Tag: dental advice

Is Chewing Gum Good For Your Teeth?

Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which helps to clear away food, rinse away bacteria, strengthen the enamel on your teeth and reduce acid in your mouth that can dissolve the enamel.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a natural sweetener which can be effective at preventing cavities. Sugar-free gum often contains xylitol and it has been shown to reduce the amount of cavity causing bacteria in plaque. It also helps to neutralise acids made by bacteria, strengthening tooth enamel.

Can Gum Strengthen My Teeth?

Some chewing gums contain a substance called phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). It has been shown to remineralize or slow down tooth decay.

What Gum Should I Use?

Make sure that you are chewing sugar-free gum. If you use gum that contains sugar, your teeth will be constantly surrounded by a sugary environment until you dispose of the gum. This would be very harmful to your teeth.

Do I Still Need To Brush My Teeth?

Yes. Chewing gum is not an alternative to brushing your teeth. It is helpful to use between meals to neutralise the acd left behind but is it not a substitute to brushing and flossing.

How Does My Dental Health Affect My General Health?

You are probably aware of the impact of your oral hygiene on your teeth and gums, but did you know that poor oral hygiene can have adverse effects on your general health?

What Problems Could My Dental Health Cause?

  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory disease
  • Strokes
  • Diabetes

Heart Disease

People with gum disease are twice as likely to suffer with heart disease than those who don’t have gum disease. Bacteria from the mouth can travel in the bloodstream. The bacteria produce protein which causes the platelets in the blood to stick together in the blood vessels. This makes blood clots more likely, reducing normal blood flow so the heart doesn’t get all the nutrients and oxygen it requires. If affected badly, this could lead to a heart attack.

Strokes

Researchers have discovered that when our gums bleed and become inflamed, it causes changes in how blood and oxygen flows to the brain. Gum disease is associated with inflammation which plays a role in atherosclerosis (hardening of the blood vessels).

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease. It is likely that this is because people with diabetes are more likely to get infections in general. If you have diabetes, it is important that any gum disease is diagnosed as it can increase your blood sugar, putting you at risk of complications.

Respiratory Disease

It is thought that bacterial chest infections are caused by breathing in droplets from the throat and mouth into the lungs. This can cause pneumonia or make an existing condition worse. People with gum disease have more bacteria in their mouths which is why they may be more likely to develop a respiratory disease. This is particularly the case for elderly people, which is why it is important that they maintain a good oral hygiene routine.

What Should I Look Out For?

  • Inflammation of the gums.
  • Bleeding gums.
  • Bad taste in your mouth.
  • Bad breath.
  • Loose teeth.
  • Regular mouth infections.

If you are concerned you may have gum disease, call us on 01723 670500 to book an appointment.

Energy Drinks And Your Teeth

There are many people that believe that energy drinks are not as harmful as sugar-filled fizzy drinks, however, this may not be the case.

Even if the energy drinks that you are consuming are sugar free, they still contain acid. The acid in the drinks causes the pH of the mouth to lower considerably. It takes around 30 minutes for the saliva to neutralise this acid and return the pH back to normal. For those 30 minutes your teeth are essentially being bathed in an acidic environment.

The hyperactive energy produced by the drinks can also cause people to grind their teeth. This can cause tooth breakage and damage.

Energy Drinks And Gums

As the enamel breaks down, it can’t protect the softer parts of the teeth or prevent the bacteria from causing damage. As the enamel wears down, the gums become more susceptible to damage. They can start to recede and expose the tooth roots which can cause the gums to bleed and become inflamed, showing early signs of gum disease.

How Can I Reduce The Damage Caused?

Although it is not recommended to drink energy drinks regularly, if you are going to drink them from time to time, it would be a good idea to try drinking through a straw to minimise your teeth’s exposure.

Another way to reduce the effect would be to rinse your mouth out with water after finishing your drink to try to neutralise the acidity in your mouth.

Try not to sip your drink. The longer it takes you to drink your energy drink, the less time your teeth have to repair themselves from the acid attack.

Alternative Ways To Boost Your Energy

A few simple lifestyle changes could help to boost your energy.

  • Engage in regular physical activity.
  • Drink at least 2 litres of water a day.
  • Make sure you get enough sleep.
  • Include lots of fruit and vegetables in your diet.

New Year, New You: Dental Health Resolutions

Most New Year’s resolutions involve trying to improve physical well being, but why not try something new this year? By making a dental resolution you will be helping to improve your oral health, which will also have an impact on your general health.

Take Charge Of Your Oral Hygiene Routine

  • Brush for two minutes twice daily.
  • Hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gum line.
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Thoroughly clean between your teeth once a day using floss or an interdental brush.
  • Rinse with a mouthwash at another time other than brushing.

Healthy Diet Choices

What you eat contributes to cavities and gum disease so it is important that you are eating healthily.

  • Limit consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks.
  • Try to avoid snacking between meals.
  • Rinse with water after eating.
  • Try to eat fruits, vegetables and other foods full of nutrients.

Restorations And Orthodontics

A new year is the perfect time to start considering any dental work that you have been thinking about. This could be a filling, a damaged tooth or even braces. Talk to your dentist about anything you are considering and they would be happy to provide any advice that you need.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is bad for your dental health and your overall health. Smoking causes staining as well as gum disease. This is a good time to set a goal for yourself to stop smoking. Speak to a medical professional who will help you finally quit smoking!

Routine Dental Visits

It is important that you visit your dentist at least once or twice a year, depending on what has been recommended for you. By visiting regularly, you can help to prevent problems arising as your dentist will be able to see the early signs, ensuring that they are stopped in their tracks. Book an appointment with us now to check that your mouth is in the best condition to start your resolution.

Making a New Year’s resolution to take better care of your dental health is a step in the right direction. However, if you face a setback, don’t be too hard on yourself. Our team are available to call on 01723 670500 if you require any advice.

Your Teeth And Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, you may notice that your gums are more sore than usual. Some women get swollen and sore gums. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can make your gums more vulnerable to plaque, leading to bleeding. This is also called pregnancy gingivitis or gum disease.

It is important that you keep your mouth clean and healthy while you are pregnant. The best way to do so is to practice good oral hygiene. Visit your dentist so that they can give your teeth a good clean, but also they can give you advice for how to properly care for your teeth during your pregnancy.

Here are our tips:

  • Clean your teeth twice daily for 2 minutes using a fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss once a day to prevent the buildup of plaque.
  • Try not to have sugary foods or drinks too often. If you are going to have them, try to keep them to meal times.
  • If you’re feeling hungry between meals, try to snack on healthier foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables or yoghurt, and avoid acidic or sugary foods.
  • Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
  • A daily salt rinse can help reduce gum inflammation. Add one teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and swirl the wash around your mouth a few times, then spitting it out.

If you have morning sickness, rinse your mouth with plain water after each time you are sick. Do not brush your teeth immediately after you are sick as the acidity can soften your teeth. Wait an hour before brushing.

Dental Treatments To Avoid

When you visit the dentist, make sure they know you are pregnant. Discuss with them whether any new or replacement fillings should be delayed until after your pregnancy.

If you need an x-ray, your dentist will usually wait until after your pregnancy even though most dental x-rays will not affect the tummy.

If you are concerned about your dental health and how it may be affecting your baby, please call us on 01723 670500 for advice from our team.

Taking Care Of Your Teeth During The Festive Season

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s likely that we will all be indulging in more sweet treats. However, it is important that you know the impact that this can have on your teeth.

Whether it is through the sweet treats or alcohol, when increasing your sugar intake it is important to pay extra attention to keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy.

Here are some tips for maintaining your oral health this festive season:

  • Although the amount of sugar we consume is important, the frequency that we eat it is even more so. If you are going to eat and drink sugary things, try to limit them to meal times. This will reduce the number of acid attacks taking place on your teeth.
  • Caramels and toffees are a popular festive treat. However, they can stick to the grooves in your teeth and feed the bacteria that is living there, leading to tooth decay. It is important that you thoroughly brush and floss your teeth to remove any remaining food particles.
  • Sour sweets have become more popular over recent years. The flavouring in these sweets contains more acid which can lead to tooth decay.
  • Fruit juices and sugary drinks contain high levels of sugar so need to be consumed in moderation. Drinking through a straw can help as it will help to reduce the contact with your teeth.
  • Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of oral cancer so try to limit your intake.
  • Lots of Christmas snacks, such as mince pies, Christmas cake and pudding contain dried fruit which is high in sugar. Therefore, it is important to pay extra attention when brushing your teeth.
  • Treat yourself or a loved one to an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are more powerful at removing plaque and reducing gum disease in the long term. It is important that you change your toothbrush (whether it is a manual toothbrush or electric toothbrush head) regularly.

Opening times over the Christmas period:

Do I Need To Brush My Tongue?

You may notice that when you eat a strongly coloured food, your tongue will turn that colour too. Your tongue attracts bacteria just as much as your teeth, even though it can’t develop cavities.

Why Do I Need To Brush My Tongue?

Your tongue is not a smooth surface. It contains lots of crevices, such as those created by your tastebuds, where bacteria can hide. Just simply rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash will not remove the buildup. This buildup is a biofilm, a group of microorganisms, that stick together. When using mouthwash, only the bacteria on the outer surface of the film are removed. The bacteria that remains can lead to bad breath or even tooth decay. This is why it is vital to physically remove the bacteria by brushing your tongue. If the bacteria isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar, which can only be professionally removed by a dentist.

How To Clean Your Tongue

The easiest way to clean your tongue is to use a soft bristled toothbrush:

  • Place a small amount of toothpaste onto the toothbrush.
  • Start at the back of your tongue, brushing your way forward.
  • Use gentle but firm pressure in back-and-forth motions.
  • Try not to press to hard as this could damage the skin on your tongue.

How Often Should I Clean My Tongue?

Bacteria grow fast, so you should try to brush your tongue twice daily after you brush your teeth. This will also help to improve your oral hygiene routine.

Bad Breath?

Cleaning your tongue should help to eliminate bad breath but if it remains it may be a sign that there are other problems. If this is the case, please call us on 01723 670500 to book an appointment and your dentist will check to see if there are any issues.

What Is Dry Socket And What Are The Symptoms?

Dry socket is a complication following the removal of an adult tooth. It happens when a blood clot fails to develop in the tooth socket or if the blood clot is dislodged before the wound heals. Normally a blood clot would form to help protect the bone and nerve endings in the empty socket. Leaving the bone exposed can result in significant pain, not only in the socket but along the side of your face.

What Are The Symptoms?

The empty socket may cause a throbbing pain, which can be like toothache, and if you look at the socket, you my see exposed bone rather than a blood clot. You may also experience a bad taste or smell.

Am I More At Risk?

You are more at risk of developing dry socket if:

  • you don’t follow the dentist’s instruction after the tooth removal
  • you smoke
  • you’re over 25 years old
  • you’ve had the condition before
  • the extraction was difficult or complicated

When Should I See A Dentist?

Some pain after a tooth extraction is normal. However, you should be able to manage the pain with the medication recommended by your dentist. If you develop new or worsened pain in the days after your extraction, call your dentist for advice as they may want to see you to check the healing process. If you are concerned about your pain after the removal of a tooth, please call us for advice on 01723 670500.

Is Vaping Bad For My Oral Health?

Everyone knows that smoking is bad for your general health and your dental health, but what about vaping? Vaping is advertised as a healthier option to smoking, but is it actually better for you?

Is Vaping Better Than Smoking?

One of the problems associated with smoking is that it causes gum disease. Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, meaning that the blood supply to the gums is reduced. This makes them more susceptible to infection and gum recession. Smoking also dries out your mouth. Saliva helps to protect your teeth against bacteria so smoking can make you more likely to have gum disease. Smoking also weakens your immune system meaning that diseases, such as gum disease, develop at a faster rate than non-smokers.

Vaping exposes your mouth to nicotine and hot, drying vapour meaning that its puts you at a higher risk of gum disease.

If you have a flavoured vape that contains sugar, it also puts you at a higher risk of developing tooth decay. You’re plaque contains bacteria that breaks down sugar into acid which causes your enamel to become weakened, increasing your chances of cavities.

Vaping and e-cigarettes have become increasingly popular over the last decade, but there is limited research into the effects on your long term health. If you would like to read more about the effects on your oral health, click here to read this article.

Is It Normal For My Tooth To Hurt After A Filling?

Normally, you would have a filling done to ease any discomfort that your teeth are causing. However there are lots of reasons that you might feel pain or sensitivity after a filling.

Reasons For Pain After a Filling

It is normal to have some pain as it is possible that your dentist had to drill away some of your tooth. You should expect the pain to go away in a day or two.

If you’re still having pain after this time period, it may be due to a problem with the filling or the tooth itself. One common cause of pain after a filling is that the filling isn’t positioned correctly, and it is interfering with your bite. A filling that is too high can prevent the teeth from fitting together properly when you bite down.

The type of filling that your dentist used could also be a cause of the pain. Sensitivity is common when a composite resin material is used. Sensitivity may be caused by the filling shrinking and creating a gap beneath it.

What To Do About The Pain

If it has been a week since your filling and you’re still experiencing pain when you eat or bite down, contact us to book an appointment with your dentist who will be able to find the source of your pain.

If the pain is caused by the positioning of a filling that is too high, your dentist will adjust the height of your filling to make it more comfortable to bite down. If the problem is caused by a sensitive composite filling, your dentist may recommend replacing your filling with a different material.

If you are concerned about a filling and it is causing you pain, please call us on 01723 670500 to book an appointment with your dentist who will check to make sure everything is normal.