Patient Education
Did you know that good oral hygiene is also a step toward a healthier life? Given
that recent research suggests potential links between the bacteria that cause periodontal
(gum) disease and problems like Heart Disease, Stroke, Diabetes, Pneumonia, Premature
Births and Low Birth Weight Babies. Prevention of periodontal disease is an important
step in maintaining overall health.
Brushing and flossing daily, eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks, and regular
visits to your dentist will help you maintain a healthy smile.
The importance of regular dental check-ups cannot be overemphasized. In addition
to checking your teeth, your dentist looks also for signs of diseases such as oral
cancer. Alert your dentist to any sores, swelling or discoloration that you find
on your tongue, lips, cheek, throat, jawbone, or palate. Because the majority of
oral cancers occur in people older than 45, dental checkups are increasingly important
to detect cancerous lesions in early, more easily treatable stages.
Today, many adults are enhancing their smiles with braces, veneers and whitening
products to keep their smiles young and healthy looking. Talk to your dentist about
these options.
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Bad Breath
Preventing and treating bad breath are essential to self-esteem. If you're concerned
about bad breath, see your dentist, who can help identify the cause and—if
it's due to an oral condition—develop a treatment plan to help eliminate it.
If you frequently have bad breath, keep a log of what you eat. Avoid constant use
of breath mints and other hard candies containing sugar. They will only temporarily
mask bad breath and can lead to tooth decay. Also make a list of over-the-counter
and prescribed medications that you take, because some medications may cause dry
mouth and play a role in causing bad breath. Let your dentist know if you've had
any surgery or illness, or whether your medical history has changed since your last
visit. Schedule regular dental visits for professional cleanings and checkups
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Teeth Grinding
"Keep a stiff upper lip" or "get a grip!" That's often the advice
we get—and give—on how to cope with stress.
If you take it literally, the result could be grinding your teeth or clenching your
jaws. It's called bruxism, and often it happens as we sleep, caused not just by
stress and anxiety but by sleep disorders, an abnormal bite or teeth that is missing
or crooked.
Symptoms include a dull headache or a sore jaw.
You could have teeth that are painful or loose from severe grinding. This can lead
to fractures in your teeth.
Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep.
If stress is the cause you need to find a way to relax! Physical therapy, muscle
relaxants, counseling and even exercise may help reduce tension.
Don't make your teeth the brunt of your stress.
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