Fluoride 101
What is fluoride? Fluoride is a key mineral for strong, healthy teeth. Most water naturally contains fluoride but usually not enough to prevent tooth decay. Because teeth benefit from consistent exposure to fluoride, many communities add fluoride to water supplies. Approximately 75% of the U.S. population on public water systems benefits from regular access to fluoridated tap water. Why is fluoride important? Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, which helps protect your teeth from decay. It also combats acids in your mouth that can cause cavities. Fluoride can even rebuild the surface of your teeth in the early stages of tooth decay. Who needs fluoride treatment? The amount of fluoride an individual would need depends on their risk level for tooth decay. Many people are at a lower risk for cavities due to fluoridated water, toothpaste, and better oral hygiene. Children ages six and up who are at moderate or high risk […]
Stress Management and Oral Health
Stress affects your overall health and can negatively impact your oral health if left untreated. It is important to understand how stress can influence your oral and overall health and ways you can minimize or prevent it. Stress-related oral health conditions Here are a few examples of oral health issues that can be caused or worsened by stress. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, is when one’s gums become inflamed and may bleed. Without treatment, it can result in gum recession and tooth loss. Chronic stress can lower a person’s immune system, making it hard to fight off infection. Bruxism, or teeth griding and or jaw clenching, often occurs during sleep when people are not aware they are doing it. It can cause headaches, jaw soreness and wear down teeth or cause them to break or become loose. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in plaque attacks the enamel […]
Tooth Extractions 101
While it’s most common for teens and adults to have their wisdom teeth removed, other factors can make extraction of a permanent tooth necessary. Know what to expect during and after a tooth extraction procedure for your peace of mind. Causes Yes, permanent teeth are meant to stay with you throughout your life. However, it can become necessary to have them removed due to several factors, including: Tooth decay. Severe cavities may not be improved by antibiotics or a root canal. In that case, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. Gum disease. If advanced, severe infection to teeth and surrounding tissue and bones may result in complete removal of the infected tooth. Risk of infection. Those experiencing a compromised immune system can benefit from a tooth extraction if the risk of infection is enough to cause concern. Crowded mouth. If there’s not enough room in the mouth for erupting […]
Form Oral Health Habits with Children
Establishing healthy dental habits early on can set your child up for better oral and overall health throughout their life. Protect your child’s smile by helping them practice preventive care. Caring for Baby Teeth Did you know that baby teeth need similar dental care as adult teeth? When baby teeth first appear between 6 and 12 months, that’s a sign to schedule a dental visit for your child. Tooth decay can occur as soon as baby teeth appear, so don’t delay in assisting your child with preventive care, including brushing their teeth twice a day. Simply follow the recommended practices and use a child-size toothbrush and pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Once your child can brush their teeth without assistance, continue to supervise their daily routine to make sure they follow proper brushing techniques. While you aid your child’s oral health, keep an eye on other normal behaviors, such as […]
Which is Better: Root Canal or Dental Implant?
More than 1 in 4 (26%) adults in the U.S. has untreated tooth decay.1 Tooth decay occurs when bacteria attacks the enamel of teeth, leading to cavities. If left untreated, it can cause pain, infection and tooth loss. Many patients and dentists have to make a tough choice when deciding between saving a natural tooth with a root canal or removing the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant. It’s important to understand each procedure to determine which treatment option is best for you. Root canals Root canals aim to save an infected or decayed tooth. The procedure removes the nerve and inflamed pulp of the tooth before it’s cleaned, filled and sealed. A root canal leaves the tooth’s functions the same as before, with only the absence of the tooth’s nerve. This means that the tooth’s sensory function no longer reacts to temperature. Most root canals can be completed […]
