With or without a straw: Which is better for your teeth?
During the summer months, staying hydrated is essential, and enjoying a refreshing drink is a great way to do that. However, it’s also essential to consider the impact that these drinks can have on our oral health.
A common query that often arises is whether it is preferable to utilize a straw when drinking. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of using a straw for oral health, aiming to aid you in deciding the most appropriate option based on your requirements.
Advantages of using a straw for oral health:
- Reduced contact with teeth: When you use a straw for drinking, the liquid bypasses your teeth, reducing the amount of contact that sugary or acidic drinks have with your enamel. This can help prevent erosion and decay.
- Minimized staining: Straws can also help reduce staining caused by dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine.
- Less exposure to hot or cold drinks: When you use a straw, your lips don’t come into contact with hot or cold liquids, reducing the risk of burns or sensitivity.
- For individuals with braces or other orthodontic appliances, employing a straw can be particularly beneficial. The straw allows the person to drink without worrying about damaging the brackets or wires.
Disadvantages of using a straw:
- Wrinkles around the mouth: Repeated use of straws can cause wrinkles around the mouth, known as “smoker’s lines.” However, this concern typically applies primarily to individuals who regularly use straws.
- Some people may find that using a straw increases air intake, which can cause bloating and other digestive issues.
- In such situations, it is recommended to refrain from using a straw.
- Straws can be harmful to the environment: Disposable plastic straws are a significant environmental hazard and should be avoided whenever possible. Reusable straws, made from silicone, metal, or glass, are more sustainable.
Is it really an oral health problem to drink without a straw?
While using a straw can be beneficial for your oral health, it’s not necessarily a problem to drink without one. It’s important to note that while using a straw can help reduce contact with sugary and acidic drinks, it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk of oral health issues. It’s still necessary and highly recommended to brush and floss regularly and to limit the consumption of sugary and acidic drinks as much as possible.
Which types of straws are better for oral health?
Reusable straws made from materials like silicone, metal, or glass are the best options for oral health. They are easy to clean and don’t contain harmful chemicals like disposable plastic straws. When choosing a straw, it’s important to choose the right size. A straw that is a bit more narrow can require the person to suck too hard, which can lead to dry mouth and other oral health issues. A straw that is a bit too wide can allow too much liquid to pass over the teeth, negating the benefits of using a straw in the first place.
Unique and fun facts:
- Did you know that the earliest recorded straw was found in a Sumerian tomb from 3000 BCE? It was made from gold and lapis lazuli!
- In the 19th century, straws were made from paper, but they often became soggy and fell apart. As a result, the modern plastic straw was introduced during the 1960s.
- In the United States, it’s estimated that around 500 million straws are used every day!
In conclusion, using a straw can be beneficial for your oral health, as it reduces contact with sugary and acidic drinks, minimizes staining, and reduces the risk of burns or sensitivity. However, it’s important to choose reusable straws made from sustainable materials like silicone, metal, or glass. Remember, while using a straw is a helpful tool, maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist for cleanings and fillings as needed is an essential factor in maintaining good oral health. It is always recommended to seek guidance from your dentist or dental hygienist should you have any concerns regarding your oral health. They can provide personalized treatments and offer recommendations on maintaining good oral hygiene. Your dentist can help you on your oral health journey by reducing your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and additional oral health concerns.
Summer Sweets That Make A Big Impact On Oral Health
Summer is the season of sweet treats and indulgences, but it’s important to remember that not all treats are created equal. Especially when it comes to oral health, some summer treats can impact your teeth and gums, leading to problems like discolouration, tooth sensitivity, and cavities. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 summer sweets that can impact oral health and discuss what you can do to maintain good oral hygiene during the summer months.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is a classic summer treat that’s loved by people of all ages. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the worst offenders when it comes to oral health. It’s well-recognized that ice cream typically contains a large amount of sugar. Overindulgence can lead to cavities and tooth decay if not properly cared for. In addition, the cold temperature can cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort in some people.
To ensure your oral health remains optimal while still enjoying ice cream, brushing your teeth a few minutes after eating it is essential. If you have sensitive teeth, try eating your ice cream with a spoon instead of biting into it. And, of course, moderation is key. Don’t eat ice cream every day. Ensure optimal oral health is maintained by regularly arranging dental appointments for cleanings and fillings.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are refreshing summer snacks, but they can also be harmful to your teeth. The acid in these fruits can wear down the enamel on your teeth, leading to discolouration and increased sensitivity.
To minimize the impact of citrus fruits on your oral health, try eating them with a meal instead of as a standalone snack. Doing so will counteract the acidity and safeguard your dental health.
Popsicles
Popsicles offer a delightful and cooling snack during the summer. Yet, they contain a high sugar content which can lead to dental decay if oral hygiene is not maintained correctly. The cold temperature can also cause tooth sensitivity and discomfort.
To maintain good oral health while enjoying popsicles, make your own at home with natural sweeteners like fruit juice or honey. This will make them a healthier option for your teeth. And, as always, be sure to rinse and clean your teeth a short while after consuming food to remove any remaining sugar.
S’mores
S’mores are a classic summer treat that’s loved by many. The sticky marshmallow can get stuck in your teeth, making it difficult to remove and increasing the risk of cavities.
To minimize the impact of s’mores on your oral health, try using sugar-free marshmallows and dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Doing so will aid in reducing the quantity of sugar in your s’mores and make them a healthier option for your teeth. Be sure to maintain oral hygiene a few minutes after eating to remove any remaining marshmallow debris.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages like soda and sparkling water are popular summer drinks. Still, they are also high in sugar and can cause tooth decay if not properly cared for. The carbonation can also erode the enamel on your teeth, leading to discolouration and increased sensitivity.
To maintain good oral health while enjoying carbonated beverages, try drinking them with a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Suppose you’re experiencing teeth discolouration, tooth sensitivity, or cavities. In that case, scheduling an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible is essential. They can recommend dental treatments like teeth whitening, cleanings, and fillings to address any concerns.
How to beat tooth sensitivity
The dental problem encountered most frequently is tooth sensitivity. It can lead to discomfort and pain, especially when consuming hot or cold, sweet or acidic foods and beverages. You might be surprised to discover that tooth sensitivity is quite prevalent, affecting millions worldwide. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various reasons, including gum disease, teeth grinding, tooth decay, and worn enamel.
One of the less common reasons for tooth sensitivity is teeth whitening products containing harsh chemicals. These products can erode the tooth enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. Similarly, a sinus infection that causes pressure on the teeth can also result in tooth sensitivity.
What does tooth sensitivity indicate about oral health?
Tooth sensitivity is an indication of poor oral health. It often signifies that the enamel is thinning or the gums are receding, exposing the sensitive dentin layer underneath. Inadequate oral hygiene, acid erosion, and tooth grinding are also contributing factors to tooth sensitivity.
If left untreated, tooth sensitivity can lead to severe tooth pain, which can be debilitating. Therefore, it is essential to seek dental care as soon as possible. Taking early action can help prevent additional harm to the teeth and gums. If left untreated, tooth sensitivity can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth loss.
Fortunately, there are several dental treatments available to alleviate tooth sensitivity. A dental professional might suggest a fluoride treatment in order to strengthen the tooth enamel, a dental crown or filling to protect the exposed area, or a gum graft to cover exposed roots. Botox Therapeutics can also assist indirectly, as it can be used as a treatment for bruxism. Additionally, desensitizing toothpaste and mouthwash can provide temporary relief.
Tips to help beat tooth sensitivity
Desensitizing toothpaste works by blocking the pathways that lead to the tooth’s nerves. The active ingredient in these toothpaste brands is typically potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These substances penetrate the enamel and dentin, creating a protective barrier that prevents stimuli from reaching the nerves.
Mouthwash can also be effective in reducing tooth sensitivity. Some mouthwashes contain fluoride, which can strengthen the tooth enamel, while others contain potassium nitrate, which can reduce tooth sensitivity.
In addition to these treatments, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing tooth sensitivity. Brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, as most commonly recommended, and using a fluoride mouthwash can help prevent oral health issues, including tooth decay, which can lead to tooth sensitivity.
Regular dental cleanings and fillings can also help prevent tooth sensitivity from developing. During a dental cleaning, a dentist will remove any stubborn plaque or tartar buildup that can contribute to tooth decay. If cavities are detected, the dentist can fill them promptly, preventing further damage to the tooth.
In summary, tooth sensitivity can be a significant inconvenience, affecting your quality of life. Poor oral hygiene, acid erosion, and teeth grinding are contributing factors that can lead to tooth sensitivity. However, several dental treatments are available to alleviate the symptoms of sensitive teeth and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. In order to avoid tooth pain and discomfort from disrupting daily activities, it is essential to seek dental care promptly. Keep in mind that a well-maintained oral cavity contributes to overall bodily health.
Are you having concerns about tooth sensitivity? Contact Ashraf Dentistry today!
Stop Chewing on These Common Items
Are you a habitual nail-biter? Do you tend to chew on the pencil when you are thinking of items to add to your grocery list? Well, chewing on these can cause severe damage to your teeth and gums, leading to an emergency visit to the dentist. To ensure that your oral health is perfect and your teeth and gums are in great shape, you should know how chewing on seemingly harmless stuff like the following can be dangerous.
Your nails
Studies show that nail biting is a common stress-coping habit for many people. This is not just bad for your nails but also your teeth. Nail biting causes terrific wear and tear on your teeth. The front teeth especially suffer a lot of damage.
The jaw is twisted into an unnatural position when you try to bite your nail. This puts a heavy strain on your jaw joints, teeth, and, sometimes, even your ears. Nail biters can also worsen their teeth-grinding habit (Bruxism), which can lead to chipped or cracked teeth making. Needless to say, the enamel of your teeth is worn down too.
Bacteria from your hands get easy access to your mouth when you bite your nail. That could lead to infections in your mouth too. For better oral health and healthy teeth, stop your nail-biting habit and learn to cope with stress in healthy ways. Keeping nails extremely short or painting them with bitter polish are ways to break the habit. Otherwise, this can lead to frequent visits for cleanings and fillings.
Stationery items
Chewing on the back of the pencil or pen when you stop to think while jotting down stuff is common. But again, this can lead to cracked or chipped teeth. The bacteria on the pen or pencil that has been lying around in the open gets right in your mouth too. The habit of chewing on paperclips or the metal base of the eraser that comes with the pencil – both are common too and equally harmful to oral health. This is yet another habit that could prompt several visits to the dentist for cleanings and fillings.
Make a conscious decision to avoid biting down on such things when you are preoccupied. Carry fruit bits or sugar-free gum and pop those in when you feel the urge to chew on a pencil. Ask your dentist for tips on breaking these habits.
Various metals
The most dangerous in terms of the impact it can have is chewing on hard metals. It may be keys you bite down on while rummaging through your bag for something. It may be bottle caps/ can tabs that you use your teeth to pull open. All of these can seriously damage your teeth, causing fractures and cracks that cannot be rectified. You can also damage or tear your gums when the metal scrapes against them. The hygiene factor only adds to the potential risks you take on with this habit.
Use a rubber strip to open bottles. Put your keys in your pocket instead of your mouth. And use a can opener for that beer can instead of risking your precious teeth.
Paying a little bit of attention to how you are using (or abusing) your teeth can save you a visit to the dentist and a lot of pain. It’s worth the effort. After all, good oral health means a great smile, healthy teeth to enjoy your favourite foods with, and no painful dental visits except for cleanings and fillings.
Interesting Oral Health Symptoms and What They Mean
Some dental problems can come with strange symptoms. Often, you may not even be able to describe precisely what you are experiencing, but these could be indicators of underlying issues. Sometimes all you may need to get rid of the annoying problem may be an excellent dental cleaning at your friendly dentist’s. Other times, however, you may need serious procedures, like implants. Learn more about such problems, their causes, and recommended gum disease treatment.
Change of taste
Are you suddenly finding a sour or bitter, or metallic taste in your mouth all the time? It may have nothing to do with what you are eating. What it could be is an infection that is causing fluid to seep out in the gap between tooth and gum. Head over to your dentist immediately, or you risk letting the infection spread to the rest of your system.
Did you know that when your salivary glands stop producing enough saliva, you can experience a bad taste? Yes, this also makes your mouth feel extremely dry and sticky. The bad taste and odour which accompany a dry mouth arise from the food remnants and bacteria that are in your mouth.
Oral thrush, a yeast infection, can also taste metallic. You are at greater risk of developing thrush if you have a suppressed immune system. Thrush can lead to dry mouth, soreness, and swallowing issues too.
Proper dental hygiene with flossing should prevent these from occurring. However, if you develop any of these, you may need a professional dental cleaning. Infections, especially of the gum, can be very annoying when mild and nasty when left unchecked. Before the infection grows rampant and affects teeth integrity, you need effective gum disease treatment from your dentist.
Fuzzy teeth
Do you encounter a rough or fuzzy surface while running your tongue over your teeth? Generally, fuzz over your teeth’ surface does not damage your dental health, but that depends on the root cause. Sometimes it may need attention to bring teeth back to normalcy. Plus, who doesn’t like having squeaky clean, smooth teeth, right?
Some foods that contain oxalic acid create a fuzzy coating over teeth in combination with saliva. This includes spinach, beets, tea, and more. This is harmless except for the irritant value of having fuzzy teeth.
Fuzzy teeth are another problem that a dry mouth can cause. The lack of saliva often has this effect. Check with your dentist about dry mouth solutions when you go in for your regular dental cleaning.
Plaque build-up can cause fuzzy teeth too. Proper dental cleaning should sort out this problem but maintain good dental hygiene after your professional cleaning to ensure your mouth stays clean and healthy henceforth.
Loose teeth
Not just kids but even adults can have loose tooth problems. This happens when the gums and bones do not support your tooth adequately. Eating can be very tough with loose teeth. You may experience bleeding gums or painful gums too. In most cases, loose tooth arises from severe bacterial infection of the gums. Proper and timely gum disease treatment is critical to resolving this issue.
If the tooth is too loose and the surrounding tissue too damaged, then implants may be the healthier option. Bone graft or tissue graft to rebuild the support for the tooth is also advised in severe cases of a loose tooth.
To summarize, unusual problems with teeth are not uncommon. Their resolution depends on the causative factors. Some can be sorted out with easy steps like dental cleaning, while others may need more invasive treatments like implants. Visit your dentist regularly to ensure that serious dental problems are kept at bay.
Why Does My Child Have Discoloured Teeth?
The last thing you want marring your child’s beautiful smile is spots on their teeth or discoloured teeth. There are plenty of reasons why these things occur, and some of them may indicate deeper problems that warrant an urgent visit to the pediatric dentist. Some others may hint at a problem that can easily be resolved. Learn why your child has discoloured teeth and what it could mean.
Oral hygiene habits and diet
Poor dental hygiene leads to several oral health issues. These include tartar buildup, which appears as a brown discoloration on the teeth. Bacteria growth is the reason for this. Regular professional cleaning from your pediatric dentist can keep this away, but more important is daily dental hygiene, which includes brushing and flossing.
In very young children, tartar can also build up from poor nutrition. This especially happens when the baby’s last meal of the day has too much sugar, and their mouth is not cleaned before sleep time. Even a predominantly acidic diet can cause discoloration in the form of white spots on the teeth. Too much lemonade or sodas has this effect. Other diet-related discolorations can arise from coffee or tea, soy sauce, and pigmented foods.
Regular visits for cleanings and fillings and a stringent dental hygiene routine should address most of these problems.
Tooth injury or thin enamel
An injury can turn your child’s tooth grey, brown, or even black. This happens when the blood vessels in the tooth are damaged. If your child has sustained an injury recently and a tooth or a few teeth are beginning to get discoloured, do head to the pediatric dentist immediately. Sometimes the tooth may heal without help, but other times, they may need dental treatment. Wearing a mouth guard during sports or high-level activity is an excellent way to prevent this.
In some kids, the enamel of the tooth is very thin due to genetic factors. Thin enamel can result in yellow or dull teeth that seem to be discoloured. Weak enamel also heightens the risk of cavities developing in the teeth. Talk to your pediatric dentist and learn what you must do to address this.
Tooth decay
Tooth decay starts with white spots on the teeth. They can be seen along the gum line. When you spot these, get your child to the pediatric dentist immediately because the right treatment can resolve this issue at this stage. If left untreated, the tooth begins to decay, and the spots turn brownish and spread across the tooth. Regular cleanings and fillings sessions with your dentist can identify decay at its early stages and correct it too.
Medical condition or medication
Some supplements, especially iron supplements, often discolour teeth. Even some medications have the same effect. If your breastfeeding baby has discoloured teeth, check if any of the medications you take have tetracycline. Change the medication if possible.
Some medical conditions also cause teeth discoloration. For example, hyperbilirubinemia causes a yellowing discoloration of the teeth. A visit to the pediatric dentist can tell you if the discoloration should also be looked into from this perspective.
Generally, following a good oral hygiene routine and visiting the pediatric dentist for regular cleanings and fillings should take care of teeth discoloration and give your child a bright sunny smile. However, there are some causes that are not so easily sorted out. With these, you must follow your dentist’s advice diligently to ensure no long-term damage takes place.
Three Health Conditions that Are Surprisingly Linked to Oral Health
The mouth is the entryway to the body. When you do not follow proper dental hygiene, not only are you more susceptible to oral health issues but also other infections and diseases. In reverse, an experienced dentist can spot signs of other underlying diseases by taking a look at your teeth.
Your dentist will be able to detect and give you early warning of them when you go in for a routine dental cleaning and filling. Surprised? Here are three health conditions that are surprisingly linked to oral health.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Studies show that elders with gum disease and oral infections are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. There is also an indication that bacteria that cause the oral condition called gingivitis may be linked to Alzheimer’s. This bacteria, Porphyromonas gingivalis, can make its way to the brain, where it destroys nerve cells.
Since this destructive cycle begins with gingivitis, the simplest way to avert this is by following stringent oral care routines. Equally important are regular dental appointments where the dentist gets a chance to examine your mouth thoroughly. Do not postpone gum disease treatment at any cost because rampant infections can affect your brain. Many individuals only go to the dentist once they absolutely have to. Fear is one factor. However, suppose you are proactive concerning your dental health. In that case, you’ll avoid pain and further oral health issues.
Infertility and Erectile Dysfunction
Periodontal disease is an oral infection where bacteria builds up in pockets between the gums and teeth. When left unchecked without proper gum disease treatment, this bacteria spreads to the rest of the body and into the bloodstream. If the infection is so severe that blood vessels are inflamed, this can affect the man’s ability to experience and sustain an erection. Such erectile infection is a common cause of infertility. In women, too, poor oral health can lead to fertility issues. Studies show that periodontal disease extends women’s conception time (TTC).
Going in for regular dental cleaning and filling, maintaining good oral care routines, and regularly visiting your dentist may help you enjoy pregnancy in the best possible way.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Another condition associated with advanced age, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is also associated with periodontal disease. Research shows a link between the two – those with such severe oral infection had higher quantities of certain bacteria in the blood. This bacteria carried citrullinated proteins that set off a cycle of events in the body, which worsened RA.
The reverse is also significant. Those with RA fail to carry out dental hygiene properly because the condition restricts their movements. This makes them prone to oral health issues like gum disease that can compromise their dental and overall health. Timely intervention in the form of gum disease treatment can help avert these problems.
To summarise, going to your dentist for regular checkups and getting dental cleaning and filling done on time is essential. These simple things can help avert diseases that are not commonly known to be linked to oral health. Most importantly, you must avoid dental infections, as periodontal bacterial infections can harm you drastically. Regular dental checkups are critical to overall health, not just healthy teeth and gums.
How to Care for a Root Canal
Does the notion of root canal therapy and crowns and bridges make you nervous? Root canal therapy is a popular, successful, and safe technique.
Dentistry has progressed tremendously due to technological advances. A root canal is now more comfortable than a few years ago. More significantly, it can relieve pain, prevent deep-seated and painful infections, and even save your tooth and smile. The infected pulp, which contains blood vessels, other cells, and connective tissue, is carefully removed during the treatment, and the tooth’s center is filled.
Here’s how to look after your root canal.
Can a root canal be prevented?
Prevention is definitely better than a root canal, and thankfully there are several things you can do to prevent severe treatments like a root canal or dental implants.
Regularly brush and floss to keep away tooth decay-causing bacteria. Avoid sticky and hard foods. Sticky foods tend to linger around on your teeth and feed the decay-causing bacteria in your mouth, and hard foods can crack teeth.
Avoid sugary drinks, carbonated beverages, citrus fruit juices, and acidic alcoholic beverages like wine and beer. They can all erode tooth enamel, weaken your teeth, and even cause tooth decay.
The good news is that most teeth problems don’t develop overnight. Have regular check-ups so your dentist can monitor your oral health and spot problems before they warrant severe treatments like root canals or dental implants.
What to do before your root canal procedure
Depending on the anesthetic used, your dentist will tell you if you should eat before your root canal therapy.
Discuss any fears or anxieties with your dentist, including whether there will be a need for crowns and bridges.
Discuss the option of taking a pain reliever before your appointment and after the root canal therapy. Inform your dentist about the medications you take before the procedure.
Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure, as both can affect how blood flows through your veins and how your blood clots.
If you need someone to drive you home after the procedure, making arrangements for that is a good idea.
Suppose the scheduled root canal procedure is a month or more in advance. In that case, your tooth is susceptible to getting abscessed and extremely painful during that time. During this period, avoid cold and hot beverages/foods, sweets, and items with acidic qualities (fruit juice, lemonade, citrus fruits). Brush and floss regularly until your root canal appointment. Consult your dentist about using over-the-counter pain relievers.
Maintaining oral care after root canal therapy
You may have soreness when the anesthetic wears off. To relieve pain or discomfort, utilize the pain relievers your dentist gives you at the suggested dosage.
Don’t stop brushing or flossing, as the treated tooth must be kept clean. However, brush, floss, and rinse gently and with care.
Hard foods can cause your temporary filling to come loose, so stick to soft foods and chew on the other side to prevent placing too much pressure on the recently treated tooth.
Your dentist will provide instructions tailored to your specific requirements and medical history. Carefully follow these directions.
Once you receive your permanent filling/crown, you can return to regular oral care.
Good oral hygiene can prevent severe treatments like root canals, implants, crowns, and bridges. However, root canal therapy is sometimes the only method to save a tooth. When scheduled for a root canal, there are things you can do to prepare yourself for the procedure and to recover after the treatment. However, it is vital that you carefully follow your dentist’s advice.
Time to Upgrade Your Nighttime Oral Hygiene Routine
Your dentist must have shared the importance of a good oral health care regime before hitting the bed. Robyn Moreno has shared seven tips on upgrading this routine. Read on to find Ashraf Dentistry’s explanations about how these tips can help you. (Source: Everyday Health, 7 Nighttime Tips for Improving Your Oral Health, by Robyn Moreno, November 9, 2021, https://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/nighttime-oral-care/tips-oral-health.aspx ).
Brush in the night
Robyn Moreno suggests preventing tooth decay, plaque buildup, and gum disease. It is advisable to brush before going to bed.
Ashraf Dentistry says, “For those who are prone to cavities and gum disease, dental professionals suggest brushing twice in the evening. First, after dinner, and then again right before bedtime.”
Take your time
Robyn Moreno says that dentists recommend a gentle back-and-forth motion in short strokes as the most effective way to clean your teeth.
Ashraf Dentistry. elaborates, “Start by brushing the outer surfaces of your teeth, then move to the inner surfaces. Finish with the chewing areas. When cleaning the back area of your front teeth, use the tip of the brush with a gentle up-and-down stroke.”
Use an electric toothbrush
Robyn Moreno believes that the rotating and oscillating motion of an electric toothbrush is more effective at removing plaque than a manual toothbrush.
Ashraf Dentistry. agrees, “When selecting an electric toothbrush, ensure it is comfortable to hold, easy to use, and equipped with a rotating-oscillating head.”
Floss everyday
Robyn Moreno explains that flossing eliminates food particles and soft plaque, preventing bacterial growth overnight. Failure to remove these particles can lead to tartar formation, which only a dentist or hygienist can remove during a professional cleaning.
Ashraf Dentistry suggests, “While nightly flossing suffices for most individuals, those prone to gum disease or tartar buildup should also floss in the morning, as advised by dental professionals.”
Use mouthwash
According to Robyn Moreno, mouthwash is not only beneficial for fresh breath, but therapeutic mouth rinses contain specific ingredients that can make the teeth strong and treat oral health issues. Using a therapeutic mouthwash before sleeping can prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gingivitis.
Ashraf Dentistry. adds, “In contrast, cosmetic mouthwashes available commercially mainly eliminates bad breath and do not contribute significantly to oral health. Consult your dentist to choose the appropriate mouthwash for you.”
Avoid grinding your teeth
Robyn Moreno shares that grinding teeth during sleep can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, worn tooth enamel, or torn cheek tissue. While dentists cannot prevent teeth grinding, they can provide a mouthguard to be worn at night.
Ashraf Dentistry. explains, “Botox Therapeutics can help treat teeth grinding by relaxing the muscles responsible for the condition. The treatment involves injecting Botox into the masseter muscle, which is the primary muscle used for chewing. This muscle’s relaxation reduces hyperactivity and pressure on the teeth and jaw, preventing jaw clenching and teeth grinding. The effects last several months, and the treatment can be repeated if necessary. It’s crucial to have Botox therapeutics administered by a qualified healthcare professional.”
Visit your dentist
Regular dental checkups, cleanings, and fillings are essential to maintaining oral health. Remember, preventive care, as well as maintenance, along with a proper day and nighttime oral hygiene practices, are equally vital for a healthy mouth.
Ashraf Dentistry reiterates, “With regular visits, your dentist will be able to catch a problem faster and offer solutions. Starting from basic cleanings and fillings to advanced treatments like Botox Therapeutics, are all available at your dentist.”
Ashraf Dentistry concludes, “Having a disciplined oral health care routine is of utmost importance. Use the right dental products and maintain their upkeep. In addition to this, regular cleanings and fillings help keep major oral health problems at bay.”
