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Dental Blog

Dealing with TMJ Disorder

Dealing with TMJ DisorderThe temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull where the ear is located, and this joint may experience pain that can be severe. There are various reasons for TMJ disorder. Repetitive movements of the mouth can be a contributing factor, as can opening the mouth to a very wide extent. Any bad blow to the jaw can create a TMJ condition. If a person is prone to grinding his or her teeth, TMJ disorder may be the result. Two other factors can cause this disorder, and they would be misalignment of the teeth or a problem with the bite.

When pain is experienced upon opening the mouth or chewing, or earaches and/or headaches occur on a frequent basis, TMJ disorder may very well be the cause. A trip to the dentist will be warranted to see what is causing the problem and what treatment would be best to handle the situation. If TMJ disorder is severe, X-rays, an MRI or a CT scan may have to be done.

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Gum Disease and Its Contribution to Respiratory Diseases

Gum Disease and Its Contribution to Respiratory DiseasesInhaling droplets from the throat and mouth into the lungs can contribute to bacterial respiratory infections. The reason for this is due to the fact that these droplets contain germs that multiply once they are in the lungs. Infections can then occur, or lung conditions can worsen. People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have a reduced ability to remove bacteria from their lungs which may exacerbate their condition.

Scientists are performing studies to see if there is a connection between periodontal disease and respiratory infections. It has been proven that bacteria in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs and can cause conditions such as pneumonia. This is especially true for individuals who have some form of periodontal disease.

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What to Eat to Stop Cavities

What to Eat to Stop CavitiesA healthy diet will strengthen your teeth from the inside out and help to prevent cavities. By avoiding foods that promote the growth of bacteria, you are also protecting your teeth from the outside.

Any food that builds strong bones will build strong teeth. Calcium will help to keep your teeth strong and is especially important for young children. But it is also important for adults to have a certain amount of calcium in their diet every day. Orange juice, leafy green vegetables, milk and yogurt all contain calcium. If you are watching your weight, milk and yogurt that are low in fat content would be a good choice.

Vitamins C and D will help the teeth to stay strong. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and certain vegetables, such as broccoli. Vitamin D is in most commercial brands of milk.

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Advantages of Athletic Mouthguards

Advantages of Athletic MouthguardsSports-related injuries can happen easily on the playing field. To decrease the chance of bodily harm, padded uniforms and helmets are worn. But the mouth also needs to be protected. A tooth can easily be knocked out or, at the least, severely damaged.

When an athletic mouthguard is worn, the chances of injury to the mouth and teeth are greatly minimized. Mouthguards can be purchased at a sporting goods store, but this type of device will not be able to adequately protect everyone. To acquire the proper amount of protection to all areas of the mouth, a custom-made mouthguard provided by the dentist is the wisest option.

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Different Causes of Bad Breath

Different Causes of Bad BreathBad breath can be caused by a number of factors, but oral bacteria are often at the root of the problem. When plaque is not removed sufficiently, it leaves a sticky film on the teeth, which can develop bacteria in time. The bacteria will also develop an odor.

Certain foods that you eat are known for causing bad breath, such as onions and garlic. When bad breath is caused by food, it will dissipate on its own.

If you have dry mouth, which is sometimes caused by medications, you may also develop bad breath. Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth of impurities, and when there is not enough saliva to do that, which is the case with dry mouth, bad breath may be the result.

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Proper Method of Brushing the Teeth

Proper Method of Brushing the TeethBrushing and flossing the teeth are very important for good hygiene, but if you are going to take the time to do it, you might as well do it correctly.

It only takes a small amount of toothpaste, usually the size of a pea, to do the job. Using too much toothpaste will only be wasting it. You should use a toothbrush that is the correct size and shape for your mouth, allowing you to reach your back teeth easily.

When starting to brush, hold your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle and move it from side to side over each one of your teeth, making certain not to miss any. Use the same technique for the back of your teeth. Also brush the edges of your teeth, which are often neglected. Remember to brush your tongue as well. This will help to keep bad breath away and would really freshen your mouth.

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How to Prevent Gum Disease

How to Prevent Gum DiseaseGum disease does not have to happen. If you take proper care of your teeth and gums and have good oral hygiene habits, you can keep your mouth healthy and not have to deal with the nasty consequences that can come about through periodontal disease.

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Saving a Knocked Out Tooth

Saving a Knocked Out ToothAn accident or blow to the mouth may cause a tooth to become dislodged. If you play sports, you are especially at risk of having a tooth knocked out. You might want to try and save the tooth, if possible. There are a few things you must keep in mind in order to do this.

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Warning Signs of Gum Disease

Warning Signs of Gum DiseaseGum disease can create serious problems in the mouth if left untreated. There are certain signs to look for that will be a warning of problems to come.
Redness, swelling and tenderness of the gums may be the first indication of disease. If gums also bleed easily when brushing and flossing, this is another red flag. Should you notice, when looking in the mirror, that your gums seem to be receding and pulling away from your teeth, this is yet another warning sign.

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HIV and Dental Treatment

HIV and Dental TreatmentDental patients with HIV need to be more diligent about their dental care. Problems with the teeth and gums can occur more easily in HIV patients due to a weakened immune system. HIV patients should also have their teeth checked on a six-month basis, rather than yearly. There are a number of conditions that those with HIV may develop. Cavities can occur more easily as a result of dry mouth.

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Facts about Oral Cancer

Facts about Oral CancerCancer can occur in the mouth just as it can in other areas of the body. It can affect the bottom or the roof of the mouth, the lips, cheeks and gums. Oral cancer develops slowly. It is important to have regular examinations at the dentist's office to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and oral cancer screenings can be a part of the examination for those patients who are at risk for cancer.

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Bleeding Gums and Diseases

Bleeding Gums and DiseasesBleeding gums are a sign that something is going on within the mouth. The gums will not bleed unless there is a problem, so when this occurs, it should never be ignored. Gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums, usually begins with bleeding of the gums when brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene habits and routine visits to the dental office should become a normal part of life. And bleeding gums should not be ignored.

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Tooth Decay and Oral Health

Tooth Decay and Oral HealthDecaying of the teeth is caused by bacteria, which can occur naturally throughout the body. Bacteria will also be produced from the breakdown of sugars from food. This breakdown creates a substance, known as plaque, which sticks to the teeth and can, in time, destroy the mineral composition of a tooth. It is important to remove all forms of plaque so that this destruction of tooth enamel and minerals does not take place.

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