Tracy Dentist - Tips and Techniques in Cleaning Your Tongue and Maintaining a Healthy Tongue - Smiles by Design in Livermore

The tongue may be one of the most ignored parts of your body when it comes to cleaning. Keep in mind that by simply cleaning your tongue, you can get rid of common problems like halitosis or bad breath, put an end to other tongue problems, and of course, makes French kissing more enjoyable.

Keep in mind also that once you will get tongue problems, such as those tongue lesions and geographical tongues, which can be painful and may be difficult for you to enjoy eating thus make sure always that you have a healthy and disease-free tongue.

White patches and lichens planus are among the tongue problems that you should avoid. Geographical tongue or the appearance of map-like patterns is also a common problem that may lead to a sore tongue, which can be uncomfortable.

To help you in cleaning your tongue, here are some tips and techniques that you might find useful.

- After brushing and flossing, which are the main cleaning ritual you usually do with your mouth, do gently brush your tongue and gargle with water afterwards. You don't have to brush it hard. Even if you do have a whitish tongue, it won't help to brush it too hard. Rinse your mouth after brushing your tongue.

- With a tongue scraper, clean your tongue starting farther back up to the front, but don't push it too far to prevent you from gagging. The tongue scraper allows you to get rid of that whitish color at the surface of your tongue which can be home to bacteria and other food debris that may cause bad breath. You can repeat scraping your tongue until the white part is cleansed but don't apply too much pressure to the point of pain.

- Rinse with water after you are done with tongue scraping. You can then follow it up by rinsing with a mouthwash.

Tongue cleaning can prevent bad breath but keep in mind that tongue cleaning should always be accompanied with brushing of the teeth and flossing. Yes, scraping your tongue may get rid of some bacteria in the surface of the mouth, but there are still other hiding places in your mouth for bacteria, so always try to clean them all.

You may also want to put a thin coating of your toothpaste in your tongue before you gently it off. The ingredients in toothpaste such as zinc and chlorine dioxide will help neutralize the compounds produced by the bacteria that cause bad breath. Allowing the toothpaste to sit for a minute or two before scraping can also be done.

Practice cleaning your tongue regularly to avoid bad breath and other tongue problems. With regular cleaning, you can also learn to clean your tongue without gagging. If you are in a fight against bad breath, you may also want to clean the inner sides of your mouth and at the roof of your mouth to get rid of other bacteria and food debris hiding on them. Remember however that cleaning your tongue may not solely solve your bad breath problem but it can help a lot in trying to fight against it.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3856073
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carolyn_Anderson

by Carolyn Anderson

http://www.smilesbydesign

Livermore Dentist - Oral Warning Signs Can Indicate Serious Medical Conditions - Smiles by Design in Livermore

 

Regular dental exams not only help to decrease a patient's risk of oral diseases, such as cavities and periodontal (gum) disease, but they may also help to diagnose other, sometimes life-threatening, medical conditions.

 

Dentists are able to assess a patient's overall oral health and may recognize symptoms of serious diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and eating disorders, which often manifest as signs and symptoms inside of the mouth.

 

Diabetes

More than 25 million people in the United States alone suffer from diabetes.

"Because diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, the gums are at risk for gingivitis, an inflammation usually caused by the presence of bacteria in plaque," says Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) spokesperson Julie Ann Barna, DMD, MAGD. "Additionally, those with diabetes can experience high incidences of oral fungal infections and persistent bad breath."

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers, with approximately 35,000 new cases reported annually in the United States.

"Indicators of oral cancer may include bleeding sores, lumps, or thick, hard spots, as well as changes in the way teeth fit together," says Dr. Barna.

 

Oral cancer is sometimes difficult to self-diagnose, so routine dental exams are recommended. A dentist will feel for lumps or irregular tissue changes in your neck, head, cheeks, and oral cavity and thoroughly examine the soft tissues in your mouth, specifically looking for any sores or discolored tissues.

 Eating Disorders

"Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, can rob the body of much-needed vitamins and minerals," says Dr. Barna. "Without proper nutrition, the gums can lose their healthy pink color and become increasingly soft and tender, bleeding easily."

Disorders that involve excessive vomiting, such as bulimia, can cause discoloration and erosion of the teeth due to constant contact with acid from the stomach. People who have eating disorders also may experience swollen salivary glands, dry mouth, sensitive teeth, and loss of tooth enamel.

 Diseases negatively impact your general health, but they also can damage your oral health.  Regularly scheduled dental exams allow dentists to detect or monitor your health.

"Patients should inform their dentists about any and all medical conditions and medicines that may affect their oral health, as well as any changes in their medical history," says Dr. Barna. "Remember, maintaining a healthy body includes taking care of your oral health.

source: http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=O&iid=320&aid=9433

 

Pleasanton Dentist - Healthy Teeth Habits for Pregnant Women - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Being pregnant comes with many responsibilities—and oral hygiene is no exception. For most women, routine dental visits are safe during pregnancy, but let your dental office know what month you are in when you make your appointment. If yours is a high-risk pregnancy or you have some other medical condition, your dentist and your physician may recommend that treatment be postponed. Be sure to let your dentist know if there is any change in the medications you take or if you have received any special advice from your physician. The benefits of receiving dental care during pregnancy far outweigh potential risks. Be sure to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your mouth such as swelling, redness or bleeding.

Tips for maintaining a healthy mouth during pregnancy:

• Brush thoroughly with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Floss between your teeth daily.
• Purchase products that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
• Eat a balanced diet. If you snack, do so in moderation.
• Visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and check-up.
• If you need help controlling plaque, your dentist may recommend rinsing at night with an antimicrobial mouth rinse.
• If you have morning sickness and are vomiting frequently, try rinsing with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water. If possible, avoid tooth brushing directly after vomiting when stomach acids repeatedly come into contact with teeth, the effects of erosion can eventually cause tooth enamel to wear away.

Source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/pregnancy/healthy-habits.aspx

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Tracy Dentist - Healthy Teeth Habits for Adults 40 - 60 - Smiles By Design in Livermore

We all know life can be busy, but don’t neglect your oral health. Your dental care is just as important now as it was when you were a kid. Untreated dental disease can lead to serious health problems such as infection, damage to bone or nerve and tooth loss. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and see your dentist regularly. This simple routine can help you remain Mouth Healthy for Life.

Missing Teeth

Did you know that the average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has three or more decayed or missing teeth? If you are missing one or more teeth, there are plenty of reasons to correct the problem. Talk to your dentist for more information about improving your smile.

Brushing

Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of any good oral hygiene routine. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, always be sure to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily. Also, don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth. Finally, make sure to use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. It makes no difference whether you choose a manual or powered toothbrush—just make sure to brush thoroughly twice a day, every day!

Flossing

Flossing goes hand in hand with brushing. By flossing once a day, you help to remove plaque from between your teeth in areas where the toothbrush can't reach. This is extremely important because plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Click here to read about the best way to floss your teeth.

source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-40-60/healthy-habits.aspx

Livermore Dentist - Healthy Teeth Habits for Adults under 40 - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Some people think tooth decay is just for children, but did you know you are at risk your whole life? Untreated dental disease can lead to serious health problems such as infection, damage to bone or nerve and tooth loss. Dental infections that are left untreated can even spread to other parts of the body and, in very rare cases, can be life threatening.

Dental disease is preventable

The good news is that dental disease is preventable. You can practice preventive dentistry on yourself by adopting these healthy habits: Always remember to brush your teeth twice a day, floss between teeth once a day, eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks. And don't forget to schedule regular dental visits. By following a healthy dental routine and making smart food choices, you can lower your risk for tooth decay.

Brushing

Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of any good oral hygiene routine. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, always be sure to brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth allowing you to reach all areas easily. Also, don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three or four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth. Finally, make sure to use an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. It makes no difference whether you choose a manual or powered toothbrush—just make sure to brush twice a day, every day!

Flossing

Flossing goes hand in hand with brushing. By flossing once a day, you help to remove plaque from between your teeth in areas where the toothbrush can't reach. This is extremely important because plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Once tartar has formed, it can only be removed by a professional cleaning.

source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/adults-under-40/

Pleasanton Dentist - Health Teeth Habits for Teenagers - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Brushing and Flossing

Want to avoid cavities? Brushing twice a day with toothpaste, flossing once a day, and limiting sugary snacks and beverages is how you do it. It’s simple but sometimes life gets busy and you might be tempted to skip it. Don’t. A bright smile makes you feel good inside and out. Make sure to see your dentist regularly, too.

Some things to protect your smile

Sealants
Dental sealants are a type of special plastic coating that act as a barrier, protecting cavity-prone areas. They are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and are sometimes used to cover deep pits and grooves in other teeth. Sealing a tooth is fast and easy. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing but sometimes a reapplication is needed. Talk to your dentist about sealants. Remember: Just because you have sealants doesn’t mean you don’t have to brush and floss every day. Sealants are added protection against decay!
Mouthguards
If you play a sport or are active in things like skateboarding or snowboarding, it’s a good idea to wear a mouthguard. It may feel funny at first, but mouthguards are the best thing you can do to protect your teeth from getting broken or knocked out. They cushion blows that would otherwise cause injuries to the lips and face and sometimes even jaw fractures. There are different kinds of mouthguards; ask your dentist which one is right for you.

source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/Teens/healthy-habits.aspx


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Tracy Dentist - Healthy Habits for Baby Teeth - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Start Early  

Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear—which is typically around age 6 months. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. It most often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected. In some cases, infants and toddlers experience decay so severe that their teeth cannot be saved and need to be removed.
The good news is that tooth decay is preventable! Most children have a full set of 20 primary teeth by the time they are 3-years-old. As your child grows, their jaws also grow, making room for their permanent teeth.

Cleaning Your Child’s Teeth  

• Begin cleaning your baby’s mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth. As soon as teeth appear, decay can occur.
• When your child’s teeth begin to come in, brush them gently with a child-size toothbrush and water. A baby’s front four teeth usually push through the gums at about 6 months of age, although some children don’t have their first tooth until 12 or 14 months.
• For children older than 2, brush their teeth with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Be sure they spit out the toothpaste. (Ask your child's dentist or physician if you are considering using fluoride toothpaste before age 2.)
• Until you’re comfortable that your child can brush on his or her own, continue to brush your child's teeth twice a day with a child-size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. When your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily.

Teething  

Teething is one of the first rituals of life. Although new borns usually have no visible teeth, most baby teeth begin to appear generally about six months after birth. During the first few years of your child’s life, all 20 baby teeth will push through the gums and most children will have their full set of these teeth in place by age 3. A baby’s front four teeth usually erupt or push through the gums at about six months of age, although some children don’t have their first tooth until 12 or 14 months. As their teeth erupt, some babies may become fussy, sleepless and irritable, lose their appetite or drool more than usual. Diarrhea, rashes and a fever are not normal symptoms for a teething baby. If your infant has a fever or diarrhea while teething or continues to be cranky and uncomfortable, call your physician.

First Dental Visit  

As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. The ADA recommends that the first dental visit take place within six months after the first tooth appears, but no later than a child’s first birthday. Don’t wait for them to start school or until there's an emergency. Get your child comfortable today with good mouth healthy habits.

Although the first visit is mainly for the dentist to examine your child’s mouth and to check growth and development, it’s also about your child being comfortable. To make the visit positive:

• Consider making a morning appointment when children tend to be rested and cooperative.
• Keep any anxiety or concerns you have to yourself. Children can pick up on your emotions, so emphasize the positive.
• Never use a dental visit as a punishment or threat.
• Never bribe your child.
• Talk with your child about visiting the dentist.

During this visit, you can expect the dentist to:  

• Inspect for oral injuries, cavities or other problems.
• Let you know if your child is at risk of developing tooth decay.
• Clean your child’s teeth and provide tips for daily care.
• Discuss teething, pacifier use, or finger/thumbsucking habits.
• Discuss treatment, if needed, and schedule the next check-up.

source: http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/healthy-habits.aspx


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Livermore Dentist - What kind of toothbrush should I use if I have arthritis? - Smiles by Design in Livermore

If brushing your teeth is difficult because you can’t raise your hand or arm comfortably, purchase an angled toothbrush; lengthen the handle of your toothbrush with a ruler, tongue depressor or a long wooden spoon; or bend the handle of a pliable toothbrush yourself by running hot water over it for 60 seconds and gently bending it to the desired angle. You might also find a battery-powered or sonic toothbrush easier to hold and use. There are many types to choose from; some have long, built-up handles for easier gripping, some are cordless and some have dual motion -- up and down and side to side. When purchasing a powered toothbrush, be sure to hold it in your hand, turn it on and see how heavy and manoeuvrable it is before you buy.

source: http://www.sharecare.com/health/living-with-arthritis/what-kind-toothbrush-use-arthritis;jsessionid=BE4AE020FADC2AC72D4BCACD14426712

by Shelley Peterman Schwarz, Neurology,

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Pleasanton Dentist - Why Healthy Teeth are Important - Smiles by Design in Livermore

As more consumers have been able to access information about their health, an overall awareness of their own health has become increasingly important.  Quite often a patient will arrive at a doctor’s office with a list of their symptoms as well as print outs from their own internet research.  But even though many people have adopted a more hands-on approach to their overall health, they typically do not get as involved with their dental health.  In fact,  many people don’t fully understand why healthy teeth can be so important for their general health.

The Dangers of an Unhealthy Mouth
Some of the dangers of an unhealthy mouth are cosmetic and deal with the impression we leave with others.  If your dental routine isn’t up to scratch chances are you will suffer with tooth decay, cavities and bad breath.  While each of these can be a problem for your image, they can also lead to serious health issues or aggravate conditions you may already have.  Bacteria is able to get into the blood stream which can wreak havoc on your system.  Infections can then infiltrate other parts of the body, including the heart, which can result in a condition known as endocarditis.  Additionally, gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular disease and even premature birth.

In addition to opening the door to any number of infections, poor gum health can lead to periodontal issues, including tooth loss.  Preiodontitis is a severe form of gum disease and has been linked to Osteoporosis and tooth loss before the age of 35 has been recognized as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s.  Other health conditions which can be made worse by the exposure of the body’s blood and other organs to bacteria found in the mouth include HIV/AIDS, Diabetes and other immune disorders.   All of these health concerns are linked to oral health because of the amount of bacteria which is present in everyone’s mouth.   This bacteria can come from food and beverages you consume but also from everything else you put in your mouth.  This includes every time you chew on the end of your pen, bit your fingernails or even simply pop a piece of gum into your mouth after doing something like pumping gas or opening a public door without washing your hands.

How to Lower Your Risk
The best, and most effective, way to lower your risk for health concerns associated with your oral health is to stick to a well rounded and comprehensive dental health routine.  By brushing, flossing and rinsing your mouth daily, this can substantially cut the amount of bacteria present in your mouth.   The simple act of keeping bacteria under control can help to prevent infections as well as giving you a better outward image.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/why-healthy-teeth-are-important/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermoere.com

Tracey Dentist - Is Flossing Really that Important - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Most patients who sit in the dental hygienist’s chair end up hearing a lecture about the importance of flossing.  It’s no secret that many people simply don’t floss their teeth, and dentists know it, too.  Dr. Alla Wheeler, a professor at the New York University School of Dentistry says, “There is no instant gratification with flossing — that’s the problem.  Patients don’t think it does anything.”  But this couldn’t be farther from the truth.  Want your teeth to be whiter?  Want your smile to look younger?  Want to finally get rid of bad breath?  The answer is simple: floss your teeth.

A Cleaner Clean
As you pass that simple string of floss between your teeth, it picks up debris that would otherwise remain stuck between your teeth and along your gum line.  As it passes it also gently polishes your teeth, making them naturally brighten when you smile.  Floss before you brush and this will help your toothpaste and after care rinse to work even more effectively.  It also helps your brushing and rinsing to reach more evenly between you teeth, promoting overall better oral health.

The Floss of Youth
Some say the secret to a truly young smile is to floss every day.  Since flossing removes debris along the gum line as well, this keeps your gums looking pink and healthy.  It also keep your smile aligned as receding gums can often lead to shifting teeth.  This gives your smile a more youthful appearance no matter what your age.


Say Something Sweet
While everyone has the occasional bout of bad breath, flossing properly can keep those episodes to a minimum.  Food caught between teeth which isn’t able to be cleared away by brushing alone begins to break down between the teeth.  As it breaks down and becomes broken down by saliva it gives off a pungent smell.  This is the source of most cases of bad breath.  Simply by flossing you’re keeping the area between you teeth clean and so no debris can accumulate in the first place.

Flossing may not offer the same sense of instant gratification that brushing does, but it’s still a vital part of any good dental health routine.  Flossing can not only work to prevent long term problems such as gum disease and tooth decay but it can also brighten your smile naturally and help you to give the best impression possible.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/is-flossing-really-that-important/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF

http://www.smilesbydesigninlivermore.com

Livermore Dentist - 5 Reasons to Brush Before Bed - Smiles by Design in Livermore

While there are numerous reasons to brush your teeth twice a day, here’s a quick rundown of the Top 5 reasons to brush your teeth before you hit the hay.

5.  Bacteria Builds Up
Over the course of a day, lots of things go into your mouth.  Most of it is the food and beverages you consume as part of your day and we all know about that.  But what many people don’t consider is all the other times you put things into your mouth.  Some may chew on the ends of pens while others might hold a paper or binder clip between their teeth as they group papers together at the office.  In fact, many of us use our teeth as tools, even though we know we shouldn’t.  Opening a bag of chips with the help of your teeth is a major no-no, but one most of us commit on a fairly regular basis.  All of these minor things may not sound like much, but when you consider that pen may have been used by someone with a cold, or the fact that those paperclips are definitely not sterile, this means more and more bacteria has found its way into your mouth.  So, at the end of the day, take the time to clear it all out.

4.  Avoid Plaque Build-up
Plaque is a yellow film which builds up between teeth and along the gum line.  But plaque needs time to do its damage and by brushing at the end of the day you’re cutting its chances in half.  Brushing away food and bacterial debris leaves plaque out in the cold and out of your mouth.

3.  Because A Sleeping Mouth is a Dry Mouth
As you sleep at night your mouth naturally produces much less saliva than it does during the day.  Saliva acts as a natural barrier against tooth decay as it works to dislodge food and other debris from between your teeth as you’re speaking, drinking or simply working.  However, at night, saliva production is almost entirely shut down which is why so many people wake up thirsty in the morning.  Since your mouth will not be generating saliva to help with keeping your teeth cleaner, a late night brushing will help to protect your teeth from decay and cavity formation.

2. Protecting Your Gums
When you brush your teeth, you’re doing more than simply keeping your teeth clean and bright.  You’re also removing debris and bacteria from along your gum line.  If you remove this protection by not brushing your teeth before bed, that same bacteria that will encourage tooth decay will also encourage gum disease.  Gum disease is a very serious problem when it comes to oral care and, left unchecked, it can lead to periodontal disease, abscessed teeth and your teeth being less anchored into place and actually shifting in your mouth.  Further down the road it can lead to total tooth loss.

1.  Wake Up Fresher
If you’ve ever gone to bed without brushing your teeth, then you know how rotten your mouth can feel the next morning.  Everything you ate, drank or came into contact with the day before has now had a full 24 hours to fester, spread and grow.  Brushing right before bed is a great way to help mitigate that feeling of Morning Mouth.  Take the time before bed and wake up the next day without feeling like your tongue is covered in sawdust .. or worse.


 source: http://www.teethcenter.com/5-reasons-to-brush-before-bed/
BY TEETH CENTER STAFF


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Pleasanton Dentist - Why is my Tooth Turning Black - Smiles by Design in Livermore

Tooth discoloration can vary depending on what it is and what the cause may be.  While mild discoloration can simply be the result of the tooth being stained, darker colors such as dark brown or black can signal something much more serious.

The Difference Between Dark and Black
Many people worry about the color of their teeth and as soon as the color of the enamel fades to anything but white they run for the whitening treatments.  While this may be a good idea for slight discoloration issues, a tooth which turns darker and darker until it reaches a dark brown of black color is not simply a discolored tooth.  These colors are the hallmarks of a tooth which has died.

How Teeth Die
Teeth can die for a number of reasons.  The most common is simply tooth decay, which eats away at the tooth from the inside and can easily kill a tooth if left unchecked.  Gum disease, filling problems and even tumors can also cause a tooth to die.  Finally there is trauma.  If someone is hit in the mouth, especially a hard hit or serious fall, this can damage the tooth if it is struck as well.  Any of these situations can damage the nerve pulp which, if not taken care of, will lead to the eventual death of the tooth.

Can A Dead Tooth Be Fixed?
Although a dead tooth will never come back to life, it should still be taken care of by a dentist as soon as possible.  A dead tooth is a natural magnet for bacteria and can lead to a serious infection.  The most common remedy for a dead tooth is a root canal treatment.  This is where the tooth is drilled out and all infected areas are cleaned and removed.  Then a crown or veneer is placed over the remaining tooth in order to improve the look of the smile.  A crown or veneer will look just like any other tooth and no one will need to know there was a dead tooth there before.
When a tooth begins to die, it will often become sensitive to heat and cold.  Tooth sensitivity, particularly if it suddenly begins to happen, is often a red flag that something is wrong with your teeth.  Should this happen, getting immediate attention may help make the difference between a tooth which needs attention and a tooth which will die and require major dental surgery.

source: http://www.teethcenter.com/why-is-my-tooth-turning-black/
by the Tech Dental Staff

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