Author: craigentinny
The surprising benefits of mucus
A recent study conducted in Canada showed that human mucus can prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to and damaging the tooth’s surface.
Key takeaways
– Mucus is found on linings of the body such as the mouth, cervix, lungs and intestines
– Researchers have suggested that a synthetic mucus could be developed that could potentially provide an effective preventative measure against infection
– Always consult your dentist if you’re worried about your teeth
“Researchers said the artificial mucus could one day be added to toothpaste or chewing gum to help fight against bacteria in the mouth.”
Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/picking-your-nose-and-eating-it-is-great-news-for-your-teeth_uk_59005bc9e4b081a5c0f8ddb5
Red Alert: The Relationship Between Bleeding Gums and More Serious Conditions
Bleeding gums are often a sign of a more serious underlying condition. If ignored, they can jeopardise the health of your teeth. This is why it is important to seek the help of a dentist if your gums bleed. What are some other potential implications?
– Bleeding gums can signal a build-up of plaque.
– Eventually, more serious conditions such as periodontal disease may become present.
– The best option is to seek the help of a professional who can perform a deep cleaning.
“The accumulated plaque around the gum line will cause problems if it’s not removed.”
Read more:
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/dont-ignore-your-bleeding-gums/
Why do I wake up with a sore jaw?
Morning headaches, aching jaw, sensitivity or tiny fractures on teeth can be due to “bruxism” or teeth grinding. Bruxism is often caused by stress but is sometimes linked to sleep apnea too.
Key takeaways:
– Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco or caffeine which increases the risk
– Untreated grinding can lead to problems in the joints of the jaw
– Teeth grinding should be assessed and treated by your dentist
A dentist can decide if you need a custom mouth guard to help protect your teeth and jaw.
“People grind their teeth during the day, the night or both”
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Dental Hygiene Could Protect More Than Your Oral Health
Scientific research has indicated a link between severe gum disease (periodontitis) and cirrhosis of the liver. The studies conclude that a thorough oral hygiene routine may protect more than your smile.
– Cirrhosis of the liver results in between 1% and 2% of all deaths.
– In a study of patients with cirrhosis, a link was identified between those who did not survive and those suffering from periodontitis.
– Experts emphasise the need to keep teeth and gums healthy, visiting the dentist for check ups.
Poor oral health and periodontitis are very frequent in patients with cirrhosis.
Read the full story here: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/317063.php
Everything you need to know about dental fluorosis
Is dental fluorosis the reason you don’t smile anymore? The fluoride-caused condition characterised by brown or white spots on teeth might be harmless but is unpleasant.
Key takeaways:
– Only children are susceptible to dental fluorosis, during the formation of permanent teeth. Its impossible for the condition to develop in adults.
– Consumption of excessive fluoride leads to the deficiency of minerals in the enamel, that results in dental fluorosis.
– This condition can be cosmetically treated by a dentist, through masking and whitening.
Prevent dental fluorosis by limiting your intake of fluoride.
Learn more at:
http://yourdentalhealthresource.com/spotlight-on-dental-fluorosis/
Protect Your Teeth And Your Smile By Avoiding These Bad Habits
Did you know that even the most strict oral care routine could be ruined by inadvertently indulging in certain bad habits?
Key takeaways:
– Fizzy drinks, sparkling water, and energy drinks contain a nasty combination of sugars and acids. Limit their consumption or drink them through a straw so they aren’t in contact with your teeth for too long
– Dryness in the mouth can cause cavities and tooth decay. Breathing through the mouth when exercising and then having a sugary drink is a bad idea. You should also know that snoring and the regular intake of certain medications cause dryness
– Chewing on ice, teeth grinding, teeth clenching when lifting weights, and tongue piercings can cause enamel erosion. Think twice before you do any of that
It’s never a bad time to let your dentist assess your overall dental health and to start caring for your smile on a daily basis.
Read the full story here: http://www.refinery29.com/bad-oral-dental-health-habits
A Look at the Causes of White Patches
Leukoplakia is an oral condition characterised by swollen white patches present within the mouth. They will often occur on the gums, the cheeks and the tongue. Although not directly impacting the teeth, the fact of the matter is that it is always wise to consult with a dentist if you suspect that you may be suffering from this condition.
Some common causes of leukoplakia include excessive smoking, irritation to oral tissues such as scalding and lower levels of a substance known as keratin. So, what are a handful of the most common symptoms?
– Plaque-like patches that may impact the visual appeal of a smile.
– Slightly painful areas that might crack on occasion and cause mild discomfort.
– Any type of white patch that lasts for more than two weeks without an apparent cause.
“Mouth irritants and irritating activities, such as smoking, often cause leukoplakia.”
Read more:
Painless Laser Technology to Improve Dental Surgery
There has been a huge improvement in dental care and treatment in recent decades and the latest developments in laser technology are set to improve a visit to the dentist even further. The days of injections and uncomfortable drilling are slipping into the annals of history as laser technology slowly takes over.
People who were once distressed at the thought of having fillings or even their teeth cleaned now have reason to smile as these procedures are now quicker, simpler and less unsettling than previously. Dentists now use lasers to effortlessly:
– Remove decay
– Clean teeth
– Bond the fillings to the teeth
Lasers are now also being used in root canal treatment and these, and other, developments in cutting-edge laser technology are described in an article by Lisa Fields which are “set to make going to the dentist a lot less miserable”.
Ms. Fields’ interesting piece can be read in full at http://www.rd.com/health/healthcare/new-dental-technology/.
Imagining Dental Treatments Without Modern Conveniences
Some of us associate a dentist with pain and apprehension. However, let us now imagine that we required medical treatment 13,000 years ago. How would ancient man maintain a healthy set of teeth and attractive (or at the very least functional) smile? These questions may have been answered. A team of researchers has discovered a well-preserved set of teeth that appear to have been medicinally modified.
What key takeaway points did they highlight and how may these impact our understanding of the history of dentistry?
– Small traces of bitumen could hint that the individual was trying to stem the effects of an infection.
– Plant fibres may indicate an early method of treating cavities.
– It is still not known whether these modifications were due to medicinal or ritualistic practices.
“…and using their microscopes, they identified the fibers inside the teeth as probably being put there while the caveperson was still alive.”
Read more:
http://gizmodo.com/going-to-the-caveman-dentist-was-probably-a-nightmare-1794128593
Menopause and Oral Health
Recent research suggests that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may help reduce the incidence of gum disease and tooth loss in older women. A study involving 500 women over the age of 50, found that women who received HRT had a lower rate of gum disease and showed a 44% improvement in gum health.
Key takeaways:
– Teeth and gums are more prone to disease at menopause
– Oral symptoms can also include dry mouth, burning mouth syndrome and weakness in the jaw
– Maintain a good oral hygiene routine to help prevent oral problems
See your dentist regularly and remember to take extra care of your teeth and gums. Your dentist can offer help and advice to maintain your oral care and your smile.
“The menopause, which commonly strikes in the late 40s and early 50s, leaves women at higher risk of several health issues, including gum disease, due to a decrease in oestrogen levels.”
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