Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition.  Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

There are various causes that attribute to bad breath, but in healthy people, the major source is microbial deposits on the tongue.  Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can have several causes, including:

• 1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of bacteria and food particles in the mouth, resulting in bad breath.

  2. Food and drink: Certain foods and beverages, such as onions, garlic, coffee, and alcohol, can leave strong odors in the mouth that contribute to bad breath.

  3. Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can cause a distinct and persistent bad breath. It can also lead to gum disease and dry mouth, both of which contribute to halitosis.

  4. Dry mouth: Saliva helps cleanse the mouth and neutralize odors. Having a dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications, breathing through the mouth, or a medical condition, can contribute to bad breath.

  5. Dental issues: Tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can produce foul-smelling breath. These conditions can harbor bacteria and produce sulfur compounds that lead to halitosis.

  6. Systemic illnesses: Certain medical conditions, such as respiratory tract infections, sinusitis, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and acid reflux, can cause bad breath.

  7. Poorly fitting dental appliances: Dentures or dental appliances that are not cleaned properly or do not fit well can harbor bacteria and contribute to bad breath.

  8. Tonsil stones: Small, calcified masses that form on the tonsils, known as tonsil stones, can cause bad breath due to the accumulation of bacteria and debris.

  9. Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics, can contribute to dry mouth, leading to bad breath.

  10. Other factors: Stress, fasting, crash diets, hormonal changes, and certain medical treatments (e.g., chemotherapy) can also contribute to temporary bad breath.

  It's important to identify the underlying cause of bad breath to effectively address the issue. If you have persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene practices, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath.  Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with your dentist.

What can I do to prevent bad breath?

If you are experiencing bad breath, also known as halitosis, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:

• 1. Improve oral hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals, using fluoride toothpaste. Don't forget to brush your tongue as well, as bacteria can accumulate on its surface. Additionally, floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

  2. Clean your tongue: Use a tongue scraper or the bristles of your toothbrush to gently clean your tongue. This can help remove bacteria and debris that contribute to bad breath.

  3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain saliva production. Saliva helps wash away bacteria and food particles, reducing odor-causing compounds in your mouth.

  4. Watch your diet: Certain foods, such as onions, garlic, and spices, can contribute to bad breath. Limit their consumption or practice good oral hygiene immediately after eating them. Additionally, avoid excessive consumption of sugary foods and drinks, as they can promote bacterial growth.

  5. Quit smoking: Smoking not only causes its own distinct odor but also dries out your mouth and increases the likelihood of gum disease, leading to bad breath. Quitting smoking can improve both your oral and overall health.

  6. Regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. They can identify and address any underlying dental issues that may be contributing to bad breath.

  7. Address oral health issues: If you have persistent bad breath despite practicing good oral hygiene, it could be a sign of an underlying dental problem, such as gum disease, cavities, or dry mouth. Consult your dentist for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.

  8. Consider mouthwash: Some antimicrobial mouthwashes can help reduce bacteria and freshen breath. However, it's important to note that mouthwash alone is not a substitute for proper oral hygiene.

  If your bad breath persists even after taking these steps, it may be a good idea to consult with a dentist or healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the problem.

  
  

Brushing and flossing help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.

Plaque is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth and gums.  The bacteria in plaque convert certain food particles into acids that cause tooth decay.  Also, if plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  If plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone, causing periodontal (gum) disease.

Plaque formation and growth is continuous and can only be controlled by regular brushing, flossing, and the use of other dental aids.

Toothbrushing – Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.

• Brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums, gently using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
• Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
• Use the tip of the brush head to clean the inside front teeth.
• Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and to freshen your breath.

Electric toothbrushes are also recommended.  They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently.  Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.

Flossing – Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline.  Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

• Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
• Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
• Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline.  Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.

Rinsing – It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing, and also after meals if you are unable to brush.  If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.

It is recommended to have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, although your dentist or dental hygienist may advise more frequent visits.

Regular dental examinations and cleaning appointments are crucial for preventing dental issues and maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. During these visits, your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and examined for cavities. Additionally, several other factors are assessed and monitored to help identify, prevent, and maintain your dental well-being. These include:

1. Reviewing medical history: Understanding your current medical conditions, new medications, and illnesses provides insights into your overall health, including dental health.
2. Examination of diagnostic X-rays (radiographs): These are essential for detecting decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine the positioning of teeth and roots.
3. Oral cancer screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums are checked for any signs of oral cancer.
4. Gum disease evaluation: The gums and bone surrounding the teeth are examined for indications of periodontal disease.
5. Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces are checked for decay using specialized dental instruments.
6. Evaluation of existing restorations: Current fillings, crowns, and other dental restorations are examined.
7. Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus refers to hardened plaque that has adhered firmly to the tooth surface over time. It forms both above and below the gum line and can only be removed using specific dental instruments.
8. Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that develops on the teeth. It consists of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins that cause gum inflammation, which is the initial stage of periodontal disease.
9. Teeth polishing: This procedure eliminates stains and plaque that may not be effectively removed during regular toothbrushing and scaling.
10. Oral hygiene recommendations: Advice and recommendations are provided regarding oral hygiene aids, such as electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, fluorides, rinses, etc.
11. Reviewing dietary habits: Your eating habits significantly influence your dental health and are therefore assessed and discussed during the visit.

By adhering to regular dental exams and cleaning visits, you can maintain optimal oral health, prevent dental problems, and ensure the longevity of your teeth and gums.

As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves much more than simply checking for cavities and polishing your teeth.  We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so, will require regular check-ups and cleanings.

Approximately four out of five individuals have periodontal disease without realizing it. The reason for this lack of awareness is that the disease tends to be painless during its initial stages, unlike tooth decay, which often causes discomfort. Consequently, it is possible to have periodontal disease without noticeable symptoms. Regular dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are crucial for detecting any existing periodontal issues.

The development of periodontal disease starts with the presence of plaque, a sticky, colorless film consisting of bacteria, food debris, and saliva, on the teeth and gums. The bacteria within plaque release toxins, or acids, which cause inflammation in the gums and gradually destroy the surrounding bone. Consistently and properly brushing and flossing one's teeth will help prevent the accumulation of plaque and limit its detrimental effects.

Apart from inadequate oral hygiene, several other factors can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

1. Smoking or chewing tobacco: Tobacco users have a higher likelihood of plaque and tartar formation on their teeth.
2. Certain tooth or appliance conditions: Improperly fitting bridges, crowded teeth, or faulty fillings can create spaces that trap plaque and bacteria.
3. Many medications: Some medications, such as steroids, cancer therapy drugs, blood pressure medications, and oral contraceptives, may have side effects that reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth and making it easier for plaque to adhere to the teeth and gums.
4. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and puberty: Hormonal changes during these periods can make gum tissue more sensitive to bacteria toxins.
5. Systemic diseases: Conditions like diabetes, blood cell disorders, HIV/AIDS, among others, can contribute to the development of periodontal disease.
6. Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may be more susceptible to a more aggressive type of periodontitis due to genetic factors. Those with a family history of tooth loss should pay particular attention to their gum health.

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Gums that are red and swollen should not be considered normal or healthy. It is not normal for gums to bleed, even when you brush forcefully or use dental floss. Persistent bad breath is often a result of bacteria in the mouth. The presence of new spaces between teeth may indicate bone loss. Loose teeth can be a result of either bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers that support the tooth. The presence of pus around the teeth and gums is a sign of an infection. Receding gums refer to the loss of gum tissue around a tooth. Tenderness or discomfort in the gums and teeth is often caused by the irritation of plaque, calculus, and bacteria.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Brushing our teeth effectively removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from most tooth surfaces, but it is unable to reach the areas between the teeth. Unfortunately, these interdental spaces are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

To thoroughly clean between the teeth and under the gumline, daily flossing is essential. Flossing serves multiple purposes: it cleans these spaces, disrupts the buildup of plaque colonies, and helps prevent damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Plaque is an almost invisible, sticky film that forms on the teeth. It consists of a colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (acids) that lead to cavities, gum irritation, and inflammation. If plaque is not removed both above and below the gumline, it hardens into calculus (tartar), further aggravating the gums and contributing to bone deterioration. This marks the beginning of periodontal disease.

Here are the proper steps for flossing:

1. Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving approximately 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
2. Using your thumbs and forefingers as guides, gently insert the floss between the teeth using a sawing motion.
3. Form a "C" shape with the floss around each tooth and slide it under the gumline. Move the floss gently up and down, ensuring the side of each tooth is cleaned.
4. If you find it challenging to use conventional floss, floss holders are recommended as an alternative.

Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!

If you desire to enhance your smile or feel self-conscious about your teeth, cosmetic dental treatments can provide you with a more confident and beautiful appearance.

In recent years, cosmetic dentistry has gained significant popularity. This is not only due to advancements in cosmetic dental procedures and materials but also because individuals are increasingly prioritizing overall health, including dental care and achieving a healthier, whiter, and more radiant smile.

There is a wide range of cosmetic dental procedures available to improve the aesthetics of your teeth and enhance your smile. Depending on your specific needs, these treatments can create a remarkable transformation, from restoring a single tooth to undergoing a comprehensive full-mouth makeover. Consult your dentist to explore how cosmetic dentistry can enhance both the health and beauty of your smile.

Here are some common cosmetic procedures:

Teeth Whitening: Bleaching is used to lighten teeth that have been stained or discolored due to factors such as age, food, drinks, and smoking. It can also be effective for teeth darkened by injury or certain medications, although the degree of effectiveness depends on the severity of the staining.

Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings: Also known as "bonding," composite fillings have gained popularity as a replacement for amalgam (silver) fillings. They are used to repair teeth with cavities and to replace old, defective fillings. Additionally, tooth-colored fillings are utilized to repair chipped, broken, or discolored teeth. They are also valuable for filling gaps and protecting sensitive root surfaces exposed by gum recession.

Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are custom-made, thin shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth, creating an individualized, beautiful smile. They can help restore or conceal damaged, discolored, misshapen, or misaligned teeth. Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal removal of tooth structure.

Porcelain Crowns (Caps): These are custom-made, tooth-colored coverings that encase the entire surface of a tooth, restoring its original shape and size. Crowns are used to protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. They are suitable for teeth with large, fractured, broken fillings, or severe decay.

Dental Implants: Implants are artificial roots surgically placed in the jawbone to replace one or more missing teeth. Porcelain crowns, bridges, and dentures can be designed to fit and attach to implants, offering a stable, durable, and natural-looking solution to replace removable dental appliances.

Orthodontics: With the availability of less visible and more effective brackets and wires, orthodontic treatment for teeth straightening has become more appealing to adult patients. In some cases, custom-made clear removable aligners can be used as an alternative to braces for teeth straightening.

Cosmetic dentistry provides numerous options to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. By discussing your goals and concerns with your dentist, you can determine the most suitable cosmetic procedures for achieving your desired results.

Thanks to the advances in modern dentistry, cosmetic treatments can make a difference in making your smile shine!

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-crafted shells made of tooth-shaped porcelain that are designed to cover the front surfaces of teeth. They are highly durable and resistant to staining, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking to restore or enhance the aesthetic appeal of their smile.

Veneers can be utilized to address various dental conditions, including:

• Severe tooth discoloration or staining
• Irregular or unwanted gaps between teeth
• Worn or chipped teeth
• Slight tooth misalignment
• Misshapen teeth
• Teeth that are too small or large in proportion

Typically, obtaining veneers involves two visits to the dentist. During the initial visit, an impression (mold) of your teeth is taken, which is then sent to a professional dental laboratory. At the lab, each veneer is custom-made to match the shape and color requirements of your individual smile.

During the second visit, the teeth receiving veneers are prepared by gently buffing and shaping the front surface. This process ensures a proper fit for the thin veneers. The veneers are meticulously placed and bonded onto the tooth surface using special bonding cements. In some cases, a specialized light may be employed to facilitate the hardening and setting of the bond.

It is worth noting that the application of veneers typically requires minimal or no anesthesia, making the process more comfortable for patients. By choosing porcelain veneers, individuals can achieve a beautiful and natural-looking smile enhancement.

Veneers are an excellent dental treatment that can dramatically improve your teeth and give you a natural, beautiful smile.

Due to the increasing aesthetic concern of patients, teeth whitening has become a prominent focus in dental care. Numerous products and methods are now available to achieve a brighter smile.

Professional teeth whitening, also known as bleaching, is a straightforward and non-invasive dental procedure utilized to alter the color of natural tooth enamel. It serves as an excellent means of enhancing the beauty of one's smile. While over-the-counter whitening products are accessible, they are generally less effective than professional treatments and may lack approval from the American Dental Association (ADA).

As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel gradually wears away, revealing a darker or yellowish shade. The inner structure of the tooth can also contribute to its color, which tends to darken over time. Habits such as smoking and consumption of beverages like coffee, tea, and wine can further discolor teeth, causing them to appear yellow and dull. Certain medications taken during childhood, such as tetracycline, can also lead to tooth discoloration. Additionally, excessive exposure to fluoride during tooth development (fluorosis) can result in tooth discoloration.

It is important to have your teeth evaluated by a dentist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for teeth whitening. In some cases, stains caused by tetracycline or fluorosis may be challenging to bleach, and alternative options like veneers or crowns may be suggested by your dentist to cover such stains. Since teeth whitening primarily affects natural tooth enamel, it is crucial to assess any existing fillings, crowns, or restorations before commencing the whitening process. Following the completion of teeth whitening, your dentist can ensure that any new restorations match the shade of your newly whitened teeth.

It should be noted that teeth whitening is not a permanent solution, and periodic touch-ups may be necessary every few years to maintain a bright and radiant smile.

The most widely used professional teeth whitening systems:

There are several widely used professional teeth whitening systems available:

1. In-Office Whitening: This is performed by a dentist in their office using high-concentration bleaching gels and specialized equipment. The procedure involves applying the whitening gel directly to the teeth and activating it with a light or laser. In-office whitening can provide fast and dramatic results in a single visit.

2. Take-Home Whitening Kits: These kits are provided by the dentist for home use. They include custom-made trays that fit over your teeth and whitening gel with a lower concentration of bleaching agent compared to in-office treatments. You wear the trays with the gel for a specified period, usually a few hours each day or overnight, over a span of several weeks. Take-home whitening kits offer more gradual whitening results.

3. Combination Whitening: Some dental practices offer a combination of in-office and take-home whitening. This approach involves an initial in-office whitening session to jumpstart the process, followed by the use of take-home kits for ongoing whitening and maintenance.

It's important to consult with a dentist to determine which professional teeth whitening system is most suitable for your needs and to ensure it is done safely and effectively. The dentist will consider factors such as the severity of discoloration, oral health conditions, and your desired outcome to recommend the best treatment option.

Thanks to the availability of advanced dental treatments and preventive options in modern dentistry, the need for tooth extraction has significantly reduced. Dentists strive to preserve the natural function of teeth and resort to extraction only when all other alternatives have been exhausted. This is because the removal of a tooth can potentially lead to significant dental and cosmetic issues if the missing tooth is not replaced.

Losing a tooth can be a traumatic experience, and it is unfortunate when it occurs. Major reasons for tooth extraction include injury, accidents, fractures, severe dental decay, and gum disease. If a tooth is lost or needs to be extracted, it is crucial to replace it in order to prevent future cosmetic and dental complications.

When a tooth is lost, the jaw bone that supported it begins to deteriorate, causing neighboring teeth to shift or tilt into the empty space left by the lost tooth. Additionally, the tooth above or below the gap may start moving towards the open space as there is no opposing tooth to bite against. These changes can lead to problems such as decay, gum disease, excessive wear on specific teeth, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Although these problems and movements may not immediately manifest, they will eventually compromise your ability to chew properly, the overall health of your bite, and the appearance of your smile.

Options for replacement of missing teeth:

Removable bridges - This type of bridge is a good solution for replacing one or more missing teeth, especially in complex dental situations where other replacement options are not possible. They are usually made of tooth-colored, artificial teeth combined with metal clasps that hook onto adjacent natural teeth. Removable bridges are the most economical option for replacing missing teeth but might be the least aesthetically pleasing. This is because the metal clasps on the appliances are often impossible to completely conceal.

Fixed bridges - This type of bridge is generally made of porcelain or composite material and is permanently anchored (cemented) to a natural tooth adjacent to the missing tooth site.  The benefit of this type of bridge is that it is fixed (not removable), and it is very sturdy.  The disadvantage is that in order to create a fixed appliance, two healthy, natural teeth will have to be crowned (capped) to hold the bridge in place.

Dentures - This type of tooth replacement is used when most or all of the natural teeth are missing in one dental arch. Dentures are removable artificial teeth that are made to closely resemble the patient’s original teeth.  

Implants - Are a great way to replace one or more missing teeth. They can also provide great support for ill-fitting dentures.  A dental implant is an artificial root that is surgically placed into the jaw bone to replace a missing tooth. An artificial tooth is placed on the implant, giving the appearance and feel of a natural tooth. Implants are very stable, durable, and are the most aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement option.

If you are missing teeth, ask us if they need replacement and what options are available to you. Together we will select the best replacement option for your particular case. Prevention and early treatment are always less involved and less costly than delaying treatment and allowing a serious problem to develop.

Many individuals have fillings in their mouths that were placed several years ago, some even during childhood. Over time, these fillings may become old, dark, and aesthetically unpleasing, causing self-consciousness when smiling, laughing, or speaking. Furthermore, old fillings can also be defective. As they age, the margins, which are the spaces between the tooth and filling, may start to deteriorate, allowing bacteria and food debris to enter and potentially leading to dental decay.

To determine if your fillings are defective and in need of replacement, it is advisable to have your dentist examine them. Additionally, if you simply wish to replace unattractive fillings, you can discuss with your dentist which ones should be prioritized for replacement and explore the most suitable options for replacements. Modern dentistry offers a range of advanced filling materials and procedures that are quick, painless, and cost-effective for replacing old, unattractive, or defective fillings.

By seeking the guidance of your dentist, you can address concerns related to old fillings, improve the aesthetics of your smile, and ensure the longevity and health of your teeth. Your dentist will assess the condition of your fillings and recommend the most appropriate course of action to meet your needs.

Options for replacing old, unattractive, or discolored fillings:

Composite (bonding) fillings: These fillings are made of tooth-colored material that closely matches the color of your existing teeth. They are particularly suitable for use in visible parts of the teeth, especially in front teeth. Composite fillings are an excellent way to improve both the health and aesthetics of your smile.

Crowns (Caps): When a tooth is extensively damaged and cannot be repaired with a filling or other restoration, a crown is used. A crown is a covering that encases the entire surface of the tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. It provides protection and strength to the remaining tooth structure. Crowns can be made from different materials such as gold, porcelain, or other tooth-colored materials, depending on the individual's needs and preferences.

Inlays/Onlays: These restorations are custom-made fillings that can be created from materials like composite resin, porcelain, or gold. They are fabricated in a dental laboratory and then placed by a dentist. Inlays/onlays are typically used for the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth. They are an ideal solution for conservatively repairing teeth with large, defective, or unattractive fillings, as well as teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma.

Porcelain veneers: Veneers are ultra-thin shells made of tooth-shaped porcelain that are custom-crafted and permanently bonded to the front surface of teeth, primarily in the front teeth region. They are an excellent solution for correcting discolored, chipped, pitted, misshapen, or slightly misaligned teeth. Veneers are also used to address unwanted spaces between teeth. They offer durability, a natural appearance, and are resistant to staining, making them a highly popular option for restoring a smile affected by old, unattractive fillings.

These dental treatments provide effective solutions for improving the health, function, and aesthetics of your teeth. By consulting with your dentist, you can determine the most suitable option based on your specific dental needs and goals.

As you can see, there are various options for replacing old, unattractive fillings. These treatments will provide strong, natural, and long-lasting replacement solutions to enhance the health and beauty of your smile.

Many individuals are unaware of the significant impact that periodontal disease, which involves the destruction of gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth, can have on overall health. In fact, periodontal disease is one of the most common infections, often more prevalent than the common cold. Not only is it the leading cause of tooth loss, but it can also have implications for the health of the entire body.

Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, an early stage characterized by the accumulation of plaque (a combination of bacteria, food debris, and saliva) that is not regularly removed from the gums and teeth. The bacteria in plaque release toxins and acids that irritate and infect the gums, eventually leading to the destruction of the jaw bone that supports the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can ultimately result in tooth loss.

Numerous studies have explored the connection between gum disease and major medical conditions, suggesting that individuals with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of systemic diseases. Furthermore, research indicates that periodontal disease can allow oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to vital organs, initiating new infections. Some findings suggest that periodontal bacteria in the bloodstream can:

1. Contribute to the development of heart disease
2. Increase the risk of stroke
3. Compromise the health of individuals with diabetes or respiratory diseases
4. Heighten the risk of preterm, low-birth weight babies in pregnant women

While more research is needed to fully comprehend the link between periodontal disease and systemic conditions, existing studies have demonstrated that infections in the mouth can impact other areas of the body.

To ensure a healthy and disease-free mouth, it is crucial to prioritize regular dental check-ups and cleanings, which include a thorough periodontal evaluation. Additionally, maintaining diligent oral hygiene practices at home and adopting a proper diet can help reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth, supporting overall oral health.

Remember the mouth body connection!  Taking care of your oral health can contribute to your overall medical health!

Despite thorough brushing and flossing, certain areas of the teeth remain difficult to reach and clean effectively. This is especially true for the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of teeth, known as pits and fissures, where more than 75 percent of dental decay typically originates. Traditional toothbrush bristles are often too large to access these areas, which is where dental sealants come into play.

A dental sealant is a thin, protective plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, premolars, and any teeth with deep grooves or pits. The sealant material forms a smooth barrier over the natural depressions and grooves on the teeth, creating an easier-to-clean surface and helping to prevent decay in these vulnerable areas. By sealing off the pits and fissures, sealants provide an added layer of protection, making it more difficult for food particles, bacteria, and plaque to accumulate and cause tooth decay.

Who may need sealants?

Sealants are beneficial for various age groups and can be applied in different situations:

1. Children and teenagers: Sealants are typically recommended as soon as the first permanent molars, known as six-year molars, erupt, or at any time during the cavity-prone years of 6-16. This age range is when children are most susceptible to tooth decay, making sealants a valuable preventive measure.
2. Infants: In certain cases, baby teeth may be sealed if they have deep grooves and the child is prone to cavities. This is done to protect the baby teeth and maintain their health.
3. Adults: Sealants may be considered for adults if they have tooth surfaces with deep grooves or depressions that are challenging to clean effectively. Applying sealants can help prevent decay in these hard-to-reach areas.

The process of applying sealants is straightforward and can be completed by a dentist or dental hygienist in a matter of minutes per tooth. First, the chewing surfaces of the teeth are roughened using an acid solution to promote the adherence of the sealant. Then, the sealant material is applied as a liquid and "painted" onto the tooth surface. It subsequently hardens and bonds to the teeth. In some cases, a special light may be used to expedite the hardening process.

After sealant treatment, it is important to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods such as ice cubes, hard candy, or popcorn kernels. Regular dental check-ups are necessary to monitor the wear and condition of the sealants, ensuring their effectiveness in protecting the teeth from decay.

Combined with good home care, a proper diet, and regular dental check-ups, sealants are very effective in helping prevent tooth decay.

We’re all at risk for having a tooth knocked out.  More than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year!  If we know how to handle this emergency situation, we might be able to save the tooth.  Teeth that are knocked out can possibly be re-implanted if we act quickly and follow these simple steps:

1. Locate the tooth and handle it only by the crown (chewing part of the tooth), NOT by the roots.
2. DO NOT scrub or use soap or chemicals to clean the tooth.  If it has dirt or debris on it, rinse it gently with your own saliva or whole milk.  If that is not possible, rinse it very gently with water.
3. Get to a dentist within 30 minutes.  The longer you wait, the less chance there is for successful reimplantation.

Ways to transport the tooth

• 1. Try to replace the tooth back in its socket immediately.  Gently bite down on gauze, a wet tea bag or on your own teeth to keep the tooth in place.  Apply a cold compress to the mouth for pain and swelling as needed.
  2. If the tooth cannot be placed back into the socket, place the tooth in a container and cover with a small amount of your saliva or whole milk.  You can also place the tooth under your tongue or between your lower lip and gums.  Keep the tooth moist at all times.  Do not transport the tooth in a tissue or cloth.
  3. Consider buying a “Save-A-Tooth” storage container and keeping it as part of your home first aid kit.  The kit is available in many pharmacies and contains a travel case and fluid solution for easy tooth transport.

The sooner the tooth is replaced back into the socket, the greater the likelihood it has to survive.  So be prepared, and remember these simple steps for saving a knocked-out tooth.

You can prevent broken or knocked-out teeth by:

• 1. Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports
  2. Always wearing your seatbelt
  3. Avoiding fights
  4. Avoid chewing hard items such as ice, popcorn kernels, hard breads, etc.

Regularly brushing our teeth helps remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from most tooth surfaces, but it cannot effectively reach the areas between our teeth. These interdental spaces are highly susceptible to decay and periodontal (gum) disease.

Daily flossing is the most effective method for cleaning between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only cleans these tight spaces, but also disrupts plaque colonies, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.

Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that develops on the teeth. It consists of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins (acids) that contribute to cavities, gum irritation, and inflammation. When plaque is not removed from above and below the gumline, it hardens and forms calculus (tartar). Calculus further irritates and inflames the gums, leading to gradual bone loss. This marks the onset of periodontal disease.

Here's a proper flossing technique:

1. Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around the middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.

2. Use your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss gently between the teeth using a sawing motion.

3. Curve the floss into a "C" shape around each tooth and slide it under the gumline. Move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.

4. If you have difficulty using conventional floss, floss holders are recommended as an alternative.

By following these steps, you can ensure proper flossing and maintain optimal oral hygiene. It is important to make flossing a regular part of your daily dental care routine to promote healthy teeth and gums.

Daily flossing will help you keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!