth mass, or extreme pain.
Calcium, vegetables, beans and seeds are few food options that can restore teeth health. Consuming them religiously for the entire year may keep away dental problems arising from hormonal imbalances. Hormonal imbalances in our body from time to time is inevitable. We may not even realize this, without blood tests being done, the hormonal surge and downfall in our body, and how it is affecting us.
How to prevent hormonal mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are painful sores, just like boils that appear in the mouth, on the tongue or on the wall of the cheek. Although they are harmless, but really uncomfortable and irritating. Most of the times, they clear up on their own, without any medication. But sometimes they stay over.
Most of the time boils such as mouth ulcers and pimples occur due to hormonal imbalances in body. Let us look at few tips that can speed up healing:
We all know that some girls, might be experiencing mouth-ulcers each time before and during menstruation — the reason being the fluctuation of hormones. The two main hormones known for affecting women’s health are — estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It is important to note that there is a great effect on the oral health of women during the phase of menstruation. Hormonal changes cause or give rise to certain dental problems like puffy gums, dry mouth, etc.
Developing gingivitis prior to starting of periods in women or girls are very common. Gingivitis is a condition of gums where the gums become red, swollen and irritable. The problem of gingivitis is temporary and usually ends with the end of menstruation cycle. Developing a bad breath during periods is very common and can be found in most girls during their periods, because of lesser saliva in the mouth.
A dry mouth during periods also gives an unpleasant experience resulting from the oral bacteria which give out an odour when the mouth is dry. It has been found that high levels of progesterone during menstruation, make the oral mucosal tissue swell, triggering the growth of harmful bacteria, which causes the odour and affects immune function.
The production of collagen is also reduced to a considerable extent, which reduces the tissue’s ability to repair itself. More than average or normal levels of estrogen speeds up metabolism and results in loss of the mineral folate- which is important for maintaining healthier oral tissues. On the other hand, a low level of estrogen can end up causing osteoporosis of the jaw — welcoming other dental issues in the future.
Certain studies have revealed that hormonal fluctuations in both men and women can also lead to oral herpes — a condition in which there are dry or wet sores on the lips, gums, tongue, etc. Overconsumption of birth control pills are also responsible for increased the chances of developing ulcers and gingivitis during periods. To get rid of ulcers quickly, one should use a soft toothbrush, eat foods that are soft on the mouth and eat a healthy diet. Alternatively one can always consult a dentist if the ulcers are not going away, even after treatment.
Dry or cracked lips are often associated with menopause. Older women do not have the full luscious lips of their youth, and applying lipstick may just make it more eminent. However dry lips can also occur during or before the periods start in women. It can also happen in men due to hormonal changes. Dry lips may be accompanied by a dry mouth and skin.
In some women it is often found that the face skin dries up before the menstruation starts, resulting in flaky and dull skin. In men too, sometimes it is found that they have dry and flaky skin, without having any obvious reason behind the same. When hormonal changes take place, salivary glands produce comparatively lesser saliva as compared to normal times. Lack of saliva leads to dry mouth and chipped lips.
Caffeine in moderate amounts are considered safe to consume, but consuming large amount of caffeine can disturb the hormones of our body and cause damage to our teeth. It is well known that amount of caffeine you consume can directly affect the health and appearance of your teeth. Knowing this can help you restrict your caffeine intake and how much you consume each day. Consuming caffeine at intervals for the entire day is considered way too much, and must be avoided at all cost.
The decreased estrogen levels after menopause also puts aged women at risk for a loss of bone density. Immediate signs of bone loss in jaw are receding gums. As the gums recede, the tooth is exposed putting aged women more at risk of decay. Women already have the complaint of decreased calcium and osteoporosis. With menopause, their discomfort further increases, adding to more trouble.
Some older women also experience discoloration of tooth and gap occurring between teeth. Gap between the tooth are very painful at times, when food gets stuck between them. Discoloration caused due to hormonal changes are often irreversible. Also the gums become sensitive and they may experience a burning sensation on consumption of spicy or hot foods. When using the wrong tooth brush, older women, who already had their menopause, might experience bleeding from the gums, while brushing.
Some people may notice that foods taste different that they did earlier or prior to getting periods or after menopause. At the same time food cravings and aversions might happen. They may even develop a condition called burning mouth syndrome, which is very comfortable and overwhelming at times.
Due to certain hormonal imbalances in body, our tooth enamel may wear down, exposing the layer beneath known as dentin. Dentin in the layer that contain tubes, and is responsible for connecting out teeth with our nerves. Out tooth nerves are extremely sensitive to temperature changes. This is the reason we feel the hot and cold sensation on tooth when our tooth is ingested with cavities destroying the tooth enamel, dentin.
Teeth Sensitivity although might not sound to be too serious an issue, but in real life is quite uncomfortable and overwhelming to face. When happening to older women, it might be even more painful. Oral health and dental problems even if caused by hormones, should never be ignored at any cost. Oral Health affects mental and physical health at the same time.
During the pandemic, oral health of people worldwide has been neglected like never before, primarily because opening of mouth and nose was strictly prohibited fearing infection or spread of infections. This has also led to aggravated mouth diseases and death for many, since they could not be treated on time. In some cases they could not be treated at all.
The issue with hormonal changes and oral health is that one cannot avoid hormonal changes happening inside the body, neither alter it. Women are highly vulnerable to this. They can hardly control the hormonal changes happening inside the body, nor can they help the complications arising out of it.
Hormonal shifts are absolutely natural and normal throughout your life, but they aren’t pleasant at all. Good self-care, including carefully brushing and regularly flossing goes a long way in balancing the dental effects of hormones.
However, keeping your regular appointments with dentist is crucial, at the same time. If you find yourself experiencing problems with your teeth and gums related to a hormonal change, immediately speak to your dentist and schedule appointments for a time in your cycle wherein your gums are less likely to be irritated or sensitive to ensure both your and your child’s health. It’s important to consider regularly visiting your dentist during pregnancy to be sure of your reproductive health at this point of time.
Many women experience tooth pain during ovulation when hormonal fluctuations throughout the body takes place. This pain is associated with the accumulation of bacteria in the oral cavity which happens due to changes in blood flow in the blood vessels of the tooth and change in saliva levels. Some people also experience an increase in sensitivity to hot and cold, in their teeth.
When teeth starts to pain, in a matter of two to four days, you may find that you are getting your periods. These toothache often might lead to other problems such as headaches, back pain, shoulder pain, pain in the lower abdomen. Additionally a deficiency of Vitamin B may cause toothache problem to worsen over time.
Vitamin supplements are very important for our body. They help in breaking down the nutrients of the body to be absorbed by our cells. Calcium needs vitamins to break it down and make them absorbable by the body.
Painkillers can relieve pain temporarily, but also has their side effects. Hormonal changes cannot be avoided, only we faced and taken precautions beforehand. Precautions however cannot stop their occurrence. But only lessen our suffering.
As we all are aware about how good dental hygiene is important for maintaining the health of teeth and gums, but there is also an extra step we must take to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Our diet is not sufficient to adequately provide the nutrients necessary for healthy teeth and gums. Incorporating fruits and vegetables having higher fiber content, while avoiding refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, foods containing excessive salt, caffeine and excess sugar is of course beneficial, but vitamin supplements play an important role in maintaining our overall health, particularly healthy tooth and gums.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is needed heal inflamed gum tissues. This vitamin is responsible for maintaining the mucous membranes, tooth enamel and soft tissue of the gums. A deficiency of vitamin A in our body can lead to lower resistance to infections and diseases. Beef, liver, mutton, milk, cheese and eggs are all good food sources of vitamin A. When taking supplements, remember to take at mealtime, preferably during lunch as fat aids in the absorption of the vitamin.
Vitamin B
Vitamin B deficiencies causes toothaches, swollen gums and sensitivity of the mucous membranes in the mouth. Vitamin B complex supplements are best to be taken under the tongue for good absorption. Mushrooms, meat and fish, are good food sources of the vitamin B. All yellow colored fruits and vegetables contain vitamin B. Eg, Pumpkin, banana, carrots, oranges, papaya etc.
Vitamin C
For healing of bleeding gums, vitamin C is essential and is the most reliable forms of preventing gum inflammation. Bioflavonoids, a substance found in the natural pigments in fruits and vegetables, taken with vitamin C can also help prevent the formation of plaque, responsible for formation of cavities, around the teeth.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D , consumed in adequate amounts can also help prevent inflammation of the gums. It is also important in the absorption of calcium by our body. A vital nutrient which is also very important for our bones and healthy teeth. The source of vitamin D is sun exposure, but this nutrient can also be found in cheese, milk and fatty fish.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, also very important for our skin that can be taken as a capsule form or opened and rubbed on our gums for tissue healing. It also relieves soreness of gums during infant teething, which is very vital. Foods high in vitamin E includes sunflower seeds, turnip greens, tomato paste and peanut butter.
A beautiful and jovial smile is what everyone endeavors for, and a magnificent smile cherishes you from within to achieve new heights. Well, do you know that one cup of warm tea can not only energize you from within but is a beneficial thing for your teeth too? The periodic habit of drinking tea can be a fortunate and beneficial thing for your pearly crowns. Studies have proved that drinking one to three cups of tea on a regular basis, can help in keeping your teeth and oral health in a good state.
Though consuming tea can lead to cause stains on your teeth, as because it contains tannin. Tannin is a yellowish or brownish substance that is found in plants that give tea its color. Though consuming tea can cause stains, brushing the teeth or rinsing the mouth after drinking can help in the reduction of staining. Though adding an excessive amount of lemon, sugar, or honey to iced tea can also lead to corrosion in teeth and this can make your teeth more prone to cavities. Thus for health benefits, you should switch to an unsweetened or sugar-free tree.
You know that there are several benefits of tea for your health, but do you know that tea is really good for your oral health too, both green and black tea contains catechins, which are also known as antioxidants, which help in removing harmful bacteria from your mouth.
Tea can be so beneficial for your teeth, and it consists of thousand benefits in it, and it is the most beneficial drink after water. Tea is one such drink that also contains antioxidants such as catechins, flavonoids, and tannin-type substances, which possess anti-microbial effects. Today in this article I have discussed the benefits that tea can do to your oral health and to your teeth.
Tea is a medicinal drink, as it consists of anti-inflammatory elements that help to control swelling, bleeding, and infections in the gums. Consuming tea not only reduces bad bacteria with good bacteria in your mouth, but it also helps in the prevention of gum inflammation. Not just that tea also helps in fighting against periodontal disease. Tea is one such drink, which not only rejuvenates you from within but also protects your teeth and gums from tooth and gums disease.
Cavities can easily lead to the dwindling of teeth, thus consuming tea on a regular basis can not only lead to the clearing of bacteria but also helps in lowering the acidic levels of saliva and plaque in your mouth. Acidic elements are the ones that eat away at the teeth and this leads to the creation of cavities. Tea helps in washing away this acidity, and it gets harder for cavities to form.
Yes, you have read that right, tea not only helps in keeping your gums and teeth healthy but it also helps to keep your teeth from falling when you get older. Studies have proved that men and women who drink one or more cups of tea a day hold onto their natural teeth for a longer period of time.
The cause of the bad breath is the growth of bacteria that takes place in the far back of your teeth, and it gets hard for your teeth to reach this place. Without proper care, the bacteria thrive to breed and thus this leads to a foul smell. The anti-oxidant property in tea helps in washing away and killing bacteria, thus it makes it easy for your breath to produce a fresh up smell all day long.
Antioxidants prepare the body to fight cellular damage and the growth of tumours. Hence when you drink tea you are pumping up your mouth with antioxidants that help in keeping your preventing your mouth from the development of cancers.
Antioxidants are one such thing that helps every part of the body to fight cellular damage and tumour growth. Hence when you drink tea you are preparing your body to fight against cancers. In order to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and in better condition green tea would be the best option. Whereas, black tea is slightly more processed, which results in fewer antioxidants. And if you like white teeth, black tea is better avoided because this can stain your pearly whites.
Not just drinking tea, can provide advantages and benefits for your health but the process of making it plays a greater role. In order to make tea correctly, start by boiling water and pour the hot water over the tea leaves in a ceramic cup. Then, cover the cup with a saucer for about 2 to 3 minutes as the tea begins to steep. Doing this will help to get the most benefits out of every bag of tea.
Try to avoid adding sugar to your tea as bacteria love to feed off of sugar. Also, avoid bottled iced tea as it tends to have citric elements that can help raise the acidic levels of saliva.
Tea comes in numerous options and selecting from different numerous options the best option is brewed tea. Fizzy drinks and other sugar-filled beverages can lead to causing cavities and this leads to enamel loss, which leads to the deterioration of oral health. Studies have shown that drinking brewed tea has shown less enamel loss and this provides more strengthening benefits for the teeth and gum lines.
Apart from having several health benefits, tea also consists of polyphenols, which are micronutrients that are plant-based foods that help reduction of gum inflammation and disease. Since polyphenols aid in the killing of bacteria, tea is the best drink after water this beneficial drink helps in combating bad breath better than any mint or gums.
The benefits of teeth are not just limited to gums and teeth, it is one such drink that can have great beneficial benefits for your entire body. Tea is one such drink that helps in protecting your teeth from cell damage, illness, and many more. Research has even shown that green tea might even prevent of growth of certain cancers, this includes oral cancer too.
There are several types of tea available in the market, each has got its own benefits, below enumerated are different types of tea and the benefits that are provided by them.
Green Tea:
First, let us discuss green tea, it is not something new that this tea is packed with numerous benefits and each sip of it has a beneficial effect on your health. But a simple question might arise in your mind that is drinking green tea a beneficial thing for your teeth? Well, the answer is yes. Consuming green tea is beneficial thing for your teeth. Green tea combats the bacteria that can cause cavities, it also nourishes gums, reduces inflammation, and it can also help in remineralizing weak enamel. Other than that it also prevents bacterial growth that softens tooth structure, but it can also reverse the damage that bacteria can cause. Green tea also consists of fluoride which is the building block of good teeth health and also wards off tooth decay.
Black Tea:
Just like green tea, black tea also consists of fluoride, and consuming black tea also helps in warding off tooth decay.Fluoride is a mineral that could be found in water and most foods, and it is a common ingredient in toothpaste because this helps in repairing tooth enamel. Tea can also help in the prevention of cavities, and this is done by controlling bacteria and the reduction of acid in your mouth. Not just that Black tea can also help in fighting two bacteria types: Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans and these two types of bacteria can cause gum diseases. Black tea contains properties that help in reducing inflammation and it also prevents the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
White Tea:
White tea is one such tea that is extremely beneficial for your health. White tea consists of substances such as fluoride, catechins, and tannins within it. This combination of molecules could eventually help in strengthening teeth by fighting bacteria and sugar. Fluoride can help prevent dental cavities by making the surface of teeth more resistant to acid attacks by bacteria in combination with sugar.
Red Tea:
Red tea also known as Rooibos tea is unique tea that is grown mainly on the African continent and it contains polyphenols such as “aspalathin” that are not found in any other foods. Red tea consists of powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties within it and drinking a cup of rooibos tea every day can eventually help you to stay healthy. Rooibos tea is rich in several minerals including manganese, calcium, and fluoride. These minerals present in the teeth help in promoting healthy bones and teeth.
Yellow Tea:
Yellow tea is one such tea that has got numerous benefits in it. Yellow tea has flavor compounds and also has antibacterial properties and polyphenols in it. These things help in the prevention of plaque formation in the teeth. Scientific research has suggested that dietary sources of polyphenols help in treating inflammatory responses of periodontal diseases.
Ginger Tea:
Ginger is a root that has got numerous benefits for your overall health, if you want healthy teeth and gums, then consuming ginger tea could be beneficial for your teeth too. Ginger is considered a healing herb, and the anti-inflammatory properties present in it help in promoting healthy tissues in your mouth, and it’s one of the good herbs for the prevention of gum diseases.
Oolong Tea:
Oolong Tea is a beneficial tea for your oral health. Consuming oolong tea promotes better dental health, as this helps in the reduction of plaque and gingivitis. Not just that consuming oolong tea, may help increase bone mineral density. This tea may also strengthen tooth enamel and also reduces the formation of dental plaque.
Peppermint Tea:
This tea is not only good for digestive health but also for toothaches. The bags of peppermint tea can help in soothing sensitive gums and also helps to numb pain in the mouth. For trying this remedy at home, soak a peppermint tea bag in hot water for a minute and then let the teabag rest until it’s slightly warm. Apart from its pleasant smell, peppermint also has antibacterial properties that help in killing germs that cause dental plaque, this tea also improves your breath.
Lavender Tea:
Lavender tea consists of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and stimulant properties, a natural dental, and oral remedy. Lavender tea is effective against bad breath and it also helps in healing damaged tissue, and it provides soothing relief from mouth pain. Its aroma is also a powerful sedative that calms your nervous system. Consuming lavender tea is generally safe for most adults if it is consumed in moderation. However, if you drink too much of it, you may experience headaches, constipation, and an increased appetite.
Now that you have known the different benefits of tea and the different types of tea, you should also know how you can protect your teeth from staining. As it is mentioned earlier that tea is the best drink after water, and hence in order to consume tea in a proper way without any stains affecting it, you should follow certain rules that help in keeping your teeth stain-free while you consume tea.
Diabetes is a kind of disease that has a detrimental effect on health, as it can harm the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and several other important systems in our body. Well, this doesn’t stop over here if you have fallen prey to diabetes then it can also have a hampering effect on your mouth too. Keeping a healthy mouth is an essential thing that everyone should follow but it becomes a tough task for the ones who have diabetes because people who have diabetes, find it a harder task to maintain a healthy mouth.
If you are also one who has high blood sugar, then you should learn how you can avoid health problems to maintain your oral health. Taking care of your oral health is a vital thing to do as good oral health habits can help prevent pain and infections from tooth and gum disease.
Taking care of oral health is an important thing to do if you have diabetes, as due to high blood sugar your white blood cells can get weakened. White blood cells are important as they help to maintain your body’s immunity and fight the infections that can occur in your mouth.
If you have diabetes then for maintaining that sparkling smile on your face, you need to manage your blood sugar levels. By doing this you are preventing gum and teeth diseases to attack your oral health. If you also have diabetes then you are more likely prone to oral health problems such as cavities, and infections of the gums and bones that hold your teeth in place because if you have diabetes then it can reduce the supply of blood to that particular area.
If you have higher blood sugar levels, then it is higher in your saliva too. This leads to the formation of plaque, which is a sticky film, formed due accumulation of bacteria and germs. Well, some of these bacteria, can cause several oral health such as tooth decay, cavities, and gum diseases. If this is not treated this can further lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss. Not just this, if you fall prey to gum diseases then this can be more severe as they take more time to heal if anyone has diabetes. If you have gum disease, then it becomes a tough task to manage your diabetes.
Here’s a quick look at how diabetes can take its toll on your oral health:
Diabetes and periodontal (gum) disease:
Gum diseases are caused by an infection that destroys the bone which surrounds and supports your teeth. This bone is the one that holds your teeth into your jawbone and it allows you to chew comfortably. Bacteria and food debris called dental plaque lead to the formation of gum disease.
If it is left on teeth and gums, plaque gets hardened to form calculus or tartar. The plaque and calculus irritate the gums around teeth and due to this they become red and swollen and it even starts to bleed. As gum disease progresses, this also affects the underlying bone which is eventually lost. Teeth become loose and due to this reason, they may fall out by themselves or may need to be removed.
Gum diseases are more common and they are more severe in people who have suboptimal blood glucose levels. This is because they generally have lower resistance to infection and reduced healing capacity within them.
It is important to look after your oral health and control your blood glucose levels so that your gums become strong and it can prevent gum diseases. Treating gum disease helps in improving blood glucose levels in people living with diabetes, and people with blood glucose levels in the target range respond very well to dental treatment.
Symptoms of gum diseases include:
You need to see your dentist immediately if you notice any signs and symptoms of gum disease, which include:
Diabetes and tooth decay:
Due to increased blood glucose levels, people who have high diabetes may have more glucose in their saliva and that can lead to very dry mouths. Due to this particular condition, the build-up of plaque on teeth occurs which can eventually lead to tooth decay and the formation of cavities.
Plaque formed in your teeth can be removed if you regularly clean your teeth and gums twice a day daily with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that consists of fluoride in it. You need to keep in mind that while brushing over the gums where they meet the teeth bushing them too hard leads into can cause some serious gum loss. Hence using interdental cleaners or dental floss on daily basis for cleaning in between your teeth is a good thing to do. And taking good care of teeth helps in prohibiting cavities and gum diseases.
Diabetes and oral fungal infections:
Oral thrush which is also known as candidiasis is a type of fungal infection. It is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast, known as Candida albicans, which lives in the mouth and in between your teeth. Some conditions that are caused by diabetes such as high glucose in saliva, lowered resistance to infection, and dry mouth (low saliva levels) can easily lead in encouraging the overgrowth of these fungi, which leads to oral thrush.
Oral thrush causes uncomfortable feelings, and at times it also creates ulcerated white or red patches on the skin of the mouth. Maintaining a good mouth, hygiene, and blood glucose levels in the target range can help to treat oral thrush easily. Your dentist can treat this condition by prescribing antifungal medications if it is required.
Caring for your teeth and gums:
If you are a person who has diabetes, then the below-enumerated points are highly recommended for you:
Maintaining proper dental care:
For helping to prevent damage to your teeth and gums, take diabetes and dental care seriously:
You need to make a commitment to manage your diabetes and keep it under control. Monitoring your blood sugar levels, and following your doctor’s instructions for keeping your blood sugar level within your target range. The more you control your blood sugar levels, the better, there is less chance that you are to develop gingivitis and several other dental problems.
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and flossing once a day is a vital things to do. Brushing in the morning, at night, and, ideally, after meals and snacks is something that you should always do. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride is something that you need to do. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, as this can irritate your gums. Consider using an electric toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems as it can make it difficult to brush well. Getting a new toothbrush at least every three months is an important thing to do.
Flossing your teeth at least once a day is required if you are a diabetic patient. Flossing helps remove plaque between your teeth and under your gum line. If you have trouble getting dental floss through your teeth, use the waxed variety. If it’s hard to manipulate the floss, use a floss holder. Scheduling regular dental visits. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings, X-rays, and check-ups to help in preventing oral diseases that can create serious problems in the future. Managing diabetes is a lifelong commitment and this is something that would help you, and to keep your diabetes in control proper dental care is an important thing.
Wisdom tooth, by hearing the name a sudden thought might bloom in your mind, the tremendous pain that it gives that can directly land you in the hospital. The unbearable situation arises when the wisdom tooth located at the very back of your mouth, doesn’t sprout out fully and is not positioned correctly creating a problematic situation for the opposite teeth.
Wisdom teeth removal is one of the common oral surgery procedures. It is often recommended as a preventative measure in order to protect your other teeth from future problems and preserve your oral health and keep it healthy. Recovery is usually quick after the surgery and most people can return to normal activities in just a few days.
Wisdom tooth remains, completely hidden under the gums, and if they are unable to emerge appropriately they tend to become trapped within your jaw. At times it can end up causing infection, or it can also cause a cyst that can lead to the dwindling of other teeth or the bones that support the teeth.
In some cases, wisdom teeth can end up causing oral health issues which include, overcrowding, impaction, and an increased risk of infection. Removing a wisdom tooth is not always required, but there are around half of all patients require at least one of their wisdom teeth to be extracted in order to prevent future problems. Now a question might arise in your mind when is the right time to remove your wisdom teeth? Well, keep on reading the article and you get to know the answer at the end.
There is a common belief that whenever the wisdom tooth erupts, it would require an extraction. But that is actually not the case, until and unless there is any kind of troublesome situation that bothers you should not think of pulling out your wisdom tooth. Some of the common problems that the wisdom tooth can easily cause are infections in the soft tissue behind the last teeth, cysts, tumours, by damaging the neighbouring teeth, tooth decay, and gum disease.
The removal of wisdom teeth involves the extraction of the impacted teeth by restoring the nearby damaged teeth that might have been affected. With the help of an X-ray, your dentist can confirm the positing and growth of the wisdom teeth and post that he would recommend whether there is a requirement of removing the teeth in order to prevent any future oral problems, and the health of other teeth. The most appropriate time to remove the wisdom tooth is especially during young adulthood when these molars are still healthy, as jawbones become harder with age and teeth tougher to remove. Now a question might arise in your mind how I would know whether I need to get my wisdom teeth removed? The answer to your question lies in the next paragraph.
At times all four wisdom teeth erupt normally and this doesn’t cause any problems at all by being a completely normal thing. But sometimes wisdom teeth grow in at an angle or stay fully or partially trapped in the jawbone or under the gum tissues. When any such situation arises it can cause various problems and can also cause a range of problems. Then after knowing all this, your dentist would recommend a wisdom teeth extraction if you have the problems enlisted below:
While in most cases, healthcare providers recommend wisdom teeth extraction as a preventative measure in order to prevent any further oral health to create a problematic situations. As a result, your dentist may suggest the removal of your wisdom teeth even if you don’t have any symptoms. This can help reduce your risk for future problems, including infection and tooth decay.
The removal of wisdom teeth is an oral surgery that has become practically a rite of passage for young adults these days. But contrary to popular belief and what you’ve observed in many family and friends wisdom teeth removal is not always necessary.
This third set of molars typically develops anywhere between your teenage years to young adulthood. By then, we will have lost all of our baby teeth, and the adult set has taken its place permanently. For most people, this also means there isn’t room for any more teeth to grow, and that’s why the sudden eruption of wisdom teeth becomes a problem for them.
There is no particular age during which you can remove your wisdom teeth because people of all ages can have their wisdom teeth removed. However, there are many dentists who recommend having them extracted in your late teens or early 20s because this is the safest age to do so. Because during this stage of development, your wisdom teeth are still forming and the process is going on. For this reason, they may be easier to remove with less risk of complications, and the process could be done smoothly.
The wisdom tooth can easily damage the nearby teeth, as your permanent teeth are already positioned in a fixed position. The extra force created by the sprouting of the molars can force your permanent teeth to shift their position. This in turn causes pain, bite problems, and overcrowding, which makes it difficult to brush and floss effectively and eventually thus leads to cavities or tooth decay. If the treatment gets delayed, you may also need to undergo additional procedures in order to straighten impacted neighboring teeth.
2. Damages to the jaw
First comes stiffness or pain, then before you know it, it can easily damage the jawbones, impacting the mouth’s function and motion. Like all teeth, wisdom teeth erupt from the jaws and through the gums, but this isn’t always the case, especially when there’s no space left around the other teeth.
Some wisdom teeth grow impacted within the jaw, shifting the other teeth and even the jawline. This can limit the opening of the mouth and cause pain when doing so. Cysts can also form along the newly erupted molars, which can hollow out the jaw bones and damage the nerves of neighboring, healthy teeth when left untreated.
3. Sinus problems
We know that the mouth and nose are intricately connected with each other, but did you know that the impacted wisdom teeth can easily affect the sinuses? Wisdom teeth removal is recommended when these molars’ growth causes sinus pain, pressure, and congestion. The maintenance of your Oral health is overall health, and your mouth is the mirror to your all-over health and that is why it is the vital thing to pay attention to any symptom or ailment that blooms.
4. Sensitivity and pain
A lot of patients only realize that their wisdom teeth are impacted when they experience pain, as because pain and sensitivity are common signs that create problems. But like any other dental problem, it starts from the very minute and is even virtually undetectable. Though this is not that very serious, you should not ignore any toothache, or even sensitivity and slight throbbing sensations that bothers you.
You need to pay attention whenever it occurs and if anything happens like this you need to contact the back of the mouth while you are eating or brushing, as because chances are there that your wisdom teeth have erupted. It won’t be long before it shows that they’re growing at an angle to the other teeth, impacting the jaws, or crowding neighboring teeth.
5. Inflamed gums
Oral health is not just only about teeth, gums play a huge role too and suffer through the impacted wisdom teeth. When wisdom teeth erupt at an angle to the other teeth or horizontally, they can easily cause the gums to swell and this makes it hard to clean. Whenever this happens these reddish areas along the gum line often feel sore to the touch and cause pain, due to this reason it prevents proper brushing and flossing, which eventually leads to cavities and tooth decay.
Though most people are comfortable in three to four days, it can take a couple of weeks for your gums to completely heal. Your oral surgeon will provide you with detailed post-surgical instructions to keep you comfortable after the procedure is done.
Once sedation medications have been given, your surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb your teeth and gums so that you don’t feel much pain. Impacted wisdom teeth which are the wisdom teeth trapped in the gums or bone are exposed with incisions, giving your surgeon adequate access. Once the wisdom teeth are visible, your oral surgeon carefully loosens and lifts them from their sockets, then cleans the areas, and places stitches. In most cases, the stitches will fall out on their own in a few days and your gums will get back to the normal position.
The relative ease at which your dentist or oral surgeon extracts out your wisdom teeth depends upon their position and stage of development. Your oral health care provider would be able to give you an idea of what to expect during your pre-extraction exam. A wisdom tooth that is fully bloomed through the gums can be extracted as easily as any other tooth. However, any wisdom tooth that has been underneath the gums and is embedded within the jawbone then it would require an incision into the gums and then the removal of the portion of bone that lies over the tooth. Often, during a situation like this, the tooth will be extracted in small sections rather than it would be removed in one piece, this is done in order to minimize the amount of bone that needs to be removed to get the tooth out in a safer way.
Most of the time, wisdom teeth extraction doesn’t cause major complications or problems. However, you should call your oral surgeon if you have:
Now that you have known what is the process involved in the extraction of the wisdom tooth, you should also know what you need to eat once your wisdom is removed.
You need to pump up your kitchen with soft food items such as pasta, rice, eggs, pudding, and yogurt. Other than this cool food items like ice cream can also help in soothing the surgical areas. You need to keep yourself at a bay from food items that are, crunchy and spicy because foods like these can easily irritate your tissues. Apart from following the foods that you need to avoid, and eat you should also avoid drinking through straws. Sucking foods from straws can dislodge blood clots, which are essential for the healing of your gums.
Typically, the extraction of wisdom teeth takes about one hour or less than that. More complex cases may take longer, in order to complete the procedure.
The extraction of wisdom teeth brings in milddiscomfort that is accompanied by slight bleeding and swelling. In order to keep the pain under control your oral surgeon will give you instructions for the management of wisdom teeth in order to ease the side effects that would create problems.
Though the extraction of wisdom teeth, gives a lot of pain there are various advantages too. The most significant being is that it helps in the reduction offuture oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, damage to adjacent teeth, bone loss, and jaw damage. If you’ve already developed pain because of your wisdom teeth, then extraction can alleviate discomfort almost immediately and get you back on track to optimal oral health.
Most of the time, wisdom teeth removal doesn’t result in long-term complications. In rare instances, people may develop: