What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

If you sometimes find the taste of something hot or cold painful on your teeth, you may suffer from sensitive teeth.

Sensitive teeth is a common problem which may be caused by cavities and fractured teeth.

But it can also be caused by worn tooth enamel, a cracked tooth or an exposed tooth root.

Tooth enamel is the strongest substance in the body and it protects the crowns of healthy teeth. A layer called cementum protects the tooth root under the gum line.

The part underneath the enamel and the cementum is called dentin, which is less dense than enamel or cementum.

The dentin contains small hollow tubes or canals called tubules. When the dentin loses its protective covering, the tubules allow hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth.

This causes hypersensitivity and occasional discomfort but fortunately, the irritation does not cause permanent damage.

Following proper oral hygiene helps prevent the gums from receding and causing the pain of sensitive teeth.

Brushing your teeth incorrectly or even brushing too much can cause gum problems.

Your dentist will advise you on the best daily routine to maximize your oral hygiene.

Understanding your wisdom teeth

Many patients ask whether wisdom teeth are really necessary since so many people have them removed.

The fact is that wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned.

However, problems can occur that sometimes make it better to have them removed.

For example, when the jaw isn’t large enough, the wisdom teeth can become impacted – misaligned or unable to grow in properly. They may grow sideways, emerge only part way from the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.

The reasons wisdom teeth may have to be extracted include:
– The teeth have only partially erupted. This leaves an opening for bacteria which cause infection.
– There is a chance the wisdom teeth will damage adjacent teeth.
– A cyst forms which may destroy surrounding structures such as bone or tooth roots.

Ask your dentist about the health and positioning of your wisdom teeth.

Your dentist will tell you if there are any issues and will recommend any steps needed.

What will it be like living with dentures?

People who are new to wearing dentures naturally have many questions about how their life will change.

New dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place.

During this time, it’s not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness. You may find that saliva flow temporarily increases.

As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish.

Dentures can be made to closely resemble your natural teeth so that little change in appearance will be noticeable. Dentures may even improve the look of your smile and help fill out the appearance of your face and profile.

Eating will take a little practice. Start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping. As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.

Continue to chew food using both sides of the mouth at the same time. Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells.

Initially you may also find that wearing dentures changes how you speak. Pronouncing certain words may require practice. Reading out loud and repeating troublesome words will help. If your dentures “click” while you’re talking, speak more slowly.

You may find that your dentures occasionally slip when you laugh, cough or smile.

After your dentures are fitted, you’ll have a few follow-up appointments with your dentist to take care of any initial issues and to answer any questions you have.

Crowns and how they improve your teeth

To make sure you have the best smile possible, you may need a crown to cover a tooth and restore it to its normal shape and size.

A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and strength, or to improve its appearance.

The reasons you may need a crown include:

– Protecting a weak tooth
– Holding together parts of a cracked tooth
– Restoring an already broken tooth
– Supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left
– Attaching a dental bridge
– Covering badly-shaped or severely discolored teeth
– Cover a dental implant

If your dentist recommends a crown, it’s probably to correct one of these conditions.

Your dentist’s primary concern, like yours, is helping you keep your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

What to do if you have problems with your dentist

Choosing the right dentist for your needs is an important part of giving yourself the best oral health possible.

Sometimes you may find that things are not working out for the best and it’s important to take steps to resolve any problems rather than just put off your dental care.

First, talk to your dentist about any concerns. They will probably be able to accommodate your needs if you tell them what you are looking for.

In some situations, you may feel that you want to look around at alternative options – maybe there are other dentists who meet your needs better, taking into account factors such as location, office hours, fees and emergency arrangements.

If you are comparing fees, ask for estimates on full-mouth x-rays and a preventive dental visit that includes an oral exam and tooth cleaning.

If you have any doubts about treatment your dentist has recommended, it may be a good idea to set your mind at rest by getting a second opinion from another dentist.

However, even in the best dentist-patient relationship, problems can sometimes occur. If your dentist is not able to resolve your concerns, you can contact your state or local dental association.

They have established systems of peer review that provide an impartial and easy way to resolving misunderstandings regarding the appropriateness or quality of care.

If you are not completely satisfied with the dental treatment you are getting, it’s important to take steps to put it right – whether you sort it out with your own dentist or find another one.

Preventing tooth decay in babies and infants

The habits of good dental care should begin as early as possible and it’s important to take steps to avoid problems with infants and children.

Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food and baby teeth also keep a space in the jaw for the adult teeth.

If a baby tooth is lost too early, the teeth beside it may drift into the empty space. So, when it’s time for the adult teeth to come in, there may not be enough room. This can make the teeth crooked or crowded.

The name given to decay in infants and children is baby bottle tooth decay.

It can destroy the teeth and most often occurs in the upper front teeth – though other teeth may also be affected.

Decay can happen when sweetened liquids are given to an infant and are then left clinging to their teeth for long periods. Many sweet liquids cause problems, including milk, formula and fruit juice.

What happens is that bacteria in the mouth use these sugars as food and then produce acids that attack the teeth.

It’s not just what you put in your child’s bottle that causes decay, but how often. Giving your child a bottle of sweetened liquid many times a day isn’t a good idea.

Here are some tips to avoid baby bottle tooth decay in your children:
– After each feeding, wipe the baby’s gums with a clean gauze pad. Begin brushing your child’s teeth when the first tooth erupts. Clean and massage gums in areas that remain toothless, and begin flossing when all the baby teeth have erupted, usually by age 2 or 2.
– Never allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juice or sweetened liquids.
– If your child needs a comforter between regular feedings, at night, or during naps, give them a clean pacifier recommended by your dentist or physician. Never give your child a pacifier dipped in any sweet liquid.
– Avoid filling your child’s bottle with liquids such as sugar water and soft drinks.
– If your local water supply does not contain fluoride (a substance that helps prevent tooth decay), ask your dentist how your child should get it.

Start dental visits by the child’s first birthday and make visits regularly.

If you think your child has dental problems, take the child to the dentist as soon as possible.

The power of panoramic x-rays

X-rays are extremely valuable for helping dentists identify issues that may not show up on normal oral examination.

The three most common types of dental X-rays are the bitewing, periapical and panoramic X-rays.

Panoramic X-rays give a broad overview of the entire mouth – supplying information about the teeth, upper and lower jawbone, sinuses, and other hard and soft tissues of the head and neck.

Unlike other X-rays, where the film is placed inside the patient’s mouth, the panoramic film is contained in a machine that moves around the patient’s head. So they are very easy to use.

Panoramic X-rays are often used to check wisdom teeth but they will also reveal deep cavities and gum disease. They are also useful to help patients with past or present jaw problems or those who require full or partial removable dentures, dental implants, or braces.

They can also be valuable in assisting people who are suspected of having oral cancer or have had recent trauma to the face or teeth.

Panoramic X-rays play an important role in thorough dental examinations and are recommended at least every five years or so for most patients.

The facts about oral cancer

Oral cancer is not as well known as other types of cancer but it can represent a life-threatening risk if not identified early.

– It strikes an estimated 35,000 Americans each year
– More than 7,500 people (5,200 men and 2,307 women) die of these cancers each year
– More than 25% of Americans who get oral cancer will die of the disease
– On average, only half of those diagnosed with the disease will survive more than five years
– African-Americans are especially vulnerable; the incidence rate is 1/3 higher than whites and the mortality rate is almost twice as high

Although the use of tobacco and alcohol are risk factors in developing oral cancer, approximately 25% of oral cancer patients have no known risk factors.

There has been a nearly five-fold increase in incidence in oral cancer patients under age 40, many with no known risk factors.

The incidence of oral cancer in women has increased significantly, largely due to an increase in women smoking. In 1950 the male to female ratio was 6:1; by 2002, it was 2:1.

The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid tobacco and alcohol use.

Unusual red or white spots can form in and around the mouth. These are often harmless but they can be cancerous or pre-cancerous.

Identifying and removing these early enough is a major factor in reducing the incidence of cancer.

So knowing the risk factors and seeing your dentist for regular examinations can help prevent this deadly disease.

How dentistry has developed over the last 300 years

When you visit a modern dental surgery, it’s hard to imagine the challenges of dental treatment without all the latest technology.

Yet specialists have been taking care of people’s teeth for thousands of years.

Here are some of the key developments over the last 300 years.

1723: French surgeon Pierre Fauchard – credited as being the father of modern dentistry – publishes the first book to describe a comprehensive system for the practice of dentistry.

1760: John Baker, the earliest medically-trained dentist to practice in America, immigrates from England and sets up practice.

1790: John Greenwood adapts his mother’s foot treadle spinning wheel to rotate a drill.

1790: Josiah Flagg, a prominent American dentist, constructs the first chair made specifically for dental patients.

1832: James Snell invents the first reclining dental chair.

1841: Alabama enacts the first dental practice act, regulating dentistry in the United States.

1844: Horace Wells, a Connecticut dentist, discovers that nitrous oxide can be used as an anesthesia and successfully uses it to conduct several extractions in his private practice.

1880s: The collapsible metal tube revolutionizes toothpaste manufacturing and marketing.

1890: Willoughby Miller notes the microbial basis of dental decay in a book which started a world-wide movement to promote regular toothbrushing and flossing.

1896: New Orleans dentist C. Edmond Kells takes the first dental x-ray of a living person in the U.S.

1938: The nylon toothbrush, the first made with synthetic bristles, appears on the market.

1945: The water fluoridation era begins when the cities of Newburgh, New York, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, add sodium fluoride to their public water systems.

1950s: The first fluoride toothpastes are marketed.

1960: The first commercial electric toothbrush, developed in Switzerland after World War II, is introduced in the United States. A cordless, rechargeable model follows in 1961.

How dental implants can give you a better smile

If you have missing teeth, you don’t just have to rely on crowns, conventional bridges and dentures.

Many people are now choosing dental implants as the best way to restore their smile and solve dental problems.

Implants are placed below the gums during a series of appointments. They fuse to the jawbone and provide a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture.

As they are fused to the bone, they offer greater stability. And, because they are integrated into your jaw, your replacement teeth will feel more natural.

This secure fit often also makes them more comfortable than other solutions.

In order to have implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant.

To find out whether you could be a candidate for dental implants, talk to your dentist about what they could do for you.

Taking care of removable partial dentures

If you have removable plastic dentures, it’s important to look after them carefully.

You should brush them each day to remove food deposits and plaque. This also helps prevent them from becoming permanently stained.

It’s best to use a brush that is designed for cleaning dentures as it has bristles arranged to fit the shape of the denture. But a regular, soft-bristled toothbrush is also acceptable.

Avoid using a brush with hard bristles as these can damage the denture.

When you are handling a denture, hold them carefully. Try standing over a folded towel or a sink of water with them in case you accidentally drop them.

It’s advisable to use a denture cleanser which has the American Dental Association seal of acceptance. However hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid are also acceptable for cleaning dentures.

Other types of household cleaners and many toothpastes are too abrasive and should not be used for cleaning dentures.

A denture can lose its proper shape if it is not kept moist. So it should be placed in soaking solution or water at night though one with metal attachments could be tarnished if placed in soaking solution.

As you age, your mouth naturally changes, which can affect the fit of the denture so, if they no longer fit properly, they should be adjusted by your dentist.

See your dentist promptly if your denture becomes loose as this can cause sores or infections.

Don’t try to adjust or repair your denture yourself as this can damage the appliance beyond repair.

When you wear a partial denture, you need to continue brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily. This will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Pay special attention to cleaning the teeth that fit under the denture’s metal clasps. Plaque that becomes trapped under the clasps will increase the risk of tooth decay.

Your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate how to properly brush and clean between teeth.

Regular dental check-ups and having your teeth professionally cleaned are vital for maintaining a healthy smile.

Why a dental abscess should be treated quickly

If you have any kind of swelling in your gum, it almost certainly indicates a serious infection that should be treated urgently.

Dental abscesses result from a bacterial infection in the teeth or gums.

For example, it may come from an untreated cavity. Cavities result when some of the bacteria in our mouths mix with sugars and starches in our diet to produce acid.

This acid attacks the hard enamel coating of our teeth and, as the cavity gets deeper, it eventually infects the nerve and blood supply of the tooth.

In some cases, a dental abscess is caused by an infection of the gum. Bone loss from gum disease can create a pocket between the tooth, gum and bone.

When bacteria and other debris get into this pocket, an abscess can form.

The treatment for an abscess depends on how severe the infection is.

If the abscess has been caused by decay, root canal treatment may be needed or the tooth may even have to be removed.

If the abscess has been caused by the gum, the gum will need deep cleaning or surgical treatment. Again the tooth may need to be removed.

Sometimes, a small incision may be made into the gum to drain the abscess. If this happens, antibiotics and pain medication may be used to relieve discomfort.

If you wait until the gum is severely swollen before seeking treatment, the situation can become very serious.

The abscess at this stage can prevent you breathing properly and can be life-threatening.

So if you have any signs of swelling in your gum, contact your dentist immediately.

The causes of bad breath

Bad breath – also known as halitosis – is an unpleasant condition that can cause a great deal of embarrassment.

And, for many people, it’s made even worse by the fact they don’t even know that they have it.

There are many possible causes for bad breath so, if you think you might have the problem, talk to your dentist.

What you eat affects what you breathe out. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor and even dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating.

If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath.

Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth (xerostomia) which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases.

One of the reasons why it’s especially important to talk to your dentist about bad breath is that it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem such as respiratory tract infection or gastrointestinal problems.

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can also be a warning signs of gum disease.

Smoking can also cause bad breath, stain teeth and reduce your ability to taste foods.

For all these reasons, you shouldn’t put up with the problem of bad breath. Talk to your dentist and find out what might be causing the problem.

Oral Hygiene: Tips and Tricks for a Healthy Smile

Oral hygiene is an essential part of overall health that often gets overlooked. A healthy mouth not only leads to a brighter smile, but it can also prevent a host of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. In this blog, we will discuss some tips and tricks for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Brush and floss regularly

The foundation of good oral hygiene is brushing and flossing regularly. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove any food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

Use mouthwash

Mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and has fluoride to help prevent cavities.

Drink plenty of water

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth clean by flushing out any food particles and bacteria. Water also helps prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath and tooth decay.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Try to limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, or consume them in moderation.

Quit smoking

Smoking can lead to a host of dental problems, including gum disease, bad breath, and oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting can improve your overall oral and overall health.

Visit your dentist regularly

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can identify any early signs of dental problems and provide treatment before they become more serious.

Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing dental problems. By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your teeth and gums in top condition. Remember, a healthy mouth is a happy mouth!

What is Endodontics? An Introduction to Root Canal Treatment

Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of dental pulp and surrounding tissues. The dental pulp is the soft, innermost part of a tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. When the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to a painful condition known as pulpitis.

One common treatment for pulpitis is root canal therapy, also known as a root canal. During a root canal, the damaged or infected pulp is removed from the tooth, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned, shaped, and filled with a special material. The tooth is then restored with a filling or a crown to protect it from further damage.

Root canal treatment may be necessary when a cavity is left untreated or when a tooth is injured, cracked, or has deep decay. Symptoms of pulpitis may include pain, swelling, sensitivity to hot or cold, and discoloration of the tooth.

Many people are afraid of root canals because they believe they are painful, but modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure relatively painless. In fact, most people report feeling relief from pain and discomfort after root canal treatment.

It is important to seek treatment for pulpitis or other endodontic problems as soon as possible, as untreated infections can lead to serious health problems, including tooth loss and systemic infections.

If you are experiencing tooth pain or other symptoms, talk to your dentist about whether endodontic treatment may be necessary. With prompt treatment, you can relieve your pain and preserve your natural teeth for years to come.

The benefits of a bright, white smile: How cosmetic dentistry can enhance your appearance

A bright, white smile is often associated with health, youthfulness, and attractiveness. Unfortunately, factors like aging, diet, smoking, and certain medications can cause teeth to become stained or discolored over time, which can negatively affect a person's confidence and self-esteem.

Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry offers various solutions to improve the appearance of discolored or stained teeth. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, and it can effectively brighten teeth by several shades. In-office teeth whitening treatments can be completed in a single appointment, while at-home whitening treatments involve using custom-made trays and a bleaching gel over several weeks.

Dental veneers are another popular cosmetic dentistry solution for improving the appearance of teeth. These thin, custom-made shells are placed over the front of teeth and can improve the color, shape, and size of teeth. Veneers can also be used to correct issues like gaps between teeth, misshapen teeth, and chipped or cracked teeth.

In addition to improving the appearance of teeth, cosmetic dentistry can also have a positive impact on a person's overall appearance. A beautiful smile can enhance a person's facial features and give them a more youthful and vibrant appearance. It can also make them appear more approachable and confident, which can be beneficial in personal and professional relationships.

Cosmetic dentistry can help improve the appearance of teeth and enhance a person's overall appearance. Whether you opt for teeth whitening or dental veneers, the benefits of a beautiful smile can be life-changing, boosting confidence and self-esteem, and leading to a happier, more fulfilling life.

The Benefits of Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview

Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. They are designed to replace the missing tooth root and provide a strong foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth. There are numerous benefits to dental implants, and in this blog post, we'll take a comprehensive look at what they are.

First and foremost, dental implants are the closest thing to natural teeth. They look and feel just like your natural teeth, so you can speak, eat, and smile with confidence. They are also extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.

Another benefit of dental implants is that they prevent bone loss. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone beneath it can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants prevent this by stimulating the bone and keeping it healthy.

Dental implants also offer improved oral health. Unlike dentures, which can be difficult to clean, dental implants can be maintained with regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. This means that your overall oral health is likely to improve.

Dental implants are a convenient solution for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which can slip or become loose, dental implants are permanently anchored in place. This means that you don't have to worry about them falling out or shifting while you eat, speak, or laugh.

Dental implants can improve your overall quality of life. When you have a missing tooth, it can impact your self-esteem and confidence. Dental implants can restore your smile and give you the confidence to pursue your goals and enjoy your life to the fullest.

Dental implants are an excellent option for anyone who is missing one or more teeth. They offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, convenience, durability, and a natural-looking appearance. If you're considering dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are the right solution for you.

Why your routine dental cleaning is not routine

For many patients, the dental cleaning appointment may seem little more than a more complicated version of brushing your teeth.

However, this appointment plays a crucial role in patient education and prevention of dental disease.

The appointment is called a “dental prophylaxis,” or “prophy” and it’s one of the most important steps in your dental care program.

Here are some of the elements that it may include, depending on your needs:

– Oral hygiene evaluation

– Tooth brushing and flossing instructions

– Scaling above the gum to remove plaque and tartar

– Debridement of tartar beneath the gum

– Polishing the teeth

– Periodontal charting

It’s important to remove plaque from the teeth as it ultimately forms a hard, rough sediment known as tartar or calculus, which must be removed by a dental professional to help prevent periodontal disease.

Polishing the teeth removes stains and creates a feeling of fresh breath and a clean mouth.

The hygienist or dentist may recommend a prophylaxis visit every two to six months.

Although insurance may only cover two prophies a year, recall frequency depends on many factors and should be based on individual needs.

These appointments can help you have much better dental health and could save you a great deal of time and money in the long run.

Your options if you have many missing or damaged teeth

People who have not followed adequate dental care for some years may have already lost most of their teeth and feel a little hopeless.

Sometimes they ask a dentist to remove the remaining teeth as they are often broken and have deep cavities.

It’s true that, sometimes, removal of the remaining teeth and replacing them with full dentures is the only option.

But more often there are other options available.

Some or all of the remaining teeth could be repaired and used in conjunction with a partial denture. While a full denture replaces all of the teeth on the upper or lower jaw, a partial denture replaces some of the teeth.

If only a few weak teeth remain on the upper jaw, it might be preferable to have them extracted and a full upper denture made. Full upper dentures can be more secure than lower ones as the upper denture gets added stability from the palate and is not easily dislodged by the tongue.

If only a few teeth remain on the lower jaw, however, the dentist will usually aim to save them and use a partial denture if necessary.

Ideally, all teeth that can be saved should be saved but this is not always possible – often due to finances.

In such cases, having teeth removed and dentures may be the only option.

What is cosmetic dentistry, and how does it differ from traditional dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of teeth, gums, and bite. Unlike traditional dentistry, which primarily focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, orthodontics, and dental implants. These procedures can help correct various cosmetic dental issues, such as stained or discolored teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and missing teeth.

Traditional dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems that can affect a patient's oral health. These problems include cavities, gum disease, root canals, and tooth extractions. While traditional dentistry can also improve the appearance of teeth, its primary goal is to promote dental health and prevent further complications.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures are elective and are not typically covered by insurance. Traditional dentistry procedures, on the other hand, are necessary and are often covered by insurance.

While traditional dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile. Both types of dentistry are important and work together to help patients achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful smile.