Having good health includes healthy teeth and gums–good mouth care. Dr. George from Dental Care of Baltimore said, “If you don’t address dental issues soon or practice good oral hygiene, the rest of your body can suffer.”
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- Cavities
- Gingivitis
- Acid Erosion*
- Plaque
- Sensitivity**
- Tartar
- Whitening
- Bad Breath
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*Dental erosion occurs when the surface of your teeth is lost after touching acid. It’s preventable with a good diet, oral hygiene, and regular dental care.
**Tooth sensitivity can come and go with time and is usually caused by exposed dentin on root areas from gum disease and/or receded gums. Unlike the crowns of your teeth, the root area of your tooth isn’t protected by enamel, but rather cementum. Read More
Because it involves the use of complex and expensive equipment, this procedure is quite costly. Furthermore, it takes about an hour to completely remove the stains from the teeth. Nowadays dentists use automatic scalers which do not cause any pain at all and are also quite easy to use. Moreover, these types of devices effectively remove all stains without any trouble. They are also known as ultrasonic scalers and are of two types: magnetostrictive system and piezoelectric system. The first system generates a lot of heat, while the second one does its job without producing any heat.
Oral prophylaxis is also sometimes prescribed to people who have crooked teeth before starting the treatment with braces. This is because with braces it becomes even more difficult to properly clean the teeth and the amount of plaque and food debris keeps on increasing until it starts causing problems. Oral prophylaxis should only be performed by a qualified and experienced dental hygienist. Proper dental hygiene is achieved by removing unsafe deposits from exposed and unexposed surfaces of the teeth thus preventing the formation of cavities and other serious oral conditions. Since specialized equipment is used to perform this procedure one should only have it done by a licensed dental practitioner.
Dental irrigators that are widely available on the market can also be used at home to achieve fairly acceptable teeth cleaning. These devices are recommended for people who have a difficult time cleaning their teeth because of braces or if they have wide gaps between their teeth. Such at-home treatments are excellent for the prevention of gum disease and gingivitis. They are mostly meant to replace traditional flossing. These portable and hand-held devices are being manufactured by many top-of-the-line companies specializing in oral hygiene and dental care.
Although one must learn to brush and floss their teeth properly, oral prophylaxis can be considered if you have severely stained teeth due to excessive use of tea, tobacco products, coffee, or wine. However, dentists strongly advise that it should not be made a practice to have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist on a regular basis. Devices like oral irrigators and electric brushes can be used to achieve proper cleaning at home. It should also be noted that oral prophylaxis is not a dangerous procedure, but because of its high cost, one must opt for it only when it becomes absolutely inevitable.
FLORIDE
Fluoride is a trace mineral naturally found in small amounts in a variety of foods. It is most recognized for its role in preventing and reversing dental caries and building strong teeth and bones. [1] Most fluoride is absorbed in the gut and stored in bones and teeth. Unabsorbed fluoride is excreted in the urine. Children absorb fluoride more efficiently than adults, as their teeth and bones are rapidly forming.
Fluoride prevents tooth decay by making the enamel more resistant to the action of acids. They accelerate the buildup of healthy minerals in the enamel, further slowing the occurrence of decay. Fluoride is one of the most powerful minerals to help prevent tooth decay by making the tooth enamel more resistant to those attacking acids. It can also actually reverse very early decay.
A process called “demineralization” refers to the loss of minerals from the tooth’s enamel. This occurs when acids formed from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth attack the tooth’s enamel. The good news is that the tooth’s enamel can be strengthened with the reverse process called “remineralization.” This can occur when minerals like fluoride, calcium, and phosphate are redeposited to the tooth’s enamel. If the tooth’s enamel is experiencing too much demineralization, without the repairing benefits of remineralization, the unwanted environment for tooth decay is present.
Fluoride deficiency can cause tooth and bone weakness. In the body, most fluoride is contained in bones and teeth. Fluoride is necessary for the formation and health of bones and teeth.
The cons of fluoride
Certain studies have shown that fluoride may contribute to weakening the bones and maybe even the joint’s connective tissues. Fluoride also causes a condition known as fluorosis, which causes tooth discoloration.
- Brewed black tea and coffee.
- Fluoridated water.
- Canned shellfish like shrimp and blue crab.
- Oatmeal.
- Raisins.
- Potatoes.
Fluoride is an important treatment if you want to maintain healthy teeth throughout your life. Most toothpaste brands include fluoride as one of the ingredients, so regular brushing habits will result in fluoride treatment for your gums on a daily basis. But, the fluoride content in your toothpaste might not be enough.
Depending on your health history, fluoride treatments can be administered every three, six, or twelve months. We recommend you receive a fluoride treatment during your twice-yearly dental appointments to keep your teeth cavity-free. Another way to prevent cavities is to brush and floss your teeth twice a day
Periodontitis (per-e-o-don-TIE-tis), also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue around teeth. Without treatment, periodontitis can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss.
Periodontitis is common but can usually be prevented. It’s often the result of not taking care of your mouth and teeth. To help prevent periodontitis or improve your chance of successful treatment, brush at least twice a day, floss daily and get regular dental checkups.
Healthy gums are firm and fit snugly around teeth. The color of healthy gums can vary. They may range from light pink in some people to dark pink and brown in others.
Symptoms of periodontitis can include:
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- Swollen or puffy gums.
- Bright red, dark red, or dark purple gums.
- Gums that feel tender when touched.
- Gums that bleed easily.
- A toothbrush that looks pink after brushing your teeth.
- Spitting out blood when brushing or flossing your teeth.
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Pus between your teeth and gums.
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth.
- Painful chewing.
- New spaces that develop between your teeth that look like black triangles.
- Gums that pull away from your teeth, making your teeth look longer than usual, called receding gums.
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
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Diagnosis
To tell whether you have periodontitis and how severe it is, your dentist may:
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- Review your medical history to identify any factors that could be linked to your symptoms. Examples include smoking or taking certain medicines that cause dry mouth.
- Examine your mouth to look for plaque and tartar buildup and check for easy bleeding.
- Measure how deep the pockets are between your gums and teeth by placing a tiny ruler called a dental probe between your teeth and gum line. Pockets are measured at several places in your upper and lower gums. In a healthy mouth, the pocket depth is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters (mm). Pockets deeper than 4 mm may indicate periodontitis. Pockets deeper than 5 mm cannot be cleaned well with routine care.
- Take dental X-rays to check for bone loss in areas where your dentist sees deeper pockets.
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Your dentist may assign a stage and a grade to periodontitis based on how severe the disease is, the complexity of treatment, your risk factors and your health. Then a treatment plan is made.
Treatment
Treatment may be done by a dentist or a periodontist. A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in gum disease. A dental hygienist may work with your dentist or periodontist as part of your treatment plan. The goal of treatment is to thoroughly clean the pockets around teeth and prevent damage to surrounding gum tissue and bone. You have the best chance for successful treatment when you also have a daily routine of good oral care, manage health conditions that may impact dental health, and stop tobacco use.
Nonsurgical treatments
If periodontitis isn’t advanced, treatment may involve less invasive procedures, including:
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- Scaling. Scaling removes tartar and bacteria from your tooth surfaces and below your gumline. It may be done using instruments, a laser, or an ultrasonic device.
- Root planing. Root planing smooths the root surfaces. This helps prevent further buildup of tartar and bacteria. It also helps your gums attach to your teeth again.
- Antibiotics. Topical or oral antibiotics can help control bacterial infections. Topical antibiotics can include antibiotic mouth rinses or putting gel containing an antibiotic into gum pockets. Sometimes oral antibiotics are needed to get off bacteria that cause infections.
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Surgical treatments
If you have advanced periodontitis, you may need dental surgery, such as:
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- Flap surgery is also called pocket reduction surgery. Your periodontist makes cuts in your gums to carefully fold back the tissue. This exposes the tooth roots for more effective scaling and root planing. Because periodontitis often causes bone loss, the underlying bone may be reshaped before the gum tissue is stitched back in place. After you heal, it’s easier to clean the areas around your teeth and maintain healthy gum tissue.
- Soft tissue grafts. When you lose gum tissue, your gumline gets lower, exposing some of your tooth roots. You may need to have some of the damaged tissue reinforced. This is usually done by removing a small amount of tissue from the roof of your mouth or using tissue from another donor source and attaching it to the affected site. This can help reduce further gum loss, cover exposed roots, and give your teeth a better appearance.
- Bone grafting. This procedure is performed when periodontitis destroys the bone around your tooth root. The graft may be made from small bits of your bone, or the bone may be made of artificial material or donated. The bone graft helps prevent tooth loss by holding your tooth in place. It also serves as a platform for the regrowth of natural bone.
- Guided tissue regeneration. This allows the regrowth of bone that was destroyed by bacteria. In one approach, your dentist places a special type of fabric between the existing bone and your tooth. The material prevents unwanted tissue from growing into the healing area, allowing bone to grow back instead.
- Tissue-stimulating proteins. Another approach involves applying a special gel to a diseased tooth root. This gel contains the same proteins found in developing tooth enamel and stimulates the growth of healthy bone and tissue
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Lifestyle and home remedies
Try these measures to reduce or prevent periodontitis:
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- Brush your teeth twice a day or, better yet, after every meal or snack.
- Use a soft toothbrush and replace it at least every three months.
- Consider using an electric toothbrush, which may be more effective at removing plaque and tartar.
- Floss every day. If it’s hard to use standard dental floss, try a floss holder. Other options include interdental brushes, water flossers, or interdental cleaning aids designed to clean between your teeth. Talk with your dentist or dental hygienist about what would work best for you.
- Use a mouth rinse to help reduce plaque between your teeth if recommended by your dentist.
- Get regular professional dental cleanings on a schedule recommended by your dentist.
- Don’t smoke or chew tobacco.
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What’s an Eye Tooth?
The “eye tooth” is a canine tooth clinically called a “cuspid.” (Though there’s some reference to calling your lower cuspids “eye teeth,” as well.)
It is one of the longest, strongest, most stable, and most prominent teeth in your mouth, eye teeth are, in particular, your upper canine teeth or cuspids.
Eye Teeth’s Location in Your Mouth
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- Notice on each side of your upper mouth your two large front teeth smack dab in the center. They and the teeth next door to them (your second teeth) are both called incisors.
- Your third teeth are your eye teeth, which you can easily spot because of their prominent point and sharp contour. This brings us to …
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Your Eye Teeth’s Dental Roles
Eye teeth have remarkably long roots and prominent crowns – all the better to help support the structure of your mouth. Eyeteeth also play the following roles in your mouth:
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- Primal Role: With their more pointed and tapered shape, your cuspids help you grip and pierce through food easily as you bite.
- Leadership Role: And though they’re not front and center, your eye teeth take command in guiding all your teeth into the best position to bite down.
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How to Keep Eye Teeth Healthy
Because of their unique shape, these teeth tend to be easier to keep clean. However, according to an article in the Dental Press Journal of Orthodontics, your upper canines might also be more susceptible to gum recession because of weakened bones. And gum recession can lead to eye teeth removal, perhaps changing your bite and definitely making it more difficult to eat.
Another contributor to gum recession is brushing too hard, which can irritate your gums. The best way to take care of your gums and eye teeth – and all of your teeth – is to get in the habit of brushing correctly and taking other oral care measures:
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- Use gentle, short brush strokes with a soft-bristled brush that fits the size and shape of your mouth.
- Make sure to brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. And replace your toothbrush every three to four months for optimum cleaning power.
- Clean between your teeth daily – with floss or other interdental cleaners.
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Since your gums don’t regenerate, it’s important to protect them, thus protecting your eye teeth and keeping them playing their essential roles. Taking care of this tender area around your eye teeth will contribute to a healthy, happy grin. We’d give our eyeteeth to see that!\
‘The removal of wisdom teeth (or third molars) is one of the most common surgical procedures carried out in the UK.’
The wisdom teeth grow at the back of your gums and are the last teeth to come through. Most people have 4 wisdom teeth (1 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.
Because of the lack of space, wisdom teeth can sometimes emerge at an angle or get stuck and only partially emerge. Wisdom teeth that grow through like this are known as impacted.
When to see a dentist
You should make an appointment to see your dentist if your wisdom teeth are causing severe pain. They’ll check your teeth and advise you whether they need to be removed.
If your dentist thinks you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed, they’ll usually carry out an X-ray of your mouth. This gives them a clearer view of the position of your teeth.
As with any teeth problems, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible, rather than waiting for your regular dental check-up.
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. Food and bacteria can get trapped around the edge of the wisdom teeth, causing a build-up of plaque, which can lead to:
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- tooth decay (dental caries)
- gum disease (also called gingivitis or periodontal disease)
- pericoronitis – when plaque causes an infection of the soft tissue that surrounds the tooth
- cellulitis – a bacterial infection in the cheek, tongue, or throat
- abscess – a collection of pus in your wisdom teeth or the surrounding tissue as a result of a bacterial infection
- cysts and benign growths – very rarely, a wisdom tooth that hasn’t cut through the gum develops a cyst (a fluid-filled swelling)
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Many of these problems can be treated with antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwash.
Wisdom teeth removal is usually recommended when other treatments haven’t worked.
How wisdom teeth are removed
Your dentist may remove your wisdom teeth, or they may refer you to a specialist surgeon for hospital treatment.
Before the operation, the procedure will usually be explained to you and you may be asked to sign a consent form.
You’ll usually be given a local anesthesia injection to numb the area around the tooth. You’ll feel some pressure just before the tooth is removed, as your dentist or oral surgeon needs to widen the tooth socket by rocking the tooth back and forth.
A small cut in the gum is sometimes necessary, and the tooth may need to be cut into smaller pieces before it’s removed.
It takes anything from a few minutes to 20 minutes, or sometimes even longer, to remove a wisdom tooth.
After your wisdom teeth have been removed, you may have swelling and discomfort, both inside and outside your mouth. Occasionally, some mild bruising is also visible. This is usually worse for the first 3 days, but it can last for up to 2 weeks.
Read more about how a wisdom tooth is removed and recovering from wisdom tooth removal.
Possible complications
As with all surgery, there are risks associated with removing a wisdom tooth. These include infection or delayed healing, both of which are more likely if you smoke during your recovery.
Another possible complication is a “dry socket”, which is a dull, aching sensation in your gum or jaw, and sometimes a bad smell or taste coming from the empty tooth socket. A dry socket is more likely if you don’t follow the after-care instructions given by your dentist.
There’s also a small risk of nerve damage, which can cause a tingling or numb sensation in your tongue, lower lip, chin, teeth, and gums. This is usually temporary, but in rare cases, it can be permanent.
Read more about the possible complications of wisdom tooth removal.
Dental costs
Dentists charge depending on the treatment required unless you’re under 18 or otherwise exempt from NHS charges.
If hospital treatment is required, it will be provided through the NHS free of charge.
Read more about dental costs.
Video: Wisdom teeth
In this video, an expert explains why people have problems with their wisdom teeth and the treatments available.
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- You brush with too much gusto. …
- You eat acidic foods. …
- You’re a tooth-grinder. …
- You use tooth-whitening toothpaste. …
- You’re a mouthwash junkie. …
- You’ve got gum disease. …
- You have excessive plaque. …
- You’ve had a dental procedure.
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Diagnosing Dentin Hypersensitivity
“A short sharp pain arising from exposed dentin in response to stimuli, which cannot be ascribed to any other form of dental defect or pathology.”
According to the Canadian Advisory Board
Certain individuals may be more susceptible to dentin hypersensitivity than the general population. Examples:
People who brush their teeth aggressively
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- People who have had periodontal treatment
- Frequent consumers of high-acid food/beverages
- People with bulimia
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Questions To Ask Patients As Part Of A Patient History That May Indicate Dentin Hypersensitivity2
| Probing Questions | What Might Indicate Dentin Hypersensitivity? |
| Can you describe the pain you experience? | Pain described as Short, sharp, twinge |
| What causes this pain? Is it a particular food or drink that triggers it? | Pain triggers: Thermal, osmotic and/or tactile, evaporative, chemical |
| Can you describe your brushing habits to me? | Excessive brushing |
| Can you describe your diet to me? | Excessive dietary acids: Wine, citrus fruits, fruit juices, pickles, etc. |
| Do you suffer from acid reflux or experience excessive vomiting? | Look for signs of Gastric reflux or excessive vomiting |
Differential Diagnosis of Dentin Hypersensitivity
There are a number of conditions with symptoms similar to dentin hypersensitivity. These conditions should be excluded before confirming a dentin hypersensitivity diagnosis.
| Aetiology |
| Cracked tooth syndrome |
| Fractured restorations |
| Fractured teeth |
| Dental caries |
| Post-operative sensitivity (from restorative, periodontal, and bleaching procedures) |
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Dental Erosion
Dental erosion is the loss of the surface of your teeth due to acids you eat or drink, or acids coming up from your stomach. These acids can wash away the hard substance that makes up your teeth, leading to tooth surface loss. Acid can also soften the tooth surface, making it easier for it to be worn away by abrasion or teeth grinding. This is known as acid wear or erosive tooth wear.
Stomach acids can cause dental erosion
The stomach contains many strong acids that are used to digest food. Vomiting and reflux can cause these stomach acids to enter your mouth.
Stomach acids are very strong and can cause substantial damage to the teeth. For example, people with bulimia, morning sickness or reflux (which can sometimes occur without you knowing) may experience this problem.
Diet can cause dental erosion
Many things that we eat and drink are acidic. One of the reasons for this is that acidic things taste nice. Common foods and drinks that contain high levels of the acid include:
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- soft drinks (including sugar-free)
- energy drinks
- citrus fruits (lemons, limes, oranges)
- kombucha
- lemon-flavored drinks or teas
- fruit-flavored lollies
- fruit juices
- cordials
- vitamin waters
- vitamin C tablets
- vinegar
- alcoholic drinks
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Food acids are often added to processed foods and drinks. If you check the ingredient list of foods and drinks, you can see if food acids have been added. The ingredients are listed in order of their amount in the food, with the most listed first. The closer any food acids are to the start of the list, the more acid the product will have in it.
In particular, watch out for food acids 330 (citric acid), 331 (sodium citrate), and 338 (phosphoric acid) which are especially bad for teeth. For further information speak to your dental professional.
Symptoms of dental erosion
One sign of dental erosion is the loss of the surface of the tooth, leading to a smooth, shiny appearance. Dental erosion can also make any exposed tooth root (dentine) sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
When there is advanced dental erosion, the enamel may wear away to reveal the underlying dentine; these areas look yellow on the tooth surface (see photo). Fillings may start to become more prominent if the surrounding tooth surface is dissolving away due to erosion.
Complications of dental erosion
Dental erosion, if untreated, can lead to the progressive loss of the surface of the tooth. The loss of tooth structure can require complex and lengthy dental treatment involving fillings, veneers, crowns, and potentially root canal treatment.
When the signs of dental erosion are detected, it is very important to determine the cause and modify it.
Preventing dental erosion
Dental erosion can be prevented by limiting the contact of acids with the teeth. Some tips include:
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- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
- Drink fluoridated tap water rather than soft drink or juice.
- Eat fruit rather than drinking fruit juice.
- Eat fruit at mealtimes rather than between meals.
- Reduce how often you eat or drink anything acidic and don’t leave it sitting in your mouth for too long.
- Seek medical treatment for the management of reflux or vomiting.
- Do not chew vitamin C tablets. If necessary, take vitamin C supplements that are swallowed whole.
- Use sugar-free chewing gum after meals to promote saliva flow. Saliva is very important for protecting your teeth from erosion.
- Consider using dental products containing ‘stannous fluoride’ [tin (II) fluoride]. Recent studies suggest stannous fluoride is effective in reducing tooth erosion.
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Following exposure to strong acids, you can help to neutralize the acid by:
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- rinsing your mouth with water or a fluoride mouth rinse
- rinsing your mouth with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) mouth rinse (one teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water)
- consuming dairy products.
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Tips to minimize tooth wear include:
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- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with toothpaste containing fluoride.
- Brush your teeth gently, but thoroughly.
- Make sure you have neutralized any acid (described above) before brushing your teeth.
- Wear a custom-made dental splint if you grind your teeth at night.
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Saliva can help reduce dental erosion
Saliva is a powerful natural defense against erosion. Saliva can wash acids out of your mouth into the stomach, it can neutralize acid, and can repair the early stages of erosion. However, it cannot grow back the lost tooth surface. A reduced flow of saliva (dry mouth) can increase your risk of dental erosion.
Stay well hydrated, as this improves your saliva. Remember that dehydration can reduce the amount of saliva you make, so drink lots of fluoridated tap water.
If you have a constant dry mouth, you may be at increased risk of dental erosion. Talk to your dental professional to identify the cause.
Causes of reduced saliva
Causes of reduced saliva (or dry mouth) may include:
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- Medications – some can affect your salivary glands and reduce the amount of saliva that they can make, leading to a dry mouth.
- Dehydration – working in a dry environment and not rehydrating often enough can lead to a decrease in saliva production. Also, excessive intake of caffeine found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and cola drinks can reduce fluid levels in the body and reduce saliva.
- Some specific diseases or conditions can affect the saliva glands, such as Sjogren’s syndrome.
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Treatment for dental erosion
If your teeth have had dental erosion, the lost surface of the tooth may need to be replaced with fillings or crowns. It is important to visit your dental professional every six to twelve months so that they can identify dental erosion early, determine the cause, and then work with you to prevent further dental erosion and tooth wear.
IMPLANTS
full dental care facility with sedation. The new dentures are permanent. You never have to take your dentures out again! It seems like a painful and scary procedure with the metal and all, but it’s not.
Dental implants are permanent anchors that integrate with the jawbone to provide a stable base for long-term tooth replacement. Customized crowns (the teeth) are then attached to the implants.
Because dental implants become part of the jaw, they look and feel like natural teeth. They don’t move or slip around while you eat or talk.
How long do they last?
Dental Implants: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Dentures: They typically last 5-7 years.
Bridges: Traditional bridges typically last 7-10 years.
How do they keep my mouth healthy?
Dental Implants: Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, like natural tooth roots, preventing the jawbone from deteriorating. They can be precisely placed without damaging healthy surrounding teeth.
Dentures: Dentures accelerate jawbone loss, and they can cause gum irritation and sores.
Bridge: To attach a traditional bridge, healthy teeth are ground down, permanently damaging them.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Get A Long-Term Solution
When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them one of the best investments for long-term tooth replacement. Studies have reported that the long-term success rate of implants is over 95%.
Eat and Talk with Comfort
Dental implants look, feel and function like real teeth. You’ll be able to eat your favorite foods, talk with comfort, and smile with confidence again.
No Daily Removal
With dental implants, there’s no need to remove them to reapply adhesives or for nightly cleaning. You can wake up and go about your day without worrying about your teeth.
Prevent Jawbone Loss
Dental implants integrate with the bone, providing a stimulus that keeps the jawbone from deteriorating. This helps avoid a sunken-in appearance around the mouth that can make you look older.
Single or Full Dental Implants
Full-Mouth Implants
Rather than living with the hassles of dentures, many people opt for full-mouth dental implant restoration. You don’t need a dental implant for every one of your missing teeth. ClearChoice doctors can attach an entire row of upper or lower teeth using as few as four precisely placed implants, referred to as fixed full-arch dental implants.
Multiple Implants
Occasionally a patient is missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth. In this case, multiple implants can be the best solution. Fixtures are implanted and the crown is attached, leaving the natural teeth around them intact.
Single-Tooth Implants
If you have an issue with a single damaged or missing tooth, a dentist can easily fix that with a single dental implant. Rest assured, your new tooth will look and function like your other natural teeth.
Conditions that impact healthy gums
Sjogren’s Syndrome or Dry Mouth – When the immune system attacks saliva glands and tear ducts causing dry mouth, eyes, and tongue, an unhealthy mouth occurs because the lack of saliva leads to tooth decay and gum disease.
Teeth grinding is a symptom of stress. When we are in stress, our body produces a hormone called cortisol. This hormone recks havoc on our teeth and gums.
Osteoporosis can cause tooth loss.
Anemia occurs when the red blood cells in your body are not getting enough oxygen. A person with anemia can have unhealthy gums (pale).
Eating Disorders/Bulimia can cause the enamel on your teeth to erode from the stomach acid. Bulimic patients suffer from repeated purging. People with eating disorders are accessible to swollen tongues, throats, salivary glands, and bad breath.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth won’t make you smarter. They’re called that because they usually come in when you’re older, around 17 to 21. These teeth are in the very back of your mouth. You get two on top and two on the bottom as part of a complete set of 32 adult teeth. Wisdom teeth are molars, your toughest, widest teeth that grind food. But some people don’t have all their wisdom teeth. They’re the ones most commonly missing from adult mouths. Some would theorize that our jaws have changed over the years due to changes in our diet.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments offering a quick, non-invasive and affordable way to enhance a smile. Universally valued by men and women alike, whitening (or bleaching) treatments are available to satisfy every budget, time frame, and temperament. Whether in the form of professionally administered one-hour whitening sessions at a dental office or cosmetic spa, or home-use bleaching kits purchased at your local drugstore, solutions abound.
Virtually everyone who opts for a teeth-whitening solution sees moderate to substantial improvement in the brightness and whiteness of their smile. That said, it’s not a permanent solution to discoloration and requires maintenance or “touch-ups” for a prolonged effect.
Bleaching vs. Whitening
According to the FDA, the term “bleaching” is permitted to be used only when the teeth can be whitened beyond their natural color. This applies strictly to products that contain bleach — typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
The term “whitening” on the other hand, refers to restoring a tooth’s surface color by removing dirt and debris. So technically speaking, any product that is used to clean the teeth (like toothpaste) is considered a whitener. Of course, the term whitening sounds better than bleaching, so it is more frequently used — even when describing products that contain bleach.
The bleach preference for in-office whitening, where time is limited, is powerful and fast-acting hydrogen peroxide. When used in bleaching teeth, hydrogen peroxide concentrations range from approximately nine percent to 40 percent.
By contrast, the bleach of preference for at-home teeth whitening is slower-acting carbamide peroxide, which breaks down into hydrogen peroxide. Carbamide peroxide has about a third of the strength of hydrogen peroxide. This means that a 15 percent solution of carbamide peroxide is the rough equivalent of a five percent solution of hydrogen peroxide.
An Examination of Tooth Enamel
Most of us start out with sparkling white teeth, thanks to their porcelain-like enamel surface. Composed of microscopic crystalline rods, tooth enamel is designed to protect the teeth from the effects of chewing, gnashing, trauma, and acid attacks caused by sugar. But over the years enamel is worn down, becoming more transparent and permitting the yellow color of dentin — the tooth’s core material — to show through.
During routine chewing, dentin remains intact while millions of micro-cracks occur in the enamel. It is these cracks, as well as the spaces between the crystalline enamel rods, that gradually fill up with stains and debris. As a result, the teeth eventually develop a dull, lackluster appearance.
Teeth whitening removes the stains and debris, leaving the enamel cracks open and exposed. Some of the cracks are quickly re-mineralized by saliva, while others are filled up again with organic debris.
Tooth Discoloration: Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Staining
- Extrinsic discoloration is when foods, beverages, or smoking habits stain your teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, foods with dyes, and tobacco can contribute to this type of staining. These stains affect the outside of your teeth.
- Extrinsic discoloration may be treated with whitening toothpaste that targets the teeth’ outside stains.
- Intrinsic discoloration is from within the tooth. You may have intrinsic discoloration because of medication use, childhood illness, infection, tooth trauma, or aging.
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- Intrinsic discoloration may need to be professionally bleached to get the same level, or better, of teeth whiteness.
You should decide how to whiten your teeth based on the type of staining you have. There are three general categories of whitening methods, those that are:
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- administered by your dentist
- dispensed by your dentist to use at home
- obtained over the counter or made at home without the oversight of your dentist
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Your dentist can use several different methods to whiten your teeth either in the office or at home. Generally, the methods they use will bleach your teeth with carbamide peroxide. This breaks down to hydrogen peroxide and urea and targets the tooth’s color in a chemical reaction. It’s considered a safe way to whiten teeth.
What Causes Tooth Staining?
Age: There is a direct correlation between tooth color and age. Over the years, teeth darken as a result of wear and tear and stain accumulation. Teenagers will likely experience immediate, dramatic results from whitening. In the twenties, as the teeth begin to show a yellow cast, whitening may require a little more effort. By the forties, the yellow gives way to brown and more maintenance may be called for. By the fifties, the teeth have absorbed a host of stubborn stains which can prove difficult (but not impossible) to remove.
Starting color: We are all equipped with an inborn tooth color that ranges from yellow-brownish to greenish-grey and intensifies over time. Yellow-brown is generally more responsive to bleaching than green-grey.
Translucency and thinness: These are also genetic traits that become more pronounced with age. While all teeth show some translucency, those that are opaque and thick have an advantage: they appear lighter in color, show more sparkle, and are responsive to bleaching. Teeth that are thinner and more transparent – most notably the front teeth – have less of the pigment that is necessary for bleaching. According to cosmetic dentists, transparency is the only condition that cannot be corrected by any form of teeth whitening.
Eating habits: The habitual consumption of red wine, coffee, tea, cola, carrots, oranges, and other deeply-colored beverages and foods causes considerable staining over the years. In addition, acidic foods such as citrus fruits and vinegar contribute to enamel erosion. As a result, the surface becomes more transparent and more of the yellow-colored dentin shows through.
Smoking habits: Nicotine leaves brownish deposits that slowly soak into the tooth structure and cause intrinsic discoloration.
Drugs/chemicals: Tetracycline usage during tooth formation produces dark grey or brown ribbon stains which are very difficult to remove. Excessive consumption of fluoride causes fluorosis (discoloration marked by the appearance of faint white marks on the teeth) and associated areas of white mottling.
Grinding: Most frequently caused by stress, teeth grinding (gnashing, bruxing, etc.) can add to micro-cracking in the teeth and can cause the biting edges to darken.
Trauma: Falls and other injuries can produce sizable cracks in the teeth, which collect large amounts of stains and debris.
You can purchase over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products to help with stained teeth. Unlike products administered by a dentist, these products have no carbamide peroxide, or, much less than the products dentists use. This means that if your teeth are intrinsically discolored, OTC teeth whiteners may not work as effectively or may take longer to whiten your teeth.
Some OTC products have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Not all products have this seal, and some products without it are still fine to use, but this seal is meant to give you more confidence to make buying decisions and to ensure what you’re using is safe. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a product.
You can also purchase over-the-counter whitening strips for your teeth. These contain a smaller amount of hydrogen peroxide than professional products. You apply them one or two times a day to your teeth for a set period of time as indicated by the manufacturer.
A variety of whitening strip products are available, each at varying concentrations of bleaching agents.
You may be curious about using homemade methods to whiten teeth. Activated charcoal is one such treatment. These methods are not scientifically proven to whiten teeth and should be discussed with a dentist before trying them. You may damage your teeth if you use these methods without first consulting a dentist.
Reference::Healthline, 
What Healthy Gums Look Like
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Note: Floss before brushing. Your gums will thank you because of your efficiency.
Flossing before brushing will remove food, plaque, and saliva from the gum line and between the teeth.
Then when brushing, these particles are removed. This also allows fluoride and toothpaste to get into those now-vacant areas where food was trapped.
7 vitamins and minerals your mouth needs
Want healthy teeth and gums? Make sure your diet features these key ingredients. These nutritional building blocks are essential for your dental health.
Calcium
No surprises here — calcium is well known as a friend for teeth. Throughout the body, the mineral helps build bones and provide structural support. In your mouth, calcium helps harden your enamel and strengthen your jawbone.
What to eat: In addition to milk, good sources of calcium include cheese, yogurt, broccoli, and salmon.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium while boosting bone mineral density, so it’s crucial to get an adequate amount of vitamin D to get the most out of your calcium intake.
What to eat: Your body naturally makes vitamin D when it’s exposed to sunlight, but the vitamin can also be found in fatty fish, canned tuna, and portobello mushrooms. You can also look for foods and drinks that have been fortified with vitamin D, such as milk, orange juice, and cereal.
Potassium
Like vitamin D, potassium improves bone mineral density. It also works with magnesium to prevent blood from becoming too acidic, which can leach calcium from your bones and teeth.
What to eat: Bananas are well-known sources of potassium, but they’re not alone. Other fruits and vegetables with high levels of the mineral include lima beans, tomatoes, Swiss chard, potatoes, sweet potatoes, avocados, and prunes.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus supports calcium in building strong bones and teeth.
What to eat: Luckily, phosphorus is found in a wide range of foods. Rich sources of the mineral include seafood, such as scallops, sardines, cod, shrimp, tuna, and salmon. If you’re looking to get your phosphorus from plant-based foods, consider soybeans, lentils, and pumpkin seeds. You can also find phosphorus in beef, pork, and cheese.
Vitamin K
Think of this vitamin as a shield – it helps block substances that break down bone. It also helps your body produce osteocalcin, a protein that supports bone strength. A vitamin K deficiency can slow down your body’s healing process and make you more likely to bleed.
What to eat: Chowing down on leafy greens, such as kale, collards, and spinach, can help you increase your vitamin K quota. Other great sources include parsley, broccoli, and Brussel sprouts.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C strengthens your gums and the soft tissue in your mouth. It can protect against gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, and can prevent your teeth from loosening.
What to eat: You probably already know that citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, but you can also find it in potatoes and leafy greens.
Vitamin A
This vitamin helps keep mucous membranes healthy. It prevents dry mouth and helps your mouth heal quickly.
What to eat: For strong gums and teeth, load up on fish, egg yolks, and liver. You can also find it in leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens, or in orange-colored fruits and oranges: think apricots, cantaloupe, pumpkin, carrots, and sweet potatoes. These fruits and veggies contain high levels of beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A.
Holistic Dentistry
If you’ve ever had acupuncture, you may know that this ancient Chinese Medicine treatment aims to improve your health by opening the flow of energy in the 12 meridians. These channels form a network throughout the entire body and makeup what some have called an “energy highway.” Since they connect everything in your body, dental problems in your teeth can subsequently affect other organs and vice versa. By seeing a holistic dentist in Austin, every aspect of your health is taken into consideration, leading to a healthier smile and overall well-being at the same time. Keep reading to learn more!
HOW ARE YOUR TEETH CONNECTED TO THE OTHER ORGANS IN YOUR BODY?
Cavities and gum disease are two types of infections that occur in and around the teeth. Each tooth is associated with a particular meridian which is, in turn, associated with an organ. Taking care of individual teeth by preventing cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems can potentially help with illnesses or diseases in their corresponding organ.
Here are 12 organ systems and the teeth they’re connected to through one of the meridians:
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- Lungs – Upper premolars, lower first and second molars
- Large intestine – Upper premolars, lower first and second molars
- Spleen – Lower premolars
- Stomach – Upper first and second molars, lower premolars
- Small intestine – Upper and lower third molars (wisdom teeth)
- Heart – Upper and lower third molars (wisdom teeth)
- Bladder –Upper and lower incisors
- Kidney – Upper and lower incisors
- Pericardium – Upper and lower third molars (wisdom teeth)
- Triple warmer – Upper and lower third molars (wisdom teeth)
- Liver – Upper and lower canines
- Gallbladder – Upper and lower canines
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WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO CARE FOR YOUR TEETH?
When all of your teeth are healthy, there’s one less potential block in your meridians. Fortunately, dental health doesn’t have to be complicated! Going back to basics with the following tips is a good place to start:
- Get regular checkups – When a dentist closely monitors your oral health twice a year, small problems are caught and treated early.
- Brush and floss – Your oral hygiene habits don’t have to be perfect but try to make them consistent. For example, even if you only floss 4-5 times a week, that’s certainly more helpful than never. When flossing teeth, it is important to not only pop between the teeth but hug the tooth and slip under the free tissue to remove all of the plaque and bacterial biofilm.
- Use hygiene aids as needed – Floss picks, oral irrigators, and electric toothbrushes are just some of the possible tools that can make a big difference.
- Limit sugar intake – Minimizing your sugar consumption is hugely beneficial for your oral health and overall health, too.
It can’t be overstated: When you have a healthy mouth, you have a better chance of having a healthy body. And with professional care and a few good habits at home, you can have both!
FAQ
References:
WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-teeth-gums
