Sun City Dental Professionals Talk About Tongue Health, PART 1

This four-part article series talks about the various ailments and conditions that can cause tongue problems, from unsightly discoloration to uncomfortable bumps and ridges.

Whether you are aware of it or not, you use your tongue almost all the time. It is an essential organ for communication, taste and digestion. Because it is integrally involved in these activities, the various conditions and ailments that can affect it can cause acute discomfort and frustration. In order to better understand the importance of the tongue, we spoke to some Sun City dental professionals about some of the common and perhaps not so common problems that can affect this major muscle.

About The Tongue

The tongue is made up of a number of interconnected muscles, rather than just one large one. These muscles work together to provide you with the incredible control and dexterity is has in helping you eat, speak, swallow and even pull silly faces. Your tongue is covered with a blanket of tiny nodules referred to as papillae (taste buds) and when it is healthy, it should be pink right to the back of the mouth.

There are four over-arching tongue problems that one might develop and our panel of Sun City dental professionals will be discussing them in detail throughout this four-part article series:

• “Strawberry” Tongue or Red Tongue
• White Tongue
• Black Hairy Tongue
• Sore and Bumpy Tongue

Let’s begin with the first...

Sun City Dental Advice: What Can Cause “Strawberry” or Red Tongue?

“A healthy tongue is a nice pink color,” say Sun City dental professionals. “But, there are a number of reasons it can become red and inflamed and for the papillae or taste buds to become swollen. This is why it is sometimes referred to as Strawberry tongue.”

Some of the causes of red tongue include:

• Scarlet Fever: An infectious disease characterized by fever, a sore throat and a red rash, hence the name. It can also cause the tongue to turn an angry shade of red. Scarlet fever typically affects young children between the age of 4 and 8 and is spread via inhalation. While there is no cure for this sickness, it can be treated successfully with antibiotics.

• Geographic Tongue: This uncomfortable condition causes the development of a network of red and, at times, white-bordered spots on the tongue. Also known as benign migratory glossitis, this condition is named after the fact that these spots develop in a pattern that looks somewhat map-like and can also shift positions.
  
  
  “Geographic tongue is typically harmless, although it can be uncomfortable and aesthetically unpleasing,” say Sun City dental professionals. “However, if the red bumps persist for more than two weeks, you should book an appointment with your dentist to make sure that you do indeed have this condition and not something more serious. Discomfort can be treated with topical anesthetic gels.”

• Kawasaki Syndrome: A condition that affects the blood vessels in the body and especially targets children younger than 5 years of age. It can cause fever, strawberry tongue and red, swollen feet and hands during the more severe phase of illness.

• Vitamin Deficiencies: “If your diet is short of vitamin B-12 or folic acid, your tongue may appear redder than normal,” say Sun City dentists.

Stay Tuned for Part 2

To read more about the various conditions and illnesses that can affect your tongue, stay tuned for part 2 of this four-part article series! Next time, we’ll be looking at the problems that can cause white tongue.

Dental Myths Busted by Dental Implants Specialists in Phoenix, PART 4

This four-part article series sets about explaining and dispelling the many common myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health and hygiene and certain dental procedures.

Welcome to the final installment of our four-part article series in which we speak to dental implants specialists in Phoenix about the various myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health, hygiene and dental treatment. In our previous article post, it was explained that using toothpicks after a meal cannot widen the spaces between your teeth and that they should never take the place of brushing and flossing. The various causes of bad breath were also explored, revealing many more culprits than just poor oral hygiene. Now, in the final article installment of this series, we shall take a look at two final myths...

Myth # 7: If you’re pregnant, you should stay away from the dentist

The Facts: This myth is an especially dangerous one, since it’s vitally important that you get your teeth checked by the dentist when you’re pregnant! With all those fluctuating hormones, women are actually at a heightened risk of developing oral conditions, such as gingivitis and gum disease. By scheduling an appointment with your dentist at the beginning and towards the end of your pregnancy, you can keep your oral health in check, as well as get any existing or potential problems addressed in a timely manner.

“Preventative treatment for pregnant women is vitally important because some of the possible health problems caused by untreated gum disease is pre-term labour and low birth weight babies,” explain All On 4 implant specialists.

Myth # 8: Gum disease only affects your teeth and gums.

“What few people realize is that poor oral health and hygiene are closely linked with problems in other parts of the body,” say dental implant specialists in Phoenix. “Gum disease doesn’t only have implications for your teeth and gums; it’s a systemic disease, which means it affects your body as a whole and has ramifications for every organ. Patients are utterly shocked and surprised to learn of the whole-body consequences poor oral health has...”

The relationship between gum disease and osteoporosis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high stroke risk, respiratory disease, kidney and liver disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and pregnancy complications are well documented in medical literature. In other words, not looking after your teeth properly can put your life at risk!

Myth # 9: Chewing gum is bad for your teeth

The Facts: “We actually encourage patients with problems such as dry mouth and gum disease to chew gum, as long as it’s sugar-free,” say All On 4 implant specialists. “Chewing gum stimulates the flow of saliva, which is your body’s natural defence against oral bacteria. Saliva also helps to wash away food debris and keeps your mouth nice and moist and comfortable. Just make sure that your choice in chewing gum is sugar-free and, if possible, contains Xylitol. This helps to neutralize acid in the mouth and remineralize your teeth after a meal or snack.”

One Last Myth: Whitening your teeth is bad for them

The Facts: “If used according to the directions, dental bleaching is not harmful to your teeth at all,” say dental implant specialists in Phoenix. “Follow the instructions, don’t overdo it and if you ever need any advice, speak to your dentist.”

Dental Myths and Misconceptions Busted by Sun City Dentists, PART 3

This four-part article series sets out explaining and dispelling the many common myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health and hygiene and certain dental procedures.

Welcome back to our four-part article series in which we get Sun City dentists to explain and bust the various myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health, hygiene and dental treatment. In our previous article post, the second installment of the series, it was explained that it’s not sugar that causes cavities per se, but rather oral bacteria. These tiny critters feast upon the sugars left behind in your mouth after a meal and their subsequent proliferation and nasty excretions lead to cavities, decay and gum disease. It was also explained that osteoporosis, while a disease that affects the bones, can also lead to tooth loss, which is why proper nutrition and the correct medical management are so important.

Let’s continue busting the myths!

Dental Myth # 5: Using toothpicks actually causes the gaps between your teeth to become wider.

The Facts: “There are only two things we really want patients to know about toothpicks,” say Sun City dentists. “One... that using a toothpick after a meal should NOT replace brushing and flossing; toothpicks are there to clean bits of debris out from between your teeth to relieve discomfort and to prevent you from embarrassing yourself. Two... you must be careful not to injure your gums when poking about between your teeth. Toothpicks are quite sharp and you can actually make yourself bleed.”

Beyond these two points, there is nothing more to be said. Toothpicks do not widen the gaps between your teeth. How can they? They’re made of soft wood and your teeth are made out of the strongest substance in your body! Your teeth are also rooted firmly in your jaw, so it’ll take more than a toothpick or even a lifetime’s worth of toothpicks to affect their positioning.

Dental Myth # 6: If your breath smells bad, it means you’re not brushing properly

The Facts: “True, bad breath is most commonly the result of poor brushing habits and sloppy oral hygiene, but not always,” say dental implants specialists in Sun City. “Bad breath can actually be an indicator of systemic disease, such as diabetes. It can also be caused by the food you eat, respiratory tract infections and certain habits, such as smoking and drinking (alcohol).”

In the case of diabetes, the common side effect of halitosis is a result of the body burning fat instead of sugar for fuel (since diabetics, who do not produce enough insulin, are unable to process glucose). The byproducts of fat being burned are ketones, which are either expelled from the body via the bladder or via respiration. Unfortunately, ketones don’t smell very nice, which explains the halitosis.

The Solution: If you suspect that you may suffer from chronic bad breath, the best thing you can do for yourself is schedule an appointment with your Sun City dentist. Explain to him or her your problem and they will look closely for the cause. If your teeth and gums are in good condition and you maintain a high standard of oral hygiene, you may need to go see your doctor for a more accurate diagnosis. If you are a diabetic, you will need to use extra care in looking after your teeth and perhaps carry around some sugar-free chewing gum for those up-close-and-personal social situations.

Stay Tuned

To read more dental myths and misconceptions join us next week for the final installment of this four-part article series, courtesy of Sun City dentists.

Dental Myths Busted by Dental Implants Specialists in Arizona, PART 2

This four-part article series sets about explaining and dispelling the many common myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health and hygiene and certain dental procedures.

Welcome back to our four-part article series in which we get dental implants specialists in Arizona to explain and bust the various myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health, hygiene and dental treatment. In our previous article post it was explained that placing a tablet of aspirin next to a tooth to relieve pain doesn’t work at all and, in fact, can actually cause acid burn to the soft tissues and tooth crown. It was also explained that bleeding gums are typically a result of infection, which, in turn, is caused by poor oral hygiene. For this reason, avoiding brushing and flossing only compounds the issue. In both cases of persistent toothache and bleeding gums, patients are urged to seek the advice of their dentist. Let’s continue looking at some more myths, shall we?

Myth # 3: Sugar causes cavities

The Facts: Before you get excited and resume your five-a-day soda habit, please note the following important distinction: sugar itself doesn’t cause cavities. Bacteria do. But, bacteria love sugar and the more you eat, the more favorable an environment for bacterial growth your mouth becomes.

“People who have a diet high in sugar tend to present with more cavities and tooth decay because it provides excellent fuel for bacterial growth,” explain dental implants specialists in Arizona. “These micro-organisms feed on the sugars left behind in your mouth after a meal and in turn produce wastes that are quite acidic. These wastes sit on your teeth and eat into the dental enamel, forming tiny holes, which widen with time to form cavities. Left untreated, cavities can provide bacteria with safe refuge from the roving bristles of your toothbrush and allow decay to progress to a point where it infiltrates the pulp chamber of the tooth. At this juncture, root canal therapy may be necessary or even tooth extraction.”

The Solution: Too much sugar is bad for you anyway, so try to limit your intake. If you do enjoy a sugary snack, treat or beverage, make sure you brush your teeth afterwards, or at the very least wash your mouth out with water. Chewing sugar-free gum is also great for your teeth.

Myth # 4: Osteoporosis only affects major bones in the body, such as your hips and spine. It doesn’t affect your teeth.

The Facts: “Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the density of the bones, causing them to become brittle and fragile over time,” explain cosmetic dentistry specialists in Arizona. “It does not discriminate between the various bones in the body, so your jawbone is at just as much risk of becoming compromised if you suffer from this disease.”

The Solution: What this means for your teeth isn’t good news. Osteoporosis can cause tooth loss, so it’s vitally important that you follow the diet prescribed to you by your treating physician. The right nutrition may help you maintain proper bone support and prevent terrible problems like tooth loss.

Stay Tuned...

To read more dental myths and misconceptions join us next week for the third installment of this four-part article series, courtesy of dental implants specialists in Arizona.

Dental Myths Busted by Teeth Implants Specialists in Arizona, PART 1

This four-part article series sets about explaining and dispelling the many common myths and misconceptions surrounding oral health and hygiene and certain dental procedures.

When it comes to your teeth, oral health and the various dental procedures out there, people are full of opinions, old wives’ tales and misconceptions. Some are harmless and even quite humorous; for example, it was believed that tying a frog to your jaw would firm up loose teeth. Granted, this belief is archaic and has long since faded. But there are other myths and misconceptions about oral health that are actually dangerous, because they perpetuate ignorance and a fear of dentists and dental treatment. So, we sat down with some teeth implants specialists in Arizona and spoke to them about the dental myths they most want to see busted. What they had to say is presented to you in this four-part article series.

Dental Myth # 1: If you’ve got toothache, put an aspirin next to it to kill the pain.

The Facts: “Aspirin’s pharmaceutical action is to cease the production of prostaglandins, which function as pain transmitters,” explain denture specialists in Arizona. “In other words, they let your brain know which part of your body is hurting and how badly. However, the aspirin itself must first be absorbed into the bloodstream and the best and most effective way to achieve this is by ingesting it orally.”

Placing aspirin next to your tooth is not going to render it less painful. In fact, you could do serious damage. Aspirin is quite acidic and this could cause the adjacent soft tissues to become irritated and inflamed. Worse still, it could cause corrosion of your dental enamel, which could end up in further sensitivity, pain and the formation of cavities.

The Solution: “If you’ve got a persistent toothache, there is an underlying problem that needs to be treated,” explain teeth implants specialists in Arizona. “Since the tooth is a closed structure (encased by hard enamel) the chances of it healing on its own are very slim, so you should book an appointment with your dentist right away. Swallowing pain medication will only treat the symptoms. If you ignore tooth pain, you could end up losing the tooth.”

Dental Myth # 2: You shouldn’t brush your teeth if your gums bleed. You certainly shouldn’t floss!

The Facts: It’s understandable that you wouldn’t want to stress your gums by brushing or flossing them if they have been bleeding, but unlike torn skin, which one would put a Band-Aid over and leave to heal; the complete opposite is true of your gums. In order to understand this, you have to appreciate why gums bleed in the first place.

“Gums tear easily and bleed when they’ve become weakened by infection,” explain denture specialists in Arizona. “If you don’t brush and floss frequently and/or thoroughly enough, bacteria and food debris build up between your teeth and just below the gum line. This irritates the gums, causing them to become inflamed and infected, resulting in a condition we refer to as gingivitis. The compromised tissue tears and bleeds more easily.”

This explains why not brushing and flossing makes your problem so much worse!

The Solution: If your gums are bleeding when you brush them, you may very well have a bacterial infection. You will need to increase the frequency and duration for which you brush on a daily basis, as well as start flossing in the evening. You may also want to incorporate an anti-bacterial mouthwash into your daily hygiene routine. If it’s been more than a year since you’ve been to the dentist and oral hygienist, get booking!

Stay Tuned...

To read more dental myths and misconceptions join us next week for the second installment of this four-part article series, courtesy of teeth implants specialists in Arizona.

An In-Depth Look at the Leading Cause of Tooth Loss: A Sun City Dentist Explains

This article provides an in-depth look at periodontal disease. This post explains the definition, causes, symptoms and courses of treatment for dealing with gum disease.

The statistics about general oral hygiene in America are pretty grim and the consequences thereof, even more so. In a study done amongst dental patients in the United States, nearly 60% reported that they only occasionally brush their teeth while only 16% brushed at least twice a day. The cause of tooth loss can come down to a variety of factors; however, entertaining a poor oral hygiene routine will certainly get you there quicker. The leading cause of tooth loss is periodontitis, according to a Sun City dentist, which is an acute and long term infection of the gums that gradually deteriorates the health of the bone supporting the teeth.

Periodontal Disease: A Sun City Dentist Explains

Periodontitis or gum disease is a widespread infection in the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth, which leads to tooth loss. This condition can progress to the point of teeth falling out on their own, or deemed beyond repair and must be extracted. Leaving this condition untreated can actually encourage and exacerbate the development of a host of other potentially fatal ailments, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and Rheumatoid arthritis.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

First of all, there are diverse types of periodontitis. The most common class is chronic periodontitis, which affects most adults over the age of 35. However, periodontitis that sets in during childhood or early adulthood is known as aggressive periodontitis. Anyone can get periodontal disease. Even if you brush your teeth every day, failing to floss, rinse and go for regular check-ups can put you at risk of developing this nasty oral affliction. Over the years, disease-causing tartar can accumulate on your teeth and only professional care can prevent the situation from worsening.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms? A Sun City Dentist Explains

There are many signs that can alert you to the presence of periodontal (gum) disease; however it is always recommended that you seek the professional advice of a qualified dentist. The following are signs that may signify periodontal disease include:

• Swollen and sore gums
• Gums that bleed when brushed or tear easily when eating
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Gums that pull away from your teeth
• Chronic bad breath
• Tooth discoloration
• Bad taste in your mouth
• Loose teeth
• Oral sores that don’t heal easily
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

What Can Be Done To Save My Teeth? A Sun City Dentist Explains

If diagnosed in its early stages, your dentist should be able to control the infection, but this will depend entirely on the extent of your gum disease. Your dentist will most likely take an X-ray to determine whether you present with any bone loss, you may also be referred to a periodontist, a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

Any treatment will also require the patient to maintain a good oral routine at home and change negative behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol use in order to improve the chances of complete recovery. In the case that you need to have one or more of your teeth extracted due to the damage already done, you should consider having dental implants. Dental implants promote a healthy jaw bone function and look and feel just like natural teeth.

A Final Word

As tedious as it may feel, you will truly benefit from a healthy and well-rounded oral hygiene routine at home. Furthermore, it is highly recommended that you visit your local, friendly Sun City dentist twice a year to ensure that everything is in good and healthy working order. None of these tasks are remotely as tedious as having to deal with what could be preventable oral ailments. Do the right thing!

Sun City Dental News: A Comprehensive Look at Dental Implants, PART 3

In this three-part article series, we will be explaining everything you need to know about dental implants. We will clarify what they are, how they work, when and why they are necessary. Furthermore we will compare the advantages and benefits that come with dental implants vs. traditional dentures or bridges.

Welcome back to the final post of this three part article series about dental implants. Thus far we have covered a variety of questions related to dental implants, such as: What are dental implants? How do they work? What does the procedure involve? And what are their benefits and advantages? In this post, Sun City dental experts will answer some final questions you may have about dental implants and explain why they really are the best solution available for the replacement of missing teeth. One of the most obvious concerns when preparing for any kind of surgery would be whether or not it is painful. So...

Is Getting Dental Implants Painful?

The wonderful and incredibly advanced technology that is used in modern dentistry today ensures that your surgeries are designed to be as pain, discomfort and risk free as possible. By using 3-D Cone Beam CT scans and sophisticated computer software capable of creating virtual images of the mouth, Sun city dentists are able to design the best possible surgical plan, meaning fewer incisions and sutures and minimal post-operative pain and discomfort.

In addition to a carefully planned surgery, you will be placed under either local or general anesthesia (depending upon the nature of your procedure), so you won’t experience any discomfort at all. If you are particularly anxious about your procedure, you may opt for sedation.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

Pretty much! The wonderful thing about modern dental implant procedures is that nearly everyone is a candidate. Whether you are in your late nineties or still in your teens, if you have lost a tooth, dental implants can work for you!

Who Can Do Dental Implants and Where Should I Go?

Dental implants are becoming more and more popular at dental practices around the United States, with many general dentists offering this service. Having said that, a Sun City dentist advises that it is always in your best interest to have such a procedure done by someone with a lot of experience and with advanced qualifications, such as in the administering of sedation.

How Do I Maintain and Care For My New Teeth?

One of the benefits of dental implants when compared with conventional dental bridges or removable dentures is that they do not require fancy materials and expensive tools to be cleaned. Your new teeth will require exactly what your natural teeth did. A good oral hygiene routine, meaning regular brushing, flossing and rinsing, as well as a few visits to your dentists will ensure that your new teeth are well kept.

A Final Word...

Dental implants are an incredibly smart investment to make when replacing missing teeth. They can help improve your quality of life, restore your confidence and enable you to eat all the foods you love.  When it comes to an asset as important as your smile, don’t settle for options that will keep you from enjoying your fullest life. Dental implants are made to be virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth - in look, feel and function - and this allows you the freedom to live your life!