Gingivitis is an oral health condition that causes the inflammation of the gum tissue. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to gum disease, including advanced gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth loss, therefore the need to be treated promptly.

Key takeaway:

- Gingivitis can be caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormones and a dry mouth.
- Symptoms include swollen gums, tender gums, bleeding, loose teeth and bad breath.
- Your dentist can treat gingivitis by using several medications depending on your underlying issue.

Schedule regular visits to the dentist in addition to proper oral care at home.

Read more here:
yourdentalhealthresource.com/gingivitis-top-causes-and-how-to-treat-it/

If you need dentures or a bridge, you might talk to your dentist about All-on-Four dental implants. The implants are single replacement teeth that are secured to your jaw, and four implants can be used to stabilise either dentures or a bridge -- so there’s no slippage.

Key takeaway:

•All-on-four implants are designed to replace your missing teeth and improve functionality.
•You need to have enough bone and healthy gums.
•If you have insufficient jaw bone, you might need a bone graft.
•If you have gum disease, getting that problem treated can prepare you for dental implants.

Talk to your dentist about All-on-Four implants if you’re missing a row of teeth.

For more information, read here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/are-you-a-candidate-for-all-on-four-implants/

Temperomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects the jaw joint, has been recognised as a cause of migraines. We now know that the effects of jaw disorders can be felt in other parts of our bodies and not just the jaw or teeth.

Key takeaways:

-  TMJ can cause inflammation and this can develop into migraines.
-  This disorder puts the head and neck under a lot of stress.
-  TMJ and a misaligned bite go hand in hand and can cause unnecessary strain.

If you’re affected by migraines and your doctor cannot figure out the cause, it may be time to have a chat with your dentist.

Read the full story here: https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/understanding-the-link-between-tmj-and-migraines/

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a treatment used to manage the disorder sleep apnoea. Committing to CPAP is essential in preventing serious health problems, but discomfort with CPAP therapy equipment (which involves a mask) can stop people using it every night.

Key takeaways:

-  An oral device may serve as an appropriate alternative, shifting the lower jaw and teeth forward to keep airways open.
-  The device easy to transport, encouraging continued use when away from home.
-  Research indicates people find it easier to comply with the therapy, called Oral Appliance Therapy.

Consult with your dentist if you feel it could benefit you more than CPAP therapy.

"Research shows that oral appliances can work as an effective alternative to CPAP for the majority of patients who suffer from sleep apnoea."

Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-your-dentist-get-you-off-your-cpap/

If you feel anxious about having dental work done, it’s wise to discuss your worries with your dentist. Here’s an overview of the sedatives you may be recommended, with pros and cons.

Key takeaways:

- Light sedation using laughing gas is recommended if you have minor nervousness, and if you need to drive or work after the procedure.
- Oral sedatives help with moderate anxiety, but take a while to wear off.
- General anaesthesia offers complete sedation, but recovery takes longer.

Never postpone a dental appointment due to anxiety of fear – help is available and your teeth and oral health will thank you.

Read the full story here: 

https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/which-type-of-dental-sedation-is-right-for-you/

Do you suspect that you might grind your teeth while sleeping? This is a condition known as bruxism and if left untreated, it can lead to severe damage. What are some of the symptoms which may indicate bruxism?

-  Worn or chipped teeth.
-  Becoming increasingly sensitive to hot or cold foods.
-  Chronic pain in the neck and/or jaw.
-  Morning headaches

"A physical exam can usually tell your doctor or dentist if you or your child have been grinding your teeth."

Learn about some of the causes and treatments for teeth grinding:

https://familydoctor.org/condition/teeth-grinding-bruxism/

Oral care should not be overlooked during the formative teenage years. By maintaining regular dentist visits, teens can be advised on good oral hygiene habits for healthy teeth and gums.

Key takeaways:

-  Braces to straighten teeth help make them easier to clean as well as improve their appearance.
-  Impacted wisdom teeth happen when there is not sufficient room for them to come through and may need dental care.
-  Have your dentist bleach your teeth rather than use products at home, some of which can irritate the gums.

"Bad breath, or halitosis, usually comes from bacteria — but what can you do about it? In many cases, a simple change in your personal or hygiene habits can freshen you up, starting with good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist."

Read the full story here
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/life-stages/teen-oral-care/teen-talk-teen-teeth

We are taught by our parents, and sometimes our dentist, how to brush teeth correctly but many people quickly forget these lessons and begin to brush in the wrong way. This quickly becomes a habit that is very hard to break and can cause untold damage to teeth, gums and overall dental health.

Three basic guidelines to follow are:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use circular motions rather than up and down or back and forth strokes
• Never brush aggressively but use firm strokes

Aggressive brushing causes “notching along the gum line” which can lead to receded gums. Other dental bad habits are listed and discussed at https://www.drlarrystone.com/blog/748-2/

Orthodontic treatments like braces will straighten your teeth, but once they’re removed you must make sure your follow a dental care routine to get long-lasting results.

Key takeaways:

-  Keep your retainer clean by brushing it with a fluoride-based toothpaste.
-  Rinse your mouth twice a day using a rinse that contains fluoride.
-  Choose a soft-bristled tooth brush and ask your dentist about the best brushing technique.

Be consistent with your dental care routine and follow any additional instructions your dentist gives you.

Read the full story here:

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/adult-orthodontics/adult-braces-before-and-after-what-to-expect-when-they-come-off-0714

Research by scientists shows the mouth may house bacteria which causes gut inflammation. The majority of the microbes in the mouth reside on the tongue.

Key takeaways:

-  When the tongue is not cleaned properly bacteria can thrive in the biofilm created.
-  Cleaning the tongue is an important part of an oral care routine and is simple to do.
-  You can use a metal spoon with the bowl face down toward the tongue to gently scrape the tongue clean.

"Do this quick scrape 3-4 times and then spit and rinse. Not only will your mouth be healthier, but many people also find that this increases their ability to taste subtle flavors in foods."

Read the full story here
https://orawellness.com/tongue-cleaning-importance/