Good oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing. Find out more about the inside of your mouth and the role its various structures play in speech and digestion. By Connie Brichford | Medically reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH Your mouth is made up of more than just teeth, so good oral health goes beyond simply brushing and flossing. In addition to your teeth, your mouth is made up of gums, oral mucosa, the upper and lower jaw, the tongue, salivary glands, the uvula, and the frenulum. All of these structures play an important role when it comes to good dental health and are routinely examined when you receive dental care. The Oral Mucosa When you open your mouth and look in the mirror, everything that isn’t a tooth is covered by a protective lining called the oral mucosa, which is a mucous membrane similar to the mucous membranes that line your nostrils and inner ears. The oral mucosa plays an essential role in maintaining your oral health, as well as your overall health, by defending your body from germs and other irritants that enter your mouth. A tough substance called keratin, also found in your fingernails and hair, helps […]
Your dentist is only a partner in your dental health. You need to do your part at home to keep periodontal disease at bay. By Clare Kittredge Medically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH Taking care of your teeth at home can help you maintain your dental health and prevent periodontal, or gum, disease from developing. Richard H. Price, DMD, spokesperson for the American Dental Association and a former clinical instructor at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, says regular home care should include daily brushing and flossing. “My advice is to brush thoroughly, at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening before going to bed,” says Dr. Price. “Be sure to floss at least once a day. I do it after every meal when I can.” Proper dental care at home, combined with seeing your dentist regularly, is your ticket to good dental health, says Price, who is retired from a 35-year private group dental practice in Newton, Mass. Dental Health at Home “Use products that have the ADA (American Dental Association) seal,” says Price. “This means that the products — toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc. — are safe to […]
Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. But by changing certain habits, you can improve the health of your mouth and teeth and lessen your risk. By Clare Kittredge Medically Reviewed by Christine Wilmsen Craig, MD How well you care for your teeth and gums has a powerful effect on your overall health. Neglecting your oral health lead to more than just sore teeth and bad breath — it can open the door to all sorts of health problems, including some pretty nasty diseases like oral cancer. Researchers have found possible connections between gum problems and heart disease, bacterial pneumonia, stroke, and even problem pregnancies. “You cannot be healthy with an unhealthy mouth any more than one can be healthy with an infected foot,” says Richard H. Price, DMD, spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA) and a former clinical instructor at the Boston University Dental School. The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Oral Health A number of dietary habits and lifestyle factors can affect oral health, including: Sugar consumption. “Having a sugar-laden diet will contribute to tooth decay and gum problems, as the bacteria in the mouth thrive in this environment,” […]
It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your overall health but using tobacco products can have serious consequences on your oral health, too. By Connie Brichford Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH In addition to affecting your overall health, tobacco use and smoking can cause a number of oral health issues, ranging from oral cancer to discolored teeth. “You can get yellow teeth [and] a yellow tongue,” says Thomas Kilgore, DMD, professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery and associate dean at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. “You see a lot of staining on the tongue.” Smoking and tobacco use can lead to more serious oral health complications as well, including gum disease and oral cancer. Smoking and Oral Cancer “The most serious issue is mouth cancer,” Dr. Kilgore says. “It’s hard to say what percentage of people who smoke will get mouth cancer, but the death rate of those who do get it is high — between 40 and 50 percent of all cases, and that hasn’t changed over the last few decades.” The American Cancer Society estimates that 90 percent of people with oral cancer (cancer affecting the lips, tongue, throat, and […]
Brushing your teeth seems easy enough. But some toothbrushes are better than others and there is a right and wrong way to brush your teeth. By Clare Kittredge | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH Brushing your teeth regularly is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums and preventing periodontal (gum) diseases, but it’s also important to make sure you choose the right toothbrush for your teeth and use proper brushing techniques. Done correctly, brushing your teeth at least twice a day — in the morning and in the evening before going to bed, for at least three minutes — can help ensure long-term dental health. “It takes time to brush effectively,” says Richard H. Price, DMD, spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA) and a former clinical instructor at Boston University Dental School. “Most people just rush through it.” Dr. Price suggests setting a timer for three minutes and brushing and flossing until the time runs out. How to Choose a Toothbrush Although some ancient civilizations used frayed twigs to clean their teeth, these days toothbrushes come in a variety of manual and powered forms. And the first step to taking good care of your mouth […]
Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of good oral health. Learn about the different types of toothpaste and how to select one that’s right for you. By Clare Kittredge | Medically reviewed by Cynthia Haines, MD Toothpaste is not always paste. It can be a gel, powder, or paste that you brush onto your teeth and gums to help get rid of accumulating plaque and improve your oral health. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), toothpaste is important to oral health because it helps to remove plaque and its bacterial buildup on teeth and fights off periodontal (gum) disease. Most toothpaste also contains fluoride, which bolsters tooth enamel and fights tooth decay. What’s in Toothpaste? The exact composition of different toothpastes may vary slightly depending on the benefits being touted by the particular brand (such as whitening teeth or reducing gum inflammation). In general, toothpastes include the following ingredients: Gentle abrasives, such as magnesium carbonate, dehydrated silica gels, calcium carbonate, hydrated aluminum oxides, and phosphate salts. Glycerol, sorbitol, or other so-called “humectants,” substances that keep the toothpaste from drying out. Thickeners like seaweed or mineral colloids, synthetic cellulose, or natural gum to give the toothpaste a homogeneous appearance and […]
Brushing your teeth is not enough to maintain good oral health over time. Flossing should be a regular part of your oral hygiene routine. By Connie Brichford Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH Cleaning the spaces between your teeth and along your gums with dental floss is as important to your oral health as cleaning your teeth with a toothbrush. Just like you brush your teeth every day, flossing should be part of your daily routine. To better understand why flossing is so important, Richard H. Price, DMD, spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA) and a former clinical instructor at Boston University Dental School, compares it to cleaning your home: “You cannot effectively vacuum a house with only one attachment,” he says. “You need other attachments to get into the nooks and crannies. That’s what floss does.” The Benefits of Flossing to Your Oral Health There are many benefits to regularly flossing your teeth. Dental floss can help clear food debris and plaque from the spaces between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. As a result, flossing helps prevent gum or periodontal diseases, tooth decay, and bad breath. There are certain things to keep in mind to […]
A stroll down the drugstore dental-care aisle can be dizzying, especially with all the mouth rinse products available. By Connie Brichford Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass, III, MD, MPH Anti-plaque, anti-gingivitis, alcohol-free — your pharmacy’s oral health section has dozens of mouth rinse products to choose from, all promising to protect your teeth and gums and freshen your breath. But how can you know which claims are true? And do you really need to use a mouth rinse — or is good brushing and flossing enough? “There are three major categories [of mouth rinses], from a consumer perspective,” says Michelle Henshaw, DDS, MPH and assistant dean for community partnerships and extramural affairs at Boston University, Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. These include mouth rinse products that contain fluoride, anti-gingivitis and anti-plaque mouth rinses, and cosmetic mouth rinse products. Some of these mouth rinses are available over-the-counter; others will require a prescription. Here’s what you should know when shopping for a mouth rinse. Fluoride-Containing Mouth Rinses Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by helping your body strengthen enamel — the white, harder-than-bone substance that covers teeth. But most people will not require fluoride-containing mouth rinses, says Dr. Henshaw. “You […]
How do electric toothbrushes stand up against good old-fashioned manual brushing? We went to the experts to find out. By Connie Brichford Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH The electric toothbrush has become very popular in recent years — some even say it provides superior dental care. But how does it actually compare to manual brushing? “The idea of a toothbrush is to remove plaque and to stimulate the gums,” explains John Ictech-Cassis, DDS, DMD, clinical associate professor at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. “Most toothbrushes will keep the teeth clean if you know how to use them.” Manual Toothbrushes: A Classic Route to Good Dental Care “There are many advantages to the manual toothbrush,” says Dr. Ictech-Cassis. “We’ve been using this toothbrush for many years. It has a good track record.” Advantages include: Cost and availability. “It’s inexpensive and accessible,” says Ictech-Cassis. “This is the toothbrush that the majority of dentists give away.” Electric toothbrushes may simply be too expensive for many people, so it’s nice to know that you can do a great job brushing with a manual toothbrush. Easy to travel with. “It’s easy to take a manual toothbrush with you […]
A Guide to Nighttime Oral Care By Jen Laskey Keeping your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your smile bright is not just a day job; your mouth needs protection at night too. Donna L. Zak, D.D.S., of Zak & Frankel Dental Associates in New York City, explains: “Nighttime oral hygiene is important because while we’re sleeping, we’re not swallowing, so the bacteria in our mouths increase throughout the night. The nighttime goal is to avoid giving the bacteria anything to break down and feed off.” There are three basic steps to nighttime hygiene: brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash. Dr. Zak says the order doesn’t matter, as long as the food particles and plaque are removed. However, she adds, “My preference is for brushing, flossing, and then mouthwash because I feel that brushing first makes it easier to floss.” Steps for Basic Nighttime Oral Hygiene: Brushing Brushing your teeth helps protect them from plaque buildup and tooth decay. Using a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste that contains fluoride, start brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle to the gums. The correct method, according to the American Dental Association, is to brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes. The […]
Try these foods to help build strong teeth and healthy gums By Anne L. Fritz What you eat affects your mouth not only by building healthier teeth and gums, but also by helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Learn how to eat the best diet for your teeth, including the foods to eat, beverages to drink, and what to avoid. What you eat affects your mouth not only by building healthier teeth and gums, but also by helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease. While a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and unsaturated fats will benefit your overall oral health, there are a few standout foods and nutrients that can really boost it. Teeth and Calcium Mom said it when you were in grade school, and she was right on this one: Drinking milk builds strong bones and teeth. Calcium is vital in childhood and through your teens, when teeth are formed, but the value of this nutrient doesn’t stop once you get your wisdom teeth. A diet with adequate calcium may prevent against tooth decay, says Dr. Leonard Anglis, DDS. When a diet is low in calcium, as a majority of Americans’ […]
Healthy mouth, healthy body: The link between them may surprise you. By Kate Lowenstein The condition of your mouth is closely tied to your overall health. Find out how oral health is linked to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and more. Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a nice smile and pleasant breath. Recent research has found a number of links between oral health and overall health. While in many cases, the nature of this link still isn’t clear — researchers have yet to conclude whether the connections are causal or correlative — what is certain is that the condition of your mouth is closely tied to your overall physical health. Oral Health and Diabetes Doctors have known for years that type 2 diabetics have an increased incidence of periodontitis, or gum disease. In July 2008 the connection was further highlighted: Researchers at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health followed 9,296 nondiabetic participants, measuring their level of periodontic bacteria over the course of 20 years. “We found that people who had higher levels of periodontal disease had a twofold risk of developing type 2 diabetes over that time period compared to people with low levels or no […]
Keeping your mouth healthy throughout life By Erica Patino Awareness of the oral-health conditions you are likely to face at different stages of life can help you stay a step ahead of potential dental problems, and build a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dental Health: Pregnancy and Children Expectant mothers can give children a head start by eating an array of healthy foods and taking calcium supplements while pregnant. Also, taking folic-acid supplements decreases the risk of a baby being born with a cleft lip and palate. After the baby’s birth, parents should wipe the infant’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings, as this helps prevent the buildup of bacteria. When teeth come in, typically at six months old, parents can use a soft children’s toothbrush twice a day to clean the teeth and gum line, where decay starts. Dr. Mary Hayes, a pediatric dentist in Chicago and a spokesperson for the American Dental Association, tells parents there is a risk for tooth decay even in children as young as nine months. “Parents need to pay attention to baby teeth — they aren’t disposable,” says Dr. Hayes, who also recommends parents brush their children’s teeth until they are six […]
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called TMJ disorders, are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. We don’t know for certain how many people have TMJ disorders, but some estimates suggest that more than ten million Americans are affected. The disorders appear to be more common among women than men. What are the signs and symptoms? A variety of symptoms may be linked to TMJ disorders: Pain, particularly in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint, is the most common. Other symptoms include Radiating pain in the face, jaw, or neck Jaw muscle stiffness Limited movement or locking of the jaw Painful clicking, popping, or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth A change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together Read Full Article Here
Experts say that your oral health could clue you in to the condition of your heart — so listen up! Here’s what you should know about the links between your teeth, gums, and ticker. By Marie Suszynski | Medically reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH You brush, floss, and follow all your dentist’s commandments for healthy teeth and gums (kudos!). But did you know that those mouth-healthy habits may ultimately keep your heart healthy, too? Research has found a surprising number of links between the state of your mouth and your heart. In fact, we now know that people who develop gum disease (either gingivitis, a milder form that results in inflammation and infection of the gums, or periodontitis, which develops when the inflammation and infection spread below the gum line) are nearly twice at risk for heart disease. And in one study of 320 adults — half with heart disease — researchers found that these participants were also more likely to have gum disease, bleeding gums, and tooth loss. What’s the connection? Researchers are still figuring that out. Can Gum Disease Give You a Heart Attack? “There is a very logical reason why the two may be connected,” says […]
The filthy truth? Your toothbrush is a breeding ground for germs. But fear not, say experts — just know when it’s time to give yours the old heave-ho. By Beth W. Orenstein Medically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH Do you know how many bacteria live on your toothbrush? Brace yourself! Researchers have found that a single toothbrush can be loaded with as many as 10 million germs and bacteria. In fact, recent studies even found that your toothbrush could be a breeding ground for tiny microorganisms. But before you swear off brushing, know this: These bacteria aren’t a big threat to your pearly whites. According to Richard Price, DMD, a dentist in Newton, Mass. and a consumer adviser for the American Dental Association, the researchers who discovered those toothbrush-dwelling microorganisms found that they didn’t make people sick — toothpaste has an anti-germ component built into it, and the microbes need moisture to survive. So as long as your toothbrush is given time to dry after you use it, it should be safe. Squeaky-Clean Toothbrush Tips To take care of your teeth and your toothbrush, it’s important to use your toothbrush the way you’re supposed to, rinse it in tap […]
Mouthwash makers say the benefits of oral rinse go beyond just kissable breath — but some people worry that alcohol-containing rinses come with a number of health risks. Here’s what you should know. By Kristen Stewart Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass, III, MD, MPH Ahhh — who doesn’t love that minty kick that comes from a swig of mouthwash? And your oral rinse could be doing more than just giving your breath a makeover, according to many mouthwash makers — it could be chockfull of health benefits, too. Just check out the label on your mouthwash container, and you may find that it’s a plaque zapper, a teeth whitener, perhaps even a gum-disease fighter. But are the claims true? Is mouthwash really good for your mouth? Turns out, the answer is yes and no. 4 Important Mouthwash Pros Mouthwash may: Cut down on cavities. “It is absolutely true that rinsing with a fluoride rinse can help reduce cavities,” says Nicholas Toscano, DDS, a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, co-editor-in-chief of the Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry. “There are countless studies on the benefits of fluoride in reducing demineralization and cavitations of the teeth.” Fight gum […]
Open wide! A number of cavity-fighters and dental-health-boosters are living in your kitchen cabinet. By Kristen Stewart Medically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH Eat. Brush. Floss. Repeat! You know the keys to dental health involve a toothbrush, dental floss, and avoiding certain foods (think sticky, sugary treats). But were you aware that certain foods are actually good for your teeth and gums? Turns out, simply eating lunch could be a part of your daily dental routine. For instance, foods rich in calcium help ensure not only strong bones, but also healthy teeth. Other beneficial snacks include those containing polyphenols and probiotics, which can help encourage a healthy environment in your mouth. So, go ahead — take a bite into these tooth-friendly foods (plus, check out which ones to avoid). Make Your Dentist Proud: Healthy Foods for Healthy Teeth Milk. “Milk is one of the main sources of sugars in the diet,” says Ellie Phillips, DDS, a founding member of the nonprofit American Academy for Oral Systemic Health and author of Kiss Your Dentist Goodbye. But that’s not an excuse to skimp on the white stuff: Drinking milk can actually promote healthy teeth and bones. “The sugar in milk is […]
The last teeth to develop can cause havoc for the rest of your healthy mouth. Yet there’s growing controversy about whether we really need to have them taken out. By Regina Boyle Wheeler | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH Just as you enter adulthood, your wisdom teeth make their presence known in the far reaches of your mouth. Wisdom teeth — officially the third molars — are the last set of teeth to come in, usually between 17 and 25 years of age, in the so-called “age of wisdom.” For some, these teeth come in fine. For many others, wisdom teeth don’t come in properly (if at all), are vulnerable to disease, and need to be removed to protect a healthy mouth. It’s estimated that 95 percent of American 18-year-olds “have wisdom teeth, and most of them have little if any chance to function in a normal manner,” says Louis Rafetto, DMD, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Wilmington, Del. So if wisdom teeth are virtually useless in millions of mouths, why do we have them? One theory lies in the mouths of our ancestors. Early humans needed an extra row of teeth to chew their […]
Ask for screening as part of your general checkup, experts say. By Robert Preidt, HealthDay News SATURDAY, April 7, 2012 (HealthDay News) — Not only do regular dental exams help keep your teeth and gums healthy, they can help detect oral cancer, the Academy of General Dentistry says. As part of Oral Cancer Awareness Month in April, the group recommends that people get a dental exam from a general dentist every six months. “The next time you visit your dentist, ask about an oral cancer screening,” academy spokesperson Dr. Seung-Hee Rhee advised in an academy news release. “Your dentist will feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks, and oral cavity and thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any sores or discolored tissues. Although you may have already been receiving this screening from your dentist, it’s a good idea to confirm that this screening is a part, and will remain a part, of your regular exam,” Rhee said. Each year in the United States, more than 30,000 new cases of oral cancer are diagnosed, and more than 8,000 people die of the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and […]
The last teeth to develop can cause havoc for the rest of your healthy mouth. Yet there’s growing controversy about whether we really need to have them taken out. By Regina Boyle Wheeler | Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH Just as you enter adulthood, your wisdom teeth make their presence known in the far reaches of your mouth. Wisdom teeth — officially the third molars — are the last set of teeth to come in, usually between 17 and 25 years of age, in the so-called “age of wisdom.” For some, these teeth come in fine. For many others, wisdom teeth don’t come in properly (if at all), are vulnerable to disease, and need to be removed to protect a healthy mouth. It’s estimated that 95 percent of American 18-year-olds “have wisdom teeth, and most of them have little if any chance to function in a normal manner,” says Louis Rafetto, DMD, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in Wilmington, Del. So if wisdom teeth are virtually useless in millions of mouths, why do we have them? One theory lies in the mouths of our ancestors. Early humans needed an extra row of teeth to chew their […]
Dental plaque appears to be a significant predictor of death from cancer, study shows. By Cole Petrochko, Associate Staff Writer, MedPage Today | Medically Reviewed by Zalman S. Agus, MD TUESDAY, June 12, 2012 (MedPage Today) — Poor oral hygiene may be associated with increased risk of cancer and premature death, researchers found. Among healthy adults in Sweden plaque build-up increased the relative risk of premature death 79 percent, Birgitta Söder, PhD, of the Karolinska Institutet in Huddinge, Sweden, and colleagues reported in BMJ Open. The finding, the authors wrote, suggests that increased plaque and associated toxins and enzymes, may be released from the built-up biofilm and enter the bloodstream through the gingival crevice, thus increasing the risk of malignancies. In 1985 Söder and colleagues initiated a longitudinal study of 1,390 randomly selected, healthy Swedish adults ages 30 to 40, who had no signs of periodontitis at baseline. The participants were followed with periodic checkups including smoking habits and oral health through 2009. Dental plaque measures were taken at baseline and in 1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, and 2009. Over the 24-year study period, 58 patients died, including 35 deaths due to malignancies. Individuals still alive at the end of follow-up […]
Good dental hygiene can keep your mind sharp. Find out more health benefits below. By Huffington Post Editors There are benefits to keeping your pearly whites so, well, pearly white that go beyond having a picture-perfect smile. According to a recent study from the University of California, daily brushing is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia later on, Reuters reported. Read Full Article Here
Reason for link between teeth, gums and heart health is still unclear, researcher says. By Robert Preidt, HealthDay News THURSDAY, March 7, 2013 (HealthDay News) — For adults, losing teeth is bad enough, but tooth loss is also associated with several risk factors for heart disease, a large international study suggests. These heart disease-related risk factors include diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and smoking. For the study, researchers analyzed data from nearly 16,000 people in 39 countries who provided information about their remaining number of teeth and the frequency of gum bleeds. About 40 percent of the participants had fewer than 15 teeth and 16 percent had no teeth, while 25 percent reported gum bleeds. For every decrease in the number of teeth, there was an increase in the levels of a harmful enzyme that promotes inflammation and hardening of the arteries. The study authors also noted that along with fewer teeth came increases in other heart disease risk markers, including “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and higher blood sugar, blood pressure and waist size. People with fewer teeth were also more likely to have diabetes, with the risk increasing 11 percent for every significant decrease in the number of teeth, […]
Cleanings, dental X-rays don’t pose a hazard, medical group says. By Robert Preidt, HealthDay News WEDNESDAY, Aug. 7, 2013 (HealthDay News) — Dental cleanings and X-rays are safe for pregnant women, a U.S. obstetrician/gynecologist group says. The group also advised ob-gyns to perform routine dental health assessments at women’s first prenatal visit and to encourage their patients to see a dentist during pregnancy. “These new recommendations address the questions and concerns that many ob-gyns, dentists and our patients have about whether it is safe to have dental work during pregnancy,” Dr. Diana Cheng, vice chairwoman of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ Committee on Health Care for Underserved Women, said in a college news release. Dental health problems are associated with other diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and respiratory infections. “We want ob-gyns to routinely counsel all of their patients, including pregnant women, about the importance of oral health to their overall health,” Cheng said. The college noted that 35 percent of all women say they haven’t seen a dentist in the past year and about 40 percent of pregnant women in the United States have cavities or gum disease. Physical changes caused by pregnancy can cause changes in […]
10-year study found some improvement, but continued gaps among racial groups. By HealthDay News Staff WEDNESDAY, December 18, 2013 (HealthDay News) — Too many Americans lack access to preventive dental care, a new study reports, and large differences exist among racial and ethnic groups. For the study, researchers analyzed telephone survey data collected from nearly 650,000 middle-aged and older adults between 1999 and 2008. The investigators found that the number who received preventive dental care increased during that time. However, 23 percent to 43 percent of Americans did not receive preventive dental care in 2008, depending on race or ethnicity. Rates of preventive care were 77 percent for Asian Americans, 76 percent for whites, 62 percent for Hispanics and Native Americans, and 57 percent for blacks, the results showed. The study was published online Dec. 17 in the journal Frontiers in Public Health. Factors such as income, education and having health insurance explained the differences in access to preventive dental care among whites and other racial groups except blacks, according to a journal news release. The lower rate of preventive dental care among blacks may be due to a lack of awareness about dental health and dental care services, and […]
Regular dental checkups can detect oral cancers early, before they’ve spread, and your dentist will probably see the signs before you do. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass, III, MD, MPH Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, lips, or the back of the throat. About 35,000 Americans are diagnosed with some forms of oral cancer each year, and of those, approximately 7,500 will die from the condition. Most oral cancers — about two-thirds — are found in the mouth, while the rest are found in the pharynx, a part of the throat that’s just behind the mouth and nasal cavity. Who Is at Risk for Oral Cancer? You are at increased risk of developing oral cancer if you: · Use tobacco products.Tobacco use — smoking cigarettes, pipes, or cigars, or using snuff or chewing tobacco — causes 75 percent of all cases of oral cancer. · Drink alcohol. Heavy alcohol use, especially when combined with tobacco use, increases your risk of developing oral cancer. · Get too much sun, which can increase your risk of developing lip cancer. · Eat an unhealthy diet, which can increase your overall cancer risk. · Are over the […]
If left untreated, this oral health problem can damage more than your gums. Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic infection that can result in a number of health problems, from mild inflammation to severe gum damage to tooth loss, if left untreated. In addition, gum disease can affect your overall health, and has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Gum disease develops in the space between your gum line and your teeth. It causes tissue inflammation and damage that can eventually cause your gums to recede. The severity of gum disease is determined by the depth of the excess space, or so-called “pockets,” that form as your gum tissue recedes. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 80 percent of adults in the United States have some degree of gum disease. Types of Gum Disease Gum disease is classified as either gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease and is reversible with treatment. But it can also […]
Proper dental care can prevent this common gum disease. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH If your gums are irritated and frequently bleed, you may have gum disease, also called periodontal disease. There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis reflects mild to moderate inflammation of your gums (or gingiva). Without proper dental care, it can progress into a more serious condition, called periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss and destruction of the jaw bone. There is also evidence that untreated gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. But by practicing good oral hygiene — brushing and flossing your teeth regularly and getting regular dental checkups and cleanings — you can prevent gingivitis and other more serious oral health problems. Causes of Gingivitis Gingivitis typically results from poor dental care. Plaque, a substance that develops from bacteria, mucus, and food particles, can stick to your teeth, causing tooth decay. Without regular dental care to remove plaque buildup, it will harden into tartar and sticks to the base of your teeth. Both plaque and tartar lead to gingivitis. In addition to poor dental care, other causes of gingivitis include […]
Periodontitis is a gum infection that requires immediate dental treatment. If left untreated, it can result in tooth loss and other serious health problems. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Niya Jones, MD, MPH Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, exists in two forms: gingivitis and periodontitis. Both types of gum disease arise from a bacterial infection that is usually brought on by poor dental care. Gingivitis is a milder form of gum disease that causes irritated, bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. Like gingivitis, periodontitis causes gums to bleed and become inflamed. Other signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include: Mouth sores Gum pain A sour taste in the mouth Many people with periodontitis experience few symptoms. But even in the absence of obvious symptoms, untreated periodontitis can cause teeth to loosen and fall out or need to be extracted. Types of Periodontitis There are several types of periodontitis, but the most common forms are: Aggressive periodontitis. This is a rapidly progressive form of periodontitis that leads to gum deterioration and jawbone destruction in people who are otherwise healthy. Chronic periodontitis. This is the most common type of periodontitis. The inflammation occurs more slowly, […]
Periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis usually require lifelong maintenance therapy to ensure good oral health. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH Gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases, are usually caused by a build-up of bacteria and plaque that inflames and infects the gums. Plaque is a clear film on the teeth to which bacteria sticks, and if it’s not removed with brushing and flossing, it will turn into a hard material called tartar. Tartar and bacteria deposits around and under the gum line are the main causes of periodontal diseases. Types of Periodontal Diseases There are two types of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a milder form of gum disease, in which gums become red, swollen, and may bleed easily. Periodontitis is a much more serious oral health condition in which the inflammation spreads deep below the gum line and involves the bone and tissues that hold teeth in place. Periodontitis can cause deep pockets of infection, which may result in the loss of teeth and their surrounding bone if it’s left untreated. Fortunately, there are several procedures available to treat these oral health problems, depending on the severity of the disease. […]
You may be surprised to learn that gum infections can lead to serious health consequences, including heart disease, diabetes, and more. By Lynn Yoffee Medically Reviewed by Pat F. Bass, III, MD, MPH You know you need to take care of your oral health for your teeth’s sake — but did you know it’s also for your heart, your brain — and your whole body? Research shows that if you have an infection in your mouth, it can increase your risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and even pregnancy complications. For years, healthcare professionals suspected there was a link between oral infections and some medical conditions, but they thought this was because bacteria from the mouth made its way to other parts of the body. But now studies are showing that the inflammation found in periodontal, or gum, disease may play a more specific role in causing or increasing the risk for certain conditions. Oral Health and Overall Health Poor oral health can cause these serious health problems: Heart disease. Researchers have found that long-term periodontitis, an infection of the gums, can lead to coronary heart disease or atherogenesis, a condition in which plaque forms in your arteries. In […]
Patient Education! What is PLAQUE? Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless or pale yellow film that is constantly forming on your teeth. When saliva, food, and fluids combine plaque – which contains bacteria – forms on and between your teeth. TOOTH DECAY and GINGIVITIES Plaque is the root cause of many oral health issues. The [...]
Patient Education! What is PLAQUE? Dental plaque is a sticky, colorless or pale yellow film that is constantly forming on your teeth. When saliva, food, and fluids combine plaque – which contains bacteria – forms on and between your teeth. Plaque is the root cause of many oral health issues including an early stage of [...]
Patient Education! We may be referring for a root canal treatment in order to save a tooth that has been badly decayed or become infected. During your root canal procedure, the referred dentist will drill a hole in order to have access to your tooth’s roots. Using this access hole he will remove the nerve [...]
Patient Education! A crown may be recommended when your tooth has a very large filling, your tooth has had root canal therapy, or for cosmetic reasons. Crowns are great at protecting a weak tooth from breaking or providing a more beautiful appearance to a tooth that is misshapen or severely discolored. Crowns can be made [...]
Patient Education! A missing tooth can be replaced by using two or more surrounding teeth as anchors to hold up a pontic in between. Pontics are false teeth that can be made from gold, alloys. porcelain, or a combination of these materials. The two or more surrounding teeth will be prepped and capped with a [...]