The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on each side of the jaw, allowing you to chew and talk. Disorders within these joints may lead to discomfort, including pain. Talk to your dentist to determine the underlying causes to recommend a treatment plan.

Key takeaways:

• Teeth grinding, trauma and a misaligned bite are all potential causes of a TMJ disorder.
• There are many treatment options available for TMJ disorders depending on the cause, including physical therapy, medication, oral appliances (a retainer) and orthodontics.
• Jaw exercises, avoiding chewing gum and massaging the jaw are some of the lifestyle changes which can help reduce the symptoms of a TMJ disorder.

"For those who are able to permanently correct the underlying factors involved in their TMJ, TMJ can be cured. However, for many patients with TMJ discomfort, lifestyle changes and management are the best way to keep inflammation low and promote proper movement in the jaw joints."

Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-tmj-be-cured/

When gums recede, gum tissue pulls away from the teeth making them appear longer. Receding gums can cause pain, sensitivity and inflammation along with exposed tooth roots. In severe cases, gum disease can cause loose teeth.

Key takeaways:

•  Gum disease is a common cause for receding gums and is usually due to a build-up of plaque around the gum tissue.
•  Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently and thoroughly rather than aggressively.
•  Pregnancy can trigger gum disease so it's really important to see a dentist for a check-up if you are pregnant.

If your gums appear swollen, red, seem to be receding or bleed when you brush your teeth, see your dentist. Gum disease is reversible if caught early.

"Many people are surprised to hear that misaligned teeth can actually contribute to gum disease and gum recession."

Read the full article here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/why-do-gums-recede/

Cracks can occur as a result of injury, teeth-grinding and chewing. Sometimes cracks are not visible. You may not be aware of one until you experience pain or sensitivity.

Key takeaways:

• If treated early, minor cracks often require minimal treatment like dental bonding.
• Vertical cracks can compromise the structure of teeth and allow bacteria to enter the inner tooth.
• Cracks typically worsen over time, causing complications.

If you have cracked a tooth, make an appointment to see your dentist.

"If you have a cracked tooth, don’t wait to seek help—it could save your tooth!

Full article:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/does-a-cracked-tooth-have-to-be-fixed/

Chronic dry mouth results from low levels of saliva and can be harmful to teeth and gums. Your dentist can advise you on the ways to treat and prevent chronic dry mouth.

Key takeaways:

• Chronic dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay as saliva helps wash away harmful bacteria and food acids.
• Chronic dry mouth can cause oral thrush as there is a lack of saliva to maintain the correct balance of the natural fungus, Candida albicans.
• Ways to prevent chronic dry mouth include sipping water and chewing sugar-free gum. Also, eat fruits and veggies with high water content.

"Since your risk of chronic dry mouth, tooth decay, and gum disease increase naturally as you age, ensuring proper saliva production is integral to good oral health."

Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/can-chronic-dry-mouth-harm-your-dental-health/

Teeth grinding can be detrimental to your oral health, yet as it can occur during sleep, you may not even realize you grind your teeth. Also called bruxism, your dentist can help determine why you grind your teeth -- and provide treatment.

Key takeaways:

• The pressure on the gums from bruxism may cause gum inflammation and even loose teeth.
• Bruxism can result in tooth sensitivity from damaged tooth enamel, as well as chipped or cracked teeth.
• Teeth grinding puts pressure on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and increases the risk of jaw joint disorders.

"Bruxism can shorten the life of your dental restorations and even lead to a dental emergency due to a broken or damaged restoration."

Read the full story here
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/long-term-impacts-of-teeth-grinding/

Your child’s baby teeth will become loose when the permanent teeth begin to push through. A loose tooth will fall out on its own, but consult with your child’s dentist or childcare specialist if you have any concerns.

Key takeaways:

• If a child’s tooth is very loose and you are worried it could fall out overnight, you may try gently pulling it out.
• You can encourage your child to wriggle a tooth with their tongue to naturally help loosen it further.
• Do not force a loose tooth out, especially if it causes pain when your child wriggles the tooth.

"The baby tooth needs time to work its way out as the permanent tooth comes in, and you should never force this process."

Read the full story here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/should-you-pull-your-childs-loose-tooth/

Routine dental care, including regular dentist appointments, helps prevent common oral health issues. It can also help keep teeth and gums looking healthier longer.

Key takeaways:

• Regular professional teeth cleaning from a dentist removes plaque which can be hard to reach through brushing alone.
• A dentist can identify the early risk of conditions like heart disease from certain oral health problems.
• Regular dental check-ups identify and treat issues early before they become costly emergencies.

"Your dentist will also screen for oral cancer during your visit, which can help you catch the disease early for a simpler treatment."
Read the full story here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/why-routine-dental-care-is-so-important/

Not every problem with the teeth and gums can be treated by your regular dentist. Dental implants, for example, are often carried out by specialists with more experience than family dentists in this area of dentistry. When choosing a dental implant specialist it is important to choose wisely and pick the one who provides:

• Wide-ranging services including implant surgery
• Proof of experience
• Proper planning, scheduling and communication

Quite apart from the actual implant surgery it is also important to choose a dentist with whom you feel relaxed and peaceful and comfortable with placing your treatment in his or her hands. Have you got a special day on the horizon such as a wedding or a graduation? Get the smile you deserve with the right implant specialist.

Read more at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/top-3-qualities-perfect-dental-implant-specialist/

A dental implant is held in place by a post screwed into the jawbone. A bridge is supported by metal posts placed close to the missing tooth. This system may be preferable as it:

• Allows the dentist to use areas of stronger bone
• Spreads the strain on the new tooth and surrounding teeth
• Is stronger than a single dental implant

In cases where one or more teeth are missing in a row or the dentist finds that the gum tissue or bone density below the missing tooth is not suitable for a dental implant, an implant supported bridge is often the best solution to the problem.

Read more detailed information at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-is-an-implant-supported-bridge/

If plaque is allowed to build up on your teeth, the acid it creates can attack tooth enamel. It can irritate gums and lead to gum disease.

Key takeaways:

Brush and floss teeth twice daily to remove food debris and plaque.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to reduce build-up.
If allowed to harden, plaque forms tartar which must be removed by a dentist.
If you experience swelling or sore gums, this is often a sign of gum disease.

"Although plaque can certainly harm teeth and gums, it also affects your tooth roots..."

More here:
https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/how-does-plaque-cause-gum-disease-and-decay/