PLAQUE
When plaque is not removed with proper brushing and flossing it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque, also known as microbial biofilm, is a sticky film that can form on every surface of your teeth even underneath your gumline. Consuming foods/drinks with carbohydrates can cause plaque to develop, particularly those with sugar. When natural bacteria in your mouth mix with carbohydrates it forms plaque.
Plaque is acidic which causes it to eat away at your tooth enamel. Over time it will destroy your teeth’s healthy structure and cause cavities. Regular dental cleanings are important to avoid the damages caused by plaque. Don’t let plaque build up because it can lead to serious damage like gum disease. Make sure to get your teeth cleaned every 6 months by scheduling a dental exam and cleaning to remove plaque.
BRUXISM (TEETH GRINDING)
Did you know that if you grind your teeth at night, you are far from alone? Roughly 8% of Americans suffer from nighttime teeth grinding also known as bruxism. You could be one of millions of adults who have this sleep condition and not even realize it. You may unknowingly be living with side effects such as jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity. Teeth grinding is a harmful behavior so learn about it here and how you can prevent it.
Nighttime teeth grinding is hard to recognize because you’re unaware that you’re grinding your teeth while you sleep. Because grinding and clenching puts extreme pressure on your teeth, muscles, tissue, and other areas around the jaw, you can experience symptoms way after you wake up.
Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain/stiffness
- Sensitive or cracked teeth
- Soreness in your gumline
- Clicking in the jaw joint
- Earaches
- Consistent headaches
- Flat or blunt teeth surfaces
If you are experiencing frequent jaw pain or discomfort, mild headaches, or tiredness throughout the day, please make sure to have your dentist check your teeth. Teeth grinding can cause extreme pain and wear on your teeth if it goes untreated. Your dentist will examine the teeth and help you determine the severity of your grinding. They will also try to find what might be causing your bruxism. From wearing a mouth guard to help with grinding to treating other health issues or realigning your bite, your dentist will get you the relief you need.
CROOKED TEETH
Misaligned teeth make it harder to brush and floss properly. Food particles tend to get stuck between crowded teeth or large spaces making it easy for bacteria to flourish. The bacteria in your mouth can cause chronic bad breath. By straightening your teeth, you can eliminate these nooks and crannies where bacteria breed.
GUM DISEASE
There are many factors that allow bacteria to flourish in your mouth; poor brushing habits, smoking and consuming too much sugar. The bacteria, acid, and sugar will eventually lead to plaque and tartar that can’t be brushed away. Early side effects such as tender gums can soon lead to both stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms it’s time to consult your dentist about how to treat gum disease:
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Pain while chewing
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Loose or separating teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Lost teeth
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that pull away from the teeth (receding gumline)
- Cavities or infections
Your oral health has major effects on your overall health. The damage caused by gum disease can spread throughout your body compromising your health. Research studies have shown gum disease to be linked to heart attacks and strokes. Those who suffer from gum disease are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease.
STOP DENTAL DISEASE IN ITS TRACKS.
Don’t let the threats to your oral health go any longer. Call your dentist today! Maintaining regular dental appointments every six months and following through with any dental treatments your dentist recommends can help you return your smile to a state of health and balance. Give yourself the gift of better oral health. Cyprus Family Dental in Magna, UT. We can schedule an appointment for you or answer any questions you may have about our dental services. Call us today at 801-250-0203 or contact us here.