Dental Health Archives - Palisades Dental

What is Black Tartar and How to Prevent it?

What is Black Tartar and How to Prevent it?

Brushing and flossing regularly keeps your smile bright, but sometimes unwanted darkness creeps in. Black tartar, a more stubborn cousin of plaque, can stain your teeth and threaten your oral health. Get ready to reclaim your gleaming smile and keep black tartar at bay by reading below.

Black Tartar On Teeth

Don’t let tartar steal your smile’s sparkle! Explore a variety of effective teeth treatment options and find your path to a more beautiful smile. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us at Instagram. If you are in the American Fork, Highland, Lehi, and Pleasant Grove areas, we would love to meet you!


Reference: [ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/plaque-and-tartar/black-tartar-on-teeth ]

Why Do My Teeth Hurt?

Tooth pain is no joke. That throbbing, aching sensation can quickly disrupt your day and leave you reaching for the nearest pain reliever. Here, we’ll delve into the mysteries behind that dental discomfort. But don’t sit in discomfort! Connect with us for those dental emergencies and we will get you seen and out of any kind of pain. Dr. Youngquist and his team are here!

You Cope by Clenching

Do you clench your jaw in times of anger, tension, or intense concentration? Your teeth bear some of the brunt of that stress. They can ache or wiggle loose over time.

Your Daily Grind

Sometimes even when you don’t feel stressed, you might clench and grind your teeth while you sleep. It can happen when you have a sleep disorder, your bite doesn’t line up correctly, or you’re missing teeth. Ask your dentist if a night guard can help you prevent damage while you dream.

You Overdo Oral Rinses

Swishing with mouthwash multiple times a day may give you a deep clean. But it can come with a downside: sensitive teeth. Some rinses have acids that can damage your dentin, the middle layer of your teeth.

You Push Your Body

Studies on triathletes show that endurance training can wear down your tooth enamel more. The more intense their workout schedule, the more likely they were to have cavities. Scientists aren’t exactly sure why, but may think it has to do with how exercise changes the amount of saliva in your mouth.

Your Sinuses Are Stuffed

Pain in your upper back teeth might be a sign of a sinus infection. It’s pretty common, since your teeth are close neighbors of your nasal passages.

You’ve Got a Bun in the Oven

Pregnancy may have you seeing more “pink in the sink,” or blood when you brush. You’re more likely to deal with gingivitis when you’ve got a baby on the way. You also have a higher chance of cavities, so schedule some extra checkups with your dentist while you wait for delivery day.

Your Jaw Is Jammed

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your lower jaw to your skull. When any part of your TMJ isn’t working because of injury, arthritis, or something else, it can cause a whole host of symptoms, including pain when you chew and in your jaw.

Nerve Damage

It’s not common, but a condition called trigeminal neuralgia could be at the root of your tooth problem. It causes chronic nerve pain in one of the nerves in your head. The pain is often brought on by brushing your teeth, eating, and drinking.

Heart Problems

Upper body pain can be a symptom of a heart attack. You might feel the discomfort in your shoulders, neck, jaw, or teeth. Take note if you’re dealing with other things along with your mouth, like sweating, heart palpitations, nausea, chest pain, or shortness of breath.

You’ve Brightened Your Smile

Dealing with dingy teeth by bleaching? Your whitener may be to blame for throbbing teeth. Sensitivity can start 2-3 days into treatment but can go away after a few more. Your gums can feel irritated as you whiten, too.

Your Gums Are Starting to Give

When gums recede, they pull back the protective layer over your teeth’s nerves and leave them aching. It can be a sign of gum disease, so be sure your dentist knows if your pain comes with teeth that look longer, or if you have pus, mouth sores, bad breath, or bleeding when you brush.

You Need a Cancer Check

Oral cancer commonly shows up with mouth or tooth pain that doesn’t go away. Trigeminal neuralgia can also come from a tumor pressing on your facial nerves, but it’s rare.

Your Diet Is Too Acidic

Foods high in acid wear away enamel and leave teeth less protected. The top culprits include hard sugar candies, coffee, citrus fruits — like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits — and soda.

You Throw Up a Lot

Speaking of acid, your stomach is full of it. When you vomit, that can get on your teeth. If you vomit a lot, it can start to damage them. GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), pregnancy, chronic alcoholism, and bulimia are conditions that can lead to tooth trouble from throwing up too much.

You Don’t Drink Enough Water

Not only does water wash away the bits and pieces of food left behind after you eat, depending on where you get your water, it can also be full of fluoride, which keeps teeth strong and healthy. If you don’t drink enough water, your teeth could be in trouble.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to resolving toothaches and maintaining a healthy smile. We are the number one family dentistry practice in the area! Book your appointment today & see for yourself. 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us on Instagram.


Reference: [ https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/conditions-teeth-hurt ]

A Guide to Teeth Whitening Techniques

Do you dream of a smile that shines as bright as your confidence? Stubborn stains and everyday wear-and-tear can take a toll on the brilliance of your smile. Here is your guide to unlocking a whiter, brighter smile and leaving dullness behind! Our office can get you the perfect smile — so start by talking to us! We can ensure you are choosing the perfect solutions for your smile. 

Almost half of American adults believe a smile is the most memorable feature after meeting someone, according to a survey completed by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). That could explain why so many dental patients are curious about their teeth whitening options. Whether you just had your braces removed, you’re preparing for a big event or you simply want a brighter smile, discover the right whitening treatment.

Start by Talking to Your Dentist

If you are seeking ways to whiten your teeth, start by having a conversation with your dentist. They can help you find the best teeth whitening treatment and point out any risk factors. For example, you may need to address tooth decay or gum disease first so that you can limit tooth sensitivity and gum irritation while whitening. Any whitening treatment will work best on healthy teeth.

The dentist can also identify whether the stains you wish to whiten are extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic stains occur on the surface of the tooth and can usually be removed through mechanical efforts. However, intrinsic stains involve the surfaces beneath the enamel. They require bleaching, a chemical reaction that changes the color of the tooth. The category of stain affects the type, length, and number of treatments needed to obtain the desired result.

Finally, restorations like veneers, crowns, implants, or fillings can not be whitened using traditional methods. You’ll need to consult your dentist if you wish to brighten these restorations or the surrounding teeth.

Over-the-counter Teeth Whitening Methods

If brightening your smile from the comfort of your own home sounds appealing, you can start with over-the-counter (OTC) methods to whiten teeth.

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste uses mild abrasives to scrub your tooth’s surface and remove extrinsic stains. Though some formulas may contain baking soda or hydrogen peroxide, they rely primarily on polishing instead of bleaching to change the tooth’s appearance. Because of this, it may take longer to see results.

TO USE: Replace your regular toothpaste with whitening toothpaste and brush teeth twice daily for two minutes.

Whitening Strips

Whitening strips apply a thin layer of bleaching agent directly to teeth using a flexible plastic strip. Hydrogen peroxide is usually the active ingredient. Though strips are convenient and cost-effective, they may be difficult to adhere directly to the enamel if your teeth are out of alignment.

TO USE: Whitening strips are typically applied directly to teeth for 30 minutes to an hour. Carefully follow the directions on the label. Incorrect use can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and enamel erosion.

In-Office Whitening Solutions

If you desire faster, more dramatic results, you can visit your dentist for more whitening options.

At-Home Whitening Trays

At-home whitening trays use a gel with a range of peroxide concentrations — usually between 10 to 38 percent carbamide peroxide — to gradually bleach your teeth. Your dentist will make a customized tray for the gel to fit comfortably over your teeth. The tray will minimize the amount of contact the gel has with your gums and help prevent irritation.

TO USE: Your dentist will provide instructions for placing the bleaching solution in the tray and how long to leave the tray on your teeth. At-home bleaching kits can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to reach the desired shade.

In-Office Whitening

In-office whitening uses a peroxide gel even stronger than at-home options. Your dentist will shield your gums with a protective gel and then apply the whitening gel. He or she may shine a special light to get the reaction started. The whole process takes about an hour and can usually be accomplished in one visit, although more may be required.

Still, each person’s teeth will respond differently to whitening treatments. Before you get started, talk to your dentist about the best option for you. Your dentist can answer any questions you might have about how to whiten your teeth through OTC or in-office treatments and help you make the best decision. Selecting the best teeth whitening method puts you one step closer to a brighter smile and memorable first impression.

Shine brighter with every smile! Explore a variety of effective teeth whitening options and find your path to a whiter, more beautiful smile. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us on Instagram.


Reference: [https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/teeth-whitening/how-to-whiten-teeth]

Links Between Dental Health and Overall Well-being

Your oral health is a vital component of your overall well-being, and it’s not just about maintaining a sparkling smile. Research has unveiled a profound connection between dental health and your broader physical health. Let’s explore the link between dental care and your overall well-being together — and if you have questions for Dr. Youngquist, he and our team are always here to help. 

While we know that regular brushing, flossing and general dental care can prevent common problems such as cavities and gum disease, your teeth can also offer clues to brewing health problems. Discover what your pearly whites can reveal about your health.

1. Damaged tooth enamel can be a sign of eating disorders

Although bulimia and anorexia are most common in girls and young women, recent studies show that about 13 percent of American women over the age of 50 have signs of eating disorders. Serious eating disorders can affect men as well. Bulimia, an illness characterized by a cycle of binge eating and self-induced vomiting, often leads to tooth damage. “Acid created in the stomach by vomiting erodes the inner enamel or thin outer coating of the teeth,” says Leila Jahangiri, clinical professor and chair of the Department of Prosthodontics at New York University College of Dentistry.

The acid will cause damage to the back of the teeth but will usually spare the bottom front teeth. Jahangiri says the damage can be so extensive that the enamel is completely gone and teeth are thinner and can be seriously chipped. Anorexia, another serious illness, is characterized by weight loss, difficulty maintaining an appropriate body weight and distorted body image. Many people with bulimia are also anorexic, says Jahangiri, so those with anorexia may also have damage to their tooth enamel.

2. Pale gums can be a sign of anemia

Anemia is a condition that develops when not enough rich, healthy red blood cells are produced in the body. The low level of red blood cells makes a person with anemia feel weak and tired. It can also cause shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches and an irregular heartbeat. Postmenopausal women are at higher risk of anemia than men due to iron loss. In the United States, approximately 10 percent of the 35 million people over 65 are considered anemic.

Domenica Sweier, clinical professor at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, says that along with many other medical conditions, anemia can cause the gum tissue to be a very pale pinkish-white. “A dentist might look at the gum color, ask additional questions and would likely refer a patient to a medical doctor,” Sweier says.

It’s important to note, however, that anemia can’t be diagnosed from gum color, but rather should be diagnosed with blood tests.

3. Osteoporosis can put people at risk for tooth loss

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone density, mass and structure in the body changes. It can lead to loss of bone strength and risk of bone fractures. Both men and women get the disease, but it’s more common in women as a result of hormonal changes that cause weakening of the bone, which can cause fractures and other skeletal problems.

Fifty-four million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass. Half are over the age of 50. Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because many don’t know they have it until bones in the body begin to break.

Erinne Kennedy, director for predoctoral dental education at Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine, says that along with age, genetics, hormonal changes and smoking, osteoporosis can be a risk factor for tooth loss.

Mary Grace Ash, clinical lecturer at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and course director of gerontology for dental hygienists, says, “There are lots of bones around a tooth, and indications of osteoporosis include tooth recession, mobility and increase in pockets between teeth,” she says. “And a dentist should be able to spot it.”

Tooth loss, however, is not always a sign of osteoporosis. Many other conditions can cause the loss of teeth as people age.

4. Complications of kidney disease can lead to tooth loss

The kidneys are bean-shaped, fist-sized organs that filter extra water and waste out of the blood and make urine. When the blood can’t be filtered properly, the result is kidney disease. Symptoms include dryness of the mouth, changes in taste and malnutrition.

People who have kidney disease often have compromised immune systems and chronic inflammation. A compromised immune system is susceptible to the overgrowth of bacteria or fungus in the body, which can lead to periodontal disease, Sweier says.

Periodontal or gum disease is a common bacteria-induced inflammatory disease that causes bleeding gums, wobbly teeth and tooth loss. Some research shows that those with inflammation of the gums have more compromised kidney function. Additionally, recent studies show that inflamed gums provide an opportunity for bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

5. Oral thrush can be a sign of HIV

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by a fungus called candida, which is normally present in low numbers in the mouths of many people. The problem arises when there’s an overgrowth of candida. This can be caused by several factors, including a compromised immune system. “When present, oral thrush may cause burning and soreness in the mouth and throat, making it difficult to eat,” says Ash. Because people with HIV/AIDS have compromised immune systems, oral thrush is sometimes a sign of the disease. The National Center for Biotechnology Information estimates that around 80 to 90 percent of people with HIV will have oral thrush.

If people with HIV/AIDS practice good oral hygiene and have their mouths checked regularly, symptoms can be discovered and treated early.

6. Acid reflux can cause damage to tooth enamel

Acid reflux occurs when the contents of your stomach or stomach acid regurgitates into the esophagus. Symptoms can run from nonexistent to mild to heartburn, or what’s known as acid indigestion, which tends to be more common as people age. About 20 percent of Americans suffer from acid reflux. A dentist should be able to detect tooth damage by erosion from acid reflux right away.

Jahangari says the damage from acid will appear on the back of the upper and some of the bottom teeth. “You may feel little holes or notches on your back molars, but generally the tongue protects the bottom front teeth,” she adds. The erosion of tooth enamel caused by acid reflux can cause sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods and drink, chipped teeth or sharp tooth edges, discoloration or darkening of the teeth, and thinning and shortening teeth, which can cause changes in your bite or pain and irritation in your mouth.

7. Poor dental hygiene is linked to cognitive decline

Poor oral hygiene can be a sign of cognitive decline, especially in those who have previously taken good care of their teeth. As brushing, flossing and dental visits become more difficult, the ability to maintain the health of the teeth lessens, says Ash. Research has also linked tooth loss to a higher risk of dementia. Ash says when an older person who has previously taken good care of his or her teeth has food debris in the mouth, the lack of self-care could indicate decline. Caregiver support may be needed.

8. Teeth grinding can be a sign of sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes breathing to stop or become very shallow during sleep. Pauses in breathing may last from a few seconds to minutes and may happen 30 times or more during an hour. The National Sleep Foundation has found that 1 in 4 people with sleep apnea also grind their teeth at night. Symptoms include snoring, teeth grinding and gasping.

Untreated sleep apnea is linked to serious health problems including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, liver problems and possibly even dementia. “It’s amazing what we can learn from studying teeth,” Kennedy says, “and what we learn just may save your life.”

Prioritize your dental health for a brighter, healthier future. Let our experienced dental team guide you on the path to a confident smile and improved overall health. Schedule an appointment with our general dentistry in Utah at 801-756-1009. For more oral health tips, follow us at @palisadesdentaltake.


Reference: [https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2022/dental-health-and-health.html]

Beyond the Nightly Grind

Grinding is an issue that has implications far beyond the surface. If you’ve felt your teeth grinding at night, we have here some practical strategies for prevention and management. It’s important to address teeth grinding for a more peaceful and healthier smile — as well as to avoid oral health complications! Take a look at the great suggestions and information here, and if you have questions, come on in and visit with Dr. Youngquist. He will get all of your questions answered to your satisfaction! 

Life hands us plenty of stress, and many people believe they have no choice but to just muddle through it. But our bodies often react to everyday pressures in surprising ways. For example, many people grind their teeth, often without knowing it — a habit that dentists call bruxism.

A 2021 survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute showed that more than 70% of dentists noticed signs of teeth grinding and clenching in their patients, an increase of nearly 10% over the previous year. More than 60% of dentists noted that patients had problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), including jaw pain and headaches.

Signs that you might be grinding your teeth

Most people aren’t aware that they are clenching or grinding their teeth. Dentists and dental hygienists are often the first to notice the signs of teeth grinding, which include chipped or cracked teeth or worn, damaged spots along the edges of teeth. While most people grind their teeth while they’re sleeping, many also clench or grind during the day, especially when they’re feeling tense, worried or pressured.

If you are grinding your teeth, you might notice:

  • Pain or tenderness in your jaw
  • Dull headaches
  • Plugged, painful or itchy ears
  • Neck pain

Is stress the only cause of teeth grinding?

Though bruxism is usually thought of as a symptom of stress, it can also be caused by:

  • Sleep disorders
  • Teeth that don’t line up properly
  • Missing or crooked teeth

One study revealed that teeth grinding is associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Researchers found that people who smoke or drink alcohol or coffee are twice as likely to grind their teeth as people who don’t.

Taking steps to protect your teeth

If you grind your teeth, it’s important to safeguard them from the damage this habit can do. Your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. A custom guard, made from a special mold that your dentist creates, will give you the closest, most comfortable fit. Night guards are also sold online and in stores, but may not provide the same protection as a guard made just for you.

Keep in mind that night guards are not the same as sports guards, which are designed to protect your teeth while you’re skiing, skateboarding, or playing active sports such as hockey, football, baseball or basketball. A mouth guard designed for sports and other high-impact activities has extra cushioning that probably won’t feel comfortable for sleep.

Getting at the root cause of teeth grinding

Clenching or grinding your teeth is a possible sign that your mind and body need help to cope with the pressures of life. You might start by talking with your primary care physician about ways to engage the relaxation response that calms your body when you’re feeling stressed. Meditation, counseling, exercise, massage and deep-breathing exercises have been shown to be effective. Paired with a night guard, healthy stress management will help protect your teeth and mouth from the damage that clenching or grinding can do.

Because teeth grinding can have other causes, you may need additional help from your doctor or dentist in finding the root cause. For example, if there are signs you are struggling to get enough rest at night, a sleep study can measure what’s happening while you sleep and how your body responds to sleep problems.

Teeth grinding in children

Children often grind their teeth. However, because their teeth and jaws are growing so quickly, this habit does not always cause serious damage. Many children outgrow it by adolescence.

With kids, teeth grinding isn’t usually the result of stress. It might be caused by:

  • Irritation inside the mouth
  • Allergies, especially those that make it hard to breathe
  • Teeth that don’t line up properly
  • If you’re concerned about your child’s teeth grinding, ask your family dentist for advice and possible solutions.

Other causes of jaw pain

If your jaw is tender or sore, teeth grinding might not be the cause. Jaw pain can also be caused by:

  • Sinus problems
  • Infections
  • Arthritis
  • Injuries
  • Gum disease
  • Problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ)

The right treatment will depend on what’s happening in your mouth and body. Your dentist will do a careful exam, possibly including dental x-rays, to look for the possible cause and point the way to steps that will offer you relief.

Safeguard your smile from the effects of teeth grinding! At Palisades Dental, we’re committed to being your partner on your path to a healthy smile. Reach out to our general dentistry practice in Utah and schedule an appointment at 801-756-1009. For more oral health tips, follow us at @palisadesdental.


Reference: [https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/teeth-grinding]

Shine Brightly! What You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening

As dental professionals, we are often asked about the best way to whiten teeth. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. From over-the-counter kits to whitening toothpaste and rinses, it can be hard to know what really works and therefore, what is worth investing your time and money into. When considering your teeth whitening options, you can be assured that professional teeth whitening is one of the most effective and long-lasting ways to achieve a brighter, whiter smile.

How Effective Is It?

Professional teeth whitening uses a stronger concentration of bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, which is more effective than over-the-counter products. This allows the whitening agent to penetrate deeper into the enamel of the teeth, providing better results. Most often, professional teeth whitening can be done in a single visit to the dentist. On occasion, depending on the level of staining on the teeth, and the desired results, multiple visits may be necessary.

How Is It Done?

Professional teeth whitening is a process that lightens discoloration and staining of the teeth. It is done under the supervision of a dentist or dental hygienist and is performed in the dental office. In our office, we are proud to have Dr. Youngquist perform all of our teeth whitening procedures to ensure our clients are always satisfied with their results. Professional results with a personal touch!

During the procedure, a protective barrier is applied to the gums to protect them from the bleaching agents. Then the bleaching agent is applied to the teeth using a custom-fitted tray. The tray is left on the teeth for a period of time before it is removed, and the bleaching process is completed.

The results of professional teeth whitening will be seen after your first visit! To maintain the results, subsequent visits may be needed over time, the frequency of which will be determined by how effective the care and maintenance of the teeth are. For long-lasting results, clients are encouraged to avoid food and drinks that stain (i.e. coffee, red wine) or if consuming these beverages, consider using a straw, and brushing your teeth immediately afterward. Lifestyle choices such as smoking can also expedite the discoloration of teeth.

In Conclusion

Professional teeth whitening is safe and effective and will brighten your smile that may have been dimmed by age, food and drink, smoking, and certain medications. The procedure is quick, and most patients experience very little discomfort. Some patients may experience slight sensitivity during the process, but these effects are short-lived. If you’re looking for a brighter, whiter smile, professional teeth whitening may be the perfect option.

Shine brightly! If you’re ready to give your smile a boost, we are excited to work with you! Visit our Facebook page or give us a call at 801.756.1009 to begin your journey toward a smile you can not wait to show off!