Category: Dentistry

It is common for tooth decay to go unnoticed, but it can sometimes lead to uncomfortable symptoms.

Among adults and children alike, tooth decay is a common problem. When left untreated, tooth decay can result in cavities in your teeth. What are the symptoms of tooth decay? What can be done to resolve this issue? Learn more about the signs of tooth decay and when you should visit your dentist below.

How can you tell if you have a cavity?

Cavities are difficult to identify on your own in many cases. Most likely, your dentist will detect it during a routine check-up, often with the assistance of a dental x-ray. In spite of this, there are a few possible symptoms that may indicate that you have a cavity. You may notice pain in the affected tooth, especially when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet; tooth sensitivity; discoloration or dark spots on the affected tooth; a hole or crack that you can feel with your tongue; and persistent bad breath.

Please visit our dental office as soon as possible if you experience any of these symptoms so that they can provide you with a proper diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.

What is the treatment for tooth decay?

When your dentist detects tooth decay, a filling may be recommended to prevent its spread and strengthen the tooth. Placing a filling is a relatively simple process. There may be a need for an anesthetic depending on how deep the decay is. Your dentist will fill the remaining area with an appropriate filling material after gently removing the affected area.

Is it possible to prevent tooth decay?

With the right care, tooth decay and cavities can be prevented. Proper oral hygiene should be practiced on a daily basis in order to maintain your oral health. It is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss on a daily basis. Additionally, it is recommended that you consume a balanced diet and limit the consumption of sugary foods and beverages. Sugar contributes to the buildup of plaque, which can eventually lead to tooth decay. You should also visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. It will help to prevent dental issues, and if you do develop a cavity, it can be treated in its early stages before it becomes more serious.

What can our dental office do for you?

Our dental office provides a variety of general dentistry services, including fillings for the treatment of tooth decay. Please schedule an appointment as soon as possible if you have noticed any of the symptoms of tooth decay. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in order to stop the spread of decay and prevent further damage. Tooth decay can lead to structural problems, infection, and pain if left untreated. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and we can help ensure you have a healthy smile for life.

Brushing and flossing your teeth and having regular dental check-ups are essential for good oral health, but did you know that your diet can also affect your oral health? 

In order to maintain strong teeth and healthy gums, you need to eat a diet rich in these five vitamins.

1. Vitamin C

Thousands of years ago, sailors suffered from a disease called scurvy, which caused bruised gums and bleeding gums, among other symptoms. Eventually, it was discovered that scurvy was a result of chronic vitamin C deficiency caused by a lack of fresh fruit and vegetables.

You need vitamin C to maintain the health and strength of the connective tissues in your gums, which hold your teeth in place. A patient with bleeding gums is usually suffering from gingivitis, which is an early stage of periodontal disease, but it may also indicate that the person is lacking vitamin C in his or her diet. If your gums are bleeding on a regular basis, you should consult your dentist.

Among the foods rich in vitamin C are citrus fruits (such as lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits), tomatoes, strawberries, capsicums, broccoli, and kiwifruit.

2. Calcium

Strong teeth require calcium, which strengthens the enamel, the outer protective layer that protects teeth from cavities.

It is well known that dairy foods contain a lot of calcium, but if you are lactose intolerant or vegetarian, you can still maintain your teeth by eating plant-based calcium sources, such as leafy greens, kale, and bok choy, as well as nuts—almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, and Brazil nuts are all excellent calcium sources.

Calcium-rich foods include cheese, milk, yogurt, canned fish with bones such as salmon and sardines, leafy green vegetables, and tofu.

3. Vitamin D

According to a research review, vitamin D deficiency can cause tooth decay and gum disease, as well as other oral health problems.

In spite of the fact that UVB radiation from the sun is the best source of vitamin D, some people, such as the elderly, those who are chronically ill, and those who are obese, are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency. It is recommended that you consult your physician if you are concerned about your vitamin D levels.

Egg yolks, oily fish, red meat, and vitamin D-fortified breakfast cereals are all good sources of vitamin D.

4. Phosphorus

Phosphorus is found in chicken, red meat, seafood, dairy, eggs, nuts, and legumes.

Most of this essential mineral is found in your bones and teeth, making it the second-most abundant mineral in the body. Phosphorus serves as a building block for healthy teeth and bones, and calcium requires phosphorus in order to form healthy teeth and bones.

Plant foods (such as nuts and seeds) contain phosphorus, but animal sources have a higher absorption rate.

Phosphorus is found in chicken, red meat, seafood, dairy, eggs, nuts, and legumes.

5. Vitamin A

Keep your teeth and mouth healthy by eating orange-colored fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin A. A lack of vitamin A has been associated with impaired tooth development, enamel hypoplasia (a developmental defect resulting in insufficient enamel), and gum disease.

Oily fish, egg yolks, sweet potatoes, carrots, capsicum, and pumpkin are all healthy sources of Vitamin A.

Is it necessary to take vitamin supplements?

Chances are, you already consume enough of these essential vitamins and minerals if you eat a healthy, balanced diet.

Some over-the-counter supplements claim to improve your skin, teeth, and nails, but most dentists (like most health professionals) prefer that people get their essential nutrients from real, whole foods. We are here to assist you if you have questions about whether you are consuming nutrients that are necessary for improved oral health. Contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation.

Maintaining a healthy smile starts with brushing your teeth twice a day. However, excessively harsh brushing can sometimes damage your teeth and gums. In order to alleviate future gum problems, our dental office advises patients on proper brushing techniques. Let’s take a look at how brushing too hard can affect your gums.

What are the effects of brushing your teeth too hard on your gums?

If you brush your teeth too vigorously, you may cause your gums to recede or shrink back. Symptoms of gum recession include exposed tooth roots or teeth that appear longer than usual, which can negatively affect the appearance of your smile. A receding gum line may increase your risk of tooth decay and make you more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, as well as many other external factors.

Gum recession isn’t the only problem caused by vigorous brushing. Tooth enamel can also be worn down as a result. While tooth enamel is one of the hardest substances in the body, brushing too hard can slowly erode it, resulting in irreparable damage. The result is usually dark or yellowish-looking teeth, increased tooth sensitivity, and a higher risk of tooth decay.

What Are the Signs That You Are Brushing Too Hard?

You can determine whether you are brushing your teeth too hard by examining your toothbrush. You may be brushing too hard if your bristles are flat and frayed while still new. Harsh brushing can result in sore or bleeding gums; a receding gum line that exposes more of your teeth when you smile; and dull teeth as a result of enamel wear.

What is the best way to brush your teeth?

For safe and effective tooth brushing, follow these tips:

• Make sure you use a soft-bristled, high-quality toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association.
• You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, thoroughly but gently.
• Brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle against your gum line in a circular, up-and-down motion.
• Don’t forget to brush your tongue and your gum line. 
• In order to prevent mold and germs from growing on your toothbrush, store it in an open container.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed, flat, or damaged.

Our dental office can teach you how to brush your teeth properly for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Don’t forget to schedule your regular dental exams and cleanings. We’ll make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy together. Get in touch with us today to schedule an appointment!

Alcohol consumption is known to be harmful to your health. Sugar, caffeine, and alcohol, all of which are present in a lot of popular drinks, have been proven to be harmful to the body. You may not be aware, however, that these beverages can also damage your teeth. The following are a few suggestions for consuming these beverages responsibly.

Energy drinks, juices, and sodas.

The high sugar content of these drinks can negatively affect your health. Their effects on your teeth, however, are less obvious. Prolonged exposure can damage your enamel as well as cause cavities and other dental issues.

Coffee

Many coffee drinks contain the same amount of sugar as sodas and juices. However, even people who drink their coffee black run the risk of damaging their teeth if they continue to consume it over time. Having too much coffee every day can stain your teeth, although the degree of staining varies from person to person.

Beer, wine, and liquor

While red wine may seem to stain your teeth, there is no difference between all wines and the risk they pose to your teeth. Additionally, darker beers can subsequently stain your teeth over some time depending on how often you consume them. Even though hard liquor itself is generally not a threat to your enamel, the mixers that go along with it can cause serious damage to it.

The Best Way to Protect Your Teeth

The first thing that may come to mind if you drink one of these beverages is to brush your teeth as soon as possible. Unfortunately, brushing your teeth too soon can have the opposite effect. Several of the beverages previously mentioned have a high acid content. Acid can have the effect of softening your enamel, and the pressure you apply when brushing can further contribute to this process. After drinking sugary or acidic drinks, it is recommended that you drink water and wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Additionally, swishing the water around as you drink it will help to gently rinse off the enamel and allow it to harden before brushing.

A healthy diet is just as important for your teeth as it is for the rest of your body. You should follow a routine that includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as professional cleanings twice a year, so moderate consumption of any of these beverages will not negatively impact your oral health. For an appointment at our dental office, please contact us today!