Tooth Tourism Blog

Your Oral Health

2009-02-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

Keeping your teeth, gums, jawbone, and the supporting tissues clean are very important in maintaining good oral health. By brushing, flossing, and also brushing/scraping your tongue can prevent mouth problems and diseases. When you stop taking care of your teeth, you will not only get cavities, stained teeth, toothaches, and crooked teeth, your mouth will be at risk of diseases such as gum diseases, diabetes, HIV, cancer, and even eating disorders.

Below, Whoopi Goldberg tells us about her oral health. She explains the importance of good oral health and prevent periodontal disease!

Bad Breath and Halitosis

2008-12-19T11:11:00.000-08:00

Bad Breath (halitosis) is a major issue for a lot of people as it can result in embarrassment or even shame in certain situations. Unfortunately, many people are not even aware that they have a problem. Bad breath is typically related to oral hygiene habits or a sign of other health issues.

Bad breath is ranked as the third most common reason for people to seek denial aid net to tooth decay and periodontal disease. In some cases where people have chronic bad breath, it can be a more serious issue. Chronic bad breath affects almost a quarter of the population in varying degrees. Persistent bad breath can affect an individual's business, personal, and social relationships which can lead to self-esteem issues and increased stress.

How Can I Prevent Bad Breath?

- You must visit your dentist at least every six months for checkups to keep your mouth free of plaque buildup and other problems that may lead to bad breath.
- Maintain your diet and watch/avoid your consumption of foods such as alcohol, coffee, dense proteins, garlic and onions, and sugars.
- Try to breathe through your nose. Breathing through your mouth can lead to having a dry mouth, which creates a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria.
- Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day to remove food particles and plaque, and floss between teeth once a day, preferably in the evening after you eat.
- Use a fluoride mouth rinse; it will help to protect your teeth and the flavor will mask odor.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Should I brush or floss first?

2008-12-18T16:42:00.000-08:00

Definitely floss, then brush

It is better to floss and then brush because when you floss, plaque falls onto your teeth. As a result, when you start brushing you will be able to get all plaque off.

You need to floss at least once a day. If you can floss twice a day, you will have really good oral hygiene (the basic recommendation is to floss once a day and brush twice a day).

Brushing your teeth will not clean between your teeth, cleaning every day will prevent bacteria from colonizing or else it will start damaging your teeth within 24 hours. Also clean your mouth after flossing to spit out the bacteria and food particles. Flossing helps fight gingivitis and periodontal diseases, which are the main causes of tooth loss.

Tips to remember

1) Establish a regular routine and time for flossing so you don't forget
2) Brushing only cleans 60 percent of your teeth; so don't forget to floss first.
3) Flossing helps to remove plaque from in between your teeth.
4) Brushing alone only cleans three fourths of your teeth's surfaces, so if you brush and don't floss it is like not cleaning seven of your teeth!
5) Flossing cleans the areas your toothbrush can not reach which is the tooth surfaces between your teeth.

Why Do I Grind My Teeth At Night? (Bruxism)

2008-12-17T15:50:00.000-08:00

Bruxism is the medical term for the grinding of teeth; it is a reflexive action rather than a learned habit. Bruxism stems from the natural chewing activity that is controlled by reflex nerve pathways which are activated during sleep. Chewing depends on higher control functions from the brain and when a person is asleep, those control functions are deactivated which can result in bruxism.

What Are the Causes of Bruxism?

While the exact causes of bruxism are still relatively unknown, researchers believe that there are significant factors involved. Some factors include, being overly stressed, sleeping problems, an abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth. In some cases children may grind their teeth due to a misalignment of their top and bottom teeth.

In adults, mental factors seem to be associated with Bruxism, including:

anxiety, stress or tension
suppressed anger or frustration
aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type

What Are the Symptoms of Bruxism?

abraded teeth
facial pain
oversensitive teeth
tense facial and jaw muscles
headaches, dislocation of the jaw
a popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
tongue indentations
damage to the inside of the cheek
teeth that are worn down, flattened or chipped
worn tooth enamel, exposing the inside of your tooth
increased tooth sensitivity
jaw pain or tightness in your jaw muscles

How Do I Prevent Bruxism?

If you find that your teeth grinding is related to stress, try to find ways to help yourself relax. Also, one can reduce consumption of stimulants such as caffeine or tobacco to reduce bruxism. Lastly, teeth grinding can be prevented by wearing a bite plate or a bite splint at night.

Can My Bruxism Be Treated?

The treatment of Bruxism depends on the following factors

Your age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the disease
Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

How Do I Treat Bruxism?

Behavior modification
Training the patient how to rest his/her tongue, teeth, and lips properly, and learning how to rest the tongue upward may relieve uneasiness on the jaw while keeping the teeth apart and lips closed.

Mouthpiece
A specially-fitted plastic mouth appliance may be worn at night to absorb the force of biting. This piece of equipment may help to prevent future damage to the teeth and help in changing the patient's behavior.

Biofeedback
Biofeedback involves an electronic instrument that measures the amount of muscle activity of the mouth and jaw. This is especially helpful for daytime bruxers.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Dental Cavities

2008-12-15T13:35:00.001-08:00

Dental Cavities is the destruction of the tooth structure (tooth decay), a disease known as Caries. Cavities form when your teeth is often exposed to starchy and sugary foods such as soda pop, candy, ice cream, milk, cakes, fruits, vegetables, and juices (foods containing carbohydrates). Bacteria in the mouth digest the deposits from these foods and turn them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris, and saliva combined forms plaque, which clings on to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel surface of the teeth, creating holes or indents in the teeth called cavities, or caries.

Whom do dental cavities affect?

Dental cavities affect everyone, especially children and young adults. Whenever gum tissue is pulled from the teeth, chances for gum disease increases, exposing tooth roots to plaque. Pregnant women craving sweet foods make them more susceptible to developing cavities.

In older adults, decay is formed around the edges of fillings because many older adults lacked the benefits of fluoride and modern preventive dental care. Over time, fillings may weaken and can fracture, allowing bacteria to build up in the tiny gap causing tooth decay.

How Do I Know if I Have a Cavity?

In advanced stages of tooth decay, you may experience toothache (especially after consuming sweet, hot, or cold foods or drinks). Visible pits or holes in the teeth are results of tooth decay.

Treatment

-If decay is not wide, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed by drilling and a filling made of silver alloy, gold, porcelain, or a composite resin is used to fill the open space.

-If the decay is extensive with limited tooth structure remaining, crowns are used after the repairs are made, fitting over the remainder of the tooth. Crowns are made from gold, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal.

Prevention

-Oral hygiene is very important to prevent cavities. Regular cleaning in every 6 months, brushing at least twice a day, and flossing at least daily will result in good oral hygiene.

-Chewy, sticky foods are best if eaten as part of a meal rather than as a snack. Brush the teeth or rinse the mouth after eating these foods.

-Avoid constant sipping of sugary drinks or frequent sucking on candy and mints.

-Dental sealants can prevent cavities. Sealants are thin plastic-like coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars. This coating prevents the accumulation of plaque in the deep grooves on these vulnerable surfaces.

-Fluoride toothpaste or mouthwashes also protect the surface of the teeth.

How can I protect my teeth from cavaties?

You can protect your teeth from cavities by cutting down on sweets and between-meal snacks because these starchy and sugary foods put your teeth at extra risk. Also, brushing after each meal, flossing daily, and regular dental check ups is the best way to fight cavities.

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

What is Tooth Erosion and How Can I Avoid It?

2008-12-12T11:59:00.001-08:00

Tooth Erosion is the wearing away of tooth enamel by acid. It is caused by consuming acidic foods and drinks which allows the acid to dissolve away the surface of the tooth. Prolonged exposure to acid over a long period of time will result in a loss enamel. This loss of enamel will eventually cause the tooth to 'shrink' as it crumbles around the biting edge.

Tooth erosion can lead to a multitude of mild dental problems such as tooth discoloration or sensitive teeth as well as severe dental complications such as severe tooth tooth sensitivity or cracked teeth.

What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Erosion?

Some signs and symptoms of tooth erosion include:

Discoloration
Tooth Sensitivity
Rounded Tooth
Transparent or a sand blasted appearance
Cracking
Dents

What Can I Do To Prevent Tooth Erosion?

To prevent tooth erosion, one should:

Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages.
Try to have water and milk, instead of carbonated drinks.
Use a straw when you are having any sweet drink. Also try to swallow acidic liquids quickly instead of swishing them around or holding them in your mouth.
Chewing sugar-free gum can help reduce dry mouth and increase the saliva flow.
Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Dental Care Products

2008-12-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

There are so many dental care products in the market, but how do we know which product to use? From toothpastes to toothbrushes to mouthwashes, get the facts you need to make informed decisions.

Toothbrushes
Ask your dentist and hygienist for recommending you new toothbrushes. Remember to change your toothbrush regularly after every 3 months.

Toothpastes/Gels
Daily brusing with toothpaste prevents you from developing dental decay and bad breath. Whitening Toothpaste helps maintain a white smile and fresh breath with daily brushing. Try to use Fluoride toothpaste, it prevents tooth and gum disease.

Interdental Products
An Interdental Brush is designed for removing plaque from between teeth along the gum line. Interdental brush comes in a variety of sizes (for different space sizes between teeth in various parts of the mouth) that allows you to choose the brush that best suits you.

Dental Floss Products
Dental Floss is used to remove food and plaque between the teeth and under your gum line. It may be flavored or unflavored and waxed or unwaxed.

Mouthwashes, Rinses and Sprays
A combined dental care system: tooth brushing, tongue cleaning, flossing with mouthwash can play a significant role in the treatments of bad breath. Some mouthwashes, rinses and sprays may contain fluoride, which helps to prevent or to reduce gum disease.

Tongue Cleaners
Tongue cleaners are suggested by dentists and hygienists. It helps to remove the build-up of bacteria and other compounds which result in bad breath so it is important to keep your tongue clean to avoid the risk of a problem developing.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Bad oral habits

2008-12-10T10:07:00.000-08:00

Your gums, teeth, and mouth are all very important to your overall health. Research confirms that poor oral health can cause systemic diseases such as Diabetes in people of all ages and respiratory diseases particularly among elderly people.

Teeth are basically meant for chewing or biting food and not for tearing packages open, pulling tags off new clothes, undoing knots or cracking nuts! The impact of these behaviors ranges from minor to major

Some bad oral habits that people have:

Chewing Ice-Chewing Ice can lead to gum injuries or even broken teeth. To avoid this habit, try chewing baby carrots or apple chunks when you feel you need to crunch on something. The urge to chew ice can also be symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia.

Using your teeth as a scissors-Many people use their teeth as a multi-purpose tool to cut through string, open packages or remove tags from clothing.

Using toothpicks improperly-Tooth pick is used to remove food from between your teeth when you do not have floss handy, but it can also hurt or injure your gums or break off between your teeth.

Chewing pencils, pens and other hard objects-Students and professionals sometimes have a bad habit of chewing pencils, pens and other hard objects. It can fracture your teeth leading to unnecessary dental repairs.

Bad oral habits can lead to fractured teeth resulting in liquids leaking inside the tooth, discomfort and decay, root canals, damaged and or misaligned teeth, and more.

Tips for breaking bad oral habits

-Floss at least once a day. It helps remove bits of food and dental plaque in places your toothbrush cannot find. It also keeps your gums healthy.

-Brush after every meal or at least twice a day, this helps to prevent tooth decay.

-Clean your tongue every time you brush with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper. Bacteria that settle on your tongue causing bad breath, also known as halitosis.

-Replace your toothbrush regularly every 3 months.

-Eat a balanced diet like vegetables and fruit instead of having too much sweets.

Regular dental visits.

How should I be brushing my teeth?

When brushing, use a soft toothbrush. Point the bristles of the toothbrush toward the gums. Brush your teeth back and forth on all sides of your teeth (inside/tongue side, outside/cheek side, and the top where you chew). Always brush your tongue.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Dental plaque

2008-12-09T12:54:00.000-08:00

Dental plaque is a dull layer that regularly forms in between and on the surface of the teeth. Dental plaque is a biofilm that is made up of microorganisms such as streptococcus mutans and other bacteria. Dental plaque can develop on teeth above the gum line, below the gum line on the roots of teeth (sub gingival) and along the gum line (gingival).

How Does Plaque Form?

Dentists use the term 'acid attack' to summarize the causes of Dental plaque. After having a meal, snack or drink, the bacteria of the dental plaque start to convert sugar and carbohydrates of foods into acids. If the mouth environment becomes too acidic the acids start to dissolve the minerals of the tooth's surface creating microscopic lesions on tooth enamel weakening its structure. After all the sugars are consumed by the bacteria, acid production eventually stops and the tooth has a chance to repair itself helped by the minerals of saliva and toothpaste’s fluoride. If dental plaque is not removed regularly, or if sugar is consumed too often, then the demineralization periods are not enough to repair the damage. Eventually a small cavity appears on the tooth enamel. The continuous exposure of the tooth to acids is what causes Dental plaque.

How Can I Prevent Dental Plaque?

To prevent dental plaque, you can:

- Use prescription mouthwashes can help prevent decay
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams
- Reduce frequent consumption of sugars Reduce the number of times each day that you eat fermentable carbohydrates or drink sugary drinks. Eat a well-balanced diet that limits starchy or sugary foods.

How Can I Remove Dental Plaque?

Once your gums appear to be healthy with no swelling or redness, then brushing twice daily and proper daily flossing will break up the plaque that naturally accumulate on your teeth. Brushing with fluoride-based toothpaste will help to remove plaque from the surfaces of your teeth and floss or interdental cleaners will help to remove plaque between your teeth.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

What is a Tooth Absess?

2008-12-08T09:49:00.000-08:00

An abscess of the tooth is an infection; it is a collection of infected material (pus) resulting from a bacterial infection in the center of a tooth (between the gum and a tooth).
It can cause openings in the tooth enamel, which then allows bacteria to infect the center of the tooth, called the pulp. The infection may also spread from the root of the tooth to the bones supporting it.

What Will Happen If My Tooth Abscess Goes Untreated?

If a severe tooth abscess goes untreated it may become large enough to penetrate bone and enter the soft tissue. Once that occurs, it spread to wherever it faces the least amount of resistance where it can develop issues both internally and externally. The projected area of infection is determined by muscle and fascia attachments, the thickness of the bone, and the location of the infected tooth. The infection can potentially spread into vital areas and lead to severe problems if it enters the heart, brain, or blood stream.

What Are The Causes of Tooth Abscess?

- Tooth Decay
- Broken or chipped tooth
- Gum disease

What are the Two Types of Tooth Abscess?

Periapical or root-tip abscess is usually caused by deep decay or an accident. This tooth problem will require either root canal therapy or an extraction.

Lateral abscess develops along the lateral surface of the tooth’s root where the infection comes from outside the tooth instead of from within. A lateral abscess can be gingival or periodontal.

What Are the Symptoms of a Tooth abscess?

- Severe Toothache
- Bitter taste in the mouth
- Breathe odor
- General discomfort, uneasiness,
- Ill feeling
- Fever
- Pain when chewing
- Sensitivity of the teeth to hot or cold
- Swollen glands of the neck
- Swollen area of the upper or lower jaw

How Can a Tooth Abscess be Treated?

- Antibiotics may be given to fight the infection. Warm salt-water rinses may be soothing.
- Do not place aspirin directly over the tooth or gums because this increases irritation of the tissues and can result in mouth ulcers.
- A root canal may be recommended in an attempt to save the tooth.
- The tooth may be removed or surgery may be needed to drain the abscess
- Following good oral hygiene practices can reduce the risk of developing a tooth abscess.
- Regular visit to dentist.

Toothpaste

2008-11-18T15:29:00.000-08:00

Toothpaste is a gel or paste dentifrice that helps in the cleaning of our teeth.

Toothpaste seems to improve each day. We have quite a bit of choices when it comes to choosing the right toothpaste:

anti-cavity toothpastes

extra-whitening toothpastes

toothpastes with mouthwash

toothpastes for sensitive teeth

toothpastes with stripes

clear toothpaste

and even liver flavored toothpaste for dogs.

Modern toothpaste has many applications, but most experts would agree that as long as your toothpaste contains fluoride, the brand you buy really does not matter. All toothpastes with fluoride work effectively to fight plaque and cavities. It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes, and do not forget to floss before brushing.

How much toothpaste should I use?

A pea-sized dab of paste on your toothbrush is all you need.

Children should use a small, baby pea-sized dab on their toothbrush, always make sure it is not swallowed.

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Tips for Basic Dental Care

2008-10-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

Basic dental care involves brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and eating a healthy diet (whole grains vegetables, fruits, and dairy products).

By following a basic dental care plan you can:

prevent tooth decay;
improve overall health;
prevent gum disease;
make it possible for your teeth to last a lifetime;
keep teeth white by preventing staining from food, drinks, and tobacco;
rid your mouth of the bacteria that cause bad breath.

How to avoid dental problems

Eat a balanced diet containing foods from the five major food groups.
Brush twice a day: The morning and before bed are good times to brush. Proper brushing requires at least two minutes.
Floss before you brush.
Visit the dentist at least twice a year.
Take Vitamins C and D to help support the absorption of healthy mouth minerals.
Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar.
Avoid using tobacco products, which can cause gum disease and oral cancer.
Practice tongue cleaning.
Use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay and cavities.

The top 5 products you need for great dental health

2008-10-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

Today we have so many dental care products on the market, but how do we know which product to use? From toothpastes to mouthwashes, get the facts you need to make informed decisions.

Dental care products every person should have

Toothbrushes
Many can be found at your local drugstore, but for a high quality toothbrush like Sonicare, ask your dentist or hygienist. Remember to change your toothbrush regularly after every 3 months.

Toothpastes/Gels
Twice daily toothpaste use prevents dental decay and bad breath. Whitening toothpaste helps maintain a white smile and fresh breath with daily brushing.
Try to use Fluoride toothpaste as it's your best defense against tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Floss
Flossing is an essential part of the tooth-cleaning process because it removes plaque from between teeth and at the gum line, where periodontal disease often begins.

Mouthwashes, Rinses and Sprays
Combining brushing, tongue cleaning, and flossing with a mouthwash can play a significant role in the treatment of bad breath. Some mouthwashes, rinses and sprays can help prevent or reduce gum disease.

Tongue Cleaners
Tongue cleaners are suggested by dentists and hygienists. They help remove the build-up of bacteria and other compounds which result in bad breath.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!) Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

How to remove dental plaque

2008-09-16T09:37:00.000-07:00

What is dental plaque?

Plaque is a build-up of naturally occuring microorganisms found in your mouth and bacteria by-products, dead cells and food residuals. Formation starts immediately after you brush your teeth and is normally considered harmless.

However, if you fail to remove plaque with regular toothbrushing and flossing, it can create a thick build-up which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, tooth loss, and periodontal disease.

Treatment for the symptoms of dental plaque, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, should be performed by a qualified professional.

Did you know that Tooth Tourism's team of board-certified, fully accredited overseas dentists can save you up to 75% on the same treatments you would receive at home? If you are needing one of these procedures, contact us today for a free dental quote.

Removing Dental Plaque

Thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice a day with a flouride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove any plaque from between your teeth and under the gum line.
Limit how much junk food you eat - especially foods with high sugar or starch content.
Consult with your dentist about the best possible techniques to prevent dental plaque. Confirm that the steps you are taking are correct.
Go for regular dental check-ups.

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

What causes tartar build-up?

2008-08-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

Dental tartar (or calculus) is a yellow or brown layer of mineral deposits on the teeth surface created by hardened dental plaque. Besides the cosmetic problem, dental plaque that is accumulated on calculus causes inflammation of gums, and can lead to gum recession and gum disease.

The bacteria of dental plaque produces acids that cause the loss of calcium from the tooth enamel (demineralization). Calcium, phosphorus and other minerals from saliva form crystals and harden the plaque structure. The main ingredient of this compound is calcium phosphate. It is a hard insoluble material that bonds to the tooth enamel along the gum line. Tartar's calcium deposits on teeth make the surface of the tooth rough providing an ideal medium for further accumulation and growth of dental plaque. The repeating new cycles of acid production, calcium loss and calcium phosphate composition result to the build-up of new tartar layers on teeth.

Tartar Build-up Prevention

Proper brushing and flossing are necessary to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Use tartar control toothpastes.
Prescription mouthwashes can help prevent decay.
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.

Tooth Discoloration

2008-08-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

Discolored teeth is a common problem for people; causing embarassement while they are talking to someone or laughing. Unfortunately, this is a normal occurence as teeth can become discolored by foods we eat or by changes in the tooth material. Fortunately, there are ways to treat this less than ideal situation.

Discoloration can be divided into three catagories:

Extrinsic discoloration - Extrinsic discoloration occurs when the external layer of the tooth (the enamel) is blemished by coffee, wine, cola or other drinks or foods. Smoking also causes extrinsic stains.
Intrinsic discoloration - Intrinsic discoloration is when the internal structure of the tooth (the dentin) darkens or gets a yellow color. The causes of extrinsic discoloration include unnecessary exposure to fluoride during early childhood, the maternal use of tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy and also the use of tetracycline antibiotics in children 8 years old or younger.
Age-related discoloration - Age-related discoloration is combination of extrinsic and intrinsic reasons. In addition to stains caused by foods or smoking, the dentin naturally yellows over time. The enamel that covers the teeth gets thinner with age, which allows the dentin to show through. Chips or other injuries to a tooth can also cause discoloration, especially when the soft tissue has been smashed.

Other causes for discoloration are: Chewing tobacco, poor dental hygiene, dental materials such as amalgam restorations (especially silver sulfide-containing materials), eating certain foods, genetics, and age.

Preventing Tooth Discoloration

Making some changes to your lifestyle can help prevent teeth discoloration. For example, if you are a coffee drinker and/or smoker, consider cutting back or quitting all together. Also, brushing your teeth after every meal will help to prevent some stains. Going for routine check-ups and having your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist every 6 months is a sure bet for whiter, brighter teeth.

Treating Tooth Discoloration

Using proper toothbrushing and flossing techniques
Avoidance of the foods and beverages that cause stains
Bondings
Veneers
Using over-the-counter whitening agents
In-office whitening procedures performed by your dentist

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

How to treat Halitosis

2008-08-23T10:47:00.001-07:00

Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, is a serious cause of embarrassment and shame. Several people with bad breath aren't aware there's a problem. Generally, bad breath occurs from poor oral hygiene habits, but it could also be a sign of other health problems.

Treatment of Bad Breath

Visit your dentist at least every six months for checkups to keep your mouth free of plaque buildup and other problems that may lead to bad breath.
Maintain your diet and watch/avoid your consumption of foods such as alcohol, coffee, dense proteins, garlic and onions, and sugars. These are all bad-breath offenders.
Try to breathe through your nose. Breathing through your mouth can lead to having a dry mouth, which creates a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria.
Keep a regular log of your eating habits and medications, as these can cause bad breath, then try to avoid them.
Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day to remove food particles and plaque, and floss between teeth once a day, preferably in the evening after you eat.
Try using a fluoride mouth rinse with antiseptic ingredients and a pleasant mint flavor. This helps to protect your teeth, and the flavor masks odor problems.

Need to find a dentist? Let ToothTourism.com do the work for you. Our Canadian medical professionals have traveled the globe to meet English speaking board-certified dentists who welcome the dental tourist (that's you!)

Contact http://www.toothtourism.com/ today for more information on how you can find affordable dental treatments abroad. To speak with a Tooth Tourism representative call (toll free): 1-800-644-9124, Mon - Fri, 9am-5pm PST.

Common Causes of Tongue Problems

2008-08-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

Tongue problems include pain, swelling, or a change in how the tongue looks, white lining, a split, covered appearance, or positioning off to one side. Changes in appearance of the tongue may be a sign of a primary tongue disorder or may be a symptom of other disorders.

Possible causes of tongue problems/pain include:

A viral ulcer or "canker sore" commonly appears on the tongue for no apparent reason.
Injury (biting the tongue) can cause painful sores.
An allergic reaction to food or medication.
Smoking will irritate the tongue and make it painful.
Oral sex or antibiotic side effects (such as thrush).
A "hairy" appearing tongue (hairy leukoplakia) is a complication of AIDS.
Poor oral hygiene
Strong chemical toothpaste/mouthwash.
Very hot drinks/foods
Anemia
Cancer
Dentures that irritate the tongue
Oral herpes (ulcers)
Neuralgia
Referred pain from teeth and gums
Referred pain from the heart

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of the tongue problem.

Ankyloglossia may not require treatment unless you have speech or swallowing difficulties. Surgery to release the tongue can relieve the problem.
Medicine may be prescribed for mouth ulcers, leukoplakia, oral cancer, and other mouth sores.
Anti-inflammatory medicines may be prescribed for glossititis and geographic tongue.
Glossitis and geographic tongue are treated by treating the cause of irritation or inflammation.

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What is Bruxism?

2008-08-14T11:47:00.000-07:00

Bruxism is the medical term for grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep or while under stress.

The causes of Bruxism are not really known, several factors may be involved. Stressful situations, problems in sleeping, an abnormal bite, and crooked or missing teeth may contribute. In cases involving children the grinding may be due to the top and bottom teeth not being in proper alignment.

In adults, mental factors seem to be associated with Bruxism, including:

anxiety, stress or tension
suppressed anger or frustration
aggressive, competitive or hyperactive personality type

Symptoms of Bruxism

abraded teeth
facial pain
oversensitive teeth
tense facial and jaw muscles
headaches, dislocation of the jaw
a popping or clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
tongue indentations
damage to the inside of the cheek
teeth that are worn down, flattened or chipped
worn tooth enamel, exposing the inside of your tooth
increased tooth sensitivity
jaw pain or tightness in your jaw muscles

Prevention

If your Bruxism is related to stress, you may be able to prevent it by using strategies to help you learn to relax. Also, try cutting down on stimulants such as tobacco and caffeine. In both children and adults, tooth damage related to Bruxism can be prevented by wearing a night bite plate or a bite splint (a dental appliance worn at night to stop teeth grinding).

Treatment

Treatment of Bruxism depends on the following factors:

Your age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the disease
Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the disease
Your opinion or preference

Treatment Options

Behavior modification - Training the patient how to rest his/her tongue, teeth, and lips properly, and learning how to rest the tongue upward may relieve uneasiness on the jaw while keeping the teeth apart and lips closed.

Mouthpiece - A specially-fitted plastic mouth appliance may be worn at night to absorb the force of biting. This piece of equipment may help to prevent future damage to the teeth and help in changing the patient's behavior.

Biofeedback - Biofeedback involves an electronic instrument that measures the amount of muscle activity of the mouth and jaw. This is especially helpful for daytime bruxers.

What is Trench Mouth?

2008-08-12T10:19:00.000-07:00

Trench mouth is a progressive painful bacterial infection of the gums and mouth with ulceration, swelling and sloughing off of dead tissue from the mouth and throat due to the spread of infection from the gums. It's generally seen in people who are under the age of 35 and is rare in developed countries. Trench mouth mostly occurs in individuals with poor nutrition and a severely poor living situation.

Trench mouth increases when bacteria, usually present in the mouth, are allowed to grow out of control. It is this overabundance of harmful bacteria that is responsible for the infection of the gums. In turn, the infection damages gum tissue.

Signs and Symptoms of Trench Mouth

Foul taste in the mouth and bad breath. These are two of the first signs of trench mouth.
Painful gums. Gums may be very painful, causing severe discomfort.
Bleeding gums. Gums may bleed easily and for no apparent reason.
Gums may appear very red or swollen.
Grayish film on the gums. This is caused by decaying gum tissue.
Ulcers between the teeth and on your gums. These are crater-like and may be filled with food debris and plaque.
Swollen lymph nodes in your head and neck. This does not happen with every case of trench mouth.

Causes of Trench Mouth

Smoking
Stress
Poor oral hygiene
Nutritional deficiency
Lowered immune system due to conditions like AIDS

Treatment

Good oral hygiene is vital to the treatment of trench mouth. Thorough tooth brushing and flossing must be performed as often as possible, at least twice a day and preferably after each meal and at bedtime. Salt water rinses (one-half teaspoon of salt in one cup of water) may be soothing to sore gums. Hydrogen peroxide, used to rinse or irrigate the gums, is often recommended to remove decayed gum tissue. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics.

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Temporomandibular Disorder

2008-08-08T08:36:00.000-07:00

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are disorders of the jaw muscles, temporomandibular joints, and the nerves related with unending facial pain. Problems that prevent the multipart system of muscles, bones, and joints from working together in harmony may result in temporomandibular disorder.

The TMD joint is one of the most complicated joints in our body. It collapses forward, backward, and from side to side. During chewing, it sustains an enormous amount of pressure.

TMD Causes

Most frequently, the cause of a temporomandibular disorder is a blend of muscle strain and anatomic problems inside the joints. Sometimes, there is a psychologic component as well. Definite causes include muscle pain and tightness, internal joint derangement, arthritis, ankylosis, and hypermobility.

Symptoms of TMD

jaw discomfort
headaches
pain radiating behind the eyes, in the face, shoulder, neck, and/or back
earaches or ringing in the ears
clicking or popping of the jaw
locking of the jaw
mouth motions are limited
clenching or grinding of the teeth
dizziness
sensitivity of the teeth without the presence of an oral health disease
numbness or tingling sensation in the fingers

Treatment for TMD

Treatment is often based on the following:

your age, overall health, and medical history
the extent of the disease
your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference

The two common types of treatment are known as "conservative" and "reversible". Conservative treatments are simple and used most often because most patients do not have severe, degenerative TMD. These treatments do not invade the face, jaw, or joint tissue.

Reversible treatments do not cause permanent changes in the structure or position of the jaw or teeth.

Self-care practices like eating soft foods, applying heat or ice packs, and avoiding extreme jaw movements (eg. chewing gum), are also useful in easing TMD symptoms. Relaxation and stress reduction can also help patients deal with the pain.

Thrush Infection

2008-07-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

Thrush infection, or oral thrush, is an infection caused by the candida fungus, yeast. It is a surface infection that can affect the corners of the mouth, the insides of the cheeks, the tongue, palate and throat. It occurs most often in babies and toddlers, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. People who suffer from thrush often have moist, pale pink spots on their lips, known as angular cheilitis, which is an indication of a candida infection.

Causes of Thrush

Certain illnesses or stress
Side effect of antibiotics or chemotherapy
People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
People with diabetes
People who wear dentures
Dry mouth
Pregnancy
People with poor nutrition or immune deficiency

Symptoms of Thrush

A sore mouth and tongue and/or difficulty swallowing.
A burning feeling in the mouth and throat (at the start of a thrush infection).
White patches that adhere to the mouth and tongue. The tissue around the patches may be red, raw, and painful.
A bad taste in the mouth or difficulty tasting foods.
Sore, red nipples in a breast-feeding mother.
Fever, if the infection spreads beyond the esophagus.
Diaper rash. Diaper rash may develop because the fungus that causes thrush will be in the baby's stool.

Thrush Treatment

Firstly, the condition that caused the thrush must be brought under control:

Investing in new and better fitting dentures.
For AIDs patients it is not possible to control immune deficiency but oral treatment using anti-fungal drugs can help to control thrush infection.
Keep the affected area clean by washing with plain water. Avoid using soaps, shower and bath gels and deodorants.
Wear natural fibres and keep affected areas as cool, clean and dry as possible.
Drink cranberry juice.
Avoid stressful situations as stress is often a trigger for thrush.
Remove, treat or avoid possible causes of thrush (where sensible): oral contraceptives, broad spectrum antibiotics, iron deficiency; anaemia, diabetes, steroid therapy, high sugar diet, alcohol.
Avoid dairy foods, food and drink containing yeast, dried fruit, mushrooms, monosodium glutamate (MSG), pickles, smoked meat and fish. These have all been shown to be possible triggers for thrush.

Thrush Prevention

Follow good oral hygiene practices. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day.
Avoid mouthwashes or sprays.
Get treatment for conditions that increase your risk for thrush, such as diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or cancer.
Limit your carb and sugar intake.
Avoid smoking.

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What is malocclusion?

2008-07-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion is a problem in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together in biting or chewing. Malocclusion is often referred to as having "crooked teeth" or a "poor bite." It may affect a person's appearance, speech, and/or ability to eat.

Causes

Malocclusions are most often inherited, but may be acquired. Inherited conditions include too many teeth, little space between teeth, irregular mouth and jaw size and shape, and unusual shape of the jaws and face, such as a cleft palate. It may be acquired from habits like finger or thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, premature loss of teeth from an accident or dental disease, and medical conditions such as enlarged tonsils and adenoids that lead to mouth breathing.

Symptoms

Malocclusion may be symptomless or may produce pain from increased stress on the oral structures.
Crooked or protruding teeth.
Problem with eating and speaking.

Treatment

During childhood and early teen years, orthodontists use early growth modification techniques to reform the jaws. Orthodontists may remove selected teeth and may use fixed or removable appliances to create a proper bite.

In adults, it can be treated by using braces which can help in straighten the teeth to camouflage a jaw problem, but any restructuring of the jawbone must be done with surgery, usually in combination with orthodontic treatment.

Prevention

Generally malocclusion is not preventable. But it can be decreased by controlling habits like thumbsucking. Regular dental check-ups should be done.

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What causes tooth sensitivity?

2008-07-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

Tooth sensitivity can occur while brushing your teeth or when a cold or hot, sweet or sour stimuli creates an intensely painful reaction in the mouth. It usually occurs when the outer protective layers of enamel or cementum are removed, exposing the dentin due to receded gums or periodontal disease.

Causes of sensitive teeth

Damaged fillings
Fractured tooth or worn enamel because of teeth grinding
Teeth grinding or clenching
Aggressive tooth brushing or incorrect way of brushing teeth
Plaque build-up on the root surfaces
Exposed root areas due to receding gums or periodontal disease
Enamel corrosion caused by chemical agents or acidic diet
Tooth decay
Frenum pull and poor oral hygiene

How to prevent sensitive teeth

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Go easy on highly acidic foods (such as citrus), as they can erode tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure.
Use a mouth guard if you grind or scrunch your teeth at night.
Regular visits to the dentist for cleaning and fluoride treatments can prevent damage to the dentin's protective layer.
Brushing properly at least twice a day and flossing daily.
Use low abrasivity toothpaste. Whitening and anti-tartar toothpastes are usual causes of tooth sensitivity.
Maintain good oral hygiene. Keep your gums healthy to prevent gums recession.

Treatment

Sensitive teeth can be solved by using a desensitizing toothpaste. If the toothpaste doesn't work your dentist can apply a fluoride gel or special desensitizing agents to the affected tooth. If the problem is continuing, a filling, cap, insert or bonding may be required to fix tooth decay or correct some other problem that may be causing the sensitivity.

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Dental Bridges

2008-06-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

A dental bridge is a process which is used to replace missing teeth. There are many problems associated with missing teeth such, change in occlusion (bite), shifting of the teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder, speech impediments, an increased risk for periodontal disease and a greater chance of tooth decay.

Bridges are fixed to the natural teeth surrounding the empty space. These teeth, called abutments, provide anchors for the bridge. The abutment teeth may need to be contoured to create a little more space in which to fit the bridge. The amount and type of reduction done to the abutment teeth varies slightly with the different materials used.

Types of dental bridges available

- Traditional Fixed Bridge

- Resin Bonded Bridges

- Cantilever Bridges

Important steps to maintaining your bridges

- Always brush and floss your teeth daily

- Visit your dentist every 6 months

- Do not consume excess sugar and starch as they may be harmful to your bridges

Benefits include: smile restoration; maintaining facial structure; restoring the ability to properly chew and speak; preventing remaining teeth from drifting out of position; distributing the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth.

How long do dental bridges last?

Bridges can last 5 to 7 years and even longer. With good oral hygiene and regular prophylaxis, it is not unusual for a fixed bridge to last more than 10 years.

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