Ammy Wilson

Hi! I am Ammy Wilson an expert in Dental care industry. I not the owner of the content published here. This content is only for informational purpose. 

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Most Common Signs of Gum Disease

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the tissue surrounding the teeth. Caused by plaque and bacterial buildup, gum disease is progressive and can result in tooth loss. It begins as a bacterial infection called gingivitis, which causes the gums to become inflamed. When left untreated, the plaque toxins destroy both the gums and the bone underneath, causing damage that affects how a person looks, chews and speaks.

Signs and Symptoms

Many people do not know they have gum disease because it can occur and progress without pain or other symptoms. This is why annual dental checkups are so important. The most common signs of gum disease are outlined below.

Redness, Swelling, and Pain

If the gums appear inflamed or are painful for no specific reason, it can mean there is an infection present. This type of infection can advance quickly, and it is critical to stop its progression. A lack of treatment can lead to bacteria reaching the bloodstream and affecting other parts of the body.

Bleeding

When the gums bleed during eating, flossing, and brushing, it is an indication that gum disease is present. When plaque builds up between teeth, it produces toxins that lead to a bacterial infection, which makes the gums sensitive and prone to bleeding. It should also be noted that hormonal changes such as pregnancy and menopause can make the gums more prone to gingivitis and bleeding.

Bad Breath

Foul-smelling breath can be the result of foods that were eaten and originate from the stomach, the lungs or from the back of the tongue. It can also be caused by smoking or oral tobacco use.

In many cases, it is caused by food particles that become caught between the teeth and eventually work under the gumline. Those who have deep gum pockets are more prone to storing food debris, which leads to bad breath. It's not a serious issue since there are many solutions to bad breath.

Gum Recession

Periodontal disease can cause the gums to recede from the teeth, making them appear longer. This gives a person a "toothy" smile. The recession occurs when bacteria damages the tissue and bone structure underneath.

Pus Pockets

When pus appears between teeth and begins to ooze out, it is a very clear sign of gum disease. Plus is made by the body when it is trying to fight an infection process. At this point, a person may require antibiotics before any dental work can be done.

Loose Teeth

When gum disease reaches an advanced stage, teeth will loosen and shift to different positions in the mouth. This is caused by the destruction of bone tissue from an untreated bacterial infection. When a person reaches this level of gum disease, extensive work may need to be done to save the teeth that have not already been lost.

Anyone who is experiencing these symptoms should visit a dentist or periodontist immediately as any stage of gum disease can affect overall health.

Treatment of Gum Disease

The objective of gum disease treatment is to halt progress before it causes any more damage to the tissues and bone. The dentist will begin by thoroughly examining the mouth to determine how far the condition has progressed. After diagnosis, the dentist will proceed with a treatment plan, which may include a course of antibiotics and surgery.

In moderate cases, the pockets surrounding the teeth will be cleaned through a method called scaling and root planing. The dentist may choose to fill the pockets with an antibiotic solution to eliminate any remaining bacteria and ensure proper healing.

Severe cases of gum disease are treated with the following methods:

• Flap surgery - In this procedure, the dentist directly manipulates gum tissue to reduce the size of the pockets around the teeth. Smaller pockets are easier to keep clean and reduce the chance of harmful bacterial buildup.

• Laser treatment - Similar to flap surgery, laser treatment makes pockets smaller and easier to maintain.

• Bone and tissue graft - In cases where a large amount of gum tissue or bone has been lost, the dentist may choose to use a graft. This procedure involves applying a membrane to help the body grow new tissue and bone.

Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease is easily prevented by daily brushing, flossing and using an antiseptic rinse. Flossing should be done after each meal to dislodge any food debris left behind. Brushing for a minimum of two minutes removes plaque.

The rinse will kill harmful bacteria and promote healthy gums. Aside from daily care, visiting your dentist every six months for an exam and professional teeth cleaning will keep the teeth and gums in optimal condition. You can also try these supplements to boost your dental health.

If you notice signs and symptoms of gum disease, take early action to prevent progression of gingivitis to more serious periodontitis and the risk of losing your teeth due to gum loss.

These Signs and Symptoms

It's important to watch for signs and symptoms of gum disease, especially if you have risk factors. Early detection at home can help you get treatment sooner so that you don't risk losing your teeth. These are the classic signs and symptoms of gum disease:

Inflamed gums, or gums that are red or swollen

Pain when you chew

Teeth that are sensitive to heat, cold, sweets, or brushing

Loose teeth

Bad breath that you can't get rid of by brushing or using mouthwash, even when you don't eat particularly smelly food

Gums that are sore to the touch or bleed easily, including when you brush your teeth

Teeth that seem to be taller or longer due to receding gums

A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

A change in the way your dentures fit in your mouth

Signs We Look For

When you visit our San Mateo, CA office, we will examine you to see how far your gum disease has progressed. We do this by:

Discussing your medical history with you to see which risk factors you have

Checking your gums to see if they are swollen or red, and how far the inflammation has progressed

Measuring the depth of any pockets around your teeth using a type of ruler called a probe.

Treatment for Gum Disease

Brushing and flossing go a long way toward preventing bacteria from forming acid on your teeth and allowing tartar to build up. However, once you have the beginnings of gum disease, your regular brushing and flossing routine aren't enough. Dr. Pope, Dr. Pickering, and Dr. Lewis can provide more extensive treatment, such as:

Deep cleaning through scaling and root planing

Medications to fight the infection

Surgical treatments, like bone or tissue grafting to replace lost tissue

If you think you may have gum disease, or are concerned about the state of your gum health, you can connect with the dentist in st Pete Beach Fl, they can help you in achieving  a lifetime of good oral health.

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WHAT TO DO WITH A BROKEN TOOTH?

It usually happens in a snap. One moment everything is okay with your mouth, the next you realize you have a broken tooth!  Biting down on hard food, getting hit or suffering a hard fall are some of the most common reasons why you may get a broken tooth. Sometimes, a tooth that has a cavity or some degree of decay can also cause your tooth to weaken and break.

Once you realize you have a cracked tooth, you immediately need to do something about it. Your tooth should be treated asap to avoid further infections or more severe cracks. And the truth is that only your dentist will be able to tackle this issue. It is not something you will solve on your own at home.

I’ve got a broken tooth. Now what?

Your dentist is the right person to fix your broken tooth. Yet, there are a couple of things you can do until you actually reach the dental office:

– You can rinse your mouth with warm water to wash away food particles or bacteria that may harm your gums and tissues.

– If the fracture is causing you great pain, you may take some over –the- counter pain reliever.

– If your tooth starts bleeding, you will need to stop the bleeding by putting some kind of dental sponge on the damaged area.

– Cold pads or ice on your face right over the broken tooth can prevent or reduce swelling.

However, the most important thing to do is to CALL YOUR DENTIST RIGHT AWAY!  A broken tooth, if left untreated, can lead to severe infection and even tooth loss.

Fortunately, the dentist will be there to help you out. Depending on the type and depth of the crack you may expect the dentist to consider different solutions for you.

Small Tooth Cracks

Surface cracks do not mean a big problem. These types of cracks happen when the enamel (the outer layer of your tooth) gets damaged. If you have a minor crack, the dentist will typically polish and smooth the rough part, or use a small filling for minor repairs.

Major Tooth Cracks

Your dentist will need to examine your mouth thoroughly to check whether it is a severe crack or not. For example, a tooth that has split in two is considered a serious fracture. Sometimes, the crack is so deep that it reaches the nerve of the tooth.

 If the crack has damaged the nerve, you may need a root canal to remove the diseased pulp and prevent severe infections. Sometimes you may need that tooth removed. Other fractures may start at the root and go all the way up to the surface of the tooth.

When your tooth and/or root have been completely damaged, your dentist can suggest different restorative treatments such as dental bonding, dental implants, crowns or caps, or veneers.

The solution will depend a lot on your particular situation, needs, and concerns. Also, how your dentist deals with your broken tooth may vary depending on whether it is a broken front tooth or a molar.

Eventually, if the tooth has been severely injured or if it has been weakened by a very deep cavity, your dentist will opt for extracting your tooth.  Typically, cracks that go below the gum line will need a tooth extraction. But it is always necessary to make a thorough exam before you and your dentist decide what’s best for you.

If your tooth is broken, make sure you don’t brush it, and make an appointment to see your best dentist in St Pete Beach Fl as soon as possible.

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What are the Benefits of Flossing?

How many times has your dentist in st Pete Beach, Fl asked if you are flossing routinely, and you answered yes, even though you know you’ve only flossed double in advance of this appointment? Most people beheld flossing as an annoying task. But the deal is that it does not matter what time of the day you floss. The key to success is flossing ceaselessly day after day. Even if you fuss a day here or there, flossing more days than not is something that will keep your mouth strong.

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Introduction to Proper Oral Health

Practicing good oral hygiene has nearly limitless benefits. When our mouths, gums or teeth aren't healthy, our bodies may be more susceptible to serious disease, so taking care of your mouth is just as important as taking care of the rest of your body.

Although February is children’s dental month and we focus on building good oral health habits for kids, it’s always a good time to reevaluate your current techniques.

Working with children to create good oral health habits early on can go a long way toward a lifetime of healthy smiles, but as adults, any bad habits we have acquired might have stuck around longer than they needed to.

Here are a few tips for making sure your teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible.

Care for your teeth daily

Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. The fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to decay and if you use mouthwash, do not use it directly after brushing as it will rinse away the fluoride. It’s important to brush your teeth before bed to make sure bacteria that cause plaque, tartar and gingivitis can’t spend all night on your teeth.

Proper Brushing

When brushing your teeth hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle so both the gum line and surface of the tooth are exposed to the bristles. You should brush using an up and down and back and forth motion. After brushing be sure to floss! While it might be a chore, flossing can remove debris from teeth that brushing misses.

Visit your dentist regularly

You should be seeing your dentist at least twice a year for semi-annual cleanings and a thorough checkup. Your dentist will examine your teeth for potential issues, discuss a customized care plan and determine if you need to be seen more often as well as additional procedures that may need to take place.

Going to the dentist can make some people uneasy and if you experience anxiety thinking about a trip to see your dentist, try bringing a friend with you or listening to music during your appointment. 

Regular dental check-ups: Seeing the best dentist in st Pete Beach Fl  regularly is key to knowing where you can improve with your oral hygiene.

Watch your diet

A diet rich in vitamins, minerals and fresh fruits and veggies can help prevent gum disease. It’s best to avoid snacking when possible and limiting yourself to soda at meal times can reduce the amount of time your teeth face added factors for decay and damage.

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The A-Z Toothache Guide

A toothache, also known as odontalgia, is pain around or in the tooth. It can be caused by anything from a stuck popcorn hull between your teeth to a bacterial infection a broken tooth. Less serious or mild toothache usually cause temporary irritation to the gums. But more serious toothaches need to be treated by a professional dentist in this case you can contact .

Symptoms of a Toothache

The main symptom of a toothache is a pain in your tooth, around it, or in your mouth. However, the pain can present itself in multiple ways, and it can vary. Symptoms of toothache include:

Pain that only occurs when pressure is applied to the tooth

Constant, throbbing and sharp pain

Teeth sensitivity changes in temperature

Painful and swelling gums

Bleeding or discharge of gums

Headache of fever

Bad taste in the mouth (if a tooth is infected)

Causes of Toothache Pain

Toothache is most usually the result of trauma or injury that cavity causes. Dentin is the softer layer underneath the enamel, and trauma or injury is caused if the decay gets into the dentin. Other causes include the following:

Fractured or damaged tooth – Another thing that can expose the sensitive dentin is the fracture of a tooth. Fractures don’t have to be obvious, because sometimes the fracture line can be deep into the tooth and cause toothache every time pressure is applied with chewing or biting. This is also known as cracked tooth syndrome.

Tooth abscess – A pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection can be the cause of toothache.

Losing a filling – The nerve inside the tooth can be exposed if you lose a filling.

Debris stuck in your teeth – Inorganic and organic matter stuck in your teeth can cause pressure between the teeth.

Teeth grinding or clenching – This habit which is usually done unconsciously at night can irritate the nerves to the point where you experience a toothache.

Gum disease or gum infection – Gum disease like periodontal disease or gingivitis can cause pain or toothaches.  

Dental work – The tooth can be more sensitive after getting a crown or a filling. This is also the case if the tooth decay you got removed was deep or large. Although necessary, dental work can sometimes irritate the nerve. If the teeth are healthy the sensitivity will resolve by itself.

Jaw or mouth injury – Toothache can be caused by jaw or mouth injury that is a result of blunt force trauma on the facial area.

Temporomandibular joint disorders – Temporomandibular joint disorder is a pain in the jaw joint, but sometimes it can also affect the teeth.

Exposed root surfaces – If there is no gum or bone that covers the root of the tooth, it can be sensitive to stimuli like temperature changes or brushing teeth.

Wisdom teeth – Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to appear in your mouth. Sometimes, there isn’t enough space for them and they become partially or fully trapped below the gum and in the jawbone. Because it is difficult to clean them, they can cause several problems like dental decay or gum infection.

Home remedies for toothache

There are a number of remedied that help people in relieving toothache. Some of them are:

Cold compress. Wrapping a bag of ice in a towel and applying it to the affected side of the jaw or face helps in constricting the blood vessels and reduces the pain. You should apply a cold compress to the area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours.

Saltwater rinse. A common remedy for toothache is a simple saltwater rinse. All you have to do is mix ½ teaspoon of table salt and 8 ounces of water, swish it around in your point and spit it out. Saltwater reduces inflammation because it is a natural antibacterial agent. Using a saltwater rinse also helps in removing any food debris stuck in the gums or teeth.

OTC pain relievers. For children, dentists suggest acetaminophen, and for adults they recommend aspirin or ibuprofen.

Elevation. Additional inflammation and pain can be caused by pooling blood in the head. Some people feel pain relief when they elevate their head with an extra pillow or two.

Clove oil. Clove oil is a natural remedy that contains eugenol which reduces tooth pain. Make a paste from ground cloves by soaking them in water. Then, apply the paste to the affected area directly or by putting it in an empty tea bag. What also works is sucking or gently chewing a single clove and then letting it sit near the affected tooth.

Garlic. Some people use this common household ingredient in order to relieve toot ache pain. The main compound in garlic called allicin has an antibacterial effect that helps in killing the bacteria in your mouth. Allowing a clove of garlic to sit near the tooth or chewing on it can relieve the pain.

When to see the dentist

You should monitor your toothache over the next 48 hours. In case it lessens, it might have been just an irritation. The best dentist in Pasadena FL best dentist in Pasadena FL will determine what is the best treatment for your condition, depending on what caused the pain and how much damage is present.

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Oral Health Blog: The Dos and Don’ts of Good Dental Hygiene

Dental Hygiene is important. Those who practice good oral habits reap the benefits, while the latter not so much. Most of us have a great deal of control over whether or not we keep our teeth as we age. Those who don’t follow a proper routine, end up losing their teeth, thus requiring the need of tooth replacement (such as dentures, dental implants, etc. If you want to achieve an optimal level of oral hygiene, all you have to do is follow these do’s and don’ts!

Do…

• Brush your teeth twice a day! Use a soft-bristled brush with a fluoride tooth paste and be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth, even the hard to reach places.

• Floss your teeth every day! Floss removes food trapped between your teeth and the film of bacteria that forms before it turns into plaque.

• Visit your dentist every 6 months! Regular visits allow your dentist to discover early signs of cavities and gum disease.

• Eat a mouth healthy diet! Indulge yourself in foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats and of course, water!

Don’t…

• Forget to replace your toothbrush! Tooth brushes should be replaced every 3 month—or after you recover from being sick. If you have an electric toothbrush, replace the head rather than purchasing a whole new one.

• Brush too soon after eating! Brushing immediately after eating acidic food can cause tiny particles of enamel to be brushed away. To be safe, wait at least 1 hour.

• Go overboard with bleaching! Over-bleaching your teeth can make them very sensitive to hot and cold foods, thus causing a variety of other problems.

• Ignore pain or abnormalities! Toothaches can be a sign of a more serious dental issue. See your dentist as soon as you discover changes in your dental health.

• Consume lots of soft drinks and sugary foods! These foods are highly acidic, which wears away your enamel overtime. Frequent consumption of sugary substances allow plaque to grow more rapidly—thus the likelihood of cavities will increase substantially.

When it comes to your dental hygiene—you can blindly trust on professional dentist in Pasadena FL. By starting to practice these dental do’s and don’ts, you will be on the right track to a long-lasting smile.

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How to Manage Dental Emergencies

Even if you are 100% meticulous with your oral hygiene and prevention routine, you can never eliminate the chances of a dental emergency arising. Prompt and adequate care can minimize the long term damage of all but the most serious of accidents.

Before you even reach your emergency dentist’s office, there are many things you can do that will have a tremendous impact on your chances of recovery.

See below to discover what you should do in case of a dental emergency!

The First Few Minutes

The most common cause of dental emergencies is a severe blow to the head. This can easily chip or knock off a tooth – but it may also damage the gums, jaw bone, or teeth roots. This may not be as visible, but it will still need to be seen by a professional.

No matter what happened, the most important thing immediately after an accident is to stay calm. The next step should be to assess the damage: is there any bleeding? Are you (or whoever suffered the accident) unconscious or dizzy?

Then, you should check for tooth damage. Take a look at the teeth close to the blow and make sure they are not chipped or completely knocked off. Whatever you do next will depend on what you find.

Knocked off Teeth

A “knocked off tooth” is when an entire tooth has been removed or become loose following a severe blow. Depending on the type of injury, it may be possible to re-attach the tooth – but this will definitely require heading emergency dental care.

Your chances of saving the tooth will increase through quick action, as well as any of the following:

Find the missing tooth as quickly as possible. Try to avoid swallowing any saliva until the tooth has been found.

Hold the tooth by the crown (the part that usually chews food), never by the root.

Rinse the tooth in pure water – no toothpaste, no mouthwash, and nothing chemical. Do NOT try to brush the tooth either: the priority right now is to prevent any further damage to the thinner, frailer parts of the tooth.

If possible, while on the way to the emergency dental clinic, try to place the teeth back on its socket. This will prevent the adjacent teeth from sliding as well. If blood or swelling makes this impossible, place it in a glass of milk.

Harder to spot than a knocked-out tooth, a cracked or chipped tooth has nonetheless suffered significant damage and may require professional attention. Your chances of repairing the tooth or of preventing further damage will be dramatically affected by how quickly you visit an emergency dentist, and by the number of resulting pieces.

In the case of a chipped tooth (when a corner or a piece of the tooth has come out):

Locate the missing piece or pieces.

Rinse them in water only

Rinse your mouth using warm water only. Do NOT use mouthwash. When you spit out the water, check it to find any extra small pieces of the tooth.

While on the way to your dentist’s office, store the pieces in milk or saliva.

If the tooth has been cracked, but not broken, rinse your mouth with water. Use a cold compress to lower inflammation, and then inform your dentist you’ve had a dental emergency. You will still need to be assessed and may need a dental X-ray done.

Abrupt or Acute Toothaches

Most of the time, acute toothaches stem from untreated infections or abscesses. These conditions may have been developing over several days – but it is not uncommon for the pain to appear abruptly one morning. If this happens:

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Contact your dentist and request an urgent appointment.

If you are feverish, unable to speak or notice your gums are bleeding or have pus (a foul-smelling, yellow, or green secretion around them), head to the emergency room.

Blows to the Mouth or Jaw with no Visible Damage

A car accident, sports mishap, or fight can all result in a sharp blow to the mouth or jaw. Even if your teeth were not visibly knocked out or cracked, you may still have damaged the root or your jaw bone – in which case, you may still be at risk for complications.

Look out for any of these red flags to know whether to call your emergency dentist, just in case:

If the pain worsens throughout the day, even after taking a pain reliever (such as Advil) or applying a cold compress).

If you feel your jaw is locked or if it clicks or hurts when you try to open it.

If you begin experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain during the following days.

If you lost consciousness, feel nauseous or sleepy, begin vomiting, or one of your pupils is larger than the other, head to an emergency room immediately.

Nobody is ever free from dental emergencies. Whenever possible, these events should be handled by your best dentist in Pasadena FL: he or she is in the best position to thoroughly assess the damage. However, if your teeth have been visibly damaged after hours, then take no chances: speedy treatment will be your best bet if you want to keep your tooth.

[ammywilson]

Common Dental Myths and Misconceptions

How you take care of your teeth affects your overall health. Indicators of your well-being are a healthy set of teeth. Thus, it isn’t a surprise that many people today consider oral health as one of their top priorities for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

While good oral health can be accomplished by taking a few minutes for yourself daily, irreversible damage can be done with the wrong practices. There is an enormous amount of advice available online regarding tips for appropriate oral care.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to taking care of your smile. The message can sometimes get crossed with new developments that are happening in healthcare every day. Dental myths can make your oral health deteriorate instead of making your teeth healthy.

The following are some common dental myths combined. so that you will came across the the truth behind them.

Myth: “You will clean your teeth more thoroughly if you brush harder.”

The truth:

A too abrasive toothbrush or brushing your teeth too hard can erode some of the hard enamel that has a function of protecting the insides of the tooth from decay and cavities. Instead of keeping your teeth cleaner, this will actually harm them. Doctors always recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Myth: “Flossing creates spaces between your teeth.”

The truth:

Flossing prevents tooth decay between your teeth, it does not create spaces between them. When flossing, you remove food debris around your hums and teeth, and by removing the harmful bacteria you keep your mouth healthy. When you start flossing your teeth, you might experience bleedings gums, but a few weeks into the routine the bleeding will go away.

If the bleeding continues to happen, you might have a more severe case of gum disease and they need an appointment with the best dentist in Pasadena FL. Your dentist will help you determine the reason and develop a treatment plan. 

Myth: “If you brush your teeth really well before going to the dentist, no one will be able to tell you haven’t been regularly brushing your teeth”

The truth:

Hard tartar will form around your teeth if you don’t regularly brush and floss them, and it will no longer be possible to get it off with brushing your teeth. After tartar and plague have accumulated over a long period of time you can’t undo the inflammation in your gums. The amount of tartar and the bleeding gums are a dead giveaway to bad oral hygiene.

Myth: “Only sugar causes cavities.”

The truth: Sugar itself doesn’t cause cavities, although it can contribute to it. As the sugar breaks down, it feeds the bacteria that creates plaque in your mouth and it makes the acid that wears away the enamel of your teeth worse.

Even if you don’t consume sugar, you will still be risking cavities if you don’t brush and floss properly. Sugar produces more acid and increases the chances of cavities if it stays longer in your mouth, so you should brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after eating sugary food.

Also, sugar isn’t the only cause for tooth cavities. Sugar-free carbonated drinks, alcohol, citrus fruits, and starchy foods can also be blamed for damaging your teeth. In order to prioritize your oral health, you should replace these foods with vegetables and fruits that have a lot of fiber in them. These types of food will restore the mineral in your teeth by generating the flow of saliva.

Myth: “You don’t need the dentist if you aren’t experiencing a toothache.”

The truth:

When it comes to oral health, people who don’t visit the dentist regularly end up paying the price. Even if everything seems normal, you must visit the dentist on a regular basis in order to prevent oral health diseases.

You won’t be able to see some oral health problems at the begging. For example, when cavities are starting to form, you won’t feel any pain immediately. The best way to maintain good oral health is to do dental exams every six months because that’s how you can spot the trouble before it even starts.

Myth: “White teeth are healthy teeth.”

The truth: It is a common misconception that teeth that are pearly white are healthy. People don’t have the same natural color for their teeth, so having white teeth isn’t the standard for good oral health. Natural tooth color varies in lightness and is especially dependent on our age.

It doesn’t mean that a person has better oral hygiene if they have whiter teeth than another. Primary indications of good oral health are zero cavity and fresh breath.

Myth: “Chewing gum is like brushing your teeth.”

The truth:

Chewing gum cannot replace brushing your teeth. While chewing gums can promote better breath and cleaner teeth, it cannot replace regularly brushing and flossing your teeth.

[ammywilson]

What Does Flossing Do?

Flossing doesn't allow dangerous plaque and bacteria to grow in the mouth. Some bacteria can begin to cavities over time. However, gingivitis and gum inflammation can occur in the mouth from plaque and bacteria after only a few days. Brushing only sweeps about two-thirds of the mouth, so flossing is necessary to clean the other one-third in those areas that the toothbrush doesn't reach. But still, it is important to have routine cleaning with the dentist in Pasadena FL, for overall healthy gums.

[ammywilson]

Oral Hygiene Health

What does good oral hygiene mean to you: Flashing a pearly-white smile? Having fresh smelling breath? Feeling that squeaky-clean sensation all around your teeth and tongue? All of these are important indicators about the state of your oral health - and they're often the first thing people notice when they meet you.

But getting your teeth, gums, and mouth really clean, and maintaining that healthy state throughout the day (and in the months between professional dental cleanings) can be challenging.

Of course, there's much more to oral hygiene than just a bright smile. Take tooth decay, for example: Despite all our efforts, it's still the single most common chronic disease of childhood, affecting two-thirds of U.S. kids aged 12-19. It is 5 times more common than asthma, 7 times more common than hay fever - and it's almost totally preventable.

Several other diseases commonly affect the mouth, including periodontitis (gum disease), which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss and possibly systemic (whole-body) inflammation.

In many ways, the health of the mouth mirrors the health of the body. Diseases in other parts of the body often cause symptoms we can observe in the mouth; likewise, oral maladies (like tooth loss) not only reduce an individual's quality of life but may also lead to problems in other areas. That's another reason why maintaining good oral hygiene is so important.

KEEPING UP YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Regular dental visits play a critical role in maintaining your oral health - not only to find and remedy any problems with teeth or gums, but also to assess the general condition of your oral health, point out potential trouble spots, and offer suggestions for preventive care.

In between visits, the best way to keep your teeth clean and free of disease, your gums pink and healthy, and your breath fresh, is a program of daily oral hygiene. Your regular routine should include the following:

Brush and Floss. You should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. This will help remove plaque, a bacteria-laden biofilm, from the surfaces of your teeth. The bacteria in plaque can turn sugars from food into acids, which attack the tooth's enamel and cause tooth decay. Some bacteria can also cause gingivitis and other gum diseases.

Make sure you're getting the proper amount of fluoride. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel - it's essential for children's developing teeth, and helps prevent decay in both kids and adults. Even if your municipal water is fluoridated, you should always use fluoride toothpaste. If more fluoride is needed, it can be applied directly to your teeth at the dental office.

Limit between-meal snacks. Sugary snacks are the perfect fuel for decay-causing bacteria - and when eaten throughout the day, they keep the acid constantly on the attack. So give your mouth a break, and (if you allow them) limit sugary treats to mealtime.

Use an appropriate mouthrinse - especially if you're at increased risk. Therapeutic mouthrinses do more than temporarily mask bad smells or tastes in your mouth - they can improve your overall oral hygiene. While some over-the-counter products offer primarily "cosmetic" benefits, therapeutic rinses contain anti-bacterial and anti-cariogenic (cavity-fighting) ingredients. Using a therapeutic mouthrinse has been proven to control plaque bacteria and prevent cavities better than brushing and flossing alone.

Quit tobacco. Whether smoked or smokeless, tobacco use greatly increases your risk of oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay (not to mention heart disease and lung cancer... but you already knew that). If you use tobacco, ask us how to quit now.

Examine your mouth regularly. Once you've established a regular routine, you'll quickly recognize any changes in your mouth - like chipped teeth, red or swollen gums, or unusual sores. If you find something of concern, let us know. Early treatment offers the best chance to remedy many problems.

A major goal of dentist in Treasure Island FL is to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime. By following oral hygiene, you have the best chance of making this goal a reality.

[ammywilson]

Healthy snack choices for your teeth

We all know that snacking is bad for our waistline, but do you know it’s also evil for your teeth? Every time you eat or drink, plaque develops up in your mouth. So, if you get the urge to snack, the qualified dentist in Treasure Island, FL suggests having crunchy fruit or vegetables such as carrots, celery, or apple. Alternatively, you could pick cheese or other low-fat farm products that don’t hold a lot of sugar. Try to evade citrus fruits such as oranges and satsumas, or meals that will stick to your teeth such as toffees, dried fruit, or crisps.

[ammywilson]

How to fix a cracked tooth?

A cracked tooth is a fracture in the hard outer shell of the tooth, also known as enamel. The primary function of the coating is to protect the soft inner shell of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. A crack in the tooth may be due to various reasons that can result in pain or even in nothing!

There are a lot of reasons that can lead to a tooth fracture. The reasons can be too much chewing of hard foods or the involuntary grinding of the teeth. Tooth crack may also occur owing to natural causes such as aging. The symptoms of a cracked tooth depend on the type of breakage. People consult professionals for a speedy recovery.

Causes of a Cracked Tooth

Several causes lead to a fracture in the teeth. Some of those significant causes are,

Teeth Grinding

Shaking off the tooth integration due to extra large filings.

Chewing hard foods such as hard chocolates.

The accidental hitting of the mouth to any hard device.

Not maintaining the proper balance of temperatures while consuming any food like eating a bowl of hot soup followed by cold water.

Natural causes such as aging factors.

Different Types of Cracked Tooth

There is a wide range of variety in the types of cracked teeth. They are,

Craze Lines: These are a fracture on the enamel with no pain and can be survived without treatment.

Fractured Cusps: The cracks that generally feature around the dental filling are known as fractured cusps. The tooth pulp isn’t affected much by this type of fracture. Hence, it doesn’t cause much pain.

Gum Extension: Sometimes, it may so occur that a vertical crack appears in the tooth. It is not harmful unless it extends the gum line. Upon doing the same, the only remedy is to have the affected tooth extracted. Prompt treatment is the most excellent remedy in this case.

A Tooth Split: In this phenomenon, the crack reaches below the gum line and has two separate sections. These types of cracks are intense, and hardly there are any chances of saving the tooth. But, sometimes with proficient treatment, dentists can save a part of it.

A Fracture in the Root, Vertical

In this regard, the cracks typically develop in the gum line and start to move upward. Symptoms don’t usually show up in the beginning and start to evolve as the tooth begins to infect. The extraction of the tooth happens to be the only remedy in such cases.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of a cracked tooth are,

Massive pain during the consumption of any food.

A feeling of sensitivity while taking foods of different temperatures.

Fluctuation in pain.

The gum beneath the cracked tooth swells up.

Fixing of a cracked tooth, Treatments

Several treatments are there to fix a cracked tooth. Though, the checkups depend on the type of crack and symptoms included. Based on these factors, the clinics or specialists may come up with the following remedies.

Bonding

This is the procedure where the dentist applies a plastic resin beneath the crack to cover it up. Thus, both the functions and appearance of the tooth are revived. The cost of this treatment ranges between $100 and $1000.

Crown

A crown is a dental tool, a prosthetic component to be precise, composed of ceramic. A suitable crown, adjustable with the color of the teeth of the patient, is fit into the cracked area. Sometimes, the process may require a few days owing to the construction time of the tool.

Though, there are many clinics where the crown is set immediately. It needs to be kept under proper care to have it safe throughout. The cost in this range stays between $1,000 and $1,500.

Root Canal

A critical treatment for extensively serious tooth cracks is the root canals. This treatment helps to eliminate the affected pulp, thus reviving the tooth integrity.

This treatment helps in the prevention of further decaying or harm of the tooth. Depending upon the tooth location, the price for this treatment stays between $500 and $2,000.

Extraction method

When the crack issue gets severe, and the patient is suffering from utter pain owing to certain complications related to roots and tooth structure, the surgeon advises to have the damaged tooth extracted for avoiding further complications. The cost stays between $150 and $250.

Natural Processes

Some minor crack may occur at times leading to no pain or adverse effect in the appearance. There are no such treatments for these issues, and they are useful to be left intact as they heal with time.

Precautions that One Might Take

The dental procedures sometimes are much painful too. So, one might take care of his oral health to avoid further complications. The things one can do are:

Brushing twice a day along with the proper practice of gargle.

Booking an appointment with the best dentist in St Pete Beach Fl twice a year.

Practicing of consumption of soft food materials and avoiding the hard ones like hard toffees.

Using a mouth guard is recommendable while getting to play cricket or any other relevant outdoor games.

Many people these days are facing the common issue of tooth crack. Not only the procedures available for it are costly but are complicated too.

Again, an unpleasing fact is a cracked tooth is never subjected to complete recovery ever, no matter how standard the treatments are. So, it is a wise move to take care from the very beginning with the proper practice of oral hygiene.

[ammywilson]

Pros & Cons Of Cosmetic Dentistry

It has become a common practice to consider cosmetic dentistry procedures as a way to improve the appearance of your smile. But while most people relate cosmetic dentistry with smile makeovers that will boost your confidence, it is essential to educate yourself about the pros and cons associated with each procedure.

Teeth Whitening

One of the most economical types of cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening involves bleaching your teeth to several shades lighter and enjoying a whiter and brighter smile. Teeth whitening can be done professionally in the dental office or at home with the help of over-the-counter products.

Pros:

Relatively inexpensive compared to other variations of cosmetic dentistry. Professional teeth whitening is usually costlier than over-the-counter products.

Non-invasive

One of the quickest forms of cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening is done in the dental clinic usually only takes about an hour.

Cons:

Some patients may experience tooth sensitivity.

It is not permanent. The whitening effects last only about six months before the procedure needs to be done again.

Some amount of stain-causing foods like wine, sauces, excessive tea, and coffee, etc. need to be avoided.

May not work on extreme discoloration or some severe stains.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure done on teeth with minor gaps, chips, cracks, etc. A tooth-colored composite resin is molded onto these imperfections and activated with a curing light. This hardens the resin into a tooth-like structure and corrects the minor defects. Composite resin is also used for filling dental cavities.

Pros:

Relatively inexpensive.

Teeth can be fixed in a single appointment.

Minimally invasive.

Cons:

It does not last very long. Most composite resin restorations last about 5-7 years.

It can be used to fix only minor defects and imperfections.

Staining due to various reasons may occur over time.

Veneers

Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that can be bonded onto the front surface of the anterior teeth. They are capable of completely transforming the appearance of crooked, malformed, discolored, or unevenly spaced teeth. The widely popular ‘Hollywood Smile’ makeover can be achieved with dental veneers.

Pros:

A quick approach to fixing most cosmetic dental problems.

Completely transforms dental appearance into a perfect smile.

Relatively long-lasting.

Cons:

They are usually quite expensive.

Patients with habits like clenching or grinding may damage the veneers. They made need to wear night-guards while sleeping.

Dental Crowns

Also known as ‘caps,’ crowns are like veneers but cover the entire tooth instead of just the front surface. Dental crowns are also made of porcelain, but newer varieties are made of materials like zirconia. They are usually placed on decayed or damaged teeth, and after root canal treatments to lend structural integrity to the tooth.

Pros:

Lend support to extensively damaged teeth and may save it from the need for extraction.

It can serve multiple purposes.

Long-lasting if fabricated well.

Cons:

Tooth requires extensive preparation.

May lead to gum recession or tooth sensitivity.

The shade of the crown may not match the rest of the teeth after a given period of time.

It can be expensive if needed on multiple teeth.

Dental Implants

Implants are biocompatible screws drilled into the jawbone and topped with dental crowns to replace missing teeth. Because of their impressive qualities and advantages compared to traditional means of tooth replacement, dental implants have risen immensely in popularity.

The dental implant procedure involves a surgical step for the installation of the implant screw into the bone. After a waiting period of 4-6 months to allow for osseointegration, the dental crown is placed onto the implant.

Pros:

Long-lasting. Do not require replacements if the procedure is done well.

Improves appearance by preventing the bone loss that may be caused as a result of missing teeth.

Improves the quality of life by eliminating the need to replace and maintain dentures and bridges.

Cons:

Can be very expensive

The healing phase after surgery can last very long, which, in turn, increases the duration of treatment.

The risk of infection is prominent and requires care and maintenance during the postoperative period.

Braces

Orthodontic treatments, commonly referred to as getting braces, are common among teenagers and adolescents. However, adults can qualify for orthodontic treatments as well, depending on the type of correction required with their teeth.

Braces are metal or ceramic brackets placed on the teeth and connected by wires. They can be used to correct dental problems like gaps, crooked, or misaligned teeth.

Pros:

The effects of a correctly done orthodontic treatment usually last a lifetime. It can help in correcting most kinds of defects with the alignment of the teeth.

Cons:

Orthodontic treatment can be expensive.

The complete treatment usually takes at least a year. In some cases, the treatment may take even several years.

Aesthetically, traditional braces can make an individual conscious of their appearance.

If you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry can assist in giving you a bright and more youthful smile in a relatively short span of time. 

The right kind of treatment performed by the dentists in st Pete Beach Fl for you will depend on your dental health and requirements, your budget, and your dental insurance coverage.

[ammywilson]

5 Common Orthodontic Myths: BUSTED

Everybody loves the opportunity to bust a persistent myth (hence shows like Mythbusters racking up an impressive 19 seasons over the years!) In the world of orthodontics, they come across fair share of myths related to everything from braces to overbites and back again.

Unfortunately, however, some of that knowledge can come from misinformed friends and family, or from unreliable internet sources. Here they've collected - and busted! - 5 of the most common orthodontic myths they've come across.

MYTH: Traditional metal braces are my only orthodontic option for straight teeth

BUSTED: Modern orthodontics have made metal braces more comfortable and subtle than ever, but many people are still hesitant to wear them. The good news is, there are now multiple options to straighten and treat your teeth! With new technology, it is now possible to have straight teeth without ever having to wear braces!

MYTH: Once my braces come off, my teeth will stay straight

BUSTED: Straightening your teeth and correcting your bite is only half the battle. Braces are designed to permanently straighten teeth, but your smile can still shift after alignment. Teeth are connected to the bone by elastic fibers, and as teeth are moved into their new straightened positions, some of those elastic fibers are stretched, while others are compressed.

After your braces are removed, these elastic fibers will tend to try to push and pull your teeth back towards their original position. This is why orthodontic retainers are required when braces are removed! Most orthodontists recommend wearing your removable retainer every day for the first few months after your braces come off. From there, you can begin tapering down how often you wear it.

MYTH: My wisdom teeth are causing me crooked teeth!

BUSTED: It's easy to understand why so many people think wisdom teeth can cause crowding of the other teeth, but there is now a pretty large body of evidence that disproves that theory. Studies have shown that teeth will drift forward throughout life naturally, whether the wisdom teeth are present or have been extracted.

Even in people who have had all their wisdom teeth removed, teeth drift forward slightly over time, and the distance between some of the lower canine teeth gets narrower over the years.

They still don't completely understand why this happens, but we do know that the presence or absence of the wisdom teeth is not usually directly related. The size, shape, and original position of the teeth can all play a significant role in the development of any crowding.

Best dentist in Pasadena FL always stresses the importance of proper retainer wear after your treatment is complete. Wearing your retainers as instructed ensures your teeth won't move regardless of whether or not you still have your wisdom teeth are there or not.

MYTH: Dentists and orthodontists are interchangeable

BUSTED: There are many similarities between orthodontists and dentists, but it's the differences that set them apart. For example, all orthodontists and dentists graduate from dental school, but from there, orthodontists take a different path by attending additional schooling and training to specialize in straightening teeth.

Once accepted into an orthodontic residency program, orthodontists will take on two to three years of full-time training concentrating on orthodontia including braces, bite problems, and straightening teeth. Most regular dentists won't have this kind of rigorous training.

In the same way that medical doctors who want to specialize in a field such as cardiology or pulmonology will go on to do so after medical school, orthodontists are essentially dentists who have specialized, additional training.

MYTH: Orthodontic treatment is only for kids

BUSTED: For a long time, orthodontists did treat mostly children and adolescents, but in recent years, the number of adults seeking orthodontic care has skyrocketed! Currently, adults make up about 25% of all orthodontic patients.

You're never too old to benefit from orthodontic treatment, because no matter what your age, proper aligned teeth contribute to your overall oral health and a beautiful smile.

Additionally, leaving misaligned teeth untreated could lead to other dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, as well as the uneven wear and tear on tooth enamel, and difficulty in chewing.

Adult orthodontic treatment can correct crooked teeth or spaces that you've been self-conscious about for years. It can also create a better bite by fitting your teeth together better, and decrease the risk of future dental issues, like tooth decay and gum disease.

[ammywilson]

How Healthy Eating Helps Oral Health

Healthy eating helps oral health, because it may help prevent tooth decay. Eating crunchy foods like apples, celery, and raw carrots not only supply good nutrients but also can help to wash your teeth and massage your gums to increase circulation when you eat them. Healthy eating can be enjoyable and exciting as you begin to try new things and knowing the variety of flavors and benefits of nutrient-rich and whole foods. But at the same time going for regular dental checkups from the best dentist in St Pete Beach FL is very much important. 

[ammywilson]

What Causes Cavities?

Cavities happen when the hard surface of your teeth, called enamel, becomes permanently damaged and creates a hole. The cavity is caused by bacteria in your mouth, this can be encouraged by snacking often and eating or drinking sugary or acidic foods, without using proper dental hygiene. Choosing healthier food and drink options can go a long way towards preventing cavities. Ask the best dentist in Pasadena FL for recommendations on how to know which foods to avoid as well as healthier options that fit your taste and lifestyle.

[ammywilson]

How long does a professional teeth whitening last?

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic or dental treatment. This means that through dental whitening we improve the aesthetics of the patient without negatively affecting the health of the teeth.

What are the benefits of teeth whitening?

Thanks to teeth whitening, we are able to correct tooth color changes that may have been caused over time by:

Poor oral-dental hygiene

Patient genetics

An illness

Intake of some medications

Habits like smoking

Excessive intake of food that stains teeth

We are able to lighten and correct these color changes. We strive to provide personalized whitening methods that adapt to each patient. This is essential to providing a correct diagnosis and assessing the state of the patient’s teeth. We focus on the patient’s expectations and set treatment goals. From there, we design the perfect treatment plan to carry out.

Home Whitening:

This is a treatment to be carried out by the patient at home through the application of whitening gels that the patient himself will place in personalized splints for him and these will be placed in the mouth during a specific period of time.

The splints are transparent, and vacuum made so that they adapt perfectly to the anatomy of the teeth and allow speaking without problems.

How long does this type of teeth whitening last? Can complications occur?

A good whitening directed by specialists and performed with good products can achieve great results, which will also be stable over time. This does not mean that the color we obtain at the end of the treatment will be unalterable for the rest of our lives. 

We have to be aware that teeth whitening is a non-invasive treatment that is limited to lightening the color of the tooth without affecting its structure or vitality. 

Therefore, our teeth will behave like natural teeth and will acquire color depending on our habits: oral-dental hygiene, food intake that stains the teeth, smoking. Maintaining a white smile will depend largely on ourselves and how our teeth age with the passage of time.

The most common complication that can occur in whitening is the appearance of dental hypersensitivity associated with treatment. It is not dangerous, because when the treatment is withdrawn, the sensitivity dissipates in a short time.

To avoid this, the state of the patient’s enamel must be carefully taken into account when making the initial diagnosis. For these patients with dental sensitivity, there is a specific whitening protocol for sensitive teeth, through which the enamel is remineralized throughout the treatment while bleaching is performed. 

That is, the structure of the enamel is reinforced before and during bleaching. This prevents troublesome complications arising from the whitening procedure.

How to keep white teeth as long as possible after treatment?

After whitening, as I mentioned previously, long-term color maintenance will depend fundamentally on our habits: oral-dental hygiene, food intake that stains teeth, smoking … 

But it is true that there is a critical period that is 72 hours after the treatment. After the session, the enamel leaves the teeth very porous and is very susceptible to absorbing staining.

During those 72 hours, it is recommended to do what we call the “White Diet”, that is, to do without dark-colored foods that stain, such as chocolate, coffee, tea, red fruits, of course, no tobacco. 

The idea is to give patients all the recommendations in writing so that they have no doubts about what to avoid eating.

Once the treatment is finished, we recommend the use of a daily mouthwash that forms a protective film around the tooth, making it difficult for stains to adhere.

There are different alternatives for teeth whitening and easy color maintenance. The important thing is always a good diagnosis and putting yourself in the hands of the best dentists in Pasadena FL.