dentistry

Oral Health Issues in Children

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Most of us think that baby teeth are not as important as the adult teeth because baby teeth will be eventually replaced by the adult teeth, but it is still very important to care and monitor the oral health in children also. It is something very important to their general well being. A number of issues can affect the oral health of children and if not taken care at the right time may lead to serious oral health problems.

The most common oral health issues in children:

Tooth Decay: Also known as childhood tooth decay is the number one and most common dental issues. Tooth decay can cause pain, infection and even affect your child’s growth. Fortunately, it is a preventable disease. Limiting the consumption of certain foods that can leave sugars on the surface of the teeth such as candy, soft drinks and cookies or brushing the child’s teeth after consumption can prevent tooth decay.

Thumb Sucking: Many children suck their thumbs as a habit. In most cases this isn’t cause for concern, as children usually stop sucking their thumbs naturally once they grow up but if children continue this habit after their first teeth begin to appear, this can affect the alignment of the teeth and jaw.

Nursing bottle caries: This is a form of tooth decay that occurs in very young children. This mostly affects the group of teeth mostly front teeth. This develops due to prolonged exposure to milk or sugary liquids in babies or toddlers especially at bedtime. Make sure that after feeding babies you rinse their mouth at least with water.

Over-retained primary (baby) teeth: If a child’s permanent tooth begins erupting in the same space as their primary tooth that has not fallen out yet, it is important to address this issue as soon as possible.

Grinding (Bruxism): The grinding of teeth is a common developmental condition occurring in childhood that is often involuntary. Most children tend to stop grinding their teeth as they age, but if they don’t, they can cause wear on their teeth or even crack them.

Teaching your child proper oral care at a young age is very important that will pay lifelong. You can start by setting an example by taking good care of your own teeth sends a message that oral health is something to be valued. And anything that makes taking care of teeth fun, like brushing along with your child or letting them choose their own toothbrush, encourages proper oral care. To help your children protect their teeth and gums and greatly reduce their risk of getting cavities, teach them to follow these simple steps:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque-the sticky film on teeth that’s the main cause of tooth decay.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet that limits starchy or sugary foods, which produce plaque acids that cause tooth decay. When you do eat these foods, try to eat them with your meal instead of as a snack-the extra saliva produced during a meal helps rinse food from the mouth.
  • Fruit juice and fruit drinks are not recommended for infants under 12 months.
  • Give fresh fruit instead of fruit juice. Chewing stimulates saliva which protects teeth against decay.
  • Water and milk are the best drinks.
  • Limit sugary drinks including: soft drinks, fruit juice, sports drinks, vitamin waters, fruit drinks and energy drinks between meals.
  • Make sure that your children’s drinking water is fluoridated.
  • Take your child to the dentist every six months for regular checkup

Make sure you keep a check on your child’s oral health. As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. If you notice any above mentioned issues visit your dentist for a check and take his opinion on the issue and get it treated.

Are you using the right Toothpaste?

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

We are lucky that in today’s world due to advancement in science, research and technology we get the best. We get options to choose best product according to our needs. When it comes to treatment again we get options most of the times. Today we are going to discuss about toothpastes, something very common and used every day by most of us. The number of toothpaste options is available on the market these days, its huge and it can be confusing making a decision about the best one to buy. There are toothpastes that strengthen gums, whiten teeth, control tartar and contain fluoride etc. Which one is best for you and which one should you purchase? This discussion about the various toothpastes on the market should help you choose the right one for you.

Anti Plaque toothpaste: These toothpastes control plaque accumulation on teeth, which reduces the toxic effects of the bacterial toxin on the tooth surrounding tissues, thereby reduces the chances of getting gum disease. Plaque if not cleaned properly hardens into tartar over time. Tartar/Plaque control toothpastes contain ingredients such as pyrophosphates and zinc citrate as well as an antibiotic and antifungal agent called triclosan, which helps to kill bacteria

Fluoridated toothpaste: Fluoride is the most important ingredient to look for when selecting toothpaste. It is a natural mineral that has contributed to a rapid decrease in tooth decay. Fluoride reduces the decay of tooth enamel by the formation of fluorapatite and its incorporation into the dental enamel. The fluoride ions reduce the rate of tooth enamel demineralization and increase the rate of remineralization of teeth at the early stages of cavities. There are many developed countries where the public water supply contains right amount of fluorides in it. When buying water for drinking we should always select the one which contains fluoride in it. Using a toothpaste containing fluoride will help you maintain healthy teeth.

Desensitizing toothpastes: For sensitive teeth, to either hot or cold food items. It helps in reducing the sensitivity on regular use. These toothpastes contain potassium nitrate, strontium chloride, sodium fluoride and other contents which help to block the nerve pathway, hence reducing the sensitivity. But make sure you visit your dentist if the sensitivity worsens.

Whitening toothpaste: There are a number of whitening toothpastes now on the market for people who are concerned about improving the whiteness of their teeth. Whitening toothpaste contains abrasive particles and chemicals that act to polish teeth and help remove stains. This is one of the reasons that it shouldn’t be use over used. If you are concern about whitening your teeth visit your dentist and get the best and safe advices for teeth whitening.

Natural toothpaste: For those who are uncomfortable with brushing with chemicals, natural toothpastes are an option. These toothpastes are made from herbal extracts and other natural ingredients, such as essential aloe-vera, oil of ginger, seaweed extract etc. The health claims of these toothpaste have not been clinically proven. Thus, it is important to check if these toothpastes contain fluoride, a proven active ingredient for the prevention of tooth decay already discussed above. Some people allergic to regular toothpaste may use natural toothpastes id recommended by dentist.

Kids’ toothpaste: Kids toothpastes are available in various stores according to the age groups. It’s a good idea to use it as recommended by the makers. It comes in different age groups according to the need of fluoride in particular age group. The fluoride content in toothpaste for younger kids will be less as compared to teenagers and adults.

Smokers Toothpaste: People who smoke often suffer stained teeth because of tar deposits. Some smokers toothpastes use stronger abrasives to remove these stains. Vigorous brushing with more abrasive pastes may damage the enamel over time. So instead of using hard bristled toothbrush and brushing hard visit your dentist for opinion and try to cut down smoking.

Fluoride is the most important ingredient to look for in toothpaste. Always avoid using whitening toothpaste if you have sensitive teeth. Make sure that the toothpaste you are buying is approved by some dental association. The toothpaste should not contain natural sweetening agent, it should contain artificial sweetening agents like sorbitol etc. Consult your dentist for their recommendations for any specific dental concerns you have.

Dental Emergency- What to do…

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

Accidents do happen and when it happen it’s important to act quickly. Head and neck region is one of the most sensitive and also the most affected area. It’s important to know what to do in a dental emergency because knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. No matter what kind of emergency it is, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible after the incident has occurred. Here are some do’s and don’ts; which you should do in the most common dental emergencies:

Chipped or cracked tooth: If you crack a tooth, immediately rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If you chip a tooth, try and save any broken pieces. There is a strong possibility that swelling will occur, so cold compression in the affected area can be used to minimize this. Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible so that all the risks can be ruled out and proper steps can be taken in order to save the tooth.

Knocked out tooth: It is important to keep the tooth that has been knocked out moist at all times to keep it healthy. If you can, place it back in the tooth’s socket or inside your mouth between your check and gums. This is the best environment for the tooth to be in. If you are unable to do this, place it in a jar of milk and get to your dentist as soon as possible. There is the highest possibility of your tooth being able to be saved if you see your dentist within one hour of the incident occurring.

Jaw Fracture: If you suspect that your jaw might be broken, immediately apply a cold compress to reduce inflammation. Immediately go to your dentist or the emergency department at the hospital to get an x-ray.
Dislodged Tooth: Try to relieve pain by applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or by taking an over-the-counter pain medication. See your dentist as soon as possible.

Soft tissue injuries: These are injuries to the soft tissue inside your mouth such as your tongue, cheeks, lips and gums, which cause bleeding. Your first priority is to control the bleeding by rinsing out your mouth with water, applying pressure to the affected area with a moistened piece of gauze and reducing swelling by applying a cold compress. If the bleeding does not stop, go directly to your dentist or doctor and continue to apply pressure on the area until you can be treated.

For toothaches: Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Clove oil dampen cotton pellet on the affected area also helps. If pain persists take some analgesic and see your dentist.

Investigations like x-rays may be taken to evaluate the extent of damage; also it helps in treatment planning. Few precautions can be taken like using sports guard while playing outdoor games, avoid consuming too hot or too cold food items and not using teeth to cut things or open bottles to be on safer side. Always remember, when you have a dental emergency, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible.

How to use- MOUTHWASH

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

When we talk about good oral hygiene, three things come on our mind brushing, flossing and using mouthwash. These are often told by the dentists as well. Today we are going to talk about mouthwash. Mouthwash is a part of a good daily oral hygiene practice. Mouthwashes are beneficial, in removing food particles left in between and on the teeth even after brushing and flossing. Since, it’s a liquid; it can be reach where a tooth brush and floss cannot.

While mouthwash is not a substitute for proper brushing, it can help with a number of oral health issues like cavity protection, bad breath management and in therauptic uses. There are various types of mouthwash available. Broadly, mouthwashes containing fluoride can help in preventing the formation of tooth decay. Alternatively, antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce the bacteria that cause gum disease and decay. Other mouthwashes may help reduce teeth sensitivity.

There are few myths regarding the use and effects of mouthwash. Let’s discuss it.

Firstly it’s a very common one, mouthwashes cures bad breath. Yes, mouthwash may temporarily cure stinky breath, but it’s not a permanent solution. There can be multiple reasons for bad breath like the food you consume, or if you have any respiratory infection or some systemic disease like diabetes etc or you have lot of plaque and tartar build up all over your mouth. So, freshening your mouth with mouthwash won’t help for long. Better see your dentist to know the exact cause of bad breath and then target the real problem.

Secondly, all mouthwashes are the same. Not really, as discussed before, there are different mouthwashes for different needs. In general, mouthwash can be classified as, regular or therapeutic uses. Rinsing with a regular mouthwash will loosen bits of food from your teeth, lessen bacteria in your mouth, temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a refreshing taste in your mouth. On the other hand, therapeutic rinses contain additional active ingredients such as essential oils, chlorhexidine, fluoride, betadine etc which has been proven to reduce plaque, fight cavities, reduce teeth sensitivity or help in gingival healing by keeping the bacterial count minimum.

You must have heard people saying, anyone can use the mouthwash and mouthwash is harmless. Well that’s not true. Many mouthwashes contain a high amount of alcohol. This can cause dry mouth, which is a cause of bad breath, and irritate oral tissues. In some people, the alcohol can cause sensitivity to the root surfaces of the teeth. There have also been studies suggesting a link between alcohol-containing mouthwash and oral cancer on long term use. Also, Long-term use of alcohol containing mouthwashes can kill ‘good’ bacteria and should never be given to children. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are also available. But other ingredients can cause side effects, too. Many can stain your teeth or cause a burning sensation, and therefore it isn’t recommended for long-term use. Mouthwash is not meant to be ingested, so it may cause problems if accidentally swallowed. It’s not usually recommended for young children before the age of six. This is because most children would swallow the mouthwash instead of spitting it out. Most mouthwashes contain fluoride and few contain alcohol both of these are not advisable to swallow even in trace amounts. Yet there are few mouthwashes available that are specifically made for children because they contain no alcohol and are fluoridated in right amounts. This results in protection against cavities with safety.

Mouthwash cannot replace brushing and flossing. Yes, it cuts back the level of bacteria in your mouth. But not for the whole day if brushing and flossing is not done. Plaque must be removed by a physical action and that’s exactly the role of flossing and brushing. Regular flossing and brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush will do a much more effective job of removing plaque and debris than mouthwash alone. Research shows that adding a rinse with mouthwash to your oral care routine can in fact improve the overall cleanliness of your mouth and help keep gum inflammation at bay. But mouthwash is usually considered an add-on, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.

The best way to use mouthwash is to gargle or rinse just for a few quick seconds and then spit. Most mouthwashes are at their most effective when in contact with your mouth tissues for 30 seconds per use. Keeping the mouthwash for too long in mouth can cause loss of taste sensation for few days and may irritate the gums and soft tissues all over. If you are using the mouthwash on regular basis you may dilute the mouthwash with water in 1:1 ratio if recommended or needed.

Ask your dentist for advice about the best mouthwash for you. Read and follow the instructions on the label, looking for how much to use and for how long to rinse with the mouthwash. Always remember mouthwash isn’t a short-cut.

Tooth Sensitivity- Causes and remedies

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Dr. Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR

If drinking a glass of cold water, eating ice cream or drinking hot coffee gives you a painful shock like unpleasant sensation or experience, then for sure its sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common issue troubling mostly youngsters and adults. In certain cases the teeth sensitivity is also aggravated by consuming sweet, acidic food items or even with air on few occasions.

A healthy teeth, is made up of three different layers-
Enamel: The outer most layers, very hard and highly mineralized layer protect the crown portion of the teeth. No nerve innervations present in this layer.
Dentine: It’s the second layer beneath enamel and is less dense than enamel and contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals).
Pulp: The innermost layer mainly comprised of blood vessels and nerve innervations.

Reason for sensitivity: When outer protective layer of enamel is lost these tubules allow hot, cold, acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves or pulp inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed due to gum recession. This results in hypersensitivity.
The good news is that if precaution, care and dentist consult is taken at the right time it can help you get away with tooth sensitivity. Here is a list of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity with tips on what you can do to minimize the pain.

Decayed tooth or Cavities: The virulent bacteria those are present in tooth decay produce acid, which accelerates the enamel breakdown resulting in cavity formation. Once the cavity starts getting deeper and deeper and reached close to the pulp (nerves), tooth sensitivity or pain may be experienced. It is very important that you see your dentist if you suspect you have decay in your teeth. You will be advised for tooth fillings, tooth crown or root canal treatment.

Gum disease: Using a very hard bristled brush, applying extra force during brushing and smoking may cause recession of gums, which is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity. There are dental procedures that can treat gum disease, the already receded gums as well as changes in oral health habits such as careful brushing and quitting the habit of smoking can help.

Teeth grinding: People suffering from Bruxism (the grinding, of the teeth most commonly during sleep or awake) can experience a wearing down of the enamel on their teeth. This results in exposing the dentin layer, which leads to the tooth sensitivity. Using a mouth guard might help.

Citrus/Acidic foods: Consuming to much of citrus and acidic food items causes erosion of the enamel layer leading to teeth sensitivity. Try to avoid foods such as citrus fruits, pickles and tomato sauce and other acidic food items. Use of desensitizing toothpaste might help.

Plaque: a sticky deposit on teeth in which bacteria proliferate. Excessive plaque accumulation on the tooth surface may lead to tooth decay and once this occurs, your teeth may become sensitive. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits and visiting your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and check up will help in keeping a healthy oral hygiene.

Cracked/Fractured tooth: Trauma may result in the fracture or crack of the tooth, once the fracture line gets deeper involving the dentine and pulp, you may experience sensitivity or pain. It is important to consult with your dentist to discuss treatment options which will depend on the extent of damage, treatment like tooth fillings, tooth crowning or root canal treatment if the nerves are involved may be advised.

Applying force while brushing: Brushing with too much force/pressure can wear away the enamel layer, exposing the soft dentin underneath leading to sensitivity. You should try to brush more gently or with a soft bristled toothbrush. If the dentin layer is already exposed, consult your dentist for treatment options.
Excessive use of Whitening toothpaste: Some of us think that using the whitening toothpaste will whiten the teeth, that’s true it does whiten but the chemicals present in it also causes chemical erosion leading to wearing away of the enamel layer and resulting in teeth sensitivity. You may switch to fluoride or desensitizing toothpaste instead. If the discomfort persists then consult your dentist.

Mouthwashes: Few mouthwashes contain alcohol or other chemicals that can aggravate sensitive teeth. Make sure that you opt for a non-alcoholic standard mouthwash.

Recent dental procedure: it is normal to experience increased tooth sensitivity after a dental procedure like tooth fillings, cleaning etc. This is nothing to be concerned about unless the sensitivity does not disappear on its own. But if it doesn’t then consult your dentist.

Soft DRINKS and their effect on ORAL HEALTH

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Commonly it is called “soda” or “soft drink”, different words are used to identify a carbonated/aerated, sugary cold drink or soft drink which is available in various flavors and different brand names. The advert says drinking it is fun, happiness, fact of life, winning mantra, living mantra, the way you should be etc, etc and what not. But these carbonated/aerated soft drinks can lead to not only oral but also general health issues.

Soft drinks and packed juices are very common and easily available dietary source today, which is consumed by most of us anytime in a day or many times in a day, once consumed acids & acidic sugar products and by-products in it softens the enamel (outer most layer of the tooth) which is also supposed to be hardest and most highly mineralized substance in human body contributing to the formation of cavities on the tooth surface and also erosion of the enamel layer leading to tooth sensitivity. In certain cases, this affected enamel caused by soft drinks when combines with inefficient and improper brushing and poor oral hygiene may lead to the gum disease and tooth loss. Because of the high sugar, sodium and caffeine content in soda, it dehydrates the body and over a long period of time can cause chronic dehydration. However, the sugar-free drinks are also not very safe as the acidic potential can still cause problems like dehydration and enamel loss, but they are less harmful in comparison. It appears that increased soft drink consumption is a major factor that contributes to obesity, kidney damage, osteoporosis, elevated blood pressure (on regular use). Soft drinks also have long been suspected of leading to lower calcium levels and higher phosphate levels in the blood. When phosphate levels are high and calcium levels are low, calcium is pulled out of the bones, which causes weakening of the bones.

Soft drink consumption has increased dramatically across the world, especially among children and teenagers. Everyone in spite of their age and gender can be benefitted from reducing the number of soft drinks they consume. Beverages containing less sugar and acid such as water, milk and 100 percent pure fruit juice, fresh juice is even better. Drink them yourself and encourage everyone including kids to do the same. Never drink soft drinks empty stomach as they may harm the gastric mucosa (inner layer of the stomach). Ask your dentist about fluoride application in the form of a foam, gel or rinse, which can be done for all age groups. Make sure that after consuming a soft drink, you flush your mouth with water to remove acids and save tooth from getting exposed to acids for too long. Since, fluoride reduces cavities and strengthens tooth enamel, so brush with fluoride-containing toothpaste. Also rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash also can help. Your dentist can recommend a higher fluoride containing toothpaste depending on the severity of the problem.

Are your gums bleeding?

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Most of us once in a while or often must have noticed spitting a bit of blood in the sink after brushing and flossing, it may not seem like a big deal, and in fact you may not even notice it anymore. But the truth is that bleeding gums are never something to ignore. More often than not, bleeding gums are an early sign of gum disease which should be addressed immediately. The common reasons for bleeding gums:

Inefficient oral hygiene practices
The most common reason for red, swollen, puffy, or bleeding gums is inefficient and inadequate oral hygiene. This means that the basic routine of brushing and flossing twice daily is not being done. It takes very little time for plaque and tartar to build up on teeth and along the gum line, in fact almost immediately after brushing it begins to rebuild. This buildup of plaque is what irritates gums and may cause irreversible damage in the gums and bones if left untreated for long.
Remedy: Be sure to follow your cleaning routine so that your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues are properly brushed in the morning and in the evening, being sure to also floss at least once every day. You may find it more effective to brush with an electric toothbrush which can be beneficial for gums as the rotating head massages gums and promotes blood flow to the tissues, which helps to fight off infection. Additionally, try using an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing to give cleaning routine a boost.

Your regular diet
Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and foods high in vitamin C are essential building blocks of a diet that keeps your mouth happy. Foods that are high in sugar, starch, and acid on the other hand are not good for your oral and general health. Sugars from sweet food items stick to teeth and along the gum line, if not removed soon after consumption, start to damage teeth and gum tissues. If you indulge in these types of foods throughout the day and don’t brush your teeth between meals, you are essentially adding more destructive bacteria to your mouth with each bite.
Remedy: Vegetables and fruits are great for your oral health as they scrape against teeth and dislodge destructive food and bacteria while being very low in sugar. Dairy products such as cheese contribute to healthy teeth and gums as well and, for swollen gums, foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as fish oil are great to add to your diet. Substituting a meal with a big salad filled with healthy proteins and vegetables can do wonders for your oral and overall health.

During Pregnancy
Most women experience gingivitis during pregnancy, which can lead to gum disease. Hormones released during pregnancy make mothers-to-be much more vulnerable to gum disease even if they brush and floss twice each day as the gum tissues are in general more irritable and less able to fight off infection.
REMEDY: Visiting your dentist as soon as you know that you are pregnant is essential so that you can get professional advice and set up regular appointments for cleanings and checkups throughout your pregnancy. Brushing and flossing at least twice every day is the most important thing to do to keep your oral hygiene in check. You may want to use a non-alcoholic antibacterial mouthwash after each time you brush and floss your teeth to ensure each corner of your mouth has been cleaned.

Hereditary Gum disease
For those who know that gum disease runs in their family, they must be even more cautious in their oral hygiene. Knowing your family oral history may help to manage your own oral health.
Remedy: If gum disease does run in your family, tell your dentist. They can offer expert council about how best to care for your teeth daily to prevent issues from showing up. Brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash daily is essential in fighting against the bacteria that irritates gum tissues and cause destruction.

If you’re a smoker
The toxins found in cigarettes are extremely destructive and weaken the gum tissues which can cause discoloration, swelling, and bleeding in gums. In addition, once gums are exposed to such harmful toxins, bacteria found in the mouth are more able to enter the gums and into the bloodstream. This can cause further irritation, bleeding, swelling, and infection.
Remedy: Quitting smoking is the only way to completely rid you of cigarette toxins and allow your gum tissues to rebuild and become healthy again. In addition to this, brushing and flossing twice daily is important to keep harmful bacteria from attacking weakened gum tissues. Speak to both your health care and dental professionals about smoking cessation programs that can help you kick cigarettes for good and for your overall health.

Conclusion
Finally, regular professional cleanings from your dental professional are essential even if your oral hygiene techniques are good. Professional cleanings offer a deep clean and can eradicate plaque and difficult tartar that you may not be able to reach or were unaware was there. It’s important to keep in mind that gum disease is not the end of your oral health. Most of the time it can be reversed if treated at the right time and, with proper oral hygiene and dental professional care it can be eradicated. Call your dentist today to set up an appointment to discuss your oral health concerns and to have a check up.

Dental Health for Women

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Everyone needs to look after their oral health, but for women, specific periods in their life can affect their oral health significantly. Changes in female hormone levels during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause exaggerate the way gums react to plaque. Since, gum disease is usually painless, many women may not even realize they have it until it reaches an advanced state. As, gum disease is a bacterial infection, it can enter the bloodstream and may be a factor in causing other health complications like:

  • Heart disease: People with gum disease may be more at risk for heart disease and have nearly twice the risk of having a fatal heart attack.
  • Stroke: Few studies found a casual relationship of oral infections as a risk factor for stroke.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease and may make it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar. Gum disease may also be a risk factor for diabetes, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
  • Respiratory problems: Bacteria that grow in the oral cavity can travel to the lungs causing respiratory disease such as pneumonia – especially in people with gum disease.
  • Pregnancy outcomes: Pregnant women who have gum disease may be more likely to have a baby born too early or too small. Gum disease may also trigger increased levels of biological fluids that induce labor.

Women can expect their dental health to change during these specific periods of their life in the following ways:

  • Puberty: The increase in estrogen and progesterone causes blood vessels to dilate which can affect gums and can cause bleeding, swelling and redness. The changes in hormones affect the bacteria in the mouth at this time, meaning that cavities and bad breath can develop. Ulcers are also more common in teenagers than children.
  • Menstruation: In the lead up to their period, some women experience swollen or sensitive gums that are prone to bleeding, while others can experience mouth ulcers or cold sores. Once menstruation begins, these symptoms commonly disappear.
  • Oral contraceptive: Taking an oral contraceptive is common for many women. The synthetic hormones in these tablets can cause gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, which results from an excessive build up of plaque.
  • Pregnancy: The significant changes in hormones during pregnancy make oral health care a priority for women during this time. Gingivitis is, again, common in pregnant women, but also ‘pregnancy tumours’, which are non-cancerous, benign growths that develop when swollen gums become irritated. Normally, these tumors will naturally shrink and disappear after the baby’s birth, although if they interfere with brushing or are uncomfortable, the dentist may decide to remove them.
  • Lactation: There are many benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and baby, but the period of lactation can also negatively impact a woman’s oral health. Adapting to life with a new baby can often mean that women skip brushing and flossing their teeth, resulting in an increased likelihood of cavities and gum disease developing. The increase in stress and tiredness can also cause Bruxism to develop, which is the grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. This can result in headaches, neck and jaw pain, or teeth cracking.
  • Menopause: There are many possible changes that can occur in a woman’s mouth during menopause. These include burning mouth syndrome, dry mouth, gingivitis and mucosal changes which can result in changes in the appearance of gums and can cause them to bleed easily.

It is very important to ensure that women maintain their good daily dental hygiene so that the teeth and gums are at their best to deal with these hormonal fluctuations. To reduce this plaque build-up on teeth following care should be taken:-

  • Brush two to three times daily and floss once a day
  • Choose health food and not high-sugar foods
  • Avoid snacking
  • Drink mainly water and milk. Avoid adding sugar to drinks
  • Chew sugar free gum after starchy and high sugar foods to help stimulate saliva
  • Have regular check-ups at your dentist, to check your teeth and gums to detect any early problems and remove plaque and calculus build-ups to keep your mouth healthy.

Tooth-Friendly Diet

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Regular brushing and flossing remain your best protection against tooth decay and gum problems. But a tooth-friendly diet can also help keep your smile bright and your gums healthy.
A balanced diet, tooth that provides adequate nutrition can help promote healthy teeth. Many nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium and others, are essential to oral health.
Along with eating a healthy diet, it’s smart to limit snacking. The flow of saliva cleanses the mouth and teeth, removing cavity-promoting foods. But if you snack all the time, you expose your teeth again and again to foods that can erode enamel. The best advice to prevent cavities is to limit your eating to three meals a day. If you snack, reach for a food that’s less likely to cause tooth decay. What are your best choices? Here are the foods to choose — and foods to avoid — in order keeping your teeth healthy and your smile bright.

Foods to Avoid for Healthy, Sparkling Teeth
Sugary drinks: When bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars, they produce acids. These acids can erode tooth enamel, creating pits where cavities can form. Sugary drinks, including soft drinks and fruit drinks, consist almost entirely of simple sugars. Some studies have singled out sports drinks as the worst offenders for eroding enamel.

Candy and highly-sweetened snacks: Most candies are loaded with sugar, which increases acid levels from bacteria in the mouth. Sticky and gummy candies pose the biggest threat, since they adhere to teeth, making it hard for saliva to wash them away.

Some starchy foods: Starches also raise acid levels from bacteria in the mouth, eroding tooth enamel. Starchy foods include breads, pastas, rice, and potatoes. The more refined or cooked a starch, the more likely it is to raise acid levels in the mouth. Raw starches in the form of vegetables tend not to endanger tooth enamel.

Sugary breakfast cereals: Foods that contain a mixture of sugar and starch should be avoided. Snacks such as ready-to-eat breakfast cereal, pastries, and many processed foods may be bad for teeth. The combination of starch and sugar is more likely to get stuck in plaque between teeth.

Coffee, tea, and red wine: Sweetened tea or coffee raises acid levels, weakening enamel. And because they are often sipped slowly, acid levels may remain high over a longer period of time, raising the danger. Coffee, tea, and red wine also tend to stain teeth.

Foods to Choose for Healthy, White Teeth
Water: The best thirst quencher is also the smartest choice for your teeth. Water helps wash acid-producing foods from the mouth.

Sugar-free drinks: If you like your water sweetened, choose sugar-free drinks. Because sugar-free drinks wash acid-producing food from the mouth, they may help reduce cavity risk.

Sugar-free chewing gum: Chewing gum increases the flow of saliva, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth, protecting tooth enamel. The flow of saliva also washes food out of the mouth, limiting the amount of time it is in contact with teeth. Sugar-free chewing gum is also a good choice when you crave something sweet.

Citrus fruit: Although it is acidic, citrus fruit increases saliva flow. In fact, research shows that oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruit tend to protect tooth enamel, as it contains a lot of water; it also helps wash away acid-producing bacteria. But always remember excess of anything is bad.

Cheese and milk: Cheese and milk protect tooth enamel and ward off cavities in several ways. First, they encourage saliva production, which neutralizes acids in the mouth. The protein, calcium and phosphorous in cheese and milk also buffer acids, protecting enamel from erosion. Studies suggest that cheese and milk may even help strengthen the protective minerals in teeth surfaces.

Fish and flax: By far the biggest threat to healthy teeth is gum disease. It occurs when bacteria collect in pockets. This causes inflammation that can damage the connective tissue anchoring teeth to bone. Foods that reduce inflammation may protect against gum disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids are the most potent anti-inflammatory nutrients. This form of fat is found in fish, fish oil, and flaxseed. People who consume diets high in omega-3s are more resistant to inflammation and infection, they may be more resistant to gum disease as well.

Cocoa: Good news for chocoholics: Substances found in cocoa appear to dampen inflammation and may help protect against erosion and decay. Even chocolate milk, although it contains some sugar, doesn’t seem to increase the risk of cavities compared to snacks like cookies, chips, and raisins. Dark chocolate is a good choice, since it is lower in sugar than milk chocolate.

Surprisingly, the difference between a healthy smile and frequent visits to the dentist might be your diet. Even if you have a perfect oral hygiene routine, it might be hard to keep your teeth healthy, if you don’t watch what you eat. Discuss this with your dentist during your next routine six monthly check-up.

 

Tooth brushing Mistakes

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Dr.Saket Gaurav
B.D.S.(India), PGD.Ortho, PGDAD(Cosmetic)
International Dental Practitioner
DENTAL MAKEOVER, Delhi NCR.

Tooth brushing is such an ingrained habit, few people think twice about it. But as with any habit, you can get sloppy, and that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

1: Not Using the Right Toothbrush
Consider the size of your mouth when picking a toothbrush. If you are straining to open wide enough to let the brush in, the brush is probably too big. The handle has to be comfortable. It should feel comfortable as you are holding and the toothbrush head should be small so that it reaches the very last tooth as well. The more comfortable it is in your mouth and your hand, then the more likely you will use it and use it properly.

2: Not Brushing Often Enough or Long Enough
Softly brushing your teeth at least twice a day is recommended. ”Three times a day is best.” With too much time between brushings bacterial plaque will build up, boosting the risk of gum inflammation and other problems.
Brushing should last at least two minutes, three minutes is even better. Most people fall short of both time lines. It is often recommended to divide the mouth into quadrants and spend 30 seconds a quadrant. Some electric toothbrushes include built-in timers.

3: Not Picking the Right Bristles
Some toothbrushes have angled bristles, others straight. So is one type better? NO…..”It’s more related to technique than the way the bristles come out. What is important when buying a toothbrush? Bristles that are too stiff can aggravate the gums. It is recommended to use a soft-bristled brush. Bristles should be sturdy enough to remove plaque but not hard enough to damage the teeth when used properly.

4: Not Brushing Correctly
Long horizontal strokes along the gum line can lead to abrasions. Aim your bristles at the gum line at a 45-degree angle and do short strokes or vibrations. Softly brush up and down your teeth, not across your teeth. The strokes should be vertical or circular, not horizontal.
Be sure to brush outer and inner tooth surfaces, the chewing surfaces, and your tongue.

5: Brushing Too Often or Too Hard
While brushing your teeth three times a day is ideal, but brushing twice is must. Excessive brushing could expose the root of the tooth to irritation, and that could in turn irritate the gums. Brushing vigorously can also erode tooth enamel. The trick is to brush very gently for two to three minutes.

6: Skipping Inner Tooth Surfaces
Most people forget to brush the inner surfaces of teeth — the surface that your tongue presses against.
The plaque you can’t see is just as important to remove as the plaque you can see.
The most commonly skipped area, dentists say, is the inner surface of the lower front teeth.

7: Starting in the Same Place Each Time
Many people start brushing the same part of their mouth over and over. Start in a different place so that
You don’t get lazy in the same area of your mouth.

8: Not Following Up With a Rinse
Bacteria can grow on an un-rinsed toothbrush. Then, the next time you brush your teeth, you may actually put old bacteria back in your mouth. Rinsing the toothbrush after you brush will help remove any leftover toothpaste, too.

9: Not Letting the Toothbrush Dry
If you have a toothbrush that’s perpetually moist, it will cultivate more bacteria.
If the bristles stay soggy, you can shape-out them as you use the brush. Or it might be a breeding ground for bacteria. It’s a good idea to shake out the moisture, and then recap it with a cap that allows air in.

10: Not Changing the Toothbrush Often Enough
It is recommended to get a new brush every three months or even sooner if the bristles look frayed. Once the bristles lose their normal flexibility and start to break apart, change your toothbrush. Some brushes have colored indicators that alert you when they need replacing.