The Unexpected Benefits of Wearing a Retainer: Posture, Balance, and Bite Harmony
When most people think about retainers, they picture a plastic device meant to keep teeth straight after braces. But there’s more to these simple tools than meets the eye. Retainers are not just about maintaining a perfect smile—they can also play a surprising role in muscle balance, posture, and long-term health.
If you’ve ever been told to wear your retainer “just at night” or felt tempted to skip it altogether, it’s worth understanding what’s really at stake.
Retainers: More Than Just Straight Teeth
In orthodontics, retainers are typically seen as the final step in treatment. After braces or aligners shift the teeth into place, the retainer holds them steady while the surrounding bone and tissues adapt. But the benefits don’t stop there.
Your teeth, jaw, and bite alignment are connected to the muscles in your face, neck, and even your shoulders and back. When your bite is stable and well-aligned, these muscles can work in balance. When your bite is off—even slightly—it can trigger a chain reaction of tension, imbalance, and compensation throughout the body.
This is where retainers come in as a form of preventative orthodontics, not just maintenance.
The Jaw-Posture Connection
The position of your jaw affects the alignment of your head and neck. If your bite shifts or teeth move out of position, it can subtly alter the way your jaw sits. This, in turn, can influence your posture.
Forward head posture, for example, is a common issue in people whose lower jaw moves back due to bite misalignment. Over time, this posture puts strain on the neck and shoulders, leading to discomfort, stiffness, or even headaches. A properly fitted retainer helps keep the jaw and bite in the correct position, supporting better alignment of the head and neck.
It may not seem obvious that a small piece of plastic in your mouth could affect how you stand or sit—but the body is more connected than we often realize.
Muscle Balance and Bite Harmony
When your teeth are aligned correctly, your jaw muscles work in harmony. But if your bite shifts—if the teeth drift out of alignment or the jaw muscles are forced to compensate—this balance is disrupted.
This muscle imbalance can lead to issues like clenching, grinding (bruxism), or TMJ discomfort. Even mild misalignments can make chewing less efficient, which places extra stress on the muscles involved.
By keeping your bite stable, retainers help maintain this delicate muscle balance. They support what’s known as “bite harmony,” where the upper and lower teeth properly align, and the muscles around the jaw can function without strain.
Balance, Coordination, and the Role of the Jaw
There’s also emerging evidence that jaw position can influence balance and coordination. Studies have shown that occlusal (bite) disturbances can affect body sway and postural control. While more research is needed to fully understand these connections, some physical therapists and dentists are already looking at jaw alignment as part of treatment plans for posture and balance problems.
Wearing your retainer as prescribed helps maintain the bite alignment that supports these subtle but important connections between the jaw and the rest of the body.
Long-Term Benefits You Don’t Want to Skip
Skipping your retainer may not seem like a big deal at first—after all, teeth can move slowly. However, the cumulative effects of even small shifts can add up over time. Misalignment might lead not only to crooked teeth but also to muscle strain, jaw discomfort, poor posture, and even headaches.
By reframing the retainer as more than a cosmetic tool—as a supportive device for muscle balance and bite stability—you can see it for what it really is: a simple, non-invasive way to support your overall health.
The Bottom Line
Retainers aren’t just about keeping your teeth straight. They help maintain bite alignment, support muscle balance, and may even play a role in posture and coordination. Whether you’re fresh out of orthodontic treatment or many years past it, sticking to your retainer routine is an easy but powerful way to invest in your long-term well-being.
So the next time you’re tempted to leave your retainer on the nightstand, remember—it’s doing more than just holding your smile in place.
“Precision Braces. Personalized Results. Available at Ashraf Dentistry
The LightForce System is a breakthrough in orthodontics, using 3D printing and AI-powered treatment planning to deliver fully customized braces for each patient. Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all brackets, LightForce braces are individually tailored to each tooth, offering greater precision, improved comfort, and faster results. With fewer appointments and a more efficient treatment process, LightForce is redefining fixed orthodontics.
Ashraf Dentistry is proud to offer the LightForce System to patients seeking a smarter, more advanced path to a perfect smile.
Contact Ashraf Dentistry today for more information or to schedule a consultation.
The Role of Orthodontic Treatment in Facial Reconstruction and Medical Recovery
Orthodontics is often associated with straightening teeth for cosmetic reasons, but its role goes much deeper—especially in the context of facial reconstruction and medical recovery. For patients recovering from traumatic injuries, congenital conditions, or medical treatments that affect the jaw and teeth, orthodontic care plays a critical part in restoring both function and appearance.
Facial reconstruction is not just about aesthetics; it’s about rebuilding the structural integrity of the face. Whether due to an accident, surgery for cancer, or correction of birth defects like cleft palate, these complex cases often require more than just surgical intervention. Orthodontic solutions help ensure that the bones, teeth, and soft tissues align properly, which is essential for speech, eating, breathing, and overall quality of life.
How Orthodontics Supports Facial Reconstruction
In facial reconstruction, especially after trauma, one of the biggest challenges is jaw alignment. If the jaw is not correctly positioned, it can lead to ongoing pain, difficulty chewing, speech problems, and asymmetry in facial appearance. Orthodontic treatment focuses on repositioning the teeth and sometimes the jawbone itself to achieve proper alignment.
For example, after a severe facial injury where bones are fractured, even if the bones are set surgically, the teeth may no longer fit together properly. This is where orthodontic care becomes vital. Braces, clear aligners, or other appliances can gradually move the teeth back into the correct position, helping the patient regain normal function.
In many cases, general practitioners offering orthodontic services work hand-in-hand with oral and maxillofacial surgeons. This collaborative approach ensures that both skeletal structure and dental positioning are addressed simultaneously, providing the best outcome for the patient.
Correcting Misaligned Teeth After Injury or Surgery
Injuries to the face can cause misaligned teeth, either from direct trauma to the mouth or as a result of the jaw healing in the wrong position. These alignment issues aren’t just cosmetic—they can cause chronic headaches, jaw pain (TMJ disorders), uneven tooth wear, and even difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Orthodontic solutions like braces or aligners help to correct these alignment issues over time. In some cases, specialized appliances like palatal expanders or temporary anchorage devices (TADs) may be used to assist in complex tooth movements. The goal is not only to create a straight smile but also to ensure that the teeth function properly together.
Orthodontics in Recovery from Congenital Conditions
Children born with congenital conditions like cleft lip and palate often require multiple surgeries throughout their early lives. Orthodontic care is typically a key part of their treatment plan. These children may experience misaligned teeth and jaw alignment issues as a result of both the condition itself and the surgeries needed to correct it.
General practitioners offering orthodontic services play a role before, during, and after these surgeries. Early intervention may include the use of expanders or other devices to guide the growth of the jaw and teeth. As the child grows, braces or aligners may be used to fine-tune the positioning of the teeth, ensuring both functional bite and aesthetic balance.
Orthodontic Solutions for Cancer Patients
Patients undergoing treatment for certain head and neck cancers may lose parts of their jawbone or teeth due to surgery or radiation therapy. These procedures can drastically change the structure of the face, often resulting in misaligned teeth and bite problems.
In these cases, orthodontic treatment is part of the broader rehabilitation process. Treatment may involve preparing the mouth for prosthetics like dental implants or dentures or using braces to move the remaining teeth into positions that support function and appearance. The focus is on creating stability and comfort, as well as helping patients regain confidence in their appearance.
Timing and Customization in Orthodontic Care
One of the key aspects of successful orthodontic care in medical recovery is timing. In trauma cases, immediate surgery might be necessary, but orthodontic treatment often follows during the healing phase. In other situations, early orthodontic intervention might help reduce the extent of surgery needed or improve post-surgical outcomes.
No two cases are the same. Treatment plans must be highly individualized, taking into account the type of injury, the patient’s age, their overall health, and their personal recovery goals. This is where the expertise of an experienced general practitioner offering orthodontic services becomes crucial. They can tailor orthodontic solutions to the unique needs of each patient, ensuring that the focus remains on both functionality and aesthetics.
Restoring Function and Confidence
The psychological impact of facial disfigurement after trauma or surgery is significant. People recovering from accidents or medical treatments often struggle with self-esteem and social anxiety due to changes in their appearance. By improving jaw alignment and correcting misaligned teeth, orthodontic care helps restore a sense of normalcy.
When patients can eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile without hesitation, the benefits go beyond the physical. Good orthodontic solutions support emotional healing and can play a major role in a patient’s journey back to health.
Orthodontic treatment is much more intricate than simply straightening teeth—it’s a critical component of facial reconstruction and medical recovery. Whether addressing jaw alignment after trauma, correcting misaligned teeth due to surgery, or supporting long-term healing in congenital conditions, orthodontic care offers essential solutions for restoring both function and appearance. Through personalized orthodontic treatment plans and close collaboration with surgeons and other healthcare providers, general practitioners offering orthodontic services help patients rebuild their lives with strength, stability, and confidence.
“Precision Braces. Personalized Results. Available at Ashraf Dentistry
The LightForce System is a breakthrough in orthodontics, using 3D printing and AI-powered treatment planning to deliver fully customized braces for each patient. Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all brackets, LightForce braces are individually tailored to each tooth, offering greater precision, improved comfort, and faster results. With fewer appointments and a more efficient treatment process, LightForce is redefining fixed orthodontics.
Ashraf Dentistry is proud to offer the LightForce System to patients seeking a smarter, more advanced path to a perfect smile.
Contact Ashraf Dentistry today for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Essential Oral Care Tools to Maintain Orthodontic Treatment
Proper oral hygiene is the foundation of successful orthodontic treatments—especially for patients with traditional metal braces. Brackets and wires create more places for food and plaque to build up, making daily care even more important to prevent gum issues, cavities, and enamel damage along the way.
At Ashraf Dentistry, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the best tools and techniques for keeping your smile healthy during treatment. We’ve taken inspiration from respected oral health guidance on this topic and added our own clinical perspective to help patients stay on track. The right dental care tools not only make cleaning easier but also support the success of the orthodontic solutions we provide to correct misaligned teeth and manage dental crowding.
Drawing inspiration from the Colgate article, Is There a Special Toothbrush for Braces?, here’s our expert take on the essential tools every orthodontic patient should know about—and why they matter. (Source: Colgate, Is There a Special Toothbrush for Braces?, January 9, 2023, https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/is-there-a-special-toothbrush-for-braces ).
Toothbrushes Designed for Braces
Patients with traditional metal braces face unique challenges when it comes to cleaning around wires and brackets. While standard toothbrushes can help, there are specialized toothbrushes designed specifically for braces that provide more thorough cleaning. These brushes often feature V-shaped bristles or orthodontic brush heads that allow easier access around hardware.
Ashraf Dentistry highlights, “A regular toothbrush simply can’t reach all the tricky spots that braces create. We recommend orthodontic-specific toothbrushes for effective plaque removal around wires and brackets. Our team often advises patients to use soft-bristled or electric toothbrushes with special brush heads to ensure gentle yet thorough cleaning. This not only protects the gums but also prevents enamel wear during orthodontic treatments.”
Interdental Brushes and Proxy Brushes
One of the biggest challenges for patients with braces is cleaning between teeth and around brackets, where food particles can easily get trapped. Interdental brushes, also known as proxy brushes, are small brushes specifically designed to fit between teeth and around hardware, helping to clear away debris and reduce plaque buildup.
Ashraf Dentistry shares, “Interdental brushes are a game-changer for maintaining clean spaces between misaligned teeth or tightly spaced areas affected by dental crowding. Our orthodontic team emphasizes the importance of using these tools daily to prevent plaque accumulation that can lead to gum inflammation or white spot lesions. For best results, we recommend selecting the correct brush size for your specific spacing and checking with your general practitioner offering orthodontic services on proper usage.”
Floss Threaders and Orthodontic Floss
Flossing with traditional metal braces can feel nearly impossible without the right tools. Floss threaders and orthodontic floss are designed to make it easier to navigate between teeth and around wires, helping maintain gum health throughout treatment.
Ashraf Dentistry comments, “Flossing is non-negotiable, especially during orthodontic treatments. We consistently educate our patients on how to use floss threaders effectively. These simple yet powerful tools allow the floss to reach under the archwire, ensuring the spaces between teeth stay clean and healthy. Failing to floss can contribute to gum disease and hinder the progress of dental treatment.”
Oral Irrigators (Water Flossers)
Oral irrigators, commonly known as water flossers, utilize a gentle stream of pulsating water to cleanse between your teeth and along the gum line. They are particularly effective for patients with braces, as they can flush out food particles that toothbrushes and floss may miss.
Ashraf Dentistry notes, “Water flossers are an excellent addition to any orthodontic solutions routine. They provide a gentle yet effective way to reduce plaque and improve gum health, especially in hard-to-reach areas around brackets and wires. Many of our patients find water flossers easier to use consistently compared to traditional flossing methods, making them a valuable investment in their oral hygiene during treatment.”
Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouth Rinses
Fluoride remains one of the most important defenses against cavities. For patients with braces, using fluoride toothpaste and rinses helps strengthen enamel and protect against demineralization, which can occur when plaque sits around brackets.
Ashraf Dentistry states, “We cannot stress enough the role fluoride plays in preventing enamel damage during orthodontic treatments. With traditional metal braces, plaque tends to accumulate around brackets, putting patients at higher risk for demineralization and white spots. Using fluoride toothpaste along with a fluoride rinse offers additional protection, ensuring that once the braces come off, patients are left with a beautiful, healthy smile—not just straight teeth.”
Orthodontic Wax for Bracket and Wire Discomfort
Orthodontic wax is an often-overlooked yet essential tool for anyone wearing traditional metal braces. It creates a protective barrier between metal hardware and the delicate and soft tissues in the mouth, reducing irritation and preventing sores.
Ashraf Dentistry highlights, “Orthodontic wax may seem like a small detail, but it makes a huge difference in patient comfort. We always remind our patients to keep wax on hand, especially in the early stages of treatment or after adjustments. Protecting the lips and cheeks from bracket irritation allows patients to stay consistent with their treatment plan without unnecessary discomfort.”
Regular Orthodontic Checkups
While home care is essential, professional checkups are critical to the success of any orthodontic solution. Routine visits allow general practitioners offering orthodontic services to monitor progress, make adjustments, and provide specialized cleaning where needed.
Ashraf Dentistry emphasizes, “No matter how diligent a patient is with their at-home hygiene, regular checkups are key to ensuring that orthodontic treatments stay on track. During these appointments, we can address early signs of gum problems, check for proper cleaning around braces, and make necessary adjustments to the appliance. Our focus is always on supporting long-term oral health alongside successful alignment.”
Orthodontics and Professional Success: Can a Better Smile Lead to Better Job Prospects?
First impressions matter — sometimes more than we’d like to admit. In today’s competitive job market, the way you present yourself can influence hiring decisions, promotions, and even client relationships. While skills and experience remain critical, appearance often plays a role in how competence and confidence are perceived. One often-overlooked factor in this equation? Your smile.
It is well known that orthodontic care — the process of correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues — may do more than just improve oral health. A straighter, healthier smile can also enhance self-esteem and influence how others perceive you professionally. But can orthodontic treatment really make a measurable difference in your career? Let’s take a closer look.
The Smile Factor in First Impressions
It is recognized that people with well-aligned teeth were perceived as more attractive, successful, and approachable. These qualities are valued in various professional settings where communication, leadership, and personal presentation are key.
When we meet someone for the first time — whether in a job interview, networking event, or client meeting — their smile can leave a lasting impression. Orthodontic solutions like clear aligners and Invisalign allow individuals to correct dental issues discreetly, improving both appearance and confidence without the noticeable brackets and wires of traditional braces.
Confidence: The Career Game-Changer
One of the most important benefits of orthodontic treatment is the improvement in self-confidence. When you feel good about your smile, you’re more likely to engage openly in conversations, maintain eye contact, and project assurance — all qualities that contribute to effective communication and leadership presence.
Confidence is essential during job interviews and in workplace interactions. Candidates who speak clearly and smile comfortably often appear more competent and trustworthy. This perception can impact hiring decisions and promotion opportunities, especially in fields that require regular client interaction or public speaking.
Orthodontic care helps correct issues like overcrowding, gaps, and bite misalignment, which may otherwise cause individuals to feel self-conscious. With modern orthodontic solutions like Invisalign and clear aligners, adults can achieve these improvements without interrupting their professional appearance during treatment.
Why Appearance Still Matters in the Workplace
Whether we like it or not, appearance often shapes how others see us — especially in professional settings. A genuine, confident smile can signal approachability, trustworthiness, and professionalism before you even say a word. When your teeth are straight and your smile feels natural, you’re more likely to smile freely, which can create positive energy in interviews, meetings, and client interactions.
Orthodontic treatment helps remove the hesitation many people feel about their smiles. Instead of worrying about how your teeth look, you’re able to focus fully on the conversation, making stronger connections and leaving a lasting, positive impression. It’s not about chasing perfection — it’s about showing up with confidence and feeling good about how you present yourself.
The Rise of Discreet Orthodontic Solutions for Adults
Orthodontic care is now available for individuals of all ages, not just teenagers. A growing number of adults are pursuing orthodontic treatment, often motivated by the desire to improve their professional image. The development of clear aligners like Invisalign has made it more manageable for working professionals to pursue dental correction without the stigma or inconvenience of traditional metal braces.
Clear aligners are custom-made, nearly invisible trays that gradually shift teeth into alignment. They can be taken out for eating, brushing, and important meetings, offering flexibility that fits busy schedules. This discreet approach allows professionals to undergo orthodontic treatment without drawing attention to the process.
Beyond Looks: Health and Communication Benefits
Orthodontic care isn’t solely about appearance. Misaligned teeth can cause speech difficulties and jaw pain and even contribute to chronic headaches. For professionals whose jobs rely on effective communication, these issues can be serious obstacles.
By correcting these problems through orthodontic treatment, patients often find that their speech becomes clearer, chewing is more comfortable, and facial tension decreases. These physical improvements can indirectly support better job performance, especially in communication-heavy roles.
Investing in Yourself: Orthodontic Treatment as Professional Development
We often think of professional development in terms of degrees, certifications, and experience. But investing in your appearance — particularly your smile — can also be part of your career toolkit. Like polishing your resume or practicing interview skills, seeking orthodontic solutions can be a strategic move to enhance the way you present yourself.
Employers and clients frequently make judgments within seconds of meeting someone. While these snap judgments aren’t always fair, they are a reality. A confident, healthy smile can help ensure that those first impressions work in your favor.
The Power of a Confident Smile
While a great smile alone won’t land you the job or secure the promotion, it can play a valuable supporting role. Orthodontic care, whether through Invisalign, clear aligners, or other orthodontic solutions, offers more than cosmetic benefits. It provides the confidence to show up fully, communicate clearly, and engage professionally without hesitation.
In a world where first impressions count, investing in orthodontic treatment may be one more way to align your appearance with your ambition — and give your career the best possible chance to shine.
“Precision Braces. Personalized Results. Available at Ashraf Dentistry
The LightForce System is a breakthrough in orthodontics, using 3D printing and AI-powered treatment planning to deliver fully customized braces for each patient. Unlike traditional one-size-fits-all brackets, LightForce braces are individually tailored to each tooth, offering greater precision, improved comfort, and faster results. With fewer appointments and a more efficient treatment process, LightForce is redefining fixed orthodontics.
Ashraf Dentistry is proud to offer the LightForce System to patients seeking a smarter, more advanced path to a perfect smile.
Contact Ashraf Dentistry today for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Soothing Teething Babies
Teething can be extremely uncomfortable for your little ones. And so, it is vital to use the correct methods to reduce their uneasiness and soothe them. Generally, babies start developing teeth when they are about six months old. The teething process continues till they reach the age of two years.
Teething babies
As per pediatric dentistry, a baby’s teeth development has the five following stages:
- Stage 1: This stage takes place when the babies are between 0-6 months old. Babies are born with a set of twenty teeth that stay below their gums.
- Stage 2: When babies are about six months old, their first teeth – the upper and lower incisors- erupt.
- Stage 3: During 10 to 14 months of age, babies start developing and erupting their primary molars. These teeth emerge in the back of their mouth and can be accompanied by excessive drooling and loss of appetite.
- Stage 4: When babies turn about 16 to 22 months old, their canine teeth will start erupting.
- Stage 5: Finally, at the age of about 25 to 33 months, their large molars erupt, and after that, the teething process concludes.
Here are a few common signs and symptoms of teething in babies:
- Excessive crankiness and irritability
- Swollen and red gums
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite or decreased appetite
- The urge to bite and chew things around them
Safe ways to soothe teething babies
Pediatric dentists recommend the following ways to soothe your teething babies:
- Massage their gums with a wet cloth. It reduces inflammation.
- Feed them cold foods like applesauce, chilled fruits, yogurt, etc. Cold foods give a soothing sensation to their gums and are easier to eat during this time.
- You can also give them cool items like chilled teethers or baby spoons.
- In case your baby is struggling with too much pain or discomfort, ask your pediatric dentist for over-the-counter medications.
Along with using the above soothing methods, it is also essential to avoid the following things:
- Avoid teething instruments like bracelets and necklaces as they have a risk of strangulation or choking.
- Further, you should also avoid herbal products, frozen items, teething gels, and theaters filled with gels. There are no studies in pediatric dentistry that have found these things to be effective. In fact, they can have long-term side effects on your baby’s health.
Caring for babies’ gums and first teeth
A good oral hygiene routine is important for keeping your baby’s gum healthy and strong.
- Start dental care before their first tooth appears. When your baby is roughly three months old, you can gently wipe their gums with a clean cloth twice a day. This will prepare them for brushing once their teeth start growing.
- Once their first tooth appears, you can gently brush it with a soft washcloth.
- Introduce a toothbrush to your baby gradually.
- At Ashraf Dentistry, we recommend scheduling your baby’s first visit to a dentist before they turn one year old. If unsure, you can call your pediatric dentist to discuss your baby’s dental health and schedule a visit accordingly.
So there you have it – the safest ways to soothe teething babies. Make sure to use the methods mentioned above; we are confident they will help your little one feel more comfortable and less cranky.
In case nothing works and your baby has a fever and increased gum soreness, make sure to visit a pediatric dentist. Contact Ashraf Dentistry today for more information.
Why We Should All Fight Sugar Cravings
Many people frequently crave sugar. Healthcare professionals consider sugar cravings a fundamental cause of unhealthy and unbalanced diets.
Why do we crave sugar?
There are numerous reasons why people crave sugar. Some of them include the following:
Stress
Research has shown that long-term stress has a substantial impact on sugar cravings. Eating sugar can give the body a boost of dopamine, giving the impression of a happy feeling. But consuming too much sugar can cause blood sugar levels to become out of balance, which in turn raises stress.
Nutritional deficiencies
The deficiency of nutrients like magnesium, zinc, chromium, calcium, and iron can cause sugar cravings. Eat a balanced diet containing fruits, nuts, vegetables, and lentils to avoid this.
Hormones
Hormones like estradiol, estrogen, and progesterone secretion can cause sugar cravings in women.
Dehydration
Thirst can sometimes be masked as sugar cravings.
Poor diet
Consuming too much processed food and less protein can lead to sugar cravings. Sugar is an addictive substance; therefore, the more you consume, the more likely you are to search for sweet snacks. Sugary items release dopamine and opioids, creating the link between sugar and addiction.
The impact of sugar on our oral health
Sugar is a significant cause of tooth decay along with bacteria in pediatric dentistry. Excess sugar affects the oral health of both kids and adults. The impact of sugar on our oral health includes:
- Sugar attracts two types of bacteria, Streptococcus sorbrinus, and Streptococcus mutans, that feed on it. These bacteria’s create plaque, a colorless, sticky substance on the tooth surface that changes the acidity in the oral cavity. The plaque cannot be rinsed away by brushing or with saliva. It requires professional dental cleaning.
- Processed sugars cause plaque that can dissolve the enamel when the acidity in the oral cavity drops below 5.5. This leads to cavities and tooth decay.
- Sugar can cause gum disease, which can worsen when left untreated and become periodontitis. Periodontitis-causing bacteria have the ability to spread throughout your body, attacking organs like the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Periodontitis-causing bacteria can also build up and lead to blood clots blocking arteries, leading to coronary artery disease.
How to beat sugar cravings
Sugar cravings can be curbed with a little effort and some simple tips, including:
- Have a filling breakfast. Breakfasts with a lot of protein can curb sugar cravings.
- Drink a lot of water because dehydration can cause cravings. To enhance your water’s flavor, add berries, lemon, or something similar.
- Plan all your meals beforehand to avoid blood sugar drops.
- Forgo artificial sweeteners that have been known to boost sugar cravings, like sucralose, saccharin, and aspartame.
- When you have a sugar craving, try to eat something sour. The acidic taste might pique your taste buds and take your mind off sugar.
- Eat turmeric and ginger regularly to avoid insulin resistance.
If you have eaten or drunk something with too much sugar, you can protect your teeth with some simple tips:
- Rinse your mouth properly after eating or drinking something sugary.
- Drink some water after consuming sweets.
- Brush your teeth about 30 to 60 minutes after consuming sweets.
- Chew sugar-free gum.
- Visit a dentist for dental cleanings regularly.
Excessive sugar is a dangerous thing that can affect oral and physical health. Visit your dentist regularly, and speak to your physician. When it comes to kicking sugar to the curb, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Dental Care And Pregnancy
Dental care during pregnancy determines the health of the baby as well as the mother. Let’s find out more about the relationship between pregnancy and oral health and why taking care of your dental health during pregnancy is essential.
Importance of oral care during pregnancy
A couple of studies show the relationship between oral problems and pregnancy complications. The most common link is between gum disease and premature birth. Women with unhealthy gums are up to 7 times more likely to give birth prematurely. Premature babies are often born underweight and continue to face problems in their infancy years.
Pregnancy leads to several physical and emotional changes in women’s bodies. As a result, their dental health can also decline. You should pay particular attention to your oral health during and before pregnancy.
Pregnancy and its effects on the oral cavity
Various dental conditions are common during pregnancy. Fortunately, a qualified dentist can treat most of these conditions, even during pregnancy. For example, dentists can now even perform dental x-rays during pregnancy due to improvements in x-ray technologies.
Pregnancy gingivitis is a common oral issue during pregnancy. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy make the gums more susceptible to plaque. This leads to pregnancy gingivitis – a condition that causes pain and bleeding in the gums.
Cavities and tooth decay are common among pregnant women, mainly due to changed eating habits. People often crave sugary drinks and food during pregnancy. Coupled with poor dental hygiene, this can lead to tooth decay. The mother may even pass the harmful mouth bacteria to the child during or after pregnancy.
Pregnancy tumors refer to big lumps of inflamed gum tissues. While it’s called a tumor, it’s neither malignant nor does it spread. Pregnancy tumors are simply the body’s reaction to food and plaque in localized parts. Women with pregnancy gingivitis are more likely to get pregnancy tumors.
Morning sickness is the overall nauseous feeling many pregnant women have during the first and second trimesters. Morning sickness itself does not damage teeth or gums. However, persistent vomiting can affect the enamel. It can also prevent women from taking care of their dental health, especially in the morning when it’s the most important. Switching to a bland toothpaste can help some people; alternatively, others should attempt at least to rinse their mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash during pregnancy.
Dental habits during pregnancy
Your dental habits shouldn’t change significantly during pregnancy. You must continue to brush and floss twice a day and go for routine dental checkups. However, brushing can be a problem for some pregnant women who feel like throwing up every time they try to brush. Electric brushes can be helpful in such cases. If you don’t feel like brushing due to morning sickness, try a homemade rinse with baking soda and water.
It’s also essential to manage sugar cravings during pregnancy. For example, you can switch to fruit-infused drinks instead of sugary sodas and juices. Also, keep sugar-free snacks handy.
Specific vitamins and minerals can help you maintain oral health during pregnancy. Ask for supplement recommendations from your dentist if you feel you can benefit from them.
Following these steps and suggestions, you can ensure oral hygiene and health during pregnancy. Reach out to your dentist for help with specific pregnancy-related teeth and gum concerns.
TMJ Solutions
Everyone has experienced tooth or jaw pain at some point in their life. But when this pain becomes a constant fixture in your life, it might be the result of an underlying condition called TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint disorder.
What is TMJ
TMJ is a common disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the skull and the jaw bone of your body. Though TMJ can develop at any age, the most commonly affected individuals range between the ages of 20 and 40. Women are also more susceptible to the disease compared to men.
Detecting TMJ/TMD is a bit challenging due to the unavailability of standard tests and widely varying symptoms. The dentist usually notes the physical symptoms and then examines the jaw, neck, face, and head. Diagnosis is also obtained based on X-rays, CTs, and MRI scans.
Causes and Symptoms
Untreated TMJ / TMD can result in serious health issues like inflammation and chronic pain. Additionally, it can lead to tooth erosion, bite problems, and chronic illnesses like insomnia, sleep apnea, anxiety, and depression.
Some ways to help reduce the risk of TMJ/TMD include:
- Practice good posture
- Do jaw exercises regularly
- Massage the jaw muscles
- Avoid chewing gum
- Eat soft foods
- Destress
TMJ Solutions
The majority of individuals with TMJ disorders have minor or recurrent issues, which may go away on their own after a few weeks of home therapy. But in some severe cases, medical care is necessary. The TMJ/TMD solutions offered by dentists at Ashraf Dentistry include the following:
Botox Therapeutics
Though used extensively for smoothing wrinkles, Botox Therapeutics can also be used to treat muscle tension, headaches, and jaw pain. Botox Therapeutics blocks neurotransmitters that cause contractions in muscles. Injecting this form of Botox will help reduce the clenching and grinding of the jaw muscles, thus decreasing the pain and headaches. Neuromuscular communication is restored after three or four months. This is usually preferred by patients who do not want to use nightguards.
Nightguard
A nightguard is a piece of soft or hard plastic resembling a retainer. Since each patient’s teeth are unique, a nightguard is manufactured specifically for them by shaping them to suit their teeth without running the danger of being painful or overly thick. Ashraf Dentistry offers on-site night guard printing. 3-D printing provides higher-quality, cost-effective, and precision nightguards at a more incredible speed. The advantages of wearing nightguards include the following:
- Protect teeth from harm
- Prevents TMJ/TMD
- Eliminates chronic headaches
- Improves sleep
- Cost-effective
Reduce stress
Stress may make people clench their jaw or grind their teeth, causing trauma to the jaw. Try meditation, yoga, or other techniques to relieve stress and relax the jaw muscles.
Try exercising your jaw
Jaw mobility and flexibility can be improved with jaw exercises. The pain and discomfort due to TMD can be eased by stretching, strengthening, and relaxing jaw exercises.
Adjust your posture
Long stretches of time spent sitting in an uncomfortable position can make your jaw pain worse. Always sit upright and provide ample support for your back.
Visit your dentist
In the event of jaw pain or discomfort, see your dentist and follow their instructions.
TMJ/TMD is a disease that requires proper medical treatment. It can be easily treated with a combination of medicines, procedures, and lifestyle changes.
Are you experiencing TMJ symptoms? Contact Ashraf dentistry today!
Common Causes Of Tooth Pain In The Morning
If you are dealing with severe tooth pain in the morning, you are not alone! In the Healthline article, Corey Whelan talks about the seven common causes of tooth pain in the morning. Ashraf Dentistry shares their professional views and commentary on the same.
Seven significant causes of tooth pain in the morning
Bruxism
In the Healthline article, Corey Whelan shares that sleep bruxism causes people to clench their jaws. Bruxism also causes individuals to grind their teeth throughout their sleep cycle. Ashraf Dentistry agrees to this and expresses, “bruxism is also referred to as teeth-grinding. Sleep bruxism is a common cause of toothache in the morning and can result in jaw pain, earache, and headache.”
Sinusitis
In the Healthline article, Corey Whelan claims sinusitis to be a common cause of tooth pain in the morning. Ashraf Dentistry explains, “since sinuses are located just above our teeth, an infection in them can cause teeth sensitivity and pain. Your teeth’ roots are in close proximity and can even extend into the sinus area. The infection can cause pressure on your upper molars when you sleep, causing them to hurt.”
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
TMJ disorder is another common reason for toothache in the morning. Ashraf Dentistry is in agreement and shares, “our temporomandibular joint joins our skull to our jawbone. So, any irritation or inflammation of this joint can cause severe pain. Other symptoms of this disorder include face pain, earache, headache, and migraines. Botox Therapeutics is a service we offer to our patients. Botox Therapeutics can help ease facial nerve pain within a few days and provide extended relief for months. ”
Cavities
Ashraf Dentistry recommends treating cavities as soon as possible. “If left ignored for long, cavities can cause severe teeth decay of the teeth’s inner layer and cause severe pain.” Ashraf Dentistry also suggests following a good dental cleaning routine to keep cavities at bay. Although an at-home routine is essential, visiting the dentist for a thorough checkup and dental cleaning is always recommended. Your dentist will be able to spot any irregularities and therefore offer suitable treatment for your oral health requirements.
Gum disease
Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, can cause swollen gums that can bleed and hurt, says Corey Whelan in the Healthline article. Ashraf Dentistry adds, “in case of delayed gum disease treatment, the situation can turn into severe gum infection. Therefore, causing pain in the jaw bone, severe toothache, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss. In some severe cases, gum disease can also affect chewing behavior, which can also be painful.”
Impacted tooth
As per Ashraf Dentistry, “fully or partially impacted tooth can result in crowded teeth in your mouth and cause mild to severe pain. Proper dental treatment is required to resolve this issue. Treatments can include cosmetic dentistry, braces, Invisalign, or tooth extractions. ”
Tooth abscess
In the Healthline article, Corey Whelan lists tooth abscess as another common cause of tooth pain in the morning. Ashraf Dentistry agrees, “tooth abscesses are pockets of puss that can cause sharp pain in your tooth and gum. Typically the original cause of the abscess is the primary reason for the pain, for example, a cracked tooth or deep cavity. The pulp within a tooth is a combination of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Therefore, any disruption will send signals causing pain. Additional swelling can also cause pressure resulting in sensitivity and pain.”
Tooth pain and gum disease treatment
Besides discussing common causes for tooth pain in the morning, Ashraf Dentistry also suggests some helpful treatment options.
- Gum disease treatment: Ashraf Dentistry says, “there is a variety of gum disease treatments that can help you get rid of your tooth pain. The common ones include dental cleaning, root canal therapy, scaling, dental crowns, soft tissue graft, and more. It is advisable to consult your dentist. After assessing your oral health, they will be able to create the right treatment plan.”
- Botox Therapeutics: This oral health treatment can help you treat issues like trigeminal neuralgia, TMJ disorder, bruxism, migraines, and much more. Botox Therapeutics is not meant for cosmetic procedures. In fact, Botox Therapeutics is strictly designed for treating dental health issues,” says Ashraf Dentistry.
Ashraf Dentistry shares, “dental pain is common and quite uncomfortable. However, with the right dental team at your side and the various treatment options, you can experience relief and get back to enjoying life.”
