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Four Common Causes of ToothachesAugust 27th, 2012
Causes of Tooth Pain Some of the most common causes of tooth pain include: • Tooth Decay – Also known as cavities, tooth decay occurs when bacteria erodes the enamel of the tooth, which can eventually expose the nerve. This is the most common cause of tooth pain. Pain Resolution Determining the source of your pain starts with a trip to the dentist. Usually, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination that may include X-rays. If your X-rays or examination reveal tooth decay, the solution may involve a simple filling. Your dentist will decide which option is best for you based on how advanced the tooth decay is, as well whether an infection is present within the tooth. If, however, gum disease is causing your tooth pain, the solution may be as simple as a root planing and scaling, remove the bacteria causing your symptoms. If you have a cracked, chipped or broken tooth, your dentist may resolve your pain by either filling the crack, or covering the tooth with a crown designed to prevent bacteria from entering the tooth. If your dental X-rays reveal that you have an impacted tooth, you will most likely need to have it extracted to avoid causing damage or misalignment to the other teeth. Impacted teeth can also become infected, which is why it is important to remove impacted teeth before they begin to cause problems. Prevention Although there are many ways of treating a toothache, the best way to treat it is by preventing it altogether. Some causes of tooth pain are not preventable, such as an impacted tooth or a predisposition to tooth sensitivity. However, tooth decay and gum disease are easily prevented by using good hygiene practices at home and visiting your dentist for regular examinations and cleanings. By brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing, as well as wearing protective mouthguards when participating in high impact activities, you can significantly decrease your chances of developing tooth pain in the future.
Sincerely, Brian A Healthy Mouth Starts With What You EatAugust 20th, 2012
Dental checkups can detect problems early on and address them, but only good nutrition can give your teeth and gums the healthy foundation they need. If your diet is rich in tooth-friendly nutrients, you will be less prone to gum disease, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease. So, which nutrients are the most important? Here are a few tooth-building superstars. Calcium We all know that calcium builds strong bones and teeth. Most expectant mothers are even aware that the calcium-rich foods they eat during pregnancy will ensure that their babies develop strong, healthy teeth later on. But did you know that calcium is important to your teeth long into adulthood? On its “Milk Matters” page, the National Institutes of Health tells us that calcium can protect teeth against decay. Furthermore, a 2001 study published by the US National Library of Medicine found that elderly people who had adequate amounts of calcium in their diets were more likely to retain their teeth as they aged. Good sources of calcium include yogurt, cheeses, milk, and leafy green vegetables. If you can’t get an enough calcium from your diet alone, talk to your doctor about adding a calcium supplement. Vitamin D Vitamin D is sometimes called the sunshine vitamin because your skin can synthesize it during exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D could also be called the healthy smile vitamin. It not only helps your teeth, but it also keeps your gums healthy. Another study published by the National Library of Medicine has shown a connection between low levels of dietary vitamin D and gingivitis. People in the study who had more of the vitamin in their diets had healthier gums. While most of us get plenty of vitamin D from sun exposure, people who live farther from the equator, like Vermont may need to take a supplement during the winter months. Vitamin C Long ago, British sailors were called “Limeys” because their superiors made them eat limes on long ocean voyages. Why? Because limes are rich in vitamin C and without it, the sailors got scurvy and often lost their teeth. While there’s little danger of developing scurvy today, a study in the year 2000 of people who ranged in age from 20 to 90, showed that vitamin C is still necessary for healthy gums. People in the study who had the lowest dietary intake of this essential vitamin were at the highest risk of gum disease. Vitamin C is perhaps the easiest of vitamins to get from your diet. Rich sources include strawberries, apricots, oranges, lemons and, of course, limes. Red and yellow peppers also have lots of vitamin C, as do tomatoes and brussel sprouts. Never put off regular dental checkups and cleanings, but in between appointments, watch your diet. Making sure these essential nutrients are a part of your daily intake will ensure that your teeth and gums are as healthy as they can be.
Sincerely, Brian Sensitive Teeth? Try Changing Your ToothpasteAugust 13th, 2012
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity - If only a single tooth is sensitive, it could be caused by a cavity. In other cases, the tooth might be cracked. These situations require care from a trained dental professional. You may need to get a filling, a crown, or a root canal to reduce the tooth sensitivity. - If many or all of your teeth are sensitive, you may have recently begun consuming increasingly larger amounts of foods or drinks that are high in acid. The acid dissolves the protective layers of your root, exposing the dentin. The tooth’s root can be sensitive to heat and cold as well as sugary or acidic foods that can trigger pain. - Teeth whitening treatments can also cause tooth sensitivity. - Increased stress in your life also can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. High stress can cause you to grind your teeth while you sleep. If you suffer from teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, one treatment option may be a special night guard appliance to wear while you sleep. - Weather changes are another factor to consider. If it starts getting cold as it often does in Vermont, the cool air you breathe in may trigger teeth pain. Reducing Tooth Sensitivity - Avoid consuming foods and drinks that are high in acid. For example, citrus fruits and their juices, soft drinks, even tea and coffee. Taper down your consumption to minimize teeth erosion. Try using a straw when drinking acidic juices in order to minimize their contact with your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and drinks or better yet, brush your teeth to get the acid residue off of them. - You may be interested in switching to a new toothpaste to help you with the discomfort. Select a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. You can find a variety of brands at your local pharmacy or supermarket. If your teeth are still sensitive after using the special toothpaste, you should contact our office so we can rule out a more serious underlying problem and prescribe desensitizing agents and products not available over the counter.
Sincerely, Brian What is Gingivitis?August 6th, 2012
Many people with gingivitis won’t experience any discomfort, particularly in its early stage. However, as the bacteria in plaque builds up, it can cause your gums to become inflamed, which may make them red and swollen. You may also experience bleeding when brushing or flossing your teeth. Causes of Gingivitis The most common cause of gingivitis occurs when plaque builds up due to inadequate oral hygiene. Other factors that can be associated with gingivitis include: * diabetes Up to 30 percent of people in the United States may be susceptible genetically to gum disease and are six times more prone to developing gum disease, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Therefore, if one of your family members has gum disease, it may indicate that you have a higher risk of developing the condition as well. If you are one of these people who are more susceptible to developing gum disease, we will recommend more frequent cleanings, check-ups and treatments. Implications of Gingivitis Treatment of Gingivitis Lifestyle and health changes may help decrease the risk of developing gingivitis and reduce its severity or progression. Some of these lifestyle changes include stopping smoking, decreasing your stress andeating a well-balanced diet.
Sincerely, Brian |
If you have ever suffered from a toothache, you know how excruciating the pain can be. Tooth pain is usually caused by irritation to the nerves in the roots of the teeth, although there are other potential sources of the pain as well. Fortunately, there are ways to both prevent and resolve a toothache, regardless of its cause.
Most people know that visiting the dentist is an essential part of caring for their teeth. Regular checkups and cleanings are, of course, very important. But what some people don’t realize is that good dental hygiene starts long before you get to the dentist’s office. You may be saying, “I know, it starts with my toothbrush and floss.” But actually, oral health begins even before that. A healthy smile starts at Hannafords, Shaws and the Pand C.
If you have noticed that your teeth are starting to feel more sensitive than usual, you might initially avoid foods and drinks that seem to cause discomfort. While it’s a normal reaction to avoid foods or drinks that lead to pain or discomfort, it’s better to determine the cause of the problem and take steps to improve the health and quality of your teeth.
Gingivitis is a type of periodontal disease in which only your gums are affected. Gingivitis, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), is a milder and often reversible type of periodontal disease. However, it can lead to periodontitis — a more destructive and serious disease — if proper professional treatment and home care aren’t put into place. No irreversible bone damage is present in the gingivitis stage of periodontal disease.