Patient Information BlogAbout Root Canal therapy and it’s TreatmentRoot canal therapy treats the inside part of the tooth, so it’s known as the endodontic procedure. Our inside part of teeth consists of a pulp chamber and root canals that are full of the dental pulp. Deep decay or fracture can affect the tooth pulp. If this happens, the pulp becomes infected and inflamed. A pulp infection can spread everywhere in the mouth and you can’t save it without doing a root canal procedure. Through a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed from inside the teeth and the teeth are filled. Myths of root canal therapy Most of us are scared even hearing the name of the root canal treatment. People have spread rumors regarding root canal therapy. You might have heard about a root canal is painful, invasive, intense and even the worst dental procedure. None of the above is true. The root canal is performed to prevent something much worse. Nowadays root canal has become straight forward, pain-free and easier than before. Root canal has a fearsome reputation because it’s misunderstood. If you are thinking of getting root canal therapy in Campbell, go for it fearlessly. How does root canal procedure work? Given below are the steps that provide a full idea about the working of root canal procedure: At first, your dentist will conduct an x-ray to determine the condition of your teeth. With the help of a local anesthetic, the affected tooth will be numbed. A dental dam or rubber sheet is placed around the teeth to protect the bacteria and other things from getting inside the teeth. With the help of a dental drill, a small opening will be made into the teeth by your dentist. The dentist can now access the pulp chamber through this opening. The pulp is removed with the help of endodontic files and the walls of the root canal are shaped. The root canal is then disinfected and the hollow part of the root canal is filled with a rubber kind of material known as gutta-percha. A crown restoration may also be required after the therapy. Patients may have a normal discomfort for about 3 to 4 days. If the pain is unbearable and continued for long, immediately visit your dentist. If you need root canal therapy, visit us at Lotus Dental and get exceptional services for a root canal today. Contact us for booking your appointment.... Read more...The Warning Signs that you need a root canal treatmentRoot canal treatment is a process that helps in saving severely affected and damaged teeth. This is done by saving the infected tooth by repairing your tooth pulp. People have a fear regarding root canal therapy that it will be painful, but actually it helps you to alleviate the pain. Given below are some of the common symptoms that suggests whether you need a root canal or not: One of the most common symptoms that can confirm a root canal is the pain which one has to experience. It ranges from mild discomfort to severe pain and can occur only when you sleep or bite a food particle. This leads to searing pain in the teeth. Few patients may undergo the classic do-or-die symptom for a root canal. The symptom is recurring pain when something hot or cold is consumed. If pain is experienced, then you might need a root canal procedure. Tooth that is chipped and cracked might also require a root canal and this is inevitable as the nerves are exposed to contamination and might indicate a root canal procedure. Another noticeable symptom for a root canal is tooth discolorations which are caused due to inadequate oral hygiene or nerve damage and this would create a necessity to get a root canal treatment. If you have a cavity in your tooth for long and you have been neglecting it, the decay spreads to your roots and your nerves are affected. In such a case, only the root canal can save your teeth. Are you looking for a root canal dentist? If yes, visit us at Lotus Dental and get the best services for the root canal procedure. Our team of experts and professionals are very experienced in performing the procedure with great accuracy. Contact us today for booking your appointment with us.... Read more...Enhance the beauty of your smile with Orthodontic treatmentSmiling is the quintessence of one’s personality. You achieve an enhanced appearance, increased confidence level, and an aura positiveness revolves around you. However, if your teeth structure is not good and you become conscious, your confidence level lowers down. Orthodontic treatment offers the ideal solution to align the structure of your teeth and offer a confident smile. At Lotus Dental, our orthodontics specialist provides you with the best orthodontics in Campbell. Our team works hard to invent a blissful smile through orthodontic dentistry. Our affordable dental care solutions fit into your needs and offer you a quality smile. Before, orthodontic’s scope was limited to only metal braces for rectifying the issues of misaligned teeth. Technology has advanced to that level that other alternatives that are more comfortable and aesthetic than metal braces are available. Traditional metal braces show very effective results, but the discomfort it produces urges people to shift over other alternatives. With metal braces in the mouth, people find it difficult to speak, chew and clean, which lastly results in discoloration of the teeth. Invisalign braces are a perfect alternative to metal braces. They are barely visible when you wear them and are removable as well. Another kind of braces are the lingual braces which are almost similar to traditional metal braces, but they are placed on the backside of the teeth, which makes them completely invisible. They are made up of fragile brackets. They neither compromise on your comfort nor appearance. Ceramic braces are another invention that matches the color of your tooth and is comfortable. They are placed on the front part of the teeth to offer a beautiful smile. They help correct the structure of your teeth in 12 to 18 months.... Read more...10 Surprising Myths About Orthodontic TreatmentYou must have heard a lot of myths and rumors about braces. Before getting orthodontic treatment, you must have all the correct information about it. Here are 10 myths about orthodontic treatment: Any professional providing orthodontic treatment is an orthodontist Not everyone can be called an orthodontist except the ones who have completed additional advanced training needed to become an orthodontist. Cost of braces are more than they should be Braces cost will appear to you like a significant investment of your time and money. They offer lifelong advantages that not only improve your appearance but also bring back your lost confidence. Straightening teeth takes years Orthodontic treatment needs close monitoring to find out whether your teeth are responding correctly to the treatment plan or not. The timeframe for each patient depends on their case. If only minor changes are required for your teeth, the treatment will take only a few months. The only appearance is changed with braces Apart from improved appearance, braces have many benefits like better oral health, properly aligned jaw as well as daily benefits like ease in eating, chewing, biting or speaking. Metal braces are the best option for straightening teeth Those days are gone when the only option available was metal braces for straightening teeth. Now you can choose the braces that suit your lifestyle and comfort and offer you a healthy smile. Mail order orthodontic treatment offers safe teeth straightening If your orthodontist doesn’t see your mouth and gums regularly and monitor them, then mail-order orthodontic treatment can be highly risky as well as costly. Straightening teeth can be done at home by yourself An orthodontist is a warning for people not to go for DIY techniques for straightening teeth as they can lead to further irreparable damage. Only teenagers and children can straighten their teeth Orthodontics is seen common among children and teenagers, but a healthy smile can be attained at any age. Braces are easily breakable Braces are bonded to your teeth, making them durable and capable of withstanding your entire treatment. Treatment results last for a lifetime Once you take out your braces, they will start moving to their natural position. Shift prevention can be done. If you are looking for orthodontics and orthopedics in Campbell, visit us at Lotus Dental Group and get exceptional services for a healthy smile. ... Read more...Dental Implants: Pros and consUnnecessary teeth gaps can be the reason for a person’s shy smile. These gaps may be as a result of an accident or disease. Tooth Implants work effectively in such cases. They have proven to fix the teeth gaps by placing an artificial tooth as a replacement. This replacement tooth looks exactly like an original one. It functions in the same way too but is made of titanium. Dental implants have proven to be an effective long-term solution to dental problems caused by damaged, broken or lost teeth. The entire process might take a long time, depending on the situation of the patient. Firstly the base is laid on the jawbone of the person where the tooth would be placed. After it fixes in the jawbone, the implant or the artificial tooth is placed in it. Dental Implants is a cosmetic procedure that has a high success rate and is popular among people. However, it has its own set of pros and cons. Here, we discuss these points for you to decide the best. What are the pros? The implants are self-sufficient when it comes to seeking support from neighboring teeth. These won’t be affected by the damage of the nearby tooth. They function like normal teeth and poses no difficulty to the person in chewing or talking. It also looks the same. People reportedly have better dental health after getting an implant. What are the cons? It requires your maintenance. After the implant, you would be required to take care of it by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth. For smokers, the success rate might not be satisfactory. Since it involves the surgical process, people might have side effects in the form of infections. However, this happens rarely. Implants are time-taking procedures. It takes up to six months for the procedure to be complete as it involves multiple steps. Not suitable for people with osteoporosis or other health complication. The procedure can be costly. Overall, it is a safe and effective long term investment. Implants can help replace misplaced teeth and the lost confidence of the person. ... Read more...Dental Health benefits of Orthodontic treatmentOrthodontic treatment helps to achieve a healthy dentition and an amazing smile which has motivated a lot of adults to get more treatments for improving their dental aesthetics. Do we know about all the benefits orthodontic treatment offers us? There is a list of benefits that are beyond a smile. Let’s know some of them. Orthodontics helps in improving your teeth position, functioning and aesthetics if dental pieces. This benefit is clearly visible. Your bones and gums appear healthier. It helps in correcting occlusion and positioning of teeth. The condition of your mouth is improved and also increase dental hygiene. It provides correct alignment to your teeth that provide oral health and appropriate cleaning of your entire dental cavity improves the condition of your mouth. It helps in relieving excess pressure on the jaw joint. Orthodontics correct your bites and malocclusion. Your digestion is also improved. Due to malocclusion, you are not able to chew the food properly which leads to difficulty in swallowing and digestion. Once the issue is corrected, digestion is improved. As general oral health is improved the risk of periodontal diseases, infections, tooth decay. Some of the patients who have severe bite problems have issues pronouncing words. After undergoing orthodontic treatment, these issues in speech are corrected and improved. Through orthodontic treatment, dental trauma risks can also be reduced. A patient who has overcrowding or other oral issues loses his or her self esteem. Through orthodontic treatment, you get a new smile and regain your self-confidence. In short, your quality of life is improved through the above-given benefits. If you require orthodontic treatment for your dental health, visit us at Lotus Dental and improve the quality of your oral health through our exceptional treatments. ... Read more...Manifold Benefits of Root Canal Therapy You can get sleepless nights due to toothaches and as facts, the aching tooth will lead to an unbeatable life. It instigates headaches, paralyzing pain inside the mouth and makes eating very difficult and unimaginable. The reason is mainly tooth decay which leads to infected pulp and makes living uncomfortable. Through root canal treatment, you can easily get over this pain. What do you mean by Root Canal Therapy? A root canal is an endodontic treatment that follows a sequence and focuses on the pulp cavity of the tooth. It helps in eliminating the infection or inflammation in the pulp and thus protects the teeth. The treatment involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp and the inside part of the tooth is cleaned. It follows disinfection to prevent any further damage. Finally, a material is used to fill up and seal the rubber tube. Lastly, the tooth is restored with a crown or fillings. Benefits of root canal therapy There are numerous benefits attached to root canal treatment. Some of them are given below: Virtual painless procedure Through the root canal, you experience less pain and often you are left with less discomfort during recovery, unlike the tooth extraction process. Fortunately, we have modern techniques and effective anesthesia that patients who have got root canal have described it like six times less painful than getting an extraction. Efficient and cost-effective This treatment takes less time than tooth extraction as well as it is budget-friendly. Many of the insurances cover endodontic treatments too. Visually appealing outcome Through root canal treatment, you get crowns which not only appears like a natural tooth but also give you a feeling of the natural tooth. If you are looking for the right root canal dentist, visit us at Lotus Dental Group and get the best treatments done. Contact us today and improve your smile with root canal treatment. ... Read more...How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?Dental accidents or trauma can take place at any point in time. Sometimes your situation is that critical that you understand your teeth is going to be extracted. When the thought of tooth extraction treatment comes to our mind, along with fear we are also occupied with several other thoughts. What will be the recovery time? Will a lot of work be missed? These questions run through our mind. Let’s find out through this blog how soon you get recovered. Recovery time varies from patients to patients and depends upon various other factors like size and position of the tooth, the patient’s oral health, and how well the patient follows the aftercare instructions. In case of a simple extraction in which a tooth is removed that has already erupted into the mouth, the process of recovery is not that long. Your dental surgeon will ask you to relax for about 42 to 78 hours after the treatment so that the treatment area is allowed to clot. You can return to normal daily activities after. The soft tissues heal completely in about 3 to 4 weeks. In case of surgical extraction, wherein the tooth is still in the gums and the jawbone is removed, the process of recovery is long. The patient will be asked to take rest for 48 to 72 hours as in the case of a simple extraction. Before resuming to normal activities they should limit their physical activities for about a week. Nowadays due to modern dental technology and local anesthesia, extractions have become quick and easier and recoveries are also nice and short. If you are looking for tooth removal dental service, at Lotus Dental Group we provide amazing services of tooth extraction dentistry. Our top priority is patients health and comfort. ... Read more...Cosmetic Dentistry – What You Need to KnowIn cosmetic dentistry, the facial appearance of the person is changed by making a certain correction in the structure of the teeth. There are various procedures by which this can be done. Amongst these, the most popular ones are false teeth, teeth whitening, shaping the teeth, implants, and veneers. Sometimes, a combination of these sets is used to aim for improvised facial features. These procedures are carried out by a cosmetic dentist. A cosmetic dentist undergoes intense training before carrying them out on patients. These dental procedures are expected to be costlier than say a regular visit to your dentist for a routine check-up. However, procedures like teeth whitening are cheaper. It is also available at most of the dental clinics and doesn’t require the practitioner to have a specific skill set. To save some more money, one can buy the readily available dental whitening tooth kits and try it at home. Is cosmetic dentistry different? Yes, cosmetic dentistry is very much different from normal dentistry. A regular dental visit might involve procedures that deal with the functionality of the teeth. General procedures deal with various diseases and problems of the teeth while cosmetic surgery aims at improving the appearance of oneself by making changes to the facial features. Why is cosmetic surgery expensive? Since the procedure aims at improving the look of the person, thus it might include a combination of several methods. The instruments involved to perform such cosmetic dental care service are expensive. This can also b accompanied by certain general procedures like removal of teeth. It takes years of study and practice to become a cosmetic dentist. Thus, the visiting fee of the dentist is high. Add to this the diagnostic tests required before the procedure. If you are looking forward to enhancing your facial features, then you can opt our cosmetic dentistry Campbell services today! We, at Lotus Dental Group, provide you with expert consultants and ensure the safety of the patient. ... Read more...Your step-by-step guide to teeth whitening at the dentistWe all need a sparkling and whiter smile. It builds our confidence and makes us look beautiful. Discoloured teeth have become a common issue for everyone now. With professional teeth whitening option you can easily get your teeth whiter and brighter. Here is the step by step guide to your teeth whitening treatment. The professional teeth whitening procedure starts by consulting with your dentist. Everyone cannot be a good candidate for teeth whitening, so you need to talk to the Teeth Whitening dentist before you get it done. If you have a large filling or crown, this is not an option for you. Next is the actual whitening appointment. Once you get comfortable in the chair, your dentist will put a lip retractor into your mouth that moves your lips out of the way for easy teeth access. Your gums will be covered with a gel and then hardened with a light. This provides protection to your gums from teeth bleaching. Your dentist can also apply a compound that can prevent tooth sensitivity. The actual whitening process starts by applying a gel which is made up of 15 to 35% of hydrogen peroxide to your front teeth. Hydrogen peroxide penetrates the porous outer layer of teeth and breaks apart stain compound through oxidation. The application of whitening gel may be followed by usage of high powered light which speeds up whitening. Many systems require multiple application of gel during the treatment. Within 40 minutes the dentist will rinse off the gel and apply a fresh coat as many times as necessary. After the completion of the whitening procedure, you can achieve up to eight shades lighter teeth. If you require teeth whitening treatment, at Lotus-Group Dental we offer professional teeth whitening services by our experts to achieve a sparkling smile. Schedule an appointment today and get a dazzling smile.... Read more...Secret to a long lifeFound this interesting article on the Dawson Academy website that shows how important good dental health is too long and healthy living. http://dental.thedawsonacademy.com/the-connection-between-oral-bacteria-total-overall-health... Read more...Using red wine to fight cavities? Yes please!We found this great article on the effectiveness of red wine in preventing cavities, check it out! http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140521133617.htm... Read more...Should Children Use Mouthwash?Much like the tic-tac-toe, good dental habits come in three. Proper brushing and flossing are crucial towards keeping your children’s teeth healthy and strong. But mouthwash also plays an important role. Mouthwash is effective in fighting against tooth decay, plaque, as well as gingivitis [1]. It’s especially useful for treating hard-to-reach areas of the mouth that a toothbrush or floss simply can’t. Parents realize that even though your child’s baby teeth will be lost in a few years, they are still important and need to be taken care of. Healthy oral habits need to be established at an early age, to ensure their adult teeth are protected later on. However, you should wait until your child is older before using mouthwash. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), only children older than age 6 should use mouthwash since they are less likely of swallowing it [2]. One way to see if your child is ready for mouthwash is by using the ‘spit test’. Fill a cup with some water, have your child rinse their mouth with it, and spit it back into the cup. If they’re able to spit all the water back into the cup, it means they’re ready for mouthwash [3]. Since learning to gargle can be difficult for young children, they should always be supervised by an adult. Benefits of Children’s mouthwash There are numerous lifelong benefits of using mouthwash from an early age. Your teeth will be healthier and stronger and will be less prone to cavities in the long run. And though these lasting benefits are great, it’s the immediate ones that kids will notice the most. There is an assortment of rinses available. Many of them are aimed at kids, including alcohol-free ones. Adult mouthwashes contain alcohol for a deeper clean, so children’s mouthwashes are safer in case of accidental ingestion. Some rinses will even coat the teeth in a different color where there are food debris and bacteria left behind after brushing. This shows the exact spots that children have missed, and gives them the chance to fix the problem, by getting rid of the color and food debris that’s still there. This teaches children not to hurry and to pay attention to how well they are brushing. Many children’s mouthwash is also taste-friendly, with flavors such as berry and juicy mint. A yummy tasting mouthwash encourages them to use it on a daily basis. A good idea is to let your child choose the flavor to make it more likely of them liking it. Just remember before teaching your kid to use mouthwash, make it clear that it doesn’t excuse them from regular brushing and flossing. By teaching your child good dental habits early on, they will understand the importance of taking care of their teeth for many years to come. Sources [1] Reviewsmdd. [2013, November 14]. “4 Benefits of Using Mouthwash” Retrieved from http://www.martindaledental.com/4-benefits-of-using-mouthwash/ [2] Morrow Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry. [2012, October 22]. “When should Your Child Start Using Mouthwash?” Retrieved from http://www.tulsadentistryforchildren.com/blog/2012/10/when-should-your-child-start-using-mouthwash/ [3] Dentistry for Children. (n.d.). “When should My Child Start using Mouthwash?” Retrieved from http://www.dentistry4children.com/when-should-my-child-start-using-mouthwash/... Read more...Are you making these toothbrushing mistakes?Brushing your teeth seems like a fairly simple task right? After all, you’ve been doing it every day since you were a child. Well, turns out most people aren’t very good at brushing their teeth. As with any habit, teeth brushing can become tedious. You can go through the motions without thinking about whether or not you’re using the proper technique. But improper brushing can lead to bigger problems, such as cavities, enamel erosion, and gum disease. So find what you’re doing wrong and learn how to correct those bad brushing habits. Not Brushing Long Enough This is probably the single most frequent mistake people make while brushing. Don’t rush your brushing just because you’re late for work or ready to collapse into bed. Proper brushing takes about two or three minutes, but few people ever make it to that. Try using a stopwatch or an electric toothbrush with a timer. Do whatever it takes to make sure you’re brushing long enough. All this brushing is necessary to get rid of food debris and bacteria in your mouth to keep it clean and healthy. Brushing Too Hard Brushing harder doesn’t make your teeth cleaner. In fact, you could be doing more harm. Aggressive brushing can erode tooth enamel and wear away gum tissue, leading to receding gums. Next time use gentle pressure, holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, with the bristles pointing to your gums. This is the best way to remove plaque by brushing. Keeping Your Toothbrush Too Long Toothbrushes can wear down quickly, so it’s recommended you should get a new one every few months. Check your toothbrush regularly to make sure the bristles are flexible and not worn out. As toothbrush bristles flare, their ability to remove plaque decreases considerably. There are even toothbrushes that have color indicators on them, letting you know when it’s time to replace your brush. Using the Wrong Toothbrush Make sure you choose a toothbrush that fits your mouth. If you’re straining to open wide enough to let the toothbrush in, it’s probably too big. The handle should feel comfortable as if you’re holding a fork when you eat. The better your toothbrush fits your mouth and hand, the more likely you’ll use it correctly. As for the bristles, they should be soft or extra soft to minimize any damage that may come from brushing too hard. Hard bristles increase surface abrasion which causes wear and damage to your teeth when brushing. You can also try investing in an electric toothbrush. Studies show that electric toothbrushes do a better job at cleaning your teeth and remove more plaque than manual brushing. Not Rinsing Your Toothbrush A toothbrush that isn’t rinsed can harbor harmful germs and bacteria (bacteria that you’ll be putting back into your mouth next time you brush). Rinse and dry your toothbrush after you brush to remove food particles, and rid the moist environment that bacteria love. You can also use soap and water or antibacterial rinses for a better clean. Remember, a cleaner toothbrush means a cleaner mouth.... Read more...Top 10 Foods That Will Rot Your TeethAlthough your dentist can easily fix any cavities, stains, or teeth issues you may have, it’s better (and cheaper!) to prevent these in the first place, by properly brushing, flossing, and most importantly, eating right. Believe it or not, the food we eat has a big impact on the health of our teeth. This guide will give you a list of foods to watch out for. 1. Dried Fruits : This one may be surprising since fruits are considered healthy, but in their dried form, they are bad for your teeth. The reason for this is they are high in sugar and sticky so easily cling to your teeth, which can cause acids to build up. It’s much better to eat fruits in their fresh forms. 2. Pickles: The acid in vinegar, which is essential to the pickling process, is highly acidic, breaking down tooth enamel and causing staining. If you must eat pickles, consume in moderation and make sure you rinse out your mouth afterward. 3. Wine: Similar to pickles, red and white wines contain erosive acid, which damages the protective layer of your teeth. This lowers calcium and mineral levels and erodes the enamel. Eating cheese with your wine may counter the erosion since it’s high in calcium which helps minimize the acidic damage. 4. Pops and Sodas: Not only are these drinks packed with sugar, they are also highly acidic which lowers calcium and mineral levels and can lead to tooth erosion. Sugar-free sodas, although less harmful, are still problematic since they contain citric and phosphoric acid which can cause tooth problems. It’s better for you – and your teeth- to stay away from these sugar-loaded beverages. 5. Coffee and Tea: Coffee and tea are teeth offenders because they have high tannin content which causes staining. They also make your teeth stickier, which makes it easier for food particles to latch on. A good rule of thumb to remember: The darker the drink, the darker the stain. 6. Hard Candies: Since hard candies take longer to dissolve in your mouth, this allows more time for bacteria to build up and produce teeth eroding acid. During this period, sugar is also sticking to your teeth, doubling the damage to your enamel. 7. Curry: Curry gives Indian food that delicious flavor, but it’s also damaging for your smile. The extreme yellow color of curry practically screams out that it will stain your teeth. Eat curry sparingly and combine it with foods like spinach, that will protect your tooth enamel. 8. Peanut butter: Although peanut butter is chock full of protein, it is also loaded in carbohydrates, which can lead to bacterial growth inside your mouth. Its creamy properties allow it to stick to your gums and teeth, which makes it easier for bacteria to erode your enamel. To minimize this problem, try natural peanut butter with no added sugars. 9. Popsicles: Popsicles are the perfect snack to cool off during the hot summer days; however, these cool colorful treats are also harmful to you. Their bright colors cannot only stain your teeth, but they are also packed full of sugar. Furthermore, the fact that people tend to lick Popsicles, which makes them longer to finish, means that your teeth will be exposed to the sugar for a longer period of time, leading to more potential damage. 10. Popcorn: Many people may not be aware, but popcorn is loaded with antioxidants that help your body. Unfortunately, it is also horrible for your gums and teeth. Popcorn is well-known for being stuck in your teeth, which encourages bacteria growth. The thin shells attached to the popcorn can also cause gum problems and require potential surgery to remove it. Indulging yourself in a bag of popcorn is fine from time to time, just remember to rinse, floss, and brush afterward.... Read more...How To Escape Bad Breath In A PinchImagine, you’re sitting in the restaurant with your gorgeous new date. You’re both laughing and having a great time. Everything is going perfectly. When it suddenly hits you… Your breath smells! Maybe it was the onions you ate for lunch, or the maybe it was the coffee you had after work. But you know at this moment, you have to get rid of the stank before your date realizes and runs for the hills. So what can you do? Here are some tips to quickly freshen your breath – and maybe also save your date. Tip 1: Moisten your mouth Bad breath can often be caused by a dry mouth, so you want to keep your mouth moist and wet. Drinking water helps fight bad odor since it washes away food debris and bacteria in your mouth. In fact, you should be drinking 6 to 8 glasses a day. Ask for a glass of water with a lemon. Squeeze the lemon into your water and mix it. Lemons contain citric acid, which will help mask the odor. To get the best benefit, eat the pulp too. Tip 2: Use salt Salt is a great way to kill bacteria in your mouth. Saltwater rinses have been around for ages. References appear as early as 2700 B.C., where the Chinese used it to treat gum disease. It was a common part of the oral hygiene routine for the upper classes during the Roman Empire. Grab some salt (there should be some on the table), if you can take it without your date noticing. Another option is to leave for the bathroom and ask the waiter for some salt and a glass of water. Gargle it for 5 to 10 seconds to kill off some of the bacteria. If your date asks, you can always just say you have a sore throat. Tip 3: Eat something crunchy Order a salad that comes with apples, celery, or carrots. The fibrous nature of these foods promotes saliva production and maintains healthy pH levels in your mouth. They’re high fiber content also has the added benefit of gently massaging your gums while freshening your breath. Tip 4: Munch on parsley Parsley is a fantastic natural breath freshener. It contains chlorophyll to fight bad breath and neutralize internal body odors before they leave your body. The herb is also rich in calcium and fluorine, which helps to strengthen tooth enamel. Ask for a dish that comes with parsley for instant breath refreshment. Be sure to excuse yourself after to check if any of the herbs is stuck in your teeth. Tip 5: Clean your tongue Did you know that as much as 50% of the bacteria in your mouth live on your tongue? Yuck. And it’s these particular bacteria that cause bad breath. The best way of removing bacteria on your tongue is by scraping it off. Sneak a spoon into the bathroom and moisten it (this makes it easier to wash the scraped off gunk). Turn the spoon upside down, stick out your tongue, and gently scrape your tongue from back to front. Don’t forget the sides. Also, try to relax or you will gag. Once you’re done, rinse your mouth. You’ll be surprised with how much cleaner your mouth will feel. Practicing Good Dental Hygiene To keep your breath smelling fresh, it’s important to brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash. Good oral habits also keep your teeth and gums healthy. Bad breath can be caused by a variety of things, including dry mouth, gum disease, smoking, and medications. If bad breath is a persistent issue, you should check with your dentist or doctor for any underlying problems. Sources: Animated Teeth. “Treating bad breath – Tongue cleaning” http://www.animated-teeth.com/bad_breath/t4z_tongue_cleaning.htm Dental Health Week. “Tongue Cleaning: http://www.dentalhealthweek.com.au/Parents/Kids/tongue-cleaning.html Marin Gazzaniga “Good Taste: Top 5 Foods to Prevent Bad Breath” http://healthyliving.msn.com/health-wellness/oral-care/good-taste-top-5-foods-to-prevent-bad-breath-1 S RupeshJJ WinnierUA NayakAP RaoNV Reddy“Comparative evaluation of the effects of an alum-containing mouthrinse and a saturated saline rinse on the salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans” http://www.jisppd.com/article.asp?issn=0970-4388;year=2010;volume=28;issue=3;spage=138;epage=144;aulast=Rupesh Stephen. “10 Foods to Cure Bad Breath” http://feedingmyfolks.com/blog/10-foods-to-cure-bad-breath/ Wiki How. “How to Fix Bad Breath on the Spot” http://www.wikihow.com/Fix-Bad-Breath-on-the-Spot... Read more...Are you ruining your teeth?Are These 5 Habits Wrecking Your Teeth? You practice good oral hygiene: You brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist every year. First of all, good job and keep it up! But you may be surprised to learn that you might also have some bad habits that can be damaging your oral health. What are these bad habits? Read on to find out… Chewing Ice Ice cubes may help cool you down, but they are really bad for your teeth. The hardness of the cubes can chip away tooth enamel and cause them to crack. The cold temperature can also irritate your teeth and lead to toothaches. If you have to chew something, chew on some sugar-free gum instead. It’s much softer and also helps to freshen your breath. Using Your Teeth As A Tool Don’t you just hate it when that pesky bag of chips won’t open? But instead of finding the scissors, you rip the bag open with your teeth instead. Yeah, we’ve all been there. But that impatience can also be harming your teeth. Your teeth aren’t meant to be used as pliers; they’re meant to help you chew food and speak. Using your mouth as a tool can lead to injuries and broken teeth. Biting Your Nails Nail biting isn’t just bad for your fingers; it’s also bad for your oral hygiene. People who bite their nails often do so because they’re stressed or nervous. But when you use nail-biting as a stress reliever, you’re also consuming the bacteria from your fingers whenever you get stressed. Yuck. This can lead to infections in your mouth. Drinking Soda Do you like drinking soda? If so, you should probably drink something else. Carbonated drinks (even diet sodas) can ruin your teeth because of their high acid content. The acidity of the soda can erode enamel and cause tooth decay. The negative effects are multiplied when you’re sipping sodas over a long period of time. The longer you sip, the longer you’re exposing your teeth to the soda’s acid. To give your teeth a break, sip on some water instead. Biting on Pen and Pencils Biting on your pen or pencil might help you to concentrate on a task, such as writing or studying. However, you may not realize how much pressure you’re placing on your teeth as you gnaw into the non-food item. This can cause your teeth to shift and crack. Instead, try listening to some music to help you focus on the task. We understand bad habits are hard to break. But we guarantee if you avoid these habits, you’ll be well on your way to a better smile. If you would like more dental tips, please contact us at Lotus Dental Group in Campbell, California. We’d love to hear from you. References: Greene Family Dentistry. “Bad Habits That Are Ruining Your Teeth” http://greenedentistry.com/kids-zone/bad-habits-that-are-ruining-your-teeth/ Krisha McCoy, MS. “Common Dental Health Troublemakers” http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health-pictures/bad-habits-that-can-harm-your-teeth.aspx#01 Lakeview Dental Care. “5 Surprising Ways You’re Ruining Your Teeth” http://www.lakeviewdentalcare.com/5-surprising-ways-youre-ruining-teeth/... Read more...Do saltwater rinses work?You can use salt water has a wide variety of helpful benefits. You can gargle it to heal a sore throat, canker sore or even to help cure bad breath. But is it really effective for all these things? In the past, people have been using salt water to help treat wounds – for at least 5000 years. It’s believed the Chinese first used salt water rinses to treat gum disease. The ancient Egyptians also noted its effectiveness on injuries. Even Hippocrates, the father of medicine, encouraged his fellow healers to use salt water to heal various ailments. So why is salt water good for your mouth? Salt water rinses are beneficial since they alkalinize the mouth or increase pH levels. This limits bacterial growth because bacteria need a moist environment in order to thrive, so without enough water, they can’t survive. This is backed by a 2010 study by the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry. The study shows saturated saline rinses – a solution containing 9 tsp of salt per 2/3 cup of water – kills bacteria in the mouth by dehydrating it. The oral bacteria that the saturated saline attacks can be responsible for a variety of health problems, such as gum disease and bad breath. Salt water is also astringent and promotes wound healing by reducing inflammation and contracting the tissues. This is why dentists use warm salt water rinses to ease the swelling and pain after dental procedures. Things to keep in mind Although salt water rinses are an effective bacteria killer, there isn’t enough scientific evidence to support its use as a daily mouth rinse. Some dentists argue that excessive use of salt water rinses can be harmful because the acidity of it can wear away tooth enamel and cause chipping and cavities. Swallowing large quantities of salt water can also be unsafe and lead to dehydration. As you drink salt water, the water present in your body is rerouted to help your body break down the excess salt. This causes your other bodily functions to suffer because of the deficient water levels in your system. This means the more saltwater you drink, the more water your body will lose, which leads to thirst, dry mouth, cramps, and vomiting. Of course, drinking small amounts of salt water won’t hurt you. It’s sometimes even recommended for intestinal and bowel flushes. But the take-home message is clear: If you’re going to use salt water rinses, please do so in moderation. So do you think salt water rinses are as effective as mouthwash? Please leave your comments below and give us your thoughts. We’d love to hear your feedback. Sources Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Why Does Salt Work as a Preservative? http://chemistry.about.com/od/foodcookingchemistry/f/Why-Does-Salt-Work-As-A-Preservative.htm Dr. David Kerr. “Mouthwash or salt water rinse” http://www.todaysdentistry.com.au/ask-a-dentist/mouthwash-or-salt-water-rinse/ Eberhard J. Wormer. “A taste for salt in the history of medicine” http://www.tribunes.com/tribune/sel/worm.htm S RupeshJJ WinnierUA NayakAP RaoNV Reddy“Comparative evaluation of the effects of an alum-containing mouthrinse and a saturated saline rinse on the salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans” http://www.jisppd.com/article.asp?issn=0970-4388;year=2010;volume=28;issue=3;spage=138;epage=144;aulast=Rupesh Sirah Dubois. “The Use of Salt Water for Washing the Mouth” http://www.livestrong.com/article/547267-the-use-of-salt-water-for-washing-the-mouth/ Vicki M. GiuggioWhat if you drink saltwater?” http://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/what-if/what-if-you-drink-saltwater1.htm... Read more...Alcohol: Why It’s Harmful For Your Oral HealthWhile enjoying an alcoholic beverage once in a while is fine, too much of it can be a bad thing. Besides giving you a bad hangover, drinking too much can seriously harm your gums and teeth – especially when consumed on a frequent basis. And since most people drink at least socially, it’s a good idea to be aware of the effects of alcohol on your oral health. So what are these harmful effects? High Acid Content Most alcoholic drinks are highly acidic. Acid wears away tooth enamel, making your teeth weaker and more susceptible to decay. It can also damage gum tissue, increasing your chances of developing gum disease. Binge drinking is the worst for your oral health. If you’re regularly vomiting from drinking too much, your vomit (which also contains your stomach acid) is further eroding your gums and teeth. Dehydration Alcohol dehydrates you and that means your mouth is dehydrated as well. When your mouth is dehydrated, it contains less saliva, which acts as a buffer against harmful bacteria and acid. Saliva helps clean away plaque and bacteria in your mouth and keeps your gums and teeth healthy. Less salvia means you’ll be more prone to bad breath, tooth decay and erosion. Sugar Assault Many alcohol beverages, such as pina coladas and sweet sherry, may taste great but are loaded with sugar. This is bad news for your teeth since the bacteria in your mouth feed off the sugar and discharge acid, which further erodes your teeth. The harmful effects are multiplied when you mix alcohol with soft drinks (such as cola and red bull) since these carbonated drinks are laced with sugar and highly acidic. The worst mixed drink is probably rum and pure cola, due to its mix of sugar, acid and carbonate content. Instead, go for a diet cola instead. Long Term Consequences It’s safe to say that if your drinking habits are heavier than ‘recommend’, you should be careful of the long-term effects of alcohol on your body. You may not notice the effects right away (besides the occasional hangover) but they can add up over time and do some serious damage to your health. Studies show that people who drink excessively are more at risk of developing mouth and throat cancer due to tissue damage. In fact, people who combine smoking and drinking are 3 times more at risk of oral cancer than if you just smoke or drink. What’s the Solution? We understand that cutting out alcohol completely is going to be hard for most people. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help protect your teeth when you have your next drink: Stay away from sparkling alcoholic drinks, such as wine and champagne, which have a lower pH level. Dry sparkling wines are the worst since the bubbles are formed by carbon dioxide and thus acidic. When mixing drinks, fruit juices are a better choice than sodas. This is because juice has a higher pH level and is non-carbonated. Use a straw since the drink will go straight to the back of your mouth and limit the amount that comes into contact with your teeth Drink plenty of water. This will help dilute the acid and minimize its wear on your teeth Chew sugarless gum. This will help stimulate saliva and keep your mouth moist. Sources: Cancer Research UK. “Alcohol and cancer: the evidence” http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-info/healthyliving/alcohol/stats_and_evidence/alcohol-and-cancer-the-evidence Destination Hope. “The Effects of Alcohol Abuse on Your Teeth” http://www.drugrehabfl.net/2012/08/15/the-effects-of-alcohol-abuse-on-your-teeth/ ETAN SMALLMAN. ” How that nightly glass of wine can wreck your teeth: Dentists warn of the dangers of alcohol for oral health” http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2718388/How-nightly-glass-wine-wreck-teeth.html Natasha. “The Worst Alcoholic Drinks For Your Teeth” http://www.drbradhylan.com/blog1/the-worst-alcoholic-drinks-for-your-teeth/ News.com.au “What alcohol does to your teeth” http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/what-alcohol-does-to-your-teeth/story-fneuzlbd-1226694406322 Patient Connect 365. “Beer, Wine and Whisky? Good or Bad for Your Mouth?” https://www.patientconnect365.com/dentalhealthtopics/article/beer_wine_and_whisky_good_or_bad_for_your_mouth... Read more...Floss Vs. Waterpik – What’s Better?Where in your mouth is the most important place to clean? In between your teeth. This is where plaque starts forming and is also the hardest place to reach. Flossing has long been the accepted as the best way to clean these hard to reach areas. However, another device is becoming an increasingly popular option: the Waterpik. A Waterpik is a device that uses the power of water pressure to flush out bacteria and food debris. It also offers an assortment of interchangeable tips to perform specific cleaning duties, such as cleaning around braces. Nevertheless, both floss and Waterpik have their pros and cons. Floss – Benefits and Drawbacks One of the biggest benefits of floss is that it’s super cheap. You can easily pick some up for $2- $3 that can last you for months. Floss is also very effective at removing plaque since it can scrape and clean the areas between your gums and teeth. This is important to prevent oral problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. What makes floss less attractive though is that it can be abrasive for some individuals. People with sensitive gums will find flossing rough, and it can even cause bleeding. Also if you’re wearing braces, you won’t be able to use floss since it won’t be able to get past your braces and clean your gums. Waterpik – Benefits and Drawbacks Compared to floss, a Waterpik is much gentler on your gums and less likely to cause bleeding. It’s also perfect for people who wear braces since the water can get past the metal wires and rinse out the bacteria and food debris. A Waterpik may also be better for individuals with gum disease since it can rinse out the deep pockets that are created when your gums pull away from your teeth. Floss simply can’t reach these areas. However, a big drawback for the Waterpik is that can’t remove plaque as well as floss. The reason is when you’re flossing; you’re literally scraping the sticky plaque off your teeth. A Waterpik only douses these areas with water, which makes the plaque less likely to be removed. Another drawback is that it’s much more expensive. While floss only costs a few dollars, a Waterpik can cost around $50. This can make it difficult for people who are on a budget. What’s the verdict? While waterpiks are great at washing away bacteria and food debris, they do not remove plaque as effectively as floss. That’s why we recommend combining flossing with waterpiks to achieve the best results for your oral health. However, for people who wear braces, have dexterity problems, or who just simply hate flossing, waterpik use will be beneficial. If you can’t or not willing to floss, using a Waterpik is definitely better than just brushing, which fails to clean the areas between your teeth. Ideally, you should be brushing twice a day and flossing and water picking at least once. It’s best to do it at night since you won’t be in a rush and thus will likely do a better job at cleaning your mouth before you sleep. If you have any questions about flossing or waterpik use, contact our office today. Our staffs are experienced and are always will to help those who want to improve their oral health. One smile at a time. Sources: Jane Sheehan. “Water Vs. Floss” http://www.livestrong.com/article/287399-waterpik-vs-floss/ Mark W Langberg, DDS, FAGD. “Are Waterpiks a substitute for flossing?” http://www.drlangberg.com/blog/cosmetic-dentistry/are-waterpics-a-substitute-for-flossing/ Park Ridge Family Dental Care. “Ask the Dentist – Floss vs. Waterpik” http://parkridgedds.com/ask-the-dentist-floss-vs-waterpik/... Read more...Why Green Tea Is Awesome For Your Oral HealthOne of the best drinks for your teeth is… Green tea. Yep, that’s right. While it’s well known that green tea offers a host of health benefits – such as heart health, lose weight and cancer prevention – it also helps protect your smile as well. So why green tea is good for you? All true teas, such as black, oolong and green, come from the camellia sinesis plant. However, what sets green tea apart is how it’s made. Compared to the other tea varieties, green tea is a lot less processed and not fermented. This means it retains more its antioxidant properties, which help with fighting cancer, heart disease, and obesity. One of the main benefits of green tea is that it isn’t soda or juice. While this might seem obvious, it’s important to point out. Sodas and juices are extremely acidic and can strip away your tooth enamel. Your enamel is your teeth’s main line of defense against oral problems, like cavities and decay. Green tea, in comparison, is gentle and won’t erode your gums and teeth. Research shows that people who drink green tea regularly have better oral health than those who don’t. A study published in the Journal of Periodontology analyzed 940 Japanese men who had signs of gum disease (such as bleeding or receding gums). Those who drank at least 1 cup of green tea a day showed improvement in their gums. Another study published by Preventive Medicine shows that green tea can help also prevent tooth loss. The researchers studied more than 25,000 Japanese men and women who drank green tea and found that folks who drank at least 1 cup a day were more likely to keep all their natural teeth. These oral benefits could be because green tea contains catechins – an antioxidant which helps kill the bacteria which can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Final thoughts With all the health benefits that green tea offers, it would be foolish not to give it a try. Just keep in mind – don’t add sugar to your tea. Your mouth’s bacteria feed off sugar that produces acid which can erode your teeth. Also stay away from bottled ice teas, since these are loaded with sugar too. Finding simple ways to protect your oral health – such as drinking green tea – will ensure your smile lasts a lifetime. You only have 1 set of teeth, so be sure to take care of it. Sources: 123dentist.com. “Drinking Green Tea Can Strengthen Your Teeth” http://www.123dentist.com/drinking-green-tea-can-strengthen-your-teeth/ Delta Dental. “Tea is terrific for teeth (and great for gums, too)” http://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health/tea.html Amy Feinstein. “Sip on Green Tea for a Healthy Smile” http://recipes.howstuffworks.com/green-tea-for-a-healthy-smile.htm Jessical Marshall. “Green Tea May Strengthen Your Teeth” http://news.discovery.com/human/health/green-tea-teeth-dental.htm... Read more...Do You Have Dental Fear or Phobia?Are you afraid of seeing the dentist? Do you dread your dental appointment for weeks? If so, you’re not alone. Studies show that as many as 75% of people have at least some fear when visiting the dentist. For some people its general anxiety; however, for others, it’s extreme dental phobia where they’ll break into a sweat just thinking about going to the dentist. People with dental phobia have an intense fear – so much so that they’ll avoid any dental treatments. In a recent study by the Huffington Post, it was shown that most of this fear is passed on from parent to child. While having some nervousness every now and then while seeing the dentist is understandable, avoiding the dentist is definitely not the answer. By not seeing the dentist, you risk serious consequences for your oral health. People with dental phobia are more at risk of gum disease and tooth loss. There may also be emotional costs involved since stained or damaged teeth can make people feel less attractive and more insecure. They may be embarrassed to smile and have lower levels of self-esteem. People with the dental phobia may also have poorer overall health. The reason is poor oral health has been linked to several serious conditions, such as lung and heart disease. Advances in dental techniques and technology If it’s been a while since you’ve seen the dentist, rest assured you’ll find the experience more tolerable these days. The majority of people who have dental fears and phobias have bad memories from childhood during their visit. Things like smells and sounds from their surgery may make them feel uneasy or even scared. However, modern dental facilities are much warmer environments, with flowers and decorations in the waiting room, and friendly staff. Also with background music playing and quieter dental instruments smells and sounds during your visit should be less noticeable. Dental technology has also improved making your surgery more comfortable. Pain-free treatments are now possible thanks to the dental wand and numbing gels. The dental wand is a computerized pen that slowly delivers anesthesia that is painless, so it’s perfect anyone afraid of needles. A numbing gel can also be applied to your gums prior to injections so you don’t feel anything. Relaxation and coping techniques If you’re feeling nervous about visiting the dentist, here are some simple ways to calm your fears: Find a dentist who you feel comfortable with and you can trust. Ask your friends or family members if they have anyone they can recommend. When you’ve found a dentist who might be a fit, visit their practice and have a look around. Check out the office, meet the receptionist and if possible, talk to the dentist about your issues. Once you’re ready, set up an appointment but make it in the morning. This will give you less time to dwell on it. Keep in mind, your first appointment is only for a checkup so you don’t have to worry about needles or drills. See this visit as an opportunity to get to know your dentist better. Take a friend or someone you can trust with you to your appointment. The dentist should be fine if they join you while you have your checkup. Agree on a mutual sign with your dentist (such as raising your hand) to let them know you need to stop or a break. This will make you feel more in control and help you relax. Bring a music player or book with you. This will help keep you occupied and mind off of worrying. Sources: Dr. Paul Glassman. “Overcoming Dental Fear & Anxiety” http://www.deardoctor.com/articles/overcoming-dental-fear-and-anxiety/ Dr. Sam Daher. “Why You Should Fear The Dentist No More” http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/dr-sam-daher/dentist-fear_b_4081183.html NHS. “Fear of the dentist” http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/dentalhealth/Pages/Fearofthedentist.aspx The Huffington Post Canada. “Dentist Fear: Anxiety At The Dentist Passed On From Parents, Study Finds” http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/11/16/dentist-fear_n_2144477.html?just_reloaded=1... Read more...Sensitive Teeth – What Causes It And How to Treat ItDo you experience pain when drinking something hot or cold? Do you hate brushing because it’s uncomfortable? If you answered yes, you probably have sensitive teeth. So how do get sensitive teeth? Tooth sensitivity happens because of exposed dentin due to enamel loss or receding gums. Dentin is the grayish or yellowish tissue that is found under your enamel and contains a large number of tubes. These tubes run from the tooth’s outer surface to the nerve, and when exposed are highly sensitive to temperature changes. That’s why eating specific foods (such as hot, cold or spicy) may be painful. Causes for tooth sensitivity can include: Brushing too hard – Aggressive brushing can wear away your tooth enamel and gum line, exposing your roots Cracked teeth – A cracked tooth can expose your dentin and make your tooth vulnerable to bacterial plaque, inflaming your nerves Grinding your teeth – Continuous teeth grinding can wear down enamel and uncover your dentin Gum disease – Gum disease can cause pain as your teeth break down and gums recede Tooth bleaching – Teeth bleaching products that contain peroxide or baking soda can irritate exposed roots or dentin Age – People who are between the ages of 25 to 30 years old are more susceptible to sensitive teeth How to tell if you have sensitive teeth The best way to see if you have sensitive teeth is by visiting your dentist. Your dentist will check for exposed dentin and try to determine what the cause is. If your tooth sensitivity is due to cavities, they can be treated. If it’s due to gum disease, a comprehensive cleaning can be done to remove plaque and tartar. However, if the cause is due to exposed dentin, there are a number of treatment options available to reduce sensitivity. In office treatments Fluoride varnishes can be applied to seal tubule openings and rebuild exposed dentin and worn away enamel Fluoride gels or foams can be placed in a disposable tray covering your teeth. As you bite down on it for a few minutes, it provides a high dosage of fluoride to strengthen your teeth Bonding agents can be used to seal exposed dentin and reduce tooth sensitivity At home treatments Use a soft bristle toothbrush which can minimize the erosion caused from brushing too hard Use toothpaste with potassium nitrate, which penetrates exposed dentin and soothes painful tooth nerve endings Brush with a high concentration fluoride toothpaste that can strengthen your teeth and help protect them from pain Brushing gently and ensuring you don’t over brush Tooth sensitivity is unpleasant and can be a sign of more serious oral problems. If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, definitely seek out professional dental help. The dental professionals at the Lotus Dental Group are experienced at treating a wide variety of dental issues and take patient care seriously. Contact us today at (669) 222-8315 if you’re having problems with your teeth.... Read more...Do I Have Gum Disease?Gum Disease: What Are The Stages? Did you know 7 out of 10 Canadians will have gum disease during their lifetime? In fact, it’s the most widespread oral disease in Canada. Gum disease can start out painlessly but can quickly become a serious problem if left untreated. If you think you have gum disease (and even if you don’t) it’s important to get the facts so you know what you’re dealing with. What is gum disease? Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is a bacterial infection that affects your gum and bone tissues that keep your teeth in place. The bacteria in plaque slowly build up on your gums and teeth and if not removed can harden and turn into tartar. As gum disease becomes more serious, it can cause your teeth to become loose and painful and eventually fall out. Gum disease progresses in 3 main stages: Stage 1: Gingivitis The earliest stage of gum disease occurs when the gums become inflamed as a result of plaque buildup. If the plaque isn’t removed (by daily brushing and flossing) it can infect your gums and cause gingivitis. Symptoms include bleeding and sensitive gums. This stage of gum disease can be easily treated since it only affects the gums and not the bone tissue that supports your teeth. Stage 2: Periodontis If gingivitis is left untreated, it can lead to the more serious stage known as periodontitis. At this stage, your gum and bone tissues supporting your teeth are affected. Pockets will begin to develop below your gum line where plaque and food debris can get trapped. Proper oral hygiene and professional dental care can help stop further damage to your oral tissues. Stage 3: Advanced Periodontis During this stage, your gum and bone tissues are so damaged that they can’t support your teeth anymore. This causes your teeth to shift and loosen. Teeth may even have to be removed if the damage is severe enough. Signs and Symptoms Even though gum disease mostly affects adults, children can also be affected. Many of the signs may not be obvious and if not detected early, can quickly progress to the more serious stages of gum disease. Symptoms include: Swollen or tender gums Gums that bleed when you brush Chronic bad breath Receding gums Deep pockets that have developed between your teeth Loose teeth Changes in your teeth alignment when you bite Diagnosis and Treatment The best way to check for gum disease is scheduling an exam with your dentist. During your exam, your dentist will check your gums for bleeding and tenderness. Your teeth and bite will also be evaluated. The key to fighting gum disease is detecting it early so it doesn’t progress to more serious forms. In the early stages, good oral hygiene is often enough to treat and reverse the development of gum disease. Brushing removes the sticky plaque on your tooth surfaces, while flossing removes the plaque between your teeth and gums. However, if gum disease is allowed to progress, plaque buildup can turn into tartar, which can only be removed through professional cleaning by your dentist. If there’s bone loss or severe gum recession, ‘scaling’ and ‘root planning’ (SRP) may be required. Scaling involves scraping the plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line. Root planning smoothes uneven surfaces on your teeth’s roots so plaque and germs are less likely to form. By brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist every 6 months, gum disease can be detected early and more easily treated. If you think you have signs of gum disease, contact our office today at 669-222-8311 to schedule an appointment. Sources: Arestin. “There are 2 main stages of periodontal (gum) disease” http://www.arestin.com/periodontal-gum-disease/stages.php Canadian Dental Association. “Gum Disease FAQs” http://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/gum_diseases_faqs.asp Colgate. “Fighting Gum Disease: How To Keep Your Teeth” http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Popular-Topics/Gum-Disease/article/Fighting-Gum-Disease-How-to-Keep-Your-Teeth.cvsp Colgate. “What are the Stages of Gum Disease?” http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Popular-Topics/Gum-Disease/article/What-are-the-Stages-of-Gum-Disease.cvsp... Read more...4 dental myths debunked!You know how you should brush after every meal? Actually, you don’t. Sugar isn’t the main cause of cavities. And bleaching doesn’t weaken your teeth. With so many misconceptions surrounding dental health, it’s not surprising that we’ve made up a few myths over the years to explain our dental issues. So why do we believe these myths? We usually heard them from somewhere, and they get repeated over and over again that we just take them for face value. But when it comes to your dental health, having false information can be dangerous. For your benefit, we have debunked four of the most common dental myths below: Myth #1: You should brush after every meal It’s obvious that brushing your teeth is important. But you may be surprised to learn that brushing right after a meal may be harming your teeth. Wait, what!? Yep! When you eat, your mouth produces acids, which soften your tooth enamel while it breaks down food particles. Brushing too soon after eating can actually wear away the protective tooth enamel, your mouth’s primary defense against cavities. It’s best to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes before brushing to give your saliva time to neutralize the high acid levels in your mouth caused by eating and drinking. Myth #2: Sugar is the main cause of cavities Contrary to popular belief, sugar itself doesn’t cause cavities. It’s the acid produced by bacteria in your mouth which causes cavities. These bacteria are triggered to produce acid whenever you eat anything with carbohydrates or sugar. The acid eats into your tooth, creating decay and therefore the cavity. The amount of carbs or sugar you eat doesn’t matter as much as how long your teeth are exposed to it. If you gulp down one soda for lunch and stop there, that’s not too bad. But if spend all day sipping on that soda, you’re exposing your teeth for a much longer time, and that’s much more unhealthy for your teeth. Just remember: Sipping all day causes tooth decay. Myth #3: You should brush less for bleeding gums On the surface this myth makes sense – if your gums are bleeding it seems reasonable you should leave them alone and let them heal. In fact, the opposite is true. Gums often bleed because plaque and food particles become caught along the gum line causing it to become inflamed. A build-up of plaque irritates sensitive gum tissue. To stop bleeding gums, you need to begin consistently brushing and flossing gently twice a day. The key is holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth, with the bristles pointing to your gums. This is the best way to remove plaque by brushing. It the bleeding persists, it may be a sign of possible gum disease and you should consult with your dentist. Myth #4: Bleaching and whitening weakens your teeth We’d all like our teeth to be whiter. Luckily there are many bleaching and whitening products available to make your teeth look their best. However, some people worry that using bleaching products can be harmful to their teeth and make them weaker. Is there any truth behind this? No, there isn’t. Bleaching products are generally safe if used according to the directions. That’s because bleaching only changes the color of the teeth by removing tooth pigmentation, and doesn’t affect their health or strength. Just keep in mind that over bleaching may cause tooth sensitivity and irritated gums, so if you decide to use whitening products, please do so responsibly. So, how do you steer clear of dental myths? The best way to avoid them is to see your dentist on a regular basis. He will diagnose any dental problems and let you know the facts regarding your oral health. Therefore take the time to educate yourself and develop good dental habits towards a healthier smile!... Read more...5 Super Foods to Strengthen your Teeth in AdulthoodMaintaining good oral health is very important in life. As we get older, we often think there’s not much we can do to strengthen our teeth once we pass a certain age. We seem to believe that strong teeth can only be developed when we’re still young. The good news is with some simple lifestyle adjustments, adults of any age can make their pure whites stronger. Tooth decay is largely based on mouth chemistry – a chemistry that can be changed at any time in your life by adjusting your eating habits. Decay begins when your teeth enamel becomes weak leaving you susceptible to cavities, chipping and other teeth problems. By eating the proper foods you can stop this process, known as demineralization, and reinforce your teeth enamel. Here are 5 great foods for stronger healthier teeth. 1. Raw Dairy Just like your mother said, “Drink your milk and you will grow big and strong.” However, add one caveat: Choose raw dairy products, such as raw milk, yogurt, butter, and cheese, which are loaded with calcium, vitamin D and phosphorous. These help to strengthen your teeth enamel and promote re-mineralization. They also increase saliva secretion, which can help protect teeth against bacteria and balance the mouth’s pH level. 2. Celery Celery is great when eaten raw because its crisp texture can help protect teeth and its enamel by wiping away plaque-causing bacteria. Its fibrous nature promotes more saliva production which helps to maintain a healthy pH level in the mouth. Also, its high fiber content has the added effect of gently massaging your gums while bringing freshness to your breath. 3. Sesame Sesame is similar to celery in that its abrasive texture can help cleanse teeth and remove debris-causing bacteria. It stimulates teeth growth since its rich in calcium, which helps to protect the bone around the teeth and gums. Mix a small handful of sesame seeds with your next meal for some extra oral protection. 4. Strawberries Strawberries are chock-full of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are essential in maintaining the overall health of your teeth. They also help to whiten your teeth and remove discolorations due to its malic acid content. To boost the teeth-whitening effects of strawberries, mix a crushed berry with one half of a teaspoon of baking soda. Apply and leave it on your teeth for five minutes, and then rinse your mouth out and brush thoroughly with toothpaste. 5. Parsley Chewing parsley after a spicy meal is a great natural breath freshener. Parsley contains monoterpenes, substances that quickly evaporate into your bloodstream and into your lungs, releasing a pleasant smell through your breath. The herb is also rich in calcium and fluorine which help to re-mineralize your tooth enamel. Next time, instead of chewing sugary gum, munch on some parsley instead to freshen your breath and fortify your teeth.... Read more...When Should You Get A Soft Reline?You notice that your dentures are starting to rub against your gums, leaving them sore. Your denturist has already adjusted your dentures, but it’s still a bit lose and uncomfortable. So what are your options? It’s probably time for a soft reline. A soft reline involves using soft material that provides a cushioned buffer between your denture and gums tissues. The liner helps to keep your denture in place by restoring its snug fit. It also makes it more comfortable to wear and easier to chew with. A soft reline is most suitable for people who have: acute sore gum tissues thin gum tissues flat gum tissues Why your dentures becomes loose Your dentures can become loose after your teeth are extracted. Following extraction, your jaw bones go through the ‘resorption’ process and lose bone tissues. In fact, your jaw bone structure can decrease up to 40% after wearing dentures, with the biggest changes occurring within 6 months of extraction. The aging process also plays a role in bone loss. Because a denture is used to replace missing teeth, the denture will eventually become loose – especially if it was worn right after your teeth were extracted. So instead of fully replacing loose dentures, a soft reline can restore your denture’s fit – at least temporarily. Situations for a soft reline A soft reline is commonly used in 3 situations: For an immediate denture to allow for proper bone healing after a tooth extraction. After surgery – like the removal of excess bone – to help minimize swelling and pain. Following the placement of an implant, when the reline material is used to stop direct contact between the implant and the base of the denture. In each of these situations, its fine if the reline material is left longer than 30 days. However, if left for too long, the material can become hard and cause damage to your gum tissues. Thus, soft liners require regular checkups to preserve its fit and elasticity. How your dentures are relined Before the reline material is applied to your denture, your soft mouth tissues and the denture’s inner areas have to be clean and dry. Liners are originally in powder and liquid form, which is then mixed to create the thick paste. It is applied to the insides of the denture and inserted into your mouth while you gently bite on it. To enhance your comfort, you may be asked to bite into cotton rolls for a couple of minutes. You will also be required to move your mouth in various directions to mold the reline material for an optimal fit. The entire process takes approximately 6 minutes, which is how long it takes for the reline material to set. Any excess material is then removed. Taking care of relined dentures When you’re not wearing your relined dentures, you should keep them in water instead of conventional denture cleanser since it can wear away the reline material. Your dentures should also be rinsed with water after you eat to keep them clean. However, you should not brush the relined areas to prevent erosion. Improper cleaning methods can ruin the reline material and lead to deterioration, poor fit and damage to your gum tissues. With appropriate care, a soft reline can provide you with a temporary, comfortable solution for your loose denture problems.... Read more...A Healthy Smile, A Healthy BodyRegular checkups with your dentist can do more than keep your teeth healthy – it can keep your body healthy too. There’s a strong correlation between one’s oral health and overall health. The hygiene of your mouth can greatly affect the rest of your body. Bacteria that accumulates on teeth may make the gums susceptible to infection. In defense, your immune system attacks the infection leading to the gums being inflamed. The inflammation continues until the infection is stabilized. If left untreated, it can erode gums and teeth resulting in gum disease (known as periodontitis) and problems with other body parts. Gum Disease and Health Issues Research from the Academy of General Dentistry shows a link between gum disease and other health problems, such as diabetes, digestive problems, and heart disease. Women with gum disease are also more likely to give birth to premature or low weight babies. Other studies reveal that most systemic diseases – diseases affecting the whole body – involve oral complications, such as mouth ulcers, swollen gums, and dry mouth. Systemic diseases include diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, leukemia, and oral cancer. Gum Disease and Diabetes The gum disease/diabetes relationship may be the strongest one of all. Inflammation originating from the mouth may negatively affect the body’s ability to manage sugar levels. People with diabetes have problems controlling blood sugar levels since their body cells don’t break down sugar the way healthy body cells do. This results in extremely high blood sugar and insulin levels. To make matters more complicated, gum disease and diabetes appear to have a two-way relationship. High blood sugar levels can also promote infections to grow, such as gum infections. Gum Disease and Heart Disease Researchers at the American Academy of Periodontology found that people with gum disease are two times more likely to suffer from coronary artery disease than those without it. The two diseases have a number of common risk factors, such as being overweight, unhealthy eating habits, and smoking. If you suffer from gum disease, oral bacteria can make its way to your bloodstream and lead to infection in your heart and lungs. The bacteria can also stick to the insides leading to blockages and blood clots to form. All these factors greatly increase one’s risk of having heart complications, such as heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. Establishing Good Hygiene Habits You can minimize potential health complications by: Brushing your teeth for 2-3 minutes after every meal with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily to remove plaque and using mouth wash to get rid of bacteria. Eating plenty of healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to get your nutrients. Avoiding cigarettes and alcohol, which increase one’s risk of developing gum disease and oral cancer. Visiting your dentist annually for cleanings and to check for cavities and gum problems. Following these steps can not only protect your teeth, it can also save your life!... Read more...The Most Important Teeth For A Beautiful SmileWhile all of your teeth contribute to the appearance of your smile, there are 6 teeth that play the biggest role in creating an attractive smile. Knowing their location and role will help you to understand how the dentists at Lotus Dental Group can help you improve your smile.... Read more...Wisdom Teeth: To Pull Or Not To Pull?Wisdom tooth removal The wisdom teeth grow at the back of your gums and are the last teeth to come through. Most people have four wisdom teeth – one in each corner. Wisdom teeth usually grow through the gums during the late teens or early twenties. By this time, the other 28 adult teeth are usually in place, so there isn’t always enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to grow properly. Why are wisdom teeth removed? Your wisdom teeth don’t usually need to be removed if they’re impacted but aren’t causing any problems. This is because there’s no proven benefit of doing this and it carries the risk of complications. Sometimes, wisdom teeth that have become impacted or haven’t fully broken through the surface of the gum can cause dental problems.... Read more...Should you Floss Before or After Brushing?However, unlike how often you should floss which is pretty much unanimously agreed upon as at least once a day, this is one of those questions that is argued both ways and there is more variance in the answer given. The argument for flossing before brushing Reasons given for flossing and interdental cleaning before brushing the teeth boil down to the thought and belief that by doing it before brushing; you are cleaning the interdental space and gaps within your teeth, disrupting the plaque and food particles so that they can be more easily brushed away when you brush your teeth. Flossing after brushing If you floss after you brush, there will be less plaque for you to get rid of since some of it would have been removed when you brushed. This makes flossing less time to consume and feel like less work for people. Some dentists also suggest brushing first since this is the way most of us have been taught. And since there’s no hard evidence as to which order is better, they say we should just continue what we’ve been doing before.... Read more...Oral Health And Mental Health – Is There A Connection?There is a close connection between the health of the body and that of the mind. There is further evidence to suggest those who experience mental illness also suffer from poor oral health. Some of the most common mental illnesses that can have a negative impact on a person’s oral health include anxiety and panic attacks, depression, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-harm, schizophrenia, and psychosis. Mental illness and oral health Neglect: Research has shown that those suffering from mental illnesses tend to avoid dental care so much that their oral hygiene is neglected. This can result in gum disease and tooth decay. Anxiety: Many people suffer from some form of dental phobia and as a result, stop seeing their dentist regularly. Infrequent dental visits have a severe impact on oral health.... Read more...7 Foods That Will Naturally Whiten Your SmileWhite teeth are generally the preserve of the very rich or Americans. No more. Founder of Honestly Healthy Food, Natasha Corrett, has teamed up with premium toothpaste brand BlanX to find ways to naturally brighten your teeth. The foods below can help you gain, or maintain, a perfect smile. Some are a little surprising… Strawberries And you thought all those gleaming white smiles at Wimbledon were the result of expensive dental work. Strawberries are fantastic natural teeth whiteners because they contain Malic Acid, which removes surface stains from teeth and whitens the enamel. Apples An apple a day keeps the dentist away. Crispy apples strengthen the gums and their high water content increases the production of saliva, dispersing any bacteria in the mouth. And – like several foods on this list – apples function as a naturally abrasive scrub for the teeth. Celery Because it’s so stringy it makes a perfect natural dental floss. That’s a joke – please don’t floss your teeth with celery. But, like apples, the high water content of celery brings out that bacteria-washing salvia in force. Carrots Alas, carrots won’t help you see in the dark. (That’s an old World War Two myth.) However eating carrots regularly could help whiten your teeth. You know the drill by now. High water content, brings out salvia, bye bye bacteria. Apples Chewing this hard fruit will keep your choppers in tip-top shape. The apple’s crispy texture scrubs your teeth and gums, while its high malic acid content helps to remove stains while increasing saliva production Remember, an apple a day keeps the cavities away. Carrots Carrots are a fantastic natural teeth cleaner. Similar to apples, its crunchy abrasive texture polishes teeth and removes surface stains. Carrots also encourage saliva production to protect teeth against cavity-causing bacteria. Cheese This one is particularly gratifying. Hard cheese is full of calcium, which strengthens teeth and gums. Plus, being mostly colourless, cheese won’t stain your teeth in the manner of, say, coffee.... Read more...5 Home Remedies To Soothe A ToothacheA toothache is a pain in and around the teeth and jaws. Tooth decay, an infection, loose or broken fillings, or receding gums can cause it. Cold compress or ice pack A cold compress or an ice pack can help ease dental pain, especially if a toothache is due to injury or swollen gums. A person can try holding the ice pack or a bag of frozen peas, for example, against the outside of the cheek above the painful tooth for a few minutes at a time. Saltwater mouthwash Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water helps to loosen debris lodged in cavities or between teeth. It may also reduce swelling, boost healing, and relieve a sore throat. A salt water rinse can be made by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish around in the mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting out. This process can be repeated as often as needed. Painkillers Over-the-counter medication, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, can provide temporary pain relief for a toothache. Garlic Garlic has been widely used for medicinal purposes throughout history. It contains a compound called allicin, which accounts for its powerful antibacterial properties. A fresh clove of garlic should first be crushed and then mixed with a little salt, and the mixture applied to the affected tooth. Peppermint tea Like cloves, peppermint has numbing properties that can soothe a toothache. Menthol, which gives peppermint its minty flavor and smell, is also known to be antibacterial.... Read more...How to Instantly Cure Bad Breathgive up smoking eat a healthy, balanced diet and avoid eating strongly flavored or spicy food cut down on sugary food and drink as it can increase the number of bacteria in your mouth reduce your alcohol consumption cut down on coffee drink plenty of water to help prevent your mouth becoming dry chew sugar-free gum after eating to stimulate the flow of saliva – this will help clean away any remaining food particles You should visit your dentist for regular check-ups. Having regular dental check-ups will ensure any plaque and calculus – previously known as tartar – is removed from your teeth, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach.... Read more...Fluoride: Is It Really Good For You?Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water in varying amounts, depending on where in the UK you live. It can help prevent tooth decay, which is why it’s added to many brands of toothpaste and, in some areas, to the water supply through a process called fluoridation. Fluoride toothpaste Brushing your teeth thoroughly with fluoride toothpaste is one of the most effective ways of preventing tooth decay. A range of toothpaste is available containing different levels of fluoride. The amount of fluoride in the toothpaste can be found on the side of the tube and is measured in parts per million (ppm). Is fluoride safe? There have been some concerns that fluoride may be linked to a variety of health conditions. Reviews of the risks have so far found no convincing evidence to support these concerns. However, a condition called dental fluorosis can sometimes occur if a child’s teeth are exposed to too much fluoride when they’re developing.... Read more...What’s The Best Age For Braces?The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to make the best of your teeth. This includes straightening your teeth so you’re able to care for your teeth and gums more easily, and improving your bite so you can eat more comfortably. And your smile will benefit, too. Treatment almost always involves using braces to straighten crooked, crowded or protruding teeth, close gaps between teeth, and correct the bite so the top and bottom teeth meet when the mouth is closed. What’s the best age to have braces? The ideal age to have braces is usually around 12 or 13, while a child’s mouth and jaws are still growing. The opportunity for improvement in an adult is more limited and treatment is likely to take longer.... Read more...4 Myths And Facts About Sleep ApneaPeople talk a lot about sleep and associate a lot of myths with it. We just don’t hear them often but also experience them a lot of times. Some may be laughed off as “old wives tale” but some myths are based on incorrect information and can prove to be dangerous for us. Here is a list of common myths debunked about sleep complied by National Sleep Foundation. Myth 1: Just snoring is sleep apnea. Snoring sure is a sign of sleep apnea but both of these are different things. Sleep apnea can actually cause a person’s breath to pause up to 400 times throughout the night. These interruptions may last for anywhere between 10 to 30 seconds. Myth 2: Sleep apnea is not life-threatening Sleep interruptions are capable of wrecking your body, mind and basically the whole day day-after-day. When you haven’t slept enough and sound, you put yourself at the risk of injuries at work, road accidents, heart attacks, and heart ailments. Myth 3: Sleep apnea doesn’t block your breath. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea that occurs when the airway is blocked by your tongue, tonsils or other tissues at the back of your throat. It stops the air when you try to breathe. Myth 4: Sleep apnea is a disease of the old A medical estimate states that in US, more than 18 million people are affected by sleep apnea. Most commonly, people above the age of 40 suffer from sleep apnea but the disorder can affect people of all ages. Being overweight, male, African-American or Latino puts you at an increased risk of suffering from sleep apnea. It also can be inherited and runs in families.... Read more...Allergy to LatexDental workers are particularly at risk of hand dermatitis because of continuous glove use and frequent washing of hands. In all, it can affect up to one in three healthcare workers.1 Hand dermatitis is a general term describing three different skin reactions: irritation; delayed hypersensitivity; and immediate hypersensitivity. Seek help If you suspect hand dermatitis or latex allergy seek medical advice from your medical practitioner, local occupational health expert or dermatologist. This is particularly important if you think you may have become sensitised to latex. Latex allergy can be potentially life-threatening and expert advice must be sought immediately.... Read more...A Tip for the Sweet ToothYou’ve probably heard someone refer to their “sweet tooth” as their reason for loving sugary treats. But is there really such a thing? While it’s not an actual type of tooth, it turns out that your cravings for sugary foods might be more than just your preferences. Vitamins, Minerals and Your Teeth Proper nutrition is beneficial for your whole body, including your teeth and gums. By ingesting the right vitamins through food or supplements, you can help protect your oral health. Here are five essential vitamins for teeth and gum health. 1. Calcium Calcium isn’t just good for your bones, it’s good for your teeth, too. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains that calcium helps form and maintain healthy teeth. 2. Phosphorus Phosphorous is another important vitamin for healthy teeth. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that besides calcium, you have more of phosphorous than any other mineral in the body, and most of it is in your teeth. It’s necessary for the maintenance and repair of all the body’s tissues. When it comes to your mouth, phosphorus works with calcium to keep your teeth strong. 3. Vitamin D Vitamin D plays a big role in keeping your teeth healthy. This micronutrient tells your intestines to absorb the calcium you’ve eaten and moved it into your bloodstream. Delta Dental explains that without enough vitamin D, your body will leach calcium out of your bones. 4. Vitamin C While many vitamins are good for your teeth, others, like vitamin C, are good for your gums. According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin C is needed for the formation of blood vessels and other key tissues that support your teeth. The nutrient is also important for healing. When people have severe vitamin C deficiencies, they can experience bleeding gums. That’s how important vitamin C is to your gum health. 5. Vitamin A You may have heard that vitamin A is good for your eyes, but it’s also great for your mouth, explains the NIH. It helps form and maintain tissues like teeth and mucus membranes.... Read more...Advantages of Dental ImplantsIf you’re thinking about dental implants to replace a missing tooth or teeth, the chances are that you may have some questions. Are they the best option for you? Are dental implants expensive? Are you a suitable candidate? Will your dental implants look natural? Dental implants look like a natural tooth Once a dental implant is fitted with its prosthetic tooth, the result looks completely natural. The prosthetic tooth sits flush to the gum line, so no-one will be able to spot which are your real teeth and which are restorations. Dental implants behave like a natural tooth One of the greatest benefits of dental implants is that they behave like natural teeth, providing a strength and function that is unrivaled by other restorations. Because the dental implant itself is anchored firmly in your jaw bone, much like a natural root, it gives the false tooth stability. Dental implants can prevent bone loss One of the side effects of losing a tooth is that you also begin to lose bone mass around the missing tooth site. This is because there is no longer a root there to encourage the ossification/strengthening of the bone. By placing a dental implant in your jaw bone, it stimulates new bone growth through a process called osseointegration. This can help to prevent future bone loss. Dental implants support your facial structure Following on from point 3 above, it’s a bone loss that can give people with missing teeth a sunken, aging appearance around the mouth that goes on to impact the structure of the whole face. By helping to keep your jaw bones strong, dental implants can help to preserve your facial structure. Dental implants are long-lasting Like your natural teeth, with the right care, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime.... Read more...Abscessed ToothA dental abscess is a collection of pus that can form inside the teeth, in the gums, or in the bone that holds the teeth in place. It’s caused by a bacterial infection. An abscess at the end of a tooth is called a periapical abscess. An abscess in the gum is called a periodontal abscess. Dental abscesses are often painful but aren’t always. In either case, they should be looked at by a dentist. It’s important to get help as soon as possible because abscesses don’t go away on their own. They can sometimes spread to other parts of the body and make you ill.... Read more...BrushingPlaque is a film of bacteria that coats your teeth if you don’t brush them properly. It contributes to gum disease and tooth decay. Tooth brushing stops plaque building up. Try to make sure you brush every surface of all your teeth. When should I brush my teeth? Brush your teeth for about 2 minutes the last thing at night before you go to bed and on 1 other occasion every day. Your dentist or hygienist may give you more advice based on your own dental health and needs.... Read more...Braces (Orthodontia)The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to make the best of your teeth. This includes straightening your teeth so you’re able to care for your teeth and gums more easily, and improving your bite so you can eat more comfortably. And your smile will benefit, too. Treatment almost always involves using braces to straighten crooked, crowded or protruding teeth, close gaps between teeth, and correct the bite so the top and bottom teeth meet when the mouth is closed.... Read more...Bad Breath (Halitosis)Bad breath is a common problem that can cause significant psychological distress. There are a number of potential causes and treatments available. What causes bad breath? There are a number of things that can cause bad breath. It’s usually the result of poor oral hygiene. If bacteria build up in your mouth, the toxins produced can cause your breath to smell. Bacteria break down pieces of food in the mouth and may release an unpleasant-smelling gas. Any food trapped on your teeth – particularly between them – is broken down by bacteria, which may cause bad breath. Persistent bad breath can sometimes be a sign of gum disease. Eating strongly flavored foods, such as onions and garlic, can also cause your breath to smell, as can smoking and drinking alcohol.... Read more...Bulimia NervosaPeople who have bulimia go through periods where they eat a lot of food in a very short amount of time (binge eating) and then make themselves sick, use laxatives (medication to help them poo) or do excessive exercise, or a combination of these, to try to stop themselves gaining weight.... Read more...Canker/Cold SoresAs the weather gets colder, you’re more likely to get canker and cold sores. These two conditions are commonly mistaken for one another. Although they’re not the same, both canker sores and cold sores have similar triggers and treatments. It’s important to understand the difference between canker sores and cold sores so you can effectively treat them. But if we break it down, we see that they are two different conditions, with similar causes. Your mouth is an incredible measure of the health of your body’s immune system. Let’s take a closer look at the differences so you can find relief faster.... Read more...Cavities and Tooth DecayWhat Is Tooth Decay? It’s actually pretty simple. Decay (or softening of enamel) happens over time and the result is a cavity—a defect left in the tooth. Teeth are covered with a hard, protective top layer called enamel. But once the enamel is weakened by acids produced by bacteria, a pit or cavity is formed in or on the tooth surface. What Causes Cavities and Tooth Decay? Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates become trapped between teeth and are not completely removed with brushing and flossing. The plaque bacteria generate acidic by-products that eat away at the tooth enamel, slowly creating holes in the teeth called cavities. Without treatment, these holes can grow larger over time and may even destroy the whole tooth.... Read more...
