Next holidays are around the corner, and you’re probably already thinking about all the good food that’s coming your way. November is a good nutrition month, so you may want to consider adding healthy food options to maintain good oral and general health and well-being. Our dental practice aims to help you stay healthy, strong and bright with your teeth!
Nutritionally-Rich Foods
Eating a balanced diet to preserve teeth and gums begins with a healthy smile. Not only do healthy teeth allow you to chew (and digest) the nutritious foods your body needs, but the resistance of your mouth to infection will be lowered if your diet is poor. Mouth-healthy foods include fresh fruits, leafy greens, vegetables, lean meat and milk, all of which give you the nutrients you need to grow.
Sugar Attacks
Modern diets
do not seem to get away from sugar because they are added by manufacturers to
almost everything. It is often used for flavor and as a preservative when you
read the labeling on processed foods. The problem is that sugar feeds the oral
bacteria, which then destroys tooth enamel and renders plaque and tartar
harmful.
If you love
soda, you should know that it is one of the biggest “bad guys” when it comes to
sugar (and acid). Sucrose is a major culprit in tooth decay, so regular
consumption of soda, candy, cakes, pies and cookies are top tooth hazards. Even
dried fruits harm tooth enamel since they are high in sugar and often sticky,
so they cling to enamel. Sugar is also derived from starches like bread, chips,
cereals, and pretzels, leading to tooth decay when consumed regularly.
If you love
soda, you should know that when it comes to sugar (and acid) it’s one of the
biggest “bad guys. Sucrose is a major culprit in tooth decay, which means
that daily soda, sweets, cakes, pies and cookies are the highest risk to the
tooth. Dried fruits often cause damage to the enamel of the teeth as they are
high in sugar and often sticky and cling to the enamel.
Holding on fresh fruits like raw apples will comfortably fulfill your sweet cravings and preserve your pearly whites. Raw fruits require a lot of chewing, which increases the production of saliva which decreases oral acidity, rinses off food particles and decreases bacteria in the mouth which trigger cavity.
Acid Attacks
Permanent
damage to teeth and gums also arises from acidic foods and drinks as they erode
precious tooth enamel, and unfortunately, it doesn’t take much to begin the
erosion process.
Highly acidic liquids:
– Citrus
juice (lemon, grapefruit, lime, orange)
– Fruit
juices (apple, grape, cranberry)
– Wine
– Soda
– Tonic
water
– Iced tea
– Sports
drinks
Highly acidic foods:
– Fruits
(such as pineapple, berries, oranges and lemons)
– Tomatoes
– Pickles
(such as cucumbers, artichokes, beets and sauerkraut)
Secure your teeth from an acid attack by waiting for half an hour before brushing your teeth after eating or drinking. Upon eating these things, you can rinse food particles and oral debris out of your mouth by swishing for 30 seconds with plain water. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush while you brush and brush softly at an angle of 45 degrees.
Oral Care Tips
– When you
are away from home and can’t brush, try chewing sugarless gum. The act of
chewing stimulates saliva production and flushes away food particles while
lowering your oral acids.
– Avoid dry
mouth (insufficient saliva production), which increases your risk of tooth
decay. Stay well hydrated, and be sure to brush your teeth before bedtime.
Saliva production slows down while you sleep, so don’t skip your nightly
brushing routine!
– Don’t skip your biannual dental checkups. These are crucial to a healthy smile as we remove hardened dental plaque and check teeth and gums for potential problems.
This November, we hope you will enjoy the happiness of being with your loved ones, eating delicious, nutritious foods and drinks, and remember all the things you are grateful for! We are here to help you take good care of your teeth and gums so that you can be grateful for your healthy body and smile!
DR Meenu Giri Family Dentistry in Fremont, CA is a dental practice for patients to improve their smile’s health, appearance, and function. If complications such as loss of the tooth occur, patients need to work proactively with a dentist to recover the smile. Dr. Meenu Giri frequently recommends that dental implants be placed and restored, titanium restaurations made to function once as a natural tooth root. Implants are popular, and when replacing missing teeth, our team discusses the top five reasons why dental implants are an excellent investment for patients.
Longevity. Dental implants during oral surgery are placed in the jawbone. If the treatment is successful and patients keep their smile properly looked after, they will enjoy it for a lifetime. Many patients prefer a more permanent restoration without daily removal or special care. Dental implants stay in the mouth if the bone below holds them firmly in place.
Bone maintenance. Restorations such as dentures can contribute to bone resorption. This is the loss of bone caused by the lack of teeth in the smile. By placing a dental implant, a patient can maintain the bone and continue to appear youthful.
Versatility. Dental implants are used to remove one or more teeth in many different ways. For example, when teeth are not available, a dental implant can be used on one or both ends of a dental bridge to act as an anchor. For maximum stability and strength, many dental implants mounted along the bridge keep a denture in place. This versatility makes dental implants right for many more patients than those replacing just a single tooth
Natural appearance. With a denture, dental bridge, or dental crown, dental implants are repaired over the top abutment. Such restorations are made of porcelain, a material that closely mimics the natural tooth enamel’s appearance and strength. Dr. Meenu Giri is responsible for ensuring that the restorations suit the actual teeth so that the restoration of porcelain blends in.
High success rates. When dental implants are placed by professionals such as Dr. Meenu Giri of Meenu Giri Family Dentistry, the success rate is often remarkably high. Most dental implants have a success rate of over 98%. Patients must visit the dentist to determine if they are a proper candidate with sufficient bone before moving forward. Not enough bone of the jaw can cause the implant procedure to fail. Patients without adequate bone structure for the successful placement of the dental implant may want to speak to their provider about preparatory procedures. This may include bone grafting to prepare for implants later.
Many patients who are looking for a permanent restore to fix
missing teeth are advised to book a Dr Meenu Giri Family Dentistry. Visit to
learn more about these repairs and how they work. Patients will havex-rays
performed to enable the dentist to evaluate the jaw bone to determine whether
the procedure is going to succeed. Some patients might still prefer removable
restaurations like partial dentures, and that’s all right! Not every patient is
suitable for dental implants, and they are not the only solution available.
Partial dentures, full dentures, or dental bridges may be alternatives. During
a consultation appointment, all these options will be discussed.
For many of our patients, dental implants entail an initial
upfront investment, because dental insurance sometimes covers a portion of the
operation, but not the full amount. However, in comparison with other options
that require routine replacement, the long-term benefits of dental implants
make them a smart investment. No other tooth replacement option provides the
same stability and strength as a dental implant, making it an obvious solution for
patients taking permanence into consideration.
Root canals aren’t as scary as you think. Keep reading for the importance of getting root canal treatmen
Every year, more than 15 million root canals are done. And yet, despite how common these treatments are, the reality is that they contain a lot of misinformation.
The fear of pain and scientifically disproved claims that getting root canal treatments will lead to other health issues scare countless people away from seeking the medication they urgently need to make them feel better — and protect their overall health.
So, is a root canal really as terrifying as everyone says?
In a word: “no.”
In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know
about getting a root canal, from the signs that the treatment is right for you
to exactly what to expect during and after your procedure.
Then, we’ll let you know where you can go to get expert root canal treatment and superior care for all of your dental needs.
First, let’s make sure that you understand the basics of root
canal treatment and why it’s performed.
Your teeth contain pulp, a soft tissue filled with nerves,
blood vessels, and other connective tissues that secure your teeth’s roots as
it develops.
Once you have fully developed your permanent teeth, you no
longer need the pulp, because the surrounding tissues support the tooth.
Inside your tooth, the pulp may become contaminated or
inflamed over time, affecting the health of the tooth problem and those around
it.
The inflamed and infected pulp is safely removed by a root
canal treatment, as well as remove other debris and decay within the root
canal.
Signs You May Need a
Root Canal
Now, let’s take a look at some of the most common signs that
you may be in need of root canal treatment.
You need to see a dentist if you experience extreme pain when
you chew, or even occasional pain in a tooth throughout the day. The same goes
if your teeth are highly sensitive to food and beverages that are hot or cold.
Blood vessels and roots may have been damaged, as well as nerve endings
exposed. Such things are definitely not going to get better on their own— in
fact, they are going to get much worse.
Another sign that may be needed is darker tooth discoloration, particularly when accompanied by swelling and gum sensitivity. As a result of decay and inflammation, people even seem to develop pimple-like spots on their gums.
Even chips and cracks in the teeth can require a root canal
to fall, play sports, or eat hard foods. This is because these cracks can
expose your nerve endings readily, making you much more susceptible to a severe
infection that can spread quickly.
You should still make an appointment with your dentist if you do not believe that any of these symptoms can involve a root canal. Even if you don’t need a root canal, these symptoms may be another, equally serious, dental issue.
But why is it so important to seek immediate treatment and
dental care?
We know that the thought of having any kind of dental work done
can make many people cringe and decide to put off the treatment for even
longer.
But that’s an incredibly dangerous choice to make, both for
the infected tooth and for your health as a whole.
So, what happens when you delay a root canal?
Tooth Loss
First of all, there’s a good chance that you’ll have to have
the tooth completely removed in order to keep the infection from spreading.
This is costly, time-consuming, and often painful.
Even if you don’t lose your tooth, you’ll be in pain every
time you chew or eat something.
Is it really worth it?
Dental Abscess
You’ll also be at an increased risk of having a dental
abscess if you put off having a root canal done.
A dental abscess is a serious bacterial infection that, if
left untreated, can spread to the rest of your body. You may even develop
sepsis id the bacteria from a dental abscess spreads to your jaw, neck, and
other parts of your body.
It can even eventually spread to your brain, which will
require serious surgery and could potentially be fatal.
Dental abscesses can cause blood infections, meningitis, and
even Ludwig’s Angina, which can result in suffocation.
In short?
A root canal is absolutely not something you should put off.
An Increased Risk of Stroke/Heart Attack
Perhaps you’ve heard of the old-fashioned expression,
“Good health starts in the mouth.”
Many people simply don’t realize the impact that your oral
health can have on the rest of your body.
The scary reality is that if you let dental problems and decay
go on for too long, you are at an increased risk of having either a stroke or a
heart attack. While yes, it’s rare, it can happen and it does.
This is because mouth inflammation means that clots, one of
the leading causes of strokes and heart attacks, are much more likely to form
your blood.
In addition to getting dental issues looked at as soon as
possible, we’d like to mention here that quitting smoking is also one of the
best things you can do for your overall oral health.
First of all, it prevents all of the serious consequences of
delaying treatment that we mentioned above from happening to you.
But beyond that, it’s also an excellent way to save your
natural tooth — and it’s much more affordable than most of the cosmetic dental
work that you’d need to replace a seriously damaged or lost tooth.
Plus, a root canal also ensures that your teeth maintain a
natural look. No one will be able to tell that you even had one done.
Additionally, the procedure is relatively quick. In most
cases, it only takes about an hour and a half to complete a root canal.
Root canals also protect the other teeth around the infected
area. Because dental debris and disease spread so quickly, the sooner you can
have a root canal performed, the better off you’ll be.
Above all, once you have the root canal done, you’ll be able
to return to a comfortable, normal life that’s uninterrupted by tooth pain.
It’s natural to feel nervous about having to undergo a root
canal treatment.
In fact, most people do — and this public anxiety is often
what makes the thought of having a root canal even more stressful. (If you
experience dental phobia, check out these valuable coping techniques to help
calm you down on the day of your treatment.)
We find that knowing what to expect from the procedure itself will make things a bit more manageable.
Depending on the severity of your decay and your specific
condition, you may need more than one appointment to complete the root canal
process.
The First Steps
During an initial appointment, your dentist will take an
x-ray of your teeth and mouth. This makes it much easier for them to find the
signs of infection in the bone, and to determine where exactly the problem
tooth is located.
The good news is that you’ll receive local anesthesia and
other numbing agents during your root canal even if the nerve is dead, as it
makes patients much more relaxed. Then, the dentist will put a small rubber
barrier around the tooth, so that the area stays dry during the root canal.
Then, it’s time for the dentist to get rid of the bacteria,
old nerve tissue, pulp, and other debris in the infected tooth.
To do this, the dentist will need to drill an access hole in
the tooth and clean out the area using a series of special root canal files
that vary in size. This makes it easy for the dentist to scrub out your root
canals, and to ensure that they’re able to get everything out.
Throughout the root canal process, your dentist will wash out
the debris with sodium hypochlorite or water.
Sealing the Tooth
Once your dentist has removed all of the debris from your
root canal, they need to seal your tooth back up.
Depending on the specifics of your case, your dentist may
wait for about a week before they seal the tooth. Usually, this happens when
there’s an infection in the tooth, and medication needs time to fully clear it
up.
Even if you don’t get a permanent seal on your tooth during
your first appointment, your dentist will, of course, use a temporary filling
to close off the access hole.
Then, the dentist will need to fill up the hole in the tooth
using a special paste and rubber compound. Then, you’ll get a permanent filling
to close everything off once and for all.
In most cases, you may need a bit more restorative or
cosmetic work done to the tooth that received the root canal treatment.
Things like crowns and posts further strengthen the tooth and
help to ensure that you’ll be completely comfortable when chewing.
Now, let’s move onto what you should expect during the
recovery process.
Your recovery process is an incredibly crucial part of having
a root canal done.
You want to be certain that you follow all of your dentist’s
specific instructions so that you don’t end up infecting the tooth or causing
other issues.
Most dentists will advise you to stick to soft foods in the
first few days after your root canal treatment. (This is especially key if you
need to wait a few days to have the tooth permanently sealed.)
You should expect to feel a bit of sensitivity in the first
few days after your appointment — and you will likely feel a bit more pain if
the tooth had a severe infection.
You will be able to take OTC pain medications, and the pain
usually doesn’t last longer than a day.
Above all, it’s important to understand that having a root
canal treatment done is far less frightening — and far less painful — than
delaying the proper treatment.
Plus, if you don’t take an infected tooth seriously, you
could put yourself at risk for serious health problems.
The quality of care that you receive, and the experience of
the dental professionals you work with, will make all the difference when it
comes to putting you at ease and giving you excellent results.
When it comes to your oral health, don’t settle for anything
less than the best.
At Dr Meenu Giri Family Dentistry, we offer a wide variety of
dental treatments, emergency procedures, and other services. We’re committed to
providing you with compassionate care every step of the way.
Reach out to us today to book an initial consultation for a
root canal, and start getting your smile back on track.
The American Association of
Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that your child be tested by a 7-year-old
orthodontist. Therefore, the developmental milestone would be the complete
eruption of the first four adult molars. They erupt behind the baby’s teeth
(primary second molars) and NO teeth are damaged in the dental arches because
of their growth and eruption. Early detection of any orthodontic problems is
important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult
treatment later.
At Kids Smiles we know, a happy smile always needs more. For some kids, orthodontics is a significant step towards a healthy smile lifetime. Kids Smiles has partnered with Dr. Meenu Giri Orthodontics to ensure the highest quality pediatric dental care in the region of Fremont Bay. Dr Meenu Giri Orthodontics is the combined practice of DR. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry,and her team for the best Invisalign providers in the world.
At age 7, your child has enough
permanent teeth to assess whether or not a problem is emerging. Like most life
problems, if they are found early, orthodontic problems can be easier to
correct. Understanding that early detection of orthodontic issues does not
necessarily require intervention is vital for parents, but if early treatment
is needed, our combined teams may be able to achieve outcomes that may not be
as easy when your child’s face and jaws have grown.
To mention only a few oral
disorders, orthodontic surgery will correct protruding teeth, crossbites,
crowding, tooth spacing, jaw alignment, and airway deficiencies. In some cases,
our orthodontic consultants will use orthodontic devices such as palatal
expanders to extend the upper jaw to create more space for the adult teeth to
complete the eruption.
The Kids Smiles team and Dr. Meenu Giri Orthodontic team are both working to provide each child with a tailor-made experience in an atmosphere specially designed for kids and early teens. We treat your children with respect and in appropriate, child-friendly terms clarify every step of their dental care.
Request an appointment with Kids Smiles by using our online form. If you also want to inquire about orthodontics, please mention that in the comment section of the form.
If your teeth are a little problematic at the moment, you should plan to visit the dentists in Fremont, CA who have the tools, training, and technology to solve just about any issue. Through safe and effective solutions like dental crowns, we are confident that we can get you smiling big again in no time. Keep reading to hear more about our crowns, and then give us a call at 510-790-0700 or (888) 618-6764 to request your restorative dentistry consultation appointment at DR. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry.
Our Crowns Can Restore
Dental Damage
A dental crown is a treatment we can use to secure a tooth. For patients who have encountered extensive tooth decay, or who have fillings that are too big to restore again, or to reinforce a tooth after root canal therapy, or for heavily cracked teeth, we often place crowns. Dental crowns are used to protect you from further pain, discomfort, or damage by covering your damaged tooth completely. Our DR. Meenu Giri, family dentistry team can probably repair it with crowns, no matter how bad your dental damage is.
Our Crowns Won’t Stain
Your crowns are designed just like your natural teeth to look and function. Yet crowns have one advantage over real teeth. Your original chompers can stain with daily consumption of coffee or tea, use certain medicines, and simply grow older. The crowns, on the other hand, will never.
Our Crowns Won’t Have
Metal
For a robust and lifelike solution, we use a special non-metallic material that you can feel good about. The dentists will not need to connect the special BruxZir crowns to a metal base unlike porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. As such, after a little while, you won’t have to worry about a visible dark line forming in your gums.
Our Crowns Can Last A
Long Time
We are able to make strong crowns in the modern age of dentistry, which can last for many years, sometimes even decades. We like to tell our patients that chips or breaks are practically unaffected by our crowns. Yet the crown is likely to have to be replaced in the long run. Due to poor oral health, sudden trauma, or other causes, a crown can fail.
Our Crowns Can Be Used
With Implants
It is certainly time to take some sort of corrective action
when damaged or missing teeth make you feel less comfortable and stop you from
consuming the foods that keep you healthy. To remove a missing tooth, or even
to strengthen a set of dentures, a dental implant can be used. Implants are one
of the most effective replacements because they work like real roots and are
nearly as powerful. With dental crowns, they can be restored to look just like
natural teeth.
Sometimes in
life, you just need a do-over. That’s exactly what crowns are — a new beginning
for your tooth.
Teeth are
your life’s important players! Not only are they the first responders for your
digestive tract, they can also make a great first impression –so you deserve a
stunning, fully functional package. If your teeth need a serious makeover, the
only thing you want might be a crown.
A crown is a
custom shell that fits your natural tooth perfectly. Crowns look like your
original tooth and act exactly like it – except better. Crowns repair teeth that
are missing or badly decayed or discolored. Crowns also superimpose dental
implants and build bridges for dentists.
Fremont dentist, Dr. Meenu Giri shares what you need to know about getting a crown.
This usually
takes two visits to the dentist to get a crown. The dentist makes a plan for
your particular needs on the first visit and cleans the tooth. You will also
get impressions of the tooth so that the real tooth can be properly matched
with a crown. Your crown will be mounted and cemented on the second trip. A
crown is a dental piece that is permanent or “fixed. This makes it very
stable and durable.
In some
cases, a crown can be designed, fabricated and placed in a single appointment
with the help of advanced same-day technology.
Crowns can
be made from a variety of materials and the advantages and disadvantages of
each form. When choosing between porcelain, resin, or metal crowns, talk to
your dentist.
Crowns in
both form and function are a superior dental restorative care. Because they are
made differently, the dentist will give that tooth special attention to make sure
it looks like a real tooth.
Form: Crowns look completely natural and are made of materials that match your teeth, they do not stain, and they fill in your smile for a beautiful set of pearly whites!
Function: Crowns are securely locked in place, shielding your tooth from damage and decay below, and are secure, fitting in your mouth completely naturally. When properly cared for, they can last for a decade or longer.
The same way
you do all your other teeth, you can (and should) care for a crown. This
includes twice-daily brushing, flossing once a day, and regular visits to your
dentist. You should also strive to be careful with your teeth in order to
preserve your crown and prevent the need for another down the road. It ensures
that your teeth are not grinding or opening containers and bottles with them.
It might
take a while to get used to the feel of your newly crowned tooth, but after a
little time, it will feel completely comfortable and natural, even much better
than it did before!
If you’re interested in a crown, Dr. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry would love to take care of you. Contact us today for an appointment, and you’ll be on your way to a new smile in no time! The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions. Dr Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry dentists are here to help. Find a family dentist near you online today to schedule an appointment.
Dental
cavities, or caries, are tiny gaps in the teeth’s hard surface. They are caused
by bacteria that generate acid from sugar on the teeth’s surface. A bacterium
known as Streptococcus mutans is the most common culprit.
The bacteria
form a sticky film known as plaque. Plaque acids strip minerals from
(demineralize) the enamel— a mostly calcium and phosphate layer of the teeth.
This oxidation causes the enamel to have tiny holes. A cavity emerges once the
acid damage extends to the dentin layer below the enamel.
Getting rid of cavities at home
Most home
treatments were based on a 1930s Trusted Source report that indicated cavities were
caused by the diet’s lack of vitamin D. In this research, there was a reduction
in cavities among children who added vitamin D to their diets. Nevertheless,
there were the best results for those who added vitamin D while also excluding
grain products from their diets. This may be because the grains are able to
stick to the lips.
Not getting
enough vitamin D may make teeth more susceptible to cavities, but we now
understand that this is only a part of the puzzle. Other risk factors for
cavities include:
dry mouth or
having a medical condition that reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth
eating foods
that cling to teeth, like candy and sticky foods
frequent
snacking on sugary foods or drinks, like soda, cereals, and ice cream
heartburn
(due to acid)
inadequate
cleaning of teeth
bedtime
infant feeding
Once a
cavity has penetrated the dentin, you won’t be able to get rid of it at home.
The following home remedies might help prevent cavities or treat “pre-cavities”
by remineralizing weakened areas of your enamel before a cavity develops:
1. Sugar-free gum
Chewing
sugar-free gum after meals was shown to help remineralize enamel in clinical
trials. Xylitol-containing gum has been thoroughly investigated for its ability
to promote saliva production, increase plaque pH, and decrease S. Mutans, but
it takes long-term studies.
A casein
phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) compound has been shown to
decrease S. Mutans even more than chewing gum that contains xylitol. This type
of gum can be sold in supermarkets.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is
important in helping the food you eat to absorb calcium and phosphate.
StudiesTrusted Source suggest an inverse relationship between eating foods high
in vitamin D and calcium, such as yogurt, and young children’s cavities.
Vitamin D from dairy products such as milk and yogurt can be extracted. Vitamin
D can also be derived from the sun.
3. Brush with fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride
plays a major role in cavity prevention and enamel remineralization. Extensive
research Trusted Source has been done to show that cavities are avoided by
regularly brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
4. Cut out sugary foods
This is the
cavity cure no one enjoys talking to — stop eating so much sugar. The Trusted
Source of the World Health Organization states that the most important risk
factor for cavities is eating sugar. We suggest increasing the daily intake of
sugar to less than 10% of your overall caloric intake.
When you’re
eating sugar, try not to snack all day long on sugary foods. The enamel has an
opportunity to remineralize once the sugar is gone. But if you eat sugar
regularly, you don’t have the chance to remineralize the teeth.
5. Oil pulling
Oil pulling
is an ancient practice involving swimming in your mouth for about 20 minutes
around an oil like sesame or coconut, then spitting it out. Proof does not
support claims that oil pulling “removes contaminants” from the skin.
Oil pulling
is an ancient practice involving swimming around an oil, such as sesame or
coconut, in your mouth for about 20 minutes, then spitting it out. Claims that
oil pulling “removes contaminants” from the body. But a small,
triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial showed that oil pulling with
sesame oil reduces plaque, gingivitis, and the number of bacteria in the mouth
just as effectively as chlorhexidine mouthwash.
6. Licorice root
Extracts
from the Chinese licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) can combat the bacteria
responsible for dental cavities. Using licorice extract in a lollipop showed
they were effective in significantly reducing S. mutans in the mouth and
preventing cavities.
Vitamin D,
oil pulling, licorice lollipops, chewing gum, and other home remedies won’t get
rid of existing cavities on their own. But these methods may keep cavities from
getting bigger and prevent new ones from coming. At best, they can help
remineralize softened or weakened areas of your enamels before a cavity can
develop.
The earlier
a cavity is detected, the easier it will be for your dentist to repair it, so
be sure to visit your dentist regularly.
Is it an old tale of wives that cavities are caused by
sugar? Is it just an excuse that parents use to scare kids off indulging in a
Halloween candy bag? Is this time of year why dentists are always giving away
free toothbrushes and toothpaste?
As a mother, we want to make good choices for our children, and perhaps balance all the no’s every once in a while with a few yes’s. So when it comes to sugar, particularly the candy-filled bags your kids get from Halloween right through to Valentine’s Day, we want to help you understand the relation between sugar and cavity.
What is a Cavity?
A cavity, also known as dental caries, is a void in a tooth
where the enamel of the tooth has decayed. Decay is triggered as plaque builds
up on the tooth–a sticky bacteria that naturally occurs in the digestive
process. This plaque can cause decline when left for long periods of time,
forming a cavity.
Does Sugar Cause Cavities?
No, sugar does not cause cavities, cavities are caused by
bacteria. Nevertheless, sugar digestion
produces bacteria that, if not properly managed, can contribute not only to
cavities, but also to gum disease and may result in tooth loss. Each time we
eat meat, our body creates acids to break down the food to aid with digestion.
Our teeth are demineralized by these acids. Fortunately, by brushing our teeth,
drinking fluorinated water, and even our own saliva, our teeth are
remineralized. The final line? It is safe to indulge in certain sugar
treatments as long as caution is taken to reduce the presence of cavity-causing
bacteria.
Cavity Prevention
You don’t have to give up candy to avoid cavities, but you
have to stay on top of good oral care; particularly during vacations like
Halloween. The American Dental Association recommends that you brush your teeth
twice a day, floss and rinse with mouthwash every day, use sugar-free gum
between meals, and see your dentist at least twice a year.
Encouraging kids to eat fewer sweets may help prevent cavities, but it also has other health benefits. Establishing good dental health practices in children is a proactive way of helping to reduce future health issues, including improved heart health, lower diabetes risk, cancer, stroke, and more. You can actually read here about the benefits of good oral hygiene.
Either setting up a new routine or getting back on track
with prevention of cavities and good oral hygiene habits, Dr Meenu Giri, Family
Dentistry dentists are here to help. Find a family dentist near you online
today to schedule an appointment.
Let’s see those white pearls! You hear it all the time, but when did anybody want to see your full pink gums last time? While they may be destined to play their dark, show-stealing counterparts in second fiddle, gums are your mouth’s unsung hero. Gingiva (i.e., gums), together with the underlying bone, is the tissue that surrounds and protects the teeth. Gums are connected to the teeth, creating a bond that protects the underlying bone and creates an infection barrier.
Like most unsung heroes, until a problem arises, gums are
usually given little thought. Sadly, the time has come for many of us. A
research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that
almost half of Americans aged 30 and older have periodontitis (the advanced
form of periodontal disease).
Gum disease begins when plaque builds up under and along the
gum line, a sticky, bacteria-filled film. Plaque can cause gum disease and
tooth decay infections, including gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum
disease. The bad news is that the gums get inflamed, swollen, and susceptible
to bleeding even at this early stage of gingivitis. The good news is that the
damage is reversible since the bone and tissue holding the teeth in place are
not affected. Gingivitis, however, could turn into parodontitis if left
untreated. Parodontitis affects the bones that keep the teeth in place, unlike
gingivitis. Parodontitis can ruin your teeth’s gums, bones and tissues without
treatment.
Not all infection of the gum requires surgery. In fact,
professional dental cleaning already includes removing plaque and tartar from
above and below the gum line (the primary cause of gum disease). Scaling and
root planing are another non-surgical form of treatment. Scaling and root
planing is another non-surgical form of treatment. This procedure is
essentially a deep-cleaning under anesthesia where the hardened plaque and
tartar are scraped away and any rough spots on the root of the tooth are
smoothed to create a clean surface for the gums to be re-attached. It may also
be recommended the use of antibiotics to control plaque and gum tissue
inflammation.
In some cases, all that is required is non-surgical
procedures; however, surgery is needed if the tissue around the teeth is
damaged and can not be healed with non-surgical options. Providers may
prescribe surgery to reduce flaps or pockets in these cases. During this
procedure, the gums of a patient are lifted back in order to remove tartar and
smooth the damaged bone. This results in a reduction of space between the gum
and tooth, limiting the areas where bacteria can hide.
Most surgical techniques involve grafts of bone and soft
tissue. Bone grafts use your own bone, synthetic bone, or donated bone
fragments to replace and regenerate bone in areas destroyed by parodontal disease.
This operation restores the stable connection of the teeth to the bone of a
patient. Soft tissue grafts use grafted tissue, most commonly taken from the
mouth’s roof, to reinforce thin gums or fill in areas where gums have fallen
back.
Guided tissue regeneration may be a treatment option in cases
where the bone has been destroyed. A small piece of mesh-like material is
inserted between the bone and gum tissue, which is performed in conjunction
with flap surgery. This prevents the gum tissue from growing into the area
where the bone is supposed to be and allows the bone and connective tissue to
grow back to better support the teeth.
Even if you have sterling, white teeth that are cavity-free,
you are not immune to gum disease. Most people don’t even know anything is
wrong because the early stages are usually painless.
While plaque is the primary cause of gum disease, other
factors that can contribute to periodontal disease include:
Hormonal changes like those that happen during pregnancy,
puberty, menopause, and menstruation make gums more responsive, making
gingivitis easier to develop.
Illnesses can also affect the gums ‘ health. Recent studies
have suggested a correlation between periodontal disease and several other
diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Scientists believe that the link between these systemic diseases can be focused
on inflammation.
Medications can also affect oral health because some lessen
the flow of saliva, which has a protective effect on teeth and gums.
Smoking makes it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
Family history of dental disease can also be a contributing
factor in the development of gingivitis.
Since they neutralize oral bacteria, onions are a great food
for healthy gums. They have microbial properties that target the most common
types of bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.
Leafy greens are full of healthy vitamins and minerals, such
as kale and spinach. This includes vitamin C, which increases red blood cell
production and reduces inflammation. Both of these reinforce your fight against
gum disease and irritation.
Celery, carrots, and apples (including naturally crunchy
foods) are good for scraping meat and plaque stuck on. The hard pieces of these
foods get into the crevices between the teeth and the tooth, which helps to
keep your mouth fresh between the brushings. They also take longer to chew and
generate more saliva, helping to flush the bacteria’s mouth near the line of
the gum.
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese, are also
great for teeth because they contain a protein called casein, which helps
neutralize oral acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to be born to
suffer the debilitating consequences even if you have a family history of gum
disease. You can maintain healthy gums through good oral hygiene, regular
dental check-ups, and increased intake of the above-mentioned foods. Please
contact our practice if you have any questions about your gums or are concerned
about your oral health in general.
Cavities in
children aren’t a big deal, right? Kids are losing those baby teeth, anyway, so
what’s the point in looking for early signs of cavities?
Okay,
there’s a big reason you should think about cavities in any and all of your
teeth, according to your child’s dentist. It doesn’t matter whether or not
those teeth were intended to fall out of the mouth of your baby.
Your oral
health and the oral health of your child is directly related to your overall
health. And ignoring the early signs of cavities, even in a baby tooth, means
you’re ignoring a potential health problem later.
We’re sure
that’s not a price your willing to pay. So, let’s get off that train and let Your
Dr. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry teach you some important info about cavities
and your kids.
Cavities in children are common. As a matter of fact, the numbers are staggering.
The National
Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIH) states that nearly 42
percent of children ages 2 to 11 have either full-blown cavities or tooth decay
in their mouths.
That’s
nearly half of all children.
And that
doesn’t even include the millions of families who can’t afford to pay for
dental care or choose not to bother.
That means
nearly half of all children suffer a higher risk of life-threatening health
problems in adulthood simply because they’re not receiving the oral health care
they need.
Do not ignore those baby teeth
Yes, those
teeth are falling out of your children’s mouths, but cavities aren’t just about
rotten or unsightly teeth. That’s something many people forget.
Cavities can become dangerous.
As the decay
becomes worse, it can spread to the gums. When that happens, it can also spread
into the blood. That places your children at risk for more serious health
issues. It also has the potential to cause problems years down the road.
So, please
don’t ignore cavities. Those teeth are falling out, yes, but your child’s
future health depends on having healthy teeth throughout their childhood.
Make an
appointment for your child with Dr. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry and start them
off on the right track.
You may be
wondering what causes cavities in children. Knowing the cause is the first step
to the power against cavities.
After all,
knowledge is power.
And it’s not
just eating a sugary diet or not brushing correctly. It’s a culmination of many
factors, and it would benefit you to know them all.
Bacteria and the early signs of cavities
The mouth
contains a lot of bacteria. Some are good, and some are bad.
Good
bacteria work to fight off the bad stuff and prevent illness as well as other
unfortunate health conditions. But some of the bacteria in the mouth work to
break down foods that contain starches and carbohydrates.
These foods
then turn to acids that cause plaque. And when plaque is not removed from the teeth,
it causes teeth to decay.
Lack of proper oral health care
If your
children are not brushing and flossing their teeth properly, the plaque in
their mouth has time to sit on the teeth and break down the enamel.
As it breaks
down the enamel, it causes the teeth to rot. That’s what causes cavities.
You see, the
plaque is an acid that eats the tooth a little at a time, and it’s not
something you want to have on your teeth.
Lack of dental care
Here’s the
thing about dental care: your children can brush correctly and floss regularly
and still not remove all the plaque from their teeth.
Plaque is
often found in very hard to reach areas of the mouth, and it requires special
dental tools that can reach into those places to properly remove it. If your
children are not seeing the dentist every six months for professional cleaning,
they’re at risk for allowing their plaque to stick around longer and cause more
damage.
Here’s the truth:
Your child’s
dentist can find a cavity quickly, and they can stop it before it has time to
turn into a more serious problem. Not only that, they can identify the early
signs of cavities and hit the issue head-on.
That’s why
you’re encouraged to see the dentist every six months, and the same rule
applies to your children.
Early signs
of cavities in children can help you prevent your children’s cavities from
causing gum disease or affecting their oral health.
It’s
important for you to remember that a cavity doesn’t mean your child will
develop health issues. And it also doesn’t mean that they’re not doing their
very best to brush and floss.
It might
just mean your child produces high levels of the bacteria that causes cavities.
It also might mean your children drink water without fluoride or they don’t
have as much saliva in their mouths as other children do.
As we said,
cavities don’t necessarily reflect yours or your children’s oral health care or
habits. Cavities happen. And you can spot the early signs of cavities in
children to stop them in their tracks.
A poor diet
This isn’t
always an early sign of cavities as some children eat a poor diet and never
experience cavities. However, cavities in children are more prevalent and more
common when a child eats food rich in carbohydrates and starches.
Sugary
foods, sugary drinks, and other items that are generally viewed as unhealthy
are a sign your child is more likely to suffer from cavities as they age.
Lack of proper oral health care
While you
might assume that white spots on teeth mean they’re just clean, that’s a
misconception.
Spots that
are whiter than the rest of the tooth indicate that the enamel on that area of
the tooth has already begun to break down, which is bad news.
Sensitivity is one of the early signs of cavities
Are your
kids complaining that their teeth are sensitive or that they hurt? It might
happen when they are chewing a meal or when they are eating or drinking
something cold or hot.
This could
be one of the most common early signs of cavities in children you should look
for. It can mean their enamel is eroding.
Look at the teeth — again
If you see
any stains that are black or brown, it’s a sign that a cavity has already set
into the tooth. This is the moment you call the dentist and don’t make another
excuse to miss an appointment.
A cavity may
have already formed, and you must have it treated right away to prevent it from
becoming deeper and affecting your child’s gums.
Pain in the mouth
If your
child is in pain, call the dentist. Period.
It might be
one of the most telling early signs of cavities in children, but it might also
be another oral health issue. Any time your child’s mouth hurts or they are in
pain; it’s a sign that the dentist needs to take a look.
It’s one of
the early signs of cavities you can’t be too careful about.
Prevention
is the key to keeping your child’s mouth healthy, which is why it’s essential
to take note of the things you can do to help your child prevent cavities.
Remember
that even the most conscious and careful parents and children cannot prevent
cavities in certain instances. It’s not a reflection on your oral health care
abilities.
Brush with fluoride toothpaste after meals and beverages
Reduce the number of carbs and starches your children consume
Your dentist
can discuss other preventative measures with you as well. Some of these include
dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and even a list of foods you can eat.
These will consist of foods that aren’t as likely to cause issues in your
mouth.
Here are a few to add to yours and your kid’s diet:
Calcium
Fruits high in fiber
Whole grains
And remind them to rinse after they’re done eating, no matter what.
Here’s the good news:
You and your
children can all benefit from this information, and you can thank your dentist
when you have healthy teeth.
Get the kids involved
Not only
should you teach your children good oral care, but you also need to show them
the early signs of cavities.
Empower them!
No one sees
your kid’s teeth more than they do, and by teaching them what to look for,
you’re giving them tools they can use for the rest of their lives.
Have you seen the early signs of cavities in your kids? The staff at Dr. Meenu Giri, Family Dentistry is here to help. Tell us about your experiences in the comments!
