8 Ways to Maintain Healthy Gums

8 Ways to Maintain Healthy Gums

 

Even if you brush your teeth regularly, there is still a chance of facing an episode of tooth decay. Such a dental problem is most likely the result of gum disease.

These infections are commonly known as periodontal diseases and can damage your jawbone and cause tooth loss. In fact, these oral health issues can also increase the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases by 19%.

As scary as they sound, you should know that gum or periodontal diseases are preventable. So, what is the best solution to stay safe from these conditions?

Well, you need to follow specific tips to maintain healthy gums. This blog lays down all the vital steps you can implement without hassle.  

 

#1 Stay Consistent in Flossing

Bacteria in your mouth form a sticky substance known as plaque. This film accumulates on the teeth surface, leading to the production of acids after you consume food.

This acid can destroy the outermost layer of your teeth, causing cavities. In addition, you can also face the issue of gum disease. So, to prevent plaque formation, you should include flossing regularly.

In most cases, flossing after lunch and dinner can prove effective. 

 

#2 Develop a Systematic Brushing Routine

If you brush your teeth properly, it will also be possible to maintain healthy gums. Here are some valuable tips to follow in this regard:

  • Do not press the toothbrush forcefully
  • Brush with a 45-degree angle with respect to your gums
  • Clean the inside part of your teeth vertically
  • Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles
  • Make short strokes for cleaning plaque and tartar

Overall, these little habits can refine your brushing output considerably.

 

#3 Use a Fluoride-based Toothpaste

Maintaining healthy gums comes down to the choice of your brushing material. While a toothbrush with soft bristles elevates gentle motions, a fluoride-rich toothpaste helps fight cavity formation.

Fluoride is well-known for building strong bones and teeth. It can also reverse dental caries and makes the enamel more resistant.

This way, you build healthy minerals in your mouth, countering bad bacteria that can attack the tooth line. Hence, fluoride in your oral health routine can contribute to solid gum health.

 

#4 Do Not Forget to Rinse Properly

By proper rinsing, it becomes crucial to understand these pointers:

  • Avoid rinsing too much after brushing: This tactic can help prevent the fluoride on your teeth from getting washed away
  • Rinse after every meal and snack: After eating food, thorough rinsing can help flush the particles and bacteria from your mouth

These two tips have a positive effect on your gums. So, it becomes crucial to follow a proper rinsing routine to avoid dental worries.

In addition to a sufficient emphasis on rinsing, you can also add a suitable mouthwash to your schedule. Therapeutic mouthwash helps reduce the build-up of tartar and harmful bacteria. Also, such a product can help reduce bad breath and gingivitis.

 

#5 Eat Right for Good Gum Health

Food plays a massive role in maintaining good oral hygiene. One of the basic rules for preventing the growth of bad bacteria is to limit the intake of refined sugar.

Hence, you should avoid eating the following items:

  • Lollipops
  • Soft drinks
  • Caramels
  • Preserved fruit juices
  • Sodas
  • Alcohol

If you cannot eliminate these items completely, ensure limiting their consumption. On the contrary, some foods support gum health. Here is a handy list of such products:

  • Milk
  • Fresh vegetables
  • Water
  • Green tea
  • Nuts
  • Whole grains

Ensure that you include these items regularly in your diet. Also, drinking green tea can help counter periodontal diseases as it limits bad bacterial growth.

 

#6 Do Not Indulge in Smoking

Here is a straightforward fact — smoking can cause severe gum disease (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

So, apart from reducing the premature death risk, you have one more reason to quit this lethal habit. Here are some warning signs indicating that your gums are deteriorating due to smoking:

  • Swelling or inflammation in the gums
  • The feeling of loose teeth
  • Pain during chewing
  • High sensitivity

It is thus crucial to eliminate this habit altogether. However, in extreme cases, you should counter the ill effects with regular flossing, brushing, and other handy tips.

 

#7 Carry Out Gum Massaging

A good massage is not just beneficial for your scalp. In fact, this simple activity can help the circulation in your gums as well.

In addition to increasing circulation, here are other advantages that you can receive from a massage:

  • The process helps remove food particles
  • It can remove debris in between the teeth
  • You can ease inflammation or sore gums
  • It is possible to locate any chips or cracks 

A gum massage can help prevent dental issues as you become aware of your dental state. So, maintaining your gums becomes simpler with this handy inclusion.

 

#8 Choose Dental Cleaning Services

Finally, professional dental cleaning from a reliable dentist can help prevent gum diseases. Experts have the knowledge to detect any underlying issue in your mouth.

Consequently, they can remove tartar and plaque and suggest practical routine tips and products. Also, you can reverse the ill impact of problems like gingivitis through such cleaning sessions.

The choice of dental clinic proves vital to receive the best cleaning experience. So, choose an authentic and experienced dental expert to take advantage of such sessions. After all, these services can help prevent health-oriented complications.

 

In a Nutshell

Most of the tips to maintain healthy gums begin at your home. Also, the methods are straightforward and do not consume much of your time.

Remember to brush, floss, and rinse appropriately to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Also, fluoride toothpaste, a brush with soft bristles, and gum massaging prove instrumental.

Choosing proper food items is also important to keep bad bacterial growth under control. Aim to consume foods like vegetables, green tea, and nuts. Also, you should limit or eliminate the intake of sweetened foods containing sugar.

Finally, a dental cleaning package from reliable dentists in Queen Anne, Seattle can help prevent periodontal diseases. So, ensure that you choose an experienced oral health expert to receive top gum maintenance sessions

Professional Teeth Cleaning: What Are the Benefits?

Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly might be your go-to oral hygiene routine. However, is this routine sufficient to keep away all your dental worries?

The answer lies in a grey area and has a close relation to proper cleaning techniques. On a regular basis, good dental hygiene habits like brushing and flossing will prevent most teeth-oriented worries. Still, a periodic professional cleaning can enhance your oral health.

So, what does a consistent visit to your nearby dentist offer? Do you really benefit from such a service in the long term?

Explore this blog, which enlists all the vital advantages of professional-level teeth cleaning services.

 

The Main Benefits of Availing Tooth Cleaning Services

For optimum oral health, you should follow a reliable dentist’s suggestions and undergo an intensive cleaning process. Such activity will offer all or most of the following advantages.

 

1. Early Detection of Tooth Problems

In some cases, you might not notice a growing cavity or abnormality inside your mouth. Also, keeping track of dangerous wisdom tooth growth is challenging.

Despite your systematic in-house hygiene, it is challenging to detect several tooth problems. A professional tooth cleaning service proves beneficial in this case.

During such a process, your dentist will conduct the following evaluations:

  • Visual inspection
  • Proximity checks
  • X-ray analysis

Such an in-depth assessment before teeth cleaning will help the professional identify underlying tooth problems. So, the dentist can take adequate measures to prevent further complications of your teeth, gum, or jaws.

 

2. Prevention of Bad Breath

Plaque or unclean teeth are some common causes of bad breath. However, you can still face this condition due to some other reasons:

  • Consumption of foods like garlic and spices
  • Consistent smoking
  • Xerostomia (dry mouth)
  • Oral infection
  • Cancers or other metabolic diseases

Following general household measures to prevent bad breath can seem a viable option. Still, a professional diagnosis will help understand the exact cause and avoid the occurrence of such an unpleasant condition.

You might use the best toothpaste or related product to refresh your mouth. Still, professional teeth cleaning process can elevate the condition of your oral health to a great extent.

This way, preventing bad breath and maintaining a healthy mouth free from problem-causing bacteria becomes comparatively easy.

Notably, your dentist will use the most suitable products to help indirectly deal with issues like bad breath.

 

3. Solve Dental Issues Like Plaque

In simple words, plaque is the sticky material or substance that builds up in your mouth due to food particles.

This substance contains bacteria and can lead to the following major problems:

  • Gum disease
  • Tooth decay

During a professional teeth cleaning procedure, your dentist will use a scalar to remove the plaque and tartar around the gum line. In addition, an experienced professional will also scan plaque build-up between your teeth.

In this process, you will notice a scraping sound. Overall, such a procedure will help you get rid of the sticky material, leading to fine-tuning your oral hygiene.

 

4. Avoid Gum Diseases

The poor state of oral hygiene is one of the most prominent reasons for periodontal diseases. The rise of bacteria and plaque in your mouth can cause inflammation of your gums.

These signs are well-known characteristics of gum disease:

  • Swollen and reddish-colored gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth (in severe cases)

The best way to avoid such a harmful dental condition is by following exceptional oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are some helpful household habits.

Still, periodic professional teeth cleaning service allows your dentist to assess slightly intricate areas. During this process, your dentist can reach inaccessible regions of your mouth, thereby removing plaque easily. So, the eventual benefit of this procedure will be the prevention of gum diseases.

 

5. Enhance Your Smile

Stained teeth are the leading reasons for low self-esteem. After all, you wouldn’t want a smile revealing poor oral health or a yellow appearance.

Professional teeth cleaning services from a reputed dentist can avoid this situation. Consider such a procedure as a polishing technique to remove stains on your tooth surface.

In most cases, the dentist will use an electric brush with high-power intensity. Also, you can choose the flavor of the toothpaste for this procedure. Generally, these toothpaste are more consistent and scrub the teeth layer profoundly.

In addition, expert dentists take extra caution to protect your enamel during this process. The result — a bright smile with phenomenal confidence and elevated dental hygiene.

 

6. Reduce the Chances of Cavities

Cavities or tooth decay can be an irritating condition. However, rather than rectifying them after their onset, you can prevent their occurrence through professional teeth cleaning.

Here are the stages of cavity formation:

  • Formation of plaque
  • Attack on the outer enamel
  • Bacteria reaching dentin
  • Destruction of pulp
  • Pain and swelling of the tooth

Professional teeth cleaning addresses the very first stage of cavity formation. It solves plaque issues and thereby decreases the probability of tooth decay.

However, you should not rely on professional teeth cleaning entirely. It is necessary to continue good habits like brushing, flossing, and gargling on a daily basis.

 

7. Improve Oral Hygiene and Overall Health

A healthy mouth is directly proportional to a well-functioning body. This line might seem obvious. Still, there are direct correlations between oral and overall hygiene.

Here are some of the crucial pointers to understand:

  • Gum diseases can lead to increased heart attack risks (the bacteria can narrow your arteries, causing coronary heart disease)
  • Bad bacteria present in the mouth can travel to the lungs, thereby causing pneumonia
  • Gum infections may also cause premature labor

Professional teeth cleaning aims to prevent gum diseases. In addition, this procedure eliminates plaque and bad bacteria. So, your overall health can improve in multiple facets.

 

What Does a Dentist Do During Professional Tooth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning is not an overly complex process. In fact, you can walk into a dental clinic and experience a painless procedure from a well-versed dental professional.

Generally, professional teeth cleaning steps can vary per your dentist’s preferences and expertise. Still, in most cases, this procedure follows a systematic plan:

  • Physical evaluation: Your dentist will examine the state of your entire mouth. For this purpose, the dental hygienist can use a small mirror to gauge cavities or plaque in your mouth. Later, there will be a discussion about the next course of action
  • Plaque removal: In this stage, the dentist gets rid of dangerous plaque with the help of appropriate tools. In case you have tartar, this cleaning process becomes more vital. Usually, a scaler proves as a reliable option for most dentists
  • Professionallevel cleaning: In this step, your orthodontist or dentist will use suitable toothpaste or cleansing agent to clean your teeth. Next, this professional can also combine this process with a thorough flossing
  • Rinsing stage: This step includes rinsing your mouth thoroughly with a fluoride-based solution. Notably, you will experience getting rid of debris and other material from your mouth
  • Fluoride treatment: This is the final step of professional teeth cleaning procedure. In this stage, your dentist will apply a fluoride protectant that safeguards your teeth from cavities for a specific duration. In most cases, the gel remains on your teeth for one minute before it hardens. You can start eating or drinking as per your dentist’s instructions

All in all, professional teeth cleaning comprises five to six simple steps. Your dentist will use all the approved materials to transform your dental condition. Still, you can brainstorm about the exact process for better clarity.

For most people, undergoing professional dental cleaning is a routine activity. The frequency of teeth cleaning at a reliable dental clinic can be at least twice a year.

Your dental experts can suggest an X-ray scan once annually. Teeth cleaning for children can be a tad different than that for adults. For instance, dentists can recommend using molar sealants as per their diagnosis. So, be sure to discuss all the main pointers before undergoing the useful process.

Notably, you will feel more relaxed as the frequency of your visits for routine maintenance keep increasing. So, ensure that you do not skip professional teeth cleaning to prevent complications and dental disorders.  

 

In A Nutshell

Visiting your dental hygienist for professional teeth cleaning can prove to be an advantageous decision. Availing yourself of such a service will lead to an improvement in your oral hygiene.

Teeth cleaning from an expert dentist can help remove harmful bacteria, prevent gum diseases, and reduce the probability of tooth decay. Eventually, you will develop a fresh breath and notice a beautiful smile due to sparkling teeth.

One of the most significant benefits of this procedure is the early detection of dental problems. As your dentist evaluates the oral condition, it becomes easy to identify ongoing or underlying teeth issues.

So, ensure that you visit a nearby dentist for full-proof professional teeth cleaning service. After all, experts in this domain will offer the best service and help elevate your oral hygiene immensely.

Ways to Take Control of Your Dental Health Today

You might hit the gym daily or play a sport to improve your physical health. Meditating and doing things you love is great for your mind. But have you thought about your dental health? 

If you want to have a million-dollar smile and stay away from dental issues, dental care is a must. You can begin your dental care journey by taking simple steps like brushing daily, flossing, and eating healthy. 

Feeling overwhelmed about where to begin? Here are some effective strategies to take charge of your dental well-being today!  

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

When you begin talking about dental care, it starts with a basic step – brushing your teeth. You just can’t go around this step, which lays the foundation for better oral health.

But how many times should you brush?

As a rule of thumb, you should brush after every meal or whenever you eat something. Even if brushing after every snack is not feasible, make sure to do it twice daily. This straightforward step will keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Moreover, it will prevent food from being stuck between your gums and teeth. You can also stay away from gum problems and issues like bad breath. So, brushing can improve your personality! 

The process might seem easy, but here are a few tips to do it right –

  • Avoid brushing aggressively and do it slowly
  • Brush in circular motions covering the entire region – front, top and back
  • Continue this process for at least 2-3 minutes   

 

  2. Floss Daily

Do you think that brushing is the ultimate dental care technique? Not exactly, as the practice of brushing daily still has some room for improvement. This is because some food particles might stay behind in your teeth even after brushing properly.

You might not always successfully reach and clean these areas using a toothbrush. That’s when flossing will help you. It is yet another simple technique that enables you to remove food stuck between your teeth.

It is helpful as you can clean the areas which might stay neglected while brushing. Moreover, flossing removes trapped food particles and debris to prevent plaque.

Flossing can also help you avoid gum diseases like gingivitis and tooth decay. So, make it a habit to floss before bed every day. 

This way, you can clean out the remnants of the food you had all day. That’s why the American Dental Association states that flossing and brushing are more effective than brushing alone.    

3. Keep Your Tongue Clean

When focusing on your teeth and gums, you might ignore an essential area of your mouth, the tongue.

The remnants of many food particles, substances, and even bacteria accumulate on your tongue’s surface. This debris can lead to you having a coated tongue and not looking very presentable. Plus, it is not very hygienic for your dental well-being.

To get rid of bacteria, dead cells and food particles, you must clean your tongue daily. You can use the tongue scrapper at the back of your toothbrush. Alternatively, you can get a separate tongue scrapper to keep your tongue free from dirt.

There are multiple advantages of a clean tongue –

  • Avoid embarrassing situations of having foul breath
  • Prevent the white or yellow coating on your tongue
  • Properly distinguish between sweet, salty and bitter tastes
  • Improve your tongue’s appearance
  • Reduce the possibility of tooth decay and plaque

4.Choose a High-Quality Toothpaste 

Your toothpaste is another essential factor in deciding your oral hygiene. If you’ve been using regular toothpaste without putting much thought into it, it’s time to think differently.

Most toothpaste brands claim to ward off dental issues like plaque and cavities successfully. But it is not always the case. It all boils down to the ingredients present in a particular toothpaste. Further, the composition of each ingredient is also crucial.

So, the best move will be to choose top-quality toothpaste for brushing daily. The main ingredient to focus on is fluoride. It is a naturally occurring mineral that improves dental health and kills bacteria.

As you can understand, the ingredient is also beneficial in fighting cavities and dental decay.

So, before purchasing fluoride-based toothpaste, check the ingredient amount in the labeling. Ideally, a good quality toothpaste must contain 1,350 to 1,500ppm of fluoride. This measure is suitable for adults and children over seven years.

However, make sure to properly rinse out the toothpaste after brushing. Swallowing fluoride can be harmful and may cause side effects.  

5.Have a Balanced and Nutritious Diet 

You need to eat the foods appropriate for your teeth to protect them in the long run. Including nutritious fruits and vegetables in your diet is the key. So, instead of foods loaded with sugar, have fresh juicy fruits filled with vitamins.

Heard of the “having an apple a day to keep the doctor away” technique? Well, it actually works as apples or pears are fibrous and increase the salivation inside your mouth. It helps clean your teeth, so there are fewer visits to the clinic! 

Crunchy fruits can neutralize the malic and citric acids that remain after you consume something. Similarly, crunchy vegetables like spinach, kale and lettuce also keep your teeth clean. These vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, calcium and folic acid, which are ideal for teeth and gums.   

Further, vegetables like celery are also crispy and take a lot of chewing. It cleans your teeth and stimulates the saliva flow in the mouth. Other foods suitable for your teeth include cheese, yogurt, milk, fatty fish, nuts, meat and whole grains.     

6.Limit Caffeine Consumption 

It’s normal to begin your day with a steaming cup of coffee. But do you know that caffeine isn’t good for your teeth? 

Don’t worry, as you don’t necessarily have to stop consuming coffee. But, you need to reduce your consumption.

Some people may drink 5 to 6 cups of coffee throughout the day. It can negatively affect their enamel, as dark-colored drinks like coffee can stain your teeth. As a result, coffee will create yellowish or brownish marks on the teeth, which don’t look pretty at all.

Coffee is also acidic, damaging your enamel and the surrounding gums. Along with causing gum problems, it can also lead to tooth decay and cavities.

So, you must restrict the coffee lover in you for the sake of your beloved teeth. Having up to two cups of coffee daily will suffice. Also, make sure to drink water and brush right after.

Tip: Drink coffee with a straw, so it doesn’t touch your teeth too much.    

7.Stop Smoking 

Smoking can lead to various problems, like cardiovascular and respiratory issues. It also weakens your immune system, hindering tissue healing and cell generation. Moreover, smoking affects the tissues inside your mouth, along with damaging your teeth and gums.

This bad habit can also lead to dental decay, tooth discoloration, and weakened enamel. According to the CDC, smoking is the primary cause of gum diseases like swollen gums, bleeding and reddened gums. 

So, it’s high time you quit the habit for better dental and overall physical well-being.    

You can seek medical consultation to understand the steps to quit smoking permanently. Anti-smoking medicines and chewing gums might also be effective.   

8.Visit a Dentist Frequently

Last but not least, it’s essential to visit a dentist to get your teeth checked once in a while. Instead of going for a check-up while suffering from decay or bleeding gums, schedule a visit earlier.

Regularly visiting the dentist will allow you to talk about your dental complications and worries. The dentist can look at your problems and check the condition of your teeth and gums. Further, the doctor might recommend dental X-rays and comprehensive examinations.

These tests can help the dentist detect early signs of gum problems, cavities and even oral cancer. It will also be convenient to address the issues before they worsen.

So, talk to your dentist today and schedule an appointment. Visiting the dental clinic every six months is ideal. However, this frequency might depend on your medical history, dental health and age.

Parting Thoughts  

Maintaining a dental care routine is essential to your oral health. So, you must not miss brushing, flossing, and having a nutritious diet. Also, try reducing the consumption of sugary junk foods and beverages.

Drinking 7 to 8 glasses of water every day is also vital to keep your mouth clean. It can remove stuck food particles and regulate salivation. However, consult a dentist to understand the detailed steps and guidelines to level up your dental hygiene.    

 

Should I Use a Mouthwash?

If you have been to the supermarket recently, you must have come across a dizzying number of different mouthwashes. After a while, you might have picked up a bottle and thought, “is mouthwash really necessary?”

There isn’t a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer to this question. According to the American Dental Association, using mouthwash may offer additional benefits. But it is not a substitute for optimal dental hygiene habits like brushing and flossing. 

This answer might seem a bit confusing. So we will explain the ins and outs to you. that way you will be better informed regarding whether or not you really need to purchase a mouthwash the next time you go to the supermarket. 

What Counts as Optimum Dental Hygiene Habits?

What activities count in an excellent daily dental routine? Here they are:

  • Brushing twice a day
  • Flossing daily

That’s it. The minimum requirement to maintain your teeth is to follow the above regular brushing and flossing routine.

Having said that, rinsing with a mouthwash can offer additional benefits. Here are the main benefits of using a mouthwash:

  • Offers clean and fresh breath
  • Prevents periodontal disease (gum disease)
  • Soothes canker sores
  • Reduces the risk of tooth decay

The above are all examples of the extra protection you can get from a mouthwash. Once again, mouthwash is not mandatory, but it can be a very nice addition to an existing dental hygiene regimen (assuming it is good). 

Mouthwash Can Prove Useful

The benefits of using a mouthwash is secondary to brushing and flossing. However, here are some more additional benefits apart from treating bad breath:

  • Addressing dry socket
  • Treating tooth sensitivity
  • Addressing the issue of dry mouth
  • Killing harmful bacteria
  • Removing plaque

A mouthwash can take care of these issues partially. 

How to Use a Mouthwash?

You can include mouthwash in your daily routine if you want this additional protection. However, you should not simply pick up any product and use it at any time of the day.

Following a specific routine can amplify the effectiveness of using mouthwash:

  • Clean your teeth thoroughly via brushing and flossing
  • Wait for around 30 minutes after brushing
  • This waiting period allows the fluoride in your toothpaste to strengthen your teeth
  • After a decent duration, rinse your mouth with a mouthwash
  • Gargle the mouthwash at the back of your throat and spit it out
  • Use it after lunch or dinner at your convenience

This routine can result in an effective surface cleaning of your mouth and teeth. However, there is no alternative to brushing and flossing for maintaining good dental health.

Choose a Safe Mouthwash Brand

Incorporating the usage of mouthwash in your daily routine also calls for the proper choice of mouthwash.

Choose a mouthwash with no alcoholic content to reduce any side effects like irritation of canker sore. Best to choose mouthwashes with an American Dental Association (ADA) seal.

On the other hand, you can use herbal or natural mouthwashes. In such cases, always read the certification and adherence to safety regulations.

Alternatives to Using Mouthwash

If you don’t opt to use a mouthwash, there are other options available besides regular brushing and flossing. Here are some standard techniques for good dental hygiene:

  • Rinsing your mouth with salt water
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Consuming parsley
  • Using a safe chewing gum

In addition, you can even use oils made of lemongrass, clove, or peppermint. All these alternatives can help reduce bad breath. Also, rinsing with water can help flush out the debris after brushing and flossing.

In a Nutshell

Mouthwash is not a replacement for routine brushing and flossing. It can work as a good auxiliary dental hygiene item.

You need to follow a specific routine to maximize the positive impact of using a mouthwash. This routine includes rinsing your mouth after a specific gap post brushing. Also, you can use a mouthwash after every meal if convenient.

Try always to buy a mouthwash that has an ADA seal of acceptance. Also, watch for the alcohol content in the product. Following these tips will prove helpful in maintaining a safe dental hygiene routine.

So, if you want to boost your dental health regime, using a mouthwash can prove a useful option.  

 

Sources:

https://www.ada.org/resources/research/science-and-research-institute/oral-health-topics/mouthrinse-mouthwash

https://time.com/4267890/gingivitis-mouthwash-toothpaste/

https://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/to-mouthwash-or-not-to-mouthwash.aspx

https://www.vividsmiles.com/blog-posts/is-mouthwash-necessary-for-my-oral-health-what-you-need-to-know

https://www.westenddental.com/blog/is-mouthwash-necessary/

https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/adult-orthodontics/should-you-use-mouthwash-before-or-after-brushing

 

How To Get Rid Of Bad Breath

Bad breath has an established clinical term. It’s halitosis. And, for those suffering from it, the condition can cause many dental complications and be a source of embarrassment.

The Colgate-Palmolive company consolidated a few studies around halitosis. The brief review states that 1 in 4 people have bad breath, with nearly 60 million US citizens suffering from chronic halitosis.

Having stated that, it’s easy enough to see that the condition is not a minor dental issue. So, before you learn how to get rid of bad breath, you first need to understand its primary causes.

What are those causes, you ask? Well, continue reading to know more.

What can cause bad breath?

source of bad breath

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Infrequent brushing and flossing contribute to the buildup of oral bacteria, which leads to a foul odor. However, some external sources can compound the issue. Chief among them is the use of tobacco products.

Besides increasing the risk of cancer and gum infections, frequent tobacco usage stains the teeth and causes plaque and tartar buildups. That alone can cause bad breath without even factoring in general cigarette odor.

Garlic and onions are two other contributors here. Still, it’s important to note that both are nutritional powerhouses that contain essential vitamins. Moderating your consumption and following it up with a good rinse would be the ideal way to strike a balance.

Digestive problems or conditions such as pericoronitis and tonsilitis can also be causal factors for halitosis. Additionally, antihistamines (allergy medicine) can dry up saliva, which can naturally resist plaque buildup. 

Consolidating everything, it’s evident that there’s no end to the things that can cause bad breath. The only way to combat it is to establish a strict oral hygiene routine and stick to it. Besides the immediate benefits, you will also develop better oral health over time.

Tips to get rid of bad breath

Outlining and maintaining a good oral hygiene plan takes a little research and a dash of consistency. Consulting a dentist will give you a more comprehensive perspective on the same. However, there are some things you can start doing on your own.

  1. Brush and floss daily

how to get rid of bad breath

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Plaque acids are known to cause bad breath and, if not cleaned for long, can lead to cavities and gingivitis.

So, make brushing and flossing a daily habit. Ideally, you should brush twice and floss at least once a day. If you are particularly concerned about mouth odor, you can brush your teeth thrice daily. However, it’s vital to be gentle while doing it. Brushing too hard can damage your teeth in some cases. 

It would also help if you change your toothbrush once every two to three months. Prolonged usage wears a toothbrush down and renders it ineffective in cleaning your mouth.

  1. Pick the right mouthwash and rinse often

Product packaging is always a factor that influences consumer choice. When it comes to dental care, it’s critical to avoid this.

The next time you’re out buying mouthwash, look for ones with mint or zinc salts. Mint directly fights mouth odor, while zinc reduces the sulfurous compounds usually found in your breath.

Research shows that regularly rinsing with zinc-based solutions can counteract halitosis for up to 6 months.

When choosing a mouthwash, you must ensure that it advocates more than just fresh breath. The solution must also be able to eliminate oral germs. Without that, mouthwashes will only be effective for an hour or two.

Post-meal rinsing with salt and warm water can help as well. Warm salt water balances the acidity levels in your mouth and flushes away any harmful bacteria.

  1. Drink more water and keep your mouth from drying up

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A dry mouth often enables the buildup of plaque. Saliva is the natural defense against this. However, conditions such as xerostomia can reduce the functioning of your salivary glands. You must increase your daily water intake if you face such a condition.

Dentists also recommend chewing sugar-free gums as they stimulate the release of saliva in your mouth. Either way, ensure that you are well hydrated at all times.

  1. Adopt a healthier diet

A protein-rich diet can be more challenging for your body to digest. Consequently, unmetabolized proteins release sulfurous gasses, which build up and cause recurrent instances of oral odor.

The same goes for coffee. When roasted, coffee beans produce sulfurous compounds, which can lead to halitosis. Sugar is another offender here. Harmful oral bacteria use sugar to produce particular acids that can cause bad breath. 

It would be best if you adopted a more balanced diet to manage all of that better. Include more fruits, vegetables, and herbs in your meals. For instance, fresh parsley and basil can deodorize and counteract the symptoms of sulfur compounds. 

  1. Use a tongue cleaner

tongue cleaner for bad breath

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The tongue, specifically the back end, plays host to significant concentrations of bacteria. Regularly cleaning that area while brushing can help mitigate any foul odor. 

You can also invest in a good tongue cleaner to make the process easier. Note that applying excessive force while cleaning your tongue can damage it. It’d be best to consult your dentist before opting for such an accessory.

If you get one, ensure that you are gentle while you clean your tongue.

What else do you need to know?

Multiple home remedies can help with bad breath. Some of them include:

  • Chewing fresh or roasted anise and fennel seeds
  • Consuming pineapple or oranges

 

Some homemade remedies include rinsing with baking soda or vinegar solutions. While they may be effective as a short-term method, consistent use of such solutions can damage your tooth enamel.

Before employing any DIY remedies, you must cross-reference everything with a medical expert.

Wrapping up

Contrary to popular belief, clean teeth do not necessarily indicate good oral hygiene. Bad breath, gum infections, and tooth decay are inter-linked oral issues that you can easily avoid with a comprehensive dental care routine.

Additionally, regularly consulting a dentist will help you manage chronic oral conditions. You can then plan a more effective routine and incorporate any prescribed medication.  

After all, your smile is precious to you. There’s no reason it should stop being so.

 

Reference Links:

https://www.scottedwardsdds.com/causes-of-bad-breath-and-underlying-reasons/

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/get-rid-bad-breath

https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2016/february/causes-of-bad-breath

https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-bad-breath#causes

https://www.medicinenet.com/how_can_i_permanently_get_rid_of_bad_breath/article.htm

How Does Your Dental Health Impact You? 

How often do you do a complete body checkup? How about a full dental checkup? Chances are that you rarely go to the dentist, even if you regularly visit a physician. But did you know that your oral health and general health are interconnected? 

Your oral health can affect your general health, and you can take it a an indication. Poor oral health is even linked to heart diseases, cancer, and diabetes. It also affects your quality of life and medical costs. 

Through this blog, you’ll be able to learn how your dental health is directly linked to your general health and other aspects of your life. 

 

Health Problems Related To Poor Oral Health 

 

  • Heart Diseases 

According to Harvard Health Publishing, people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) have two to three times the risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular events.  

This is because the periodontal disease causes inflammation, leading to health problems like atherosclerosis. The bacteria can also infect the inner lining of your heart and cause endocarditis.  

  • Dementia 

Oral health problems like tooth loss, gingivitis, edentulousness, and dental caries are all associated with dementia. People with dementia have higher levels of plaque and can have other related issues as well. Some experience a reduced salivary flow. 

The bacteria causing gingivitis can also cause Alzheimer’s disease by entering your brain through the bloodstream or nerve channels. 

  • Respiratory Infections 

Your mouth is the direct doorway to your lungs. If the bacteria that enter your mouth are not removed, they can spread to the lungs. You can worsen lung diseases that include chronic inflammation like asthma by gum diseases.  

Some medicines prescribed for lung problems can also cause tooth damage.  

  • Diabetic complications 

Everyone knows that sugar is a significant cause of dental problems. But did you know that it also works the other way? Periodontal issues make it harder to control your blood sugar problems.  

Inflammation in the mouth can negatively affect the body’s ability to balance sugar levels. Swollen and bleeding gums can even be an indication of diabetes.  

 

Other Problems Caused By Poor Dental Health 

 

Poor dental care does not only affect your health but also affects other aspects of your life. Here are a few ways it can affect your wellbeing.  

  • Lower Self Esteem 

People with dental disorders seem to have lower self-esteem, affecting their psychosocial behavior. People might even be afraid to open their mouths if there are any visible deformities. Even minor problems like bad breath can make you conscious and hinder your performance. 

  • More Medical Cost 

Due to the lack of awareness about dental disorders, most people do not check for their coverage under medical insurance schemes. Insurance companies take advantage of this lack of awareness and conveniently omit them.  

Most health insurance plans do not cover dental care. People are not aware of the ways dental problems can affect a person’s general health. All this can cost the patients a lot. This is why it’s best to conduct regular dental checkups to detect any problems at an early stage. 

  • Problems Related To Pregnancy 

Pregnancy is a period marked by a lot of hormonal changes. It makes the pregnant mother more prone to oral infections. Mother’s suffering from periodontitis and gingivitis are at an increased risk of premature birth. The children might even be born with low birth weight. Serious health issues can affect the mother and child if the mother faces gum problems. 

 

How To Take Care Of Your Teeth 

 

  • Use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush twice a day. Make sure you cover all three surfaces of your teeth- the outside, the inside, and the biting surface. 
  • Use fluoridated toothpaste to strengthen teeth and finish with an antibacterial mouthwash.  
  • The sides of your teeth are extra prone to cavities and gum infections. Use floss or a floss substitute to scrape off the plaque. 
  • Make sure you brush before bed to minimize the effect of the bacteria that cause dry mouth. 
  • Protect your gum line from plaque to avoid gum damage and bone erosion. To do this, you can brush gently along your gum line. 
  • Visit a dentist regularly to remove tartar and check the side effects of any medication you take.  

 

Signs That You Need To See A Dentist 

 

  • Dirty teeth 

If you notice that your teeth change to a slight yellow hue, it might be a sign to see a dentist. This staining is typically caused by certain food items like turmeric, coffee, and tea. Chain smoking can also cause this color change. 

If you notice your gums bleeding after brushing or flossing, don’t dismiss it, considering it normal. It is one of the early symptoms of periodontal disease or gingivitis. Left untreated, it can weaken the bones and tissues around your teeth and cause tooth loss. Your dentist might recommend dental scaling to reverse gingivitis.  

  • Foul Odor From Mouth 

Bad breath or halitosis can be a sign of gingivitis, periodontitis, dry mouth (xerostomia), and mouth breathing. Artificial saliva, tablets, and oral shields can help tackle this situation. 

  • Toothache 

You should not ignore pain, sensitivity, and cavities in your teeth. It can be a sign of a broken tooth, abscess, damaged filling, enamel damage, or grinding your teeth. Visit a dentist to find the right reason and treat it in time to avoid inflammation and infection. 

 

Conclusion 

 

Remember that your oral health is linked to your general health and wellbeing. Don’t avoid any signs and symptoms and visit the dentist for regular checkups. Early detection is the best way to prevent diseases and increased dental expenditure.  

How to Clean your Teeth With Braces

At Pure Dental Arts, Patients with orthodontic braces often wonder about the best way to keep their teeth clean. After all, braces may contribute to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease if the patient doesn’t know how to clean her teeth properly. We will discuss how to do it here!

Frequently, after orthodontic treatment is completed and the brackets have been removed, we often see white marks left on the teeth, as well as swollen gums with possible chronic gum disease. These white spots occur 25% of the time. These regions are areas where the enamel has been demineralized, and is a precursor to cavities (caries). The main cause is inadequate cleaning.

Research has shown that electronic toothbrushes (think Sonicare or Oral B) showed greater brushing efficacy. However, proper brushing times, understanding of proper bristle positioning i.e. technique are still incredibly important. You should brush for the full 2 minutes, 1 minute per arch (upper and lower). Also the bristles must be positioned at a 45 degree angle to the gum line. The idea is to not only clean a little beneath the gumline, but to also clean the region just above where the orthodontic brackets are bonded to the tooth, as this edged area has a tendency to collect tremendous amounts of plaque.

It is important to brush with a fluoride tooth paste at least two times per day, after each meal, for a minimum of 2 minutes per session. You want to ensure that you brush all the teeth surfaces, front, back, and the chewing surfaces also. Special attention needs to be paid to the region between the wires and the teeth, and between the gums and the bracket, as that is where most of the food debris collects!

We also highly recommend regular flossing. Due to the wires and brackets, conventional floss will not work, you will need to implement floss threaders. It’s a bit like threading a needle, you insert one and of the floss (which has a plastic tip) underneath the arch wire. You then grab the floss on each end and work it in between the teeth until you have removed the plaque.

You may also want to implement other manual tools to aid in your efforts

A) Interdental tooth brush: it looks like a mini pipe cleaner. Use this to gently scrub in between the teeth, in all the nooks and crannies.

B) Water pick: this is a device that ejects a stream of water under pressure which can help free up pieces of food and “gunk” that has collected around your teeth and braces. Keep in mind it is not a substitute for brushing/flossing.

To find out more how to clean around braces, call Pure Dental Arts at 2064868600 today!.

References 

  1. Hock Hoe Goh and Bridget Double day. Aids for mechanical cleaning of teeth with fixed braces. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. January 2018. CD012931
  1. Franz Martin Sander et. Al. Dental care during orthodontic treatment with electric toothbrushes. J Orofac Orthop. September 2006

Welcome to our practice

Dear reader,

This is my first blog entry, so I think an introduction is in order. My name is Evan Chiang, and I’m a dentist at Queen AnneDental Care Dental. Together with my good friend and business partner, Yogesh Goel, we seek to provide high quality dental care in a convenient, personalized way. We are truly honored to be members of the Queen Anne community. This blog is an opportunity for me to express some of the thoughts that go on in the mind of a busy, everyday dentist “working in the trenches.” There will be plenty of (hopefully!) interesting anecdotes that will help shed some light on my mysterious, seemingly boring profession. I also look forward to reading your comments and thoughts. For Yogesh and myself, owning our own practice is truly a milestone in our lives, as we’ve spent most of our careers working for other people. So, in March the adventure begins! We welcome you take the journey with us!
 

How to save money at the Dentist

In the last blog, we discussed how dental insurance works and how the benefits provided by dental insurance are sometimes not adequate in dealing with the dental problems. Getting good quality Dental care is further complicated by the rising healthcare cost. In light of these facts, it is becoming more and more important to learn about ways to save money at the dentist. In this blog entry I intend to highlight a few points which I believe will help you rein in the cost of dental care.

1. Prevention is the key
As the old saying goes – An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of care. This could not be more true in today’s world. Not only it will save you tons of money in the long run but also save you time, potential discomfort, loss of function etc. Here are a few things to help prevent dental issues and hence the cost –
Regular brushing, flossing and using mouthwash
Regular dental checkup
Avoiding too much of acidic, sugary drinks (energy drinks, soda) – Acid and sugar are lethal combination that can rapidly destroy the teeth.

2. Taking care of small problems 
“I don’t have any pain, why should I go to a dentist?”
Many of us think that if there is no pain, it might be okay to wait. Majority of the dental problem do not hurt in the initial stage. You may not feel any pain, sensitivity for prolonged period of time. Most of dental problems are silent in nature. It is like having high blood pressure which do not interfere in day to day function unless it is out of control. Small cavities and the onset of gum infection are often painless and present no symptoms. At this stage, treating them is often easy, quick, painless and cheap. Treating disease or dental condition like cavities and gum infection in early stages can often save the teeth and the gum structure.
Waiting for it to hurt or cause problems like sensitivity, pain, fracture  is often an indication that problem has gone too far and may require more advance procedure to save the teeth which may be expensive and time consuming. Again, regular dental checkups is the key to help identify issues in a timely manner and avoid expensive treatments.

3. Doing it in stages
Sometime it is possible to do dental treatment in stages. Taking care of any active infection and pain is the first priority. After that, sometime it is possible to divide the treatment in stages – this can ensure that you don’t incur significant expenses upfront. It  helps in planning with regards to time and finances.

4. Alternative treatment
Ask if there are any alternatives available to the recommended dental treatment. Most of the times the proposed treatment is the ideal one but sometimes there are alternatives available. The alternative options may have some drawbacks or shortcoming but they can work at a more affordable cost.

5. Ask questions
It is very important that you get involved in the care. The more informed you are about your dental health, the better it will be for you in long run. Ask for a plan from your dentist. Think about what are your immediate and long term goals with respect to your teeth. Ask your dentist how they can help you achieve your goals.

Contact us at Queen Anne Dental at 206-486-8600 for any questions or concerns.