Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It is often described as a sharp or shooting pain that occurs when the tooth is exposed to certain stimuli like hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or even just air. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 8 people suffer from tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives. In this blog, we will discuss what tooth sensitivity could mean and how to address it.

One of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity is enamel erosion. Enamel is the hard, outer layer of the tooth that protects the softer dentin and pulp layers underneath. When enamel wears away, the dentin becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity. Enamel erosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including acidic foods and beverages, tooth decay, and aggressive brushing. To prevent enamel erosion, it is important to limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks, practice good oral hygiene habits, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the enamel.

Another common cause of tooth sensitivity is gum recession. Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue around the tooth pulls back, exposing the tooth’s roots. This can be caused by periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, and even genetics. Gum recession can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene habits, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoiding tobacco products.

Tooth sensitivity can also be a sign of a more serious dental problem, such as a cracked or damaged tooth, a cavity, or an abscess. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity along with other symptoms like toothache, swelling, or fever, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to more serious dental problems down the line.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are several things you can do to alleviate the discomfort. One of the easiest ways to reduce tooth sensitivity is to use a desensitizing toothpaste. These toothpastes contain special ingredients that help block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth to the nerve. In addition to using a desensitizing toothpaste, you can also try using a fluoride rinse, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and practicing good oral hygiene habits.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend a more invasive treatment option to address tooth sensitivity. This could include applying a fluoride varnish or gel to the affected teeth, bonding the teeth with a resin material, or even performing a root canal if the tooth’s nerve is damaged.

In conclusion, tooth sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including enamel erosion, gum recession, and more serious dental problems. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is important to see a dentist to determine the underlying cause and find an appropriate treatment plan. In the meantime, there are several things you can do to reduce tooth sensitivity and alleviate discomfort.

Sugar is often blamed for causing cavities, but the truth is a bit more complicated than that. Cavities, also known as dental caries, are caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce acid when they feed on carbohydrates, including sugar. This acid can eat away at the enamel on teeth, leading to decay and cavities.

While sugar is not the only culprit when it comes to cavities, it is a major contributor. Sugary foods and drinks provide a ready source of fuel for the bacteria that cause cavities. In addition, sticky sweets like candy and gum can cling to teeth and provide a constant source of sugar for bacteria to feed on.

However, it’s not just the amount of sugar you consume that matters when it comes to cavities. The frequency with which you consume sugar can also play a role. Frequent snacking or sipping on sugary drinks can create a constant supply of sugar for bacteria to feed on, increasing the risk of cavities.

It’s worth noting that not all sugars are created equal when it comes to dental health. Simple sugars like glucose and fructose are more likely to cause cavities than complex sugars like lactose, which are found in milk and other dairy products. This is because simple sugars are more easily broken down by bacteria in the mouth, providing a quick source of energy for them to produce acid.

So, does sugar cause cavities? The answer is yes, but it’s important to remember that sugar is just one factor in the development of cavities. Other factors, such as poor oral hygiene, genetics, and the presence of other bacteria in the mouth, can also play a role.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of cavities, even if you enjoy sugary treats. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily can help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks can also help reduce your risk of cavities, as can chewing sugar-free gum after meals.

In addition, it’s important to see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can help identify cavities early on, before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.

In conclusion, while sugar does contribute to the development of cavities, it’s not the only factor at play. By practicing good oral hygiene and making smart choices when it comes to diet and lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of cavities and enjoy a healthy, happy smile.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition is caused by bacterial infection of the gum tissue, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and eventual tooth loss. While gum disease is primarily associated with oral health problems, recent studies have suggested a potential link between gum disease and cancer.

Research has suggested that the inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer. Chronic inflammation is known to be a major factor in the development of cancer, and studies have shown that the inflammation associated with gum disease can spread throughout the body and potentially contribute to the development of cancerous cells. In particular, there is evidence to suggest that gum disease may be linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as pancreatic cancer, kidney cancer, and blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.

While the link between gum disease and cancer is still being studied, there are several theories as to how the two may be connected. One theory is that the bacteria that cause gum disease can release toxins that damage DNA, leading to the development of cancerous cells. Another theory is that the inflammation caused by gum disease can weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to cancerous growths.

While more research is needed to fully understand the link between gum disease and cancer, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of both conditions. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help prevent the development of gum disease. Additionally, individuals should seek regular dental checkups to identify and treat gum disease in its early stages.

In addition to good oral hygiene practices, individuals can also reduce their risk of cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco products and excessive alcohol consumption can all help reduce the risk of cancer. By taking these steps to improve their overall health and reduce their risk of gum disease and cancer, individuals can take control of their well-being and live healthier, happier lives.

In conclusion, while the link between gum disease and cancer is still being studied, there is evidence to suggest that the inflammation caused by gum disease may contribute to the development of certain types of cancer. By maintaining good oral hygiene practices and making healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can reduce their risk of both gum disease and cancer, and improve their overall health and well-being.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of all Americans are currently taking prescription medications and more than half take vitamins or other dietary supplements. Even when used as directed and under medical supervision, you may experience medication side effects that can impact your oral health. Always let us know if you are taking any medicines or supplements and if those have changed since your last visit. 

Here are some common side effects of medications that can impact your oral health: 

Abnormal Bleeding 

Blood thinning and reduced clotting accompany the use of some medications. This can cause problems with excessive bleeding during treatments for periodontal disease or oral surgery. Your dentist needs to know if you are taking any medications or supplements before scheduling any treatment that may involve bleeding. 

Dry Mouth 

Many medications can cause reduced saliva production. When your mouth does not produce enough saliva, it is more susceptible to inflammation and infection, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. 

Fungal Infection 

Oral Candidiasis is an oral fungal infection that can affect those who use oral inhalers for asthma and other breathing conditions. We encourage patients with inhalers to rinse their mouth thoroughly with water after using their inhaler. 

Gum Tissue Enlargement 

Overgrowth or enlargement of gum tissue may occur as a side effect of certain medications. Patients with this condition need to give special attention to keeping teeth and gums clean to prevent inflammation or decay. 

Soft Tissue Reactions 

Inflammation, oral sores, or discoloration of soft tissues can occur as a side effect of some medications. If you experience this type of reaction, we may be able to prescribe a special oral hygiene regimen that can alleviate your discomfort. 

Tooth Decay 

While tooth decay is not directly a side effect of medication, several types of medicines use sugar to improve the flavor, especially those in liquid, chewable, and lozenge forms. When these are taken over a period of time, the sugars left on the teeth can make the patient more likely to develop tooth decay. When possible, select sugar-free versions of medications, take with meals, or rinse your mouth after taking a sugared medicine. 

Severe tooth decay can lead to the need for Endodontic treatment, such as a root canal, and can even lead to tooth loss. If you have concerns about your medications, contact your dentist immediately.

You may be unaware of how your oral health can be an indicator of your overall health.  The warning signs of systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can often be found by during a routine examination at our dental office.  You may be surprised to find out that hypertension (high blood pressure) may also be linked to your oral health habits. 

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology suggests that there is a link between oral hygiene and high blood pressure, based on the results of almost 20,000 adults surveyed in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).  It was found that individuals with poor oral hygiene habits, such as infrequent brushing of teeth, were more likely to suffer from hypertension.  Individuals that brushed their teeth more than once daily and also utilized other oral health products such as floss or mouthwash were less likely to suffer from hypertension.  The study concluded that maintaining good oral hygiene habits may help prevent or control high blood pressure. 

Good oral hygiene is essential to a healthy life and regular dental visits are important in maintaining good oral health.  Contact our office to schedule your appointment for an examination and cleaning.