How to: Save Your Tooth
To maintain good oral health, taking care of your teeth is essential. However, accidents happen, and teeth can get knocked out or damaged.
In this article, we will provide insight into saving a tooth that has been subject to damage or knocked out. We will also discuss preventative measures to take to reduce the risk of tooth loss.
Taking Preventative Care Seriously
A variety of factors, including the following, can cause adult tooth loss:
Gum disease is caused by bacteria that attack the gums and bones supporting the teeth, leading to inflammation, infection, and eventual tooth loss.
Bruxism is a term that describes the grinding or clenching of teeth. The condition can cause the teeth to wear down and become loose.
Cavities can cause tooth decay, which, if left untreated, can require root canal therapy or lead to tooth loss.
Physical trauma can also cause tooth loss, such as in the case of a sports injury or a car accident.
Periodontitis is a more advanced condition or form of gum disease that can lead to the loss of both gum tissue and bone.
Diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis can also contribute to tooth loss by affecting overall health and weakening the bone and gum tissue that support the teeth.
Regular dental cleanings and fillings can also help prevent tooth loss. Mouth guards or night guards can be beneficial for those who grind their teeth or participate in contact sports.
It is essential to maintain overall health through proper nutrition and routine oral care at home, such as brushing two times a day and flossing on a regular basis.
Knocked out tooth? Here’s how to save it
If a tooth gets knocked out, act quickly. The first thing to do is to locate the tooth and handle it only by the crown (the top part). Avoid touching the root as much as possible.
If the tooth has fallen and has become dirty, rinse it gently under running water. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with clean gauze or a cloth.
If it is not possible to reinsert the tooth, store it in milk or saliva. As Dr. A states, seek emergency dental care immediately for a knocked-out tooth.
Do not store the tooth in water, as this can cause damage to the tooth’s delicate cells.
Treatment options to help save your tooth
If a tooth is damaged but still in place, several gum disease treatment options are available to save it.
Root canal therapy is an option for a tooth with infected or inflamed pulp. A crown, veneer, or bonding can be used to repair a damaged tooth’s appearance and restore function.
Professional dental cleaning and filling are crucial for maintaining good oral health and can help prevent further damage.
A nightguard can also be an effective gum disease treatment option for those who grind their teeth at night. Ashraf Dentistry makes nightguards onsite at their clinic, which can help prevent tooth loss and other issues associated with bruxism.
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking timely dental care can help prevent adult tooth loss caused by conditions such as gum disease.
While prevention is vital, it is essential to know that gum disease treatment options are available to help save your teeth and restore oral health. From non-surgical and surgical options to routine professional dental cleanings, fillings, and root canal therapy, there are many ways to treat and prevent gum disease.
How Your Dentist Knows the Truth
It is common for individuals to slightly exaggerate the truth when they go for their dental cleanings. Dental professionals are aware of this tendency. In this article, Ashraf Dentistry elaborates on Maria Masters write-up on seven common lies that dentists are used to hearing. (Source: Everyday Health, 7 Lies Your Dentist Knows You’re Telling, by Maria Masters, medically reviewed by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD, April 13, 2016,
Truth your dentist knows
Maria Masters decodes the explanations by Dr. Shawn Adibi, from the University of Texas, on how your dentist can tell you are lying about your oral hygiene.
Are you hurting
According to Shawn Adibi, the evidence of pain can be seen in your eyes when they flinch or clench shut as your body goes into defensive mode. Additionally, dentists can identify pain when they notice your tongue and legs tightening.
Ashraf Dentistry adds, “Dentists can often tell if you are hurting by observing physical cues such as facial expressions, flinching, and body language.”
Do you drink soda
Maria Masters mentions that, as per Shawn Adibi, the protective barrier of enamel on your teeth can be eroded by the acid present in soda, which follows a distinct pattern. He further points out that lemonade and citrus fruits can also cause comparable damage.
Ashraf Dentistry reiterates, “Dentists can often tell if you drink soda by examining your oral hygiene. Teeth show physical signs of erosion or decay that may be associated with consuming sugary or acidic beverages.”
Do you smoke
According to Shawn Adibi, tobacco is known for causing teeth discoloration. The extent and shade of the stains can differ from one person to another. Therefore, if a dentist suspects that someone is a smoker, they may inspect their fingers or sniff their clothing for evidence of nicotine stains.
Ashraf Dentistry says, “Dentists can look at symptoms like teeth discoloration, bad breath, gum diseases, and dry mouth to deduce if you smoke or not.”
Do you floss regularly?
Maria Masters explains Dr. Shawn Adibi’s beliefs that brushing your teeth can eliminate plaque buildup above your gum line, but flossing is essential to eliminate plaque that accumulates below your gums. Neglecting to floss regularly or flossing incorrectly can result in inflamed gums, a condition is known as gingivitis or gum disease.
Ashraf Dentistry reinforces, “Dentists can often tell if flossing is not a part of someone’s oral care routine by looking for signs of plaque and inflammation in the gums.”
Why you are late for the visit
As per Shawn Adibi, dentists may suspect that anxiety about the upcoming exam is the real reason why you are late for the check-up. Dentists are familiar with dental anxiety and the fear some patients have. However, when people are afraid of going to the dentist, they may delay future appointments, leading to more dental issues in the long run.
Ashraf Dentistry adds, “It’s important for patients to address their dental anxiety with their dentist. They should be on time for their dental cleanings to maintain their oral hygiene and avoid missing their appointment or having to reschedule.”
How often your drink alcohol
According to Shawn Adibi, alcohol has a unique odour, and individuals who consume it excessively often experience dry mouths.
Ashraf Dentistry explains, “Alcohol can impede the function of salivary glands, leading to a decrease in saliva production.
Do you grind your teeth?
As per Shawn Adibi, grinding your teeth can result in a worn appearance. Headaches or muscle pain around the jaw can be an indication of a condition called “nocturnal bruxism” or tooth grinding during sleep.
Ashraf Dentistry says, “Although it may not be considered a deliberate falsehood, tooth grinding is detrimental to your oral care.”
Maria Masters explains that a strong connection between a dentist and their patient is crucial for achieving optimal treatment outcomes.
Ashraf Dentistry concludes, “Being truthful with your dentist during your dental cleanings is important. Your dentist needs accurate information to make an informed diagnosis and oral care. Withholding information or lying about your dental habits could lead to serious consequences for your oral health.”
All About: Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is known as the most common cancer in the world. It can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the gums, lips, tongue, and behind the throat. With April being Oral Cancer Awareness Month, this article aims to spread information and awareness.
Symptoms and potential causes of oral cancer
Oral cancer risk is three times more than cervical cancer and two times more than liver cancer! Awareness of symptoms is crucial to oral cancer prevention and early detection.
Lumps
A lump can develop in the mouth, lip, throat, or neck. Symptoms may also occur in the form of texture changes in mouth tissues.
Patches/ hardness
Patches may develop on the tongue, lips, gums, or on mouth lining. These patches can be white or dark red. The unexplained hardness of lips, mouth, and gums or rough spots in the same areas are also symptoms.
Sores
Mouth or lip sores that refuse to heal after two weeks may signal cancer symptoms. If these sores also bleed easily, then visit your dentist immediately.
Pain or numbness
A mouth that feels numb or painful with unusual bleeding could be an indicator. Tenderness on the neck and face without reason could be a warning sign.
Other warnings
Soreness of the throat that does not heal. Ear pain that may or may not occur with a change in voice. Pain or difficulty in moving the jaw, chewing, swallowing, or talking. Constant bad breath. Unintended weight loss.
Potential risks
Some people are more at risk of oral cancer than others.
Specific age
People of all ages are vulnerable to oral cancer. But people over 45 years of age are more at risk. The highest risk is for people above 60.
Gender and family history
Men are more at risk than women. Earlier, this ratio was 6:1 (men to women). This statistic has now risen to 2:1. People with cancer in their family history suffer high incidence.
Tobacco and alcohol use
People who smoke, chew tobacco, and consume paan, betel quid, or areca nut are at risk. Even smokeless tobacco increases cancer incidence.
Alcohol consumption increases risk. The heavier the consumption and the lengthier the time frame of such consumption, the greater the risk.
HPV
People with HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection are at high risk. An HPV vaccination may help, provided you have not already suffered the condition.
Poor diet
People with a diet low on vegetables and fruits suffer a greater risk. These foods are enriched with protective factors that can prevent affliction.
Poor oral hygiene
People negligent about their oral health raise their risk. Oral health declines without daily brushing and flossing, professional dental cleaning, and regular dental checkup visits to the dentist.
The risk is far higher in people who have recurrent bacterial and viral infections yet go without professional dental care.
Other risk factors
People with poor immune systems are at greater risk of lip cancer. People who stay in the sun in excess are more likely to develop lip cancer. The incidence of cancer on the lower lip is high as it is the most sun-exposed part.
Prevention and treatment options
You can prevent cancer risk with these precautions:
Maintain good oral hygiene
Daily brushing and flossing are a must. Get a dental checkup with the dentist at least twice a year.
Limit tobacco and alcohol
Avoid or reduce tobacco intake. Whether you smoke, chew, or use water pipes, cut back on all consumption. Drink in moderation. Talk to your dentist to learn about programs for quitting smoking and alcohol healthily.
Change to a healthier lifestyle
Include a large portion of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Use sun protection, such as protected lip balms with UV protection. Reduce the risk of HPV infection with the use of condoms. Consider taking an HPV vaccination.
Oral cancer treatment
Surgery is performed to remove the malignant cancerous growth. Radiation therapy or/ and chemotherapy is performed to remove any remanent cancerous growth.
Targeted therapy may be recommended where only the cancerous cells, and not the healthy cells, are destroyed. Immunotherapy, a method in which the body’s immune system is provoked to fight cancer cells, is also an option.
Early detection
Detecting oral cancer early prevents its growth and spread.
Oral cancer screening
Have an oral cancer screening done once a year if you are of age 40 or above. If you are in the 20-40 age group, oral cancer screening every three years is necessary for early detection
Regular dentist appointments
Regular dentist visits are one of the best ways to detect oral cancers early. Dentists check your mouth for cancerous growth and precancerous symptoms. A dentist may recommend additional tests to detect abnormal cells in the mouth.
Self-examination
Self-examine your mouth every month for any abnormalities. Check for any abnormal visual signs on the lips, tongue, teeth, gums, and in mouth lining. Feel your lips, neck, roof of the mouth, and areas below the jaw, for lumps.
Oral cancer is preventable and treatable with early detection. Awareness is critical to understanding risk factors and the importance of cancer screening. Good oral health practices and regular dentist visits are significant aspects of oral cancer prevention.
Are you interested in learning more? Contact Ashraf Dentistry today.
Seasonal Spring Foods for Your Oral Health
Spring is a time of renewal as well as rejuvenation. Embrace the season by focusing on foods that promote oral health.
This article will explore the top in-season spring foods that are good for your teeth, gums, and breath. From leafy greens to edible flowers and fresh herbs, we’ll break down the nutritional benefits of each food and provide tips on how to incorporate them into your diet.
Let’s begin.
Edible flowers and fresh herbs
Edible flowers and fresh herbs are a celebration for the eyes and taste buds. They can provide numerous benefits for our dental hygiene.
Mint
Mint has antibacterial properties that freshen breath and is rich in calcium, making it great for adding to salads or making a homemade mouthwash.
Parsley
Chlorophyll in parsley helps freshen breath, and its richness in vitamins A and C strengthens gums. Use it as a garnish, or add it to soups and stews.
Rosemary
Rosemary contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which prevent gum disease and protect against cell damage. Use it in roasted meats or marinades.
Sage
With essential oils that fight bacteria, sage helps prevent gum disease and bad breath; its richness in vitamin K makes it an excellent addition to pasta dishes and roasted vegetables.
Moringa
Rich in calcium and vitamin C, Moringa strengthens teeth and gums and prevents inflammation. It is perfect for adding to smoothies or salads.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is rich in vitamin C, has anti-inflammatory properties, and prevents gum disease. It’s ideal for making tea or adding to salads or cocktails.
Caraway
Caraway has antibacterial essential oils and is rich in calcium for healthy teeth and bones. Use it to flavour bread, soups, or stews.
Honeysuckle
The sweet syrup made from honeysuckle flowers is an antibacterial and healthy alternative to sweeteners, perfect for adding to tea, cocktails, or desserts.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense foods that promote oral health.
Almonds
Almonds are rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E, which strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Add to smoothies or sprinkle on top of salads.
Brazil nuts
Brazil nuts contain selenium, which prevents gum disease and tooth decay. Eat them as a snack or chop them and add them to baked goods.
Walnuts
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts can reduce inflammation and prevent periodontitis. Add to oatmeal or salads for a crunchy texture.
Macadamia nuts
Macadamia nuts are high in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, which help build strong teeth and prevent decay. Eat them as a snack or use them in baking.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens are known as the best foods for promoting oral care due to their high nutrient content.
Spinach
Spinach is rich in calcium, folic acid, and vitamin B, which strengthen teeth and prevent gum disease. Add to smoothies or use as a base for salads.
Kale
Kale is packed with antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and protect against periodontitis. Add to soups or use as a base for a nutrient-rich salad.
Lettuce
Lettuce is high in water content, which helps to hydrate the mouth and prevent dry mouth. Use it as a base for salads or as a lettuce wrap for a healthy snack.
Incorporating foods that maintain dental cleaning and oral health can benefit both your smile and overall well-being.
From the calcium-rich almonds to the gum disease-fighting selenium found in Brazil nuts, these foods provide essential vitamins and minerals your entire body needs. By adding hibiscus to your tea or using parsley in your meals, you can also enjoy flavorful, healthy options.
So, go ahead, and give your smile and your body a healthy boost with these delicious options!
Your Spring Cleaning Check List
Did you think that spring cleaning is only for your home or garden? Well, think again. The best place to start your spring cleaning is by taking stock of your oral hygiene products. That’s not all; the cleaning part also encompasses your dental hygiene, which means a thorough professional dental cleaning is on the cards. Here’s where you start.
Spring clean your oral hygiene tools
First stop – your toothbrush. Is your toothbrush more than four months old? Then it needs to go. Get a replacement or change the brush head if you use an electric toothbrush. The brush goes into your mouth every single day. Bacteria builds up on it even if you clean it out thoroughly. Using the same brush for more than four months could be doing more damage than good to your teeth and gums.
If you are unsure how old the brush is, check the bristles. Worn, frayed, or bent bristles mean it’s time for a replacement. Change the brush if you have been sick or if you have been travelling. You don’t want to risk harbouring bacteria and germs on the brush that you use.
This is also an excellent time to revisit how you are storing the brush and making the right kind of arrangements if necessary. Your brush should be hanging upright, with good air circulation that dries it out in between usages.
Remember all that dental floss that you have collected from the dentist’s office every time you go in for dental cleaning? Spring cleaning is an excuse for putting all of it to good use while clearing out your bathroom cabinet. Put the floss out where you’ll remember to use it regularly. Put some of it in your handbag or even take some to put in your drawer at work so you can care for your teeth without making any excuses.
Spring clean your oral hygiene products
Not only your toothbrush but even other oral care products also need to be spring cleaned periodically. Check the expiry dates on the other products you use- toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrush cleaner- to name some. Toothpaste can lose its efficacy when it is too old. Expired toothpaste can be ineffective or downright bad for you, from losing its fluoride effectiveness to harboring fungi.
Expired mouthwash can have fungi or bacteria growing in it too. You don’t want that going into your mouth! Floss doesn’t expire, but it does lose its flavour. Change it if you have a problem with that.
Book your dental cleaning
The most important spring cleaning for your teeth is to get rid of the gunk that’s built up in your mouth- especially the teeth and gums. Professional dental cleaning is the way to go for this, but you can regularly clean up at home, too, in between dentist visits.
Use fluoride toothpaste and a brush with bristles that feel gentle yet firm on your teeth and gums. Use circular, gentle movements to clean your teeth and brush for a full two minutes. Brush gently along the gum line too. Floss regularly to scrape out the debris from between your teeth where the brush won’t reach.
However, visiting your dentist every six months is essential for a professional dental cleaning. The dentist can spot major dental issues at an early stage and start treatment before it becomes severe. The cleaning session removes plaque before it becomes tartar, which stains your teeth and can ruin them if left unchecked. A professional dental cleaning may be all you need to keep bad breath away and destroy the bacteria flourishing in your mouth.
When you are thinking of spring cleaning this year, pay attention to dental care too. Take stock of your dental care products and book your long pending appointment with the dentist for complete dental cleaning. This will ensure you stay healthy and fit overall.
Hello Spring! How Weather Can Influence Your Oral Care
Spring is officially here, and with it comes the promise of warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days. But did you know that the change in seasons can also impact our oral health and oral care?
This article explores how the arrival of spring affects our teeth and offers tips on how to maintain good oral health during this time of year.
Talk about seasonal changes!
Seasonal changes can have a significant impact on our oral health and hygiene habits.
As the temperature drops during the cold weather, those with sensitive teeth may experience discomfort when consuming hot or cold drinks. Additionally, warm beverages like tea and coffee can stain teeth, leading to a less-than-perfect smile.
In contrast, the humidity during the spring can cause dehydration, leading to dry mouth and potential oral health problems. However, spring weather also brings excitement and outdoor activities, such as contact sports and drinking cold refreshing drinks. This is also the time when some people may start preparing for summer, including teeth whitening treatments.
During summers, the sun can affect our mental health and mood, leading to a greater inclination to care for ourselves and our oral health. Adequate levels of Vitamin D, obtained through exposure to sunlight, can also impact oral health.
So, whether it’s hot or cold, humid or sunny, maintain good oral hygiene habits throughout the year to assist with keeping your teeth and gums healthy and bright.
Is it allergy season already?
Allergy season can be a frustrating time for many, especially when it comes to oral health.
Allergies can cause postnasal drip, which can lead to inflammation, dry mouth, and a sore throat. A dry mouth, in particular, can have negative consequences on our oral health, as it increases the risk of tooth decay as well as gum disease.
It is important to note that self-diagnosing allergies may not always be accurate, as symptoms like a sore throat and dry mouth can also indicate other oral health issues. This could be infections, tonsillitis, and acid reflux.
It is always best to consult a dentist or healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any underlying conditions properly.
In the meantime, staying hydrated and practicing good oral hygiene can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with allergies and protect our oral health.
Practice self-care
Spring is an excellent time for a fresh start, including renewal and rejuvenation. Celebrate it by practicing self-care and investing in your oral health.
Cosmetic dentistry can be a great option for those looking to improve or enhance the appearance of their teeth and boost their confidence. From teeth whitening to dental bonding and veneers, various cosmetic dentistry procedures are available to help you achieve your ideal smile just in time for spring.
If you play contact sports or struggle with bruxism, a custom-made mouthguard or nightguard can provide protection and help alleviate discomfort.
Dental bonding is another option for correcting minor imperfections while addressing tooth sensitivity.
If you suffer from TMJ, Botox Therapeutics can provide relief and allow you to enjoy the upcoming spring and summer festivities fully. But what is Botox Therapeutics? It is a type of treatment that uses botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze or weaken muscles to alleviate various medical conditions, including chronic pain, muscle spasms, and migraines. Talk to a professional dentist about the potential benefits of Botox Therapeutics and whether this treatment option is right for you.
And let’s not forget about good dental cleaning. Regular dental cleanings not only keep your teeth and gums healthy but also prevent potential dental problems from worsening.
Now is also a great time to start planning your smile makeover, so you can confidently show off your smile all summer long. By maintaining your oral health and investing in your smile, you’ll look and feel good too.
Get your smile ready for the upcoming season by scheduling a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Ashraf Dentistry. With a variety of treatments available, including teeth whitening and dental cleanings, you can trust that your smile will receive the highest quality care possible.
Don’t wait to enhance your oral health and boost your confidence – your smile deserves the best care all year round.
Your Checklist to Keep Your Smile White
A bright, white smile is something that most people aspire to have, but maintaining it can be a challenge. From lifestyle choices to general oral hygiene practices, keeping your smile white is a combination of many factors. This article will provide a comprehensive checklist of how to keep your smile white and bright from the comfort of your own home.
Ask your dentist
One of the essential steps to keeping your smile white is to consult your dentist. Before attempting to use any over-the-counter whitening products, always consult with your dentist first. This is necessary because some individuals may have dental issues that they are unaware of. In such cases, using unprescribed whitening products could cause further sensitivity or add to the problem. Your dentist will advise you on the best course of action for your teeth.
Many home remedies can help whiten your teeth. But these could also lead to enamel damage if not administered properly. So, make your dentist your first contact point before starting anything new with your oral care routine.
Schedule dental cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are a critical aspect of maintaining a white smile. By scheduling a dental cleaning every six months, you are helping to remove surface stains and buildup that could dull your smile. Your dental hygienist will provide you with guidance on how to maintain your oral health and prevent future staining.
Pre-book your professional whitening treatment
Professional teeth whitening treatments can be highly effective for a more dramatic change in your smile. However, booking your appointment in advance and discussing your options with your dentist is important. This helps ensure that you get the best results. You may also want to consider booking a follow-up appointment to maintain your results.
Use teeth whitening oral care products
In addition to regular dental cleanings, a variety of teeth-whitening oral care products are available that can help brighten your smile. From whitening toothpaste and mouthwashes to whitening strips and gels, there are many options to choose from.
Have your oral care essentials
Maintaining your oral hygiene is critical to keeping your smile white and bright. Make sure that you have the essentials on hand, including a toothbrush, floss, mouthwash, and tongue scraper. Use a water flosser and electric toothbrush to make oral care easy and fun! By sticking to a routine, you will help to remove plaque and surface stains that could potentially ruin your smile.
Make an on-the-go oral care kit
For those times when you’re on the go, consider putting together a travel-friendly oral care kit. This can include items like travel-sized toothbrushes, floss, and mouthwash. These readily available items can help you maintain your smile, even when you’re away from home.
By following these simple steps, you can help to maintain a sparkling white smile. From regular dental cleanings and professional whitening treatments to daily oral care routines and on-the-go oral care kits, there are many ways to keep your pearly whites shining! A bright and white smile is a reflection of your overall oral health. So make sure to consult your dentist regularly and take the steps necessary to keep your smile healthy and radiant.
How to Care for Your Tongue
Have you ever wondered about the reason your dentist checks your tongue? Did you know that the condition of your overall health can be found by just looking at your tongue? Well, here is everything you need to know about your tongue health.
The importance of caring for your tongue health
Cleaning your tongue should be a vital part of your oral hygiene routine. If not done properly, bacteria can accumulate on the tongue, producing mercaptans and hydrogen sulphide, leading to a foul odour. The tongue is a crucial body part that helps us to speak, eat, taste, and swallow food. It also acts as a first barrier to any harmful bacteria or virus you may have ingested. So, you have to make sure your tongue is healthy.
A healthy tongue has a pink colour to it. It is covered by papillae which are small painless nodules. Change of colour and texture of the tongue is a significant indication of an underlying health issue and should be addressed immediately.
Regular tongue cleaning helps avoid oral health issues, bad breath, plaque deposits, and bacteria coating the tongue. It also helps enhance your oral hygiene and taste buds and boosts immunity.
What your dentist can tell you
Your dentist examines your tongue’s colour, texture, look, shape, and size. During this process, the dentist will ask you to open your mouth wide and take out your tongue. Then they will hold the edge of your tongue in one hand and twist it to one side and then the other. Then they will ask you to raise your tongue tip towards your upper lip so that they can see the base of your tongue. This helps them identify if you have any abnormal growth, nutritional deficiencies, or any type of infection.
A few unusual changes to your tongue that can affect your oral health include the texture and colour of your tongue. If you notice white, red, or pink patches, painful lumps or sores, bleeding, or burns, visit your dentist urgently.
Healthy tongue tips
You can maintain a healthy tongue by developing a few good practices. Firstly, you ought to clean your tongue regularly. There are many ways that you can follow to clean your tongue. You can brush your tongue, use a tongue-scrapper, and a mouth rinse. Ideally, it would be best to combine all three tips to ensure you effectively clean your tongue.
A tongue scrapper can clean the top surface of your tongue. Make sure your scrapper does not have a sharp edge, take out your tongue, and insert the scrapper towards the back of your mouth. Now apply a little pressure and drag the scraper towards the tip. Repeat this action 2-3 times. Use a mouthwash to rinse your mouth correctly to wash off all the debris. Then using your toothbrush clean the sides and base of your tongue. Use the mouth rinse for a final wash.
Staying hydrated, having a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and visiting your dentist regularly to ensure optimal oral health.
Now that you know the importance of maintaining your tongue health, follow the tips to maintain oral hygiene. In case you face any issues or need more information, talk to your dentist. They will be able to do a thorough check-up and share a treatment plan.
Top Tips on Finding the Right Toothpaste
Do you need clarification when looking at so many colourful toothpaste boxes lining the shelves of your grocery store? Well, they are attractive, but how can you decide which toothpaste works best for you? Here are five exciting tips to help you pick the right toothpaste for effective oral care.
Tip 1: Begin your search for toothpaste with a visit to the dentist
You should consult your dentist regularly, not just when you need dental cleanings. No one wants to suffer from tooth ailments. Hence, regularly visiting a dentist is a must, especially when you are looking to make a change in your oral care products. They know what is suitable for your teeth and will be able to guide you in your search for the perfect toothpaste!
Tip 2: Consider the condition of your oral health
Every set of teeth has its customized requirements. So, the oral hygiene products that work for your family or friends may not be suitable for you. It is best to consider your dental health condition before choosing a toothpaste. There is all-in-one toothpaste available off the counter as well as prescription toothpaste that is medically recommended for specific issues.
Once you visit your dentist, they will do a thorough check-up of your teeth and advise you accordingly. People suffering from gum diseases or having the highest likelihood of getting them should use toothpaste that offers gum protection. Similarly, individuals having sensitive teeth need a toothpaste that provides sensitivity relief. If you are using braces and dentures or have the tendency to accumulate plaque, your toothpaste needs to be different.
Tip 3: Consider the ingredients
Toothpaste is made up of many components, but the key ingredient in your toothpaste should be based on your oral care requirement. Here are a few essential ingredients and their benefits in your toothpaste:
Fluoride – Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens the enamel of your teeth.
Abrasive agents – Abrasive agents help clean surface stains and food deposits.
Humectants – Humectants increase your toothpaste’s longevity by preventing water loss and hardening.
Thickeners – Thickeners halt the drying of toothpaste.
Detergents – Detergents help with emulsifying the debris so that it can be loosened and washed away.
Tip 4: Find the right toothpaste based on flavour and texture
Brushing at least two times a day is a must to maintain healthy oral hygiene. This is why it is essential that you like the texture and flavour of your toothpaste. It should not spoil the taste of your mouth. Rather, you should take your pick from fresh mint or fruit-flavoured goodies that will give your mouth a refreshing feel after each brushing.
Tip 5: Natural vs. dentist recommended
There are many home remedies or plant-based products that are used for dental cleanings. However, discussing it with your dental professional before using natural toothpaste is essential. Even if you prefer organic products, not every base is safe for your teeth. Therefore, using the toothpaste your dentist recommends is the safest bet for your oral health.
Regular dental cleanings and a disciplined oral care routine at home are vital. Having the right toothpaste that makes you look forward to brushing twice a day is a great way to maintain oral hygiene. Follow these tips to pick that perfect toothpaste and watch your smile shine!
