Probiotics, beneficial bacteria found in the human body, have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential health benefits. Research suggests that probiotics may play a role in maintaining oral health by balancing the microbiome of the mouth. This blog will explore the relationship between probiotics and gum disease, discussing the potential benefits of incorporating probiotics into your oral care routine. And if you have questions, we are here!
More than 700 species of microbes live in your mouth and they include bacteria, fungus, and more. Some are helpful, and some harmful. Don’t run for your toothbrush or mouthwash just yet. As long as they’re in balance, the “good” kind can keep the “bad” ones from hurting you.
But if that balance gets out of whack, the harmful ones can take hold and lead to gum disease.
You might have heard how good bacteria in certain foods and supplements (called probiotics) may help with this kind of imbalance in your gut. Well, scientists are finding that they may help fight gum disease in much the same way.
That might give you and your dentist another tool to use to treat or prevent gum issues along with the standard ones.
How Does the Imbalance Happen?
Researchers are still trying to sort out what lets the harmful bacteria go to work in your mouth. The triggers can include:
Not taking care of your teeth and gums. This lets the bad bacteria multiply and shifts the balance.
A weak immune system. This can affect the way the bacteria in your mouth relate to one another and give the harmful kind an advantage.
Your body’s genetic blueprint. Some people may not have enough of the helpful bacteria, or they may be more likely to have the bad kind.
Dry mouth. Your saliva has substances that help fight harmful bacteria. But some medicines, like painkillers and decongestants, can affect how much you have.
How Does That Lead to Gum Disease?
An imbalance of bacteria can affect your body’s defenses and keep your white blood cells from killing harmful bacteria. Those bacteria can inflame your gums. That inflammation, in turn, gives off chemicals that feed bad bacteria, which multiply. More bacteria inflame your gums and start to eat away at the bone that anchors your teeth.
If this goes on long enough, your gums and the bone that supports your teeth can be ruined. You might end up losing teeth.
It also can set you up for tooth decay and bad breath. Researchers think it also may help cause oral cancer.
And if you have too many harmful bacteria in your mouth, they can move to other parts of your body and may be linked to:
Diabetes
Heart disease
Rheumatoid arthritis
Probiotics and Gum Disease
A group of helpful bacteria called lactobacilli can fight several kinds of bad bacteria and may help restore a healthy balance in your mouth.
Researchers put some of this bacteria into chewing gum and asked people with the gum disease gingivitis to use it every day. (With gingivitis, your gums are red and swollen and bleed easily.) After 2 weeks, the teeth of the people in the study had less plaque — the clear, sticky film that can cause cavities or gum disease. Another study found that lozenges with the same kind of bacteria also helped with inflammation and plaque.If you have gum disease or are worried about it, talk with your dentist about whether a probiotic like this might be good for you. But remember that the most important things you can do to guard against gum disease are to brush and floss your teeth.
Prevent gum disease and maintain a healthy smile. Our experienced dentists can provide comprehensive care to address your oral health needs. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us onInstagram.
Missing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting your appearance and oral function. Dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking solution to restore your smile and improve your overall well-being. Learn about the dental implant process, from initial consultation to final results.At Palisades Dental, our experts specialize in guiding you through the dental implant process, ensuring personalized care from your initial consultation to the final, transformative results.
Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones. Dental implant surgery can offer a welcome alternative to dentures or bridgework that doesn’t fit well and can offer an option when a lack of natural teeth roots don’t allow building denture or bridgework tooth replacements.
How dental implant surgery is performed depends on the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. Dental implant surgery may involve several procedures. The major benefit of implants is solid support for your new teeth — a process that requires the bone to heal tightly around the implant. Because this bone healing requires time, the process can take many months.
Why it’s done
Dental implants are surgically placed in your jawbone, where they serve as the roots of missing teeth. Because the titanium in the implants fuses with your jawbone, the implants won’t slip, make noise or cause bone damage the way fixed bridgework or dentures might. And the materials can’t decay like your own teeth that support regular bridgework can.
In general, dental implants may be right for you if you:
Have one or more missing teeth
Have a jawbone that’s reached full growth
Have adequate bone to secure the implants or are able to have a bone graft
Have healthy oral tissues
Don’t have health conditions that will affect bone healing
Are unable or unwilling to wear dentures
Want to improve your speech
Are willing to commit several months to the process
Don’t smoke tobacco
Risks
Like any surgery, dental implant surgery poses some health risks. Problems are rare, though, and when they do occur they’re usually minor and easily treated. Risks include:
Infection at the implant site
Injury or damage to surrounding structures, such as other teeth or blood vessels
Nerve damage, which can cause pain, numbness or tingling in your natural teeth, gums, lips or chin
Sinus problems, when dental implants placed in the upper jaw protrude into one of your sinus cavities
How you prepare
The planning process for dental implants may involve a variety of specialists, including a doctor who specializes in conditions of the mouth, jaw and face (oral and maxillofacial surgeon), a dentist specializing in treating structures that support the teeth, such as gums and bones (periodontist), a dentist who designs and fits artificial teeth (prosthodontist), or occasionally an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
Because dental implants require one or more surgical procedures, you must have a thorough evaluation to prepare for the process, including a:
Comprehensive dental exam. You may have dental X-rays and 3D images taken, and have models made of your teeth and jaw.
Review of your medical history. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions and any medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you have certain heart conditions or orthopedic implants, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics before surgery to help prevent infection.
Treatment plan.Tailored to your situation, this plan takes into account factors such as how many teeth you need replaced and the condition of your jawbone and remaining teeth.
To control pain, anesthesia options during surgery include local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia. Talk to your dental specialist about which option is best for you. Your dental care team will instruct you about eating and drinking before surgery, depending on what type of anesthesia you have. If you’re having sedation or general anesthesia, plan to have someone take you home after surgery and expect to rest for the remainder of the day.
What you can expect
Dental implant surgery is usually an outpatient surgery performed in stages, with healing time between procedures. The process of placing a dental implant involves multiple steps, including:
Damaged tooth removal
Jawbone preparation (grafting), when needed
Dental implant placement
Bone growth and healing
Abutment placement
Artificial tooth placement
The entire process can take many months from start to finish. Much of that time is devoted to healing and waiting for the growth of new bone in your jaw. Depending on your situation, the specific procedure done or the materials used, certain steps can sometimes be combined.
When bone grafting is required
If your jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, you may need bone grafting before you can have dental implant surgery. That’s because the powerful chewing action of your mouth exerts great pressure on your bone, and if it can’t support the implant, the surgery likely would fail. A bone graft can create a more solid base for the implant.
There are several bone graft materials that can be used to rebuild a jawbone. Options may include a natural bone graft, such as from another location in your body, or a synthetic bone graft, such as bone-substitute material that can provide support structures for new bone growth. Talk to your doctor about options that will work best for you.
It may take several months for the transplanted bone to grow enough new bone to support a dental implant. In some cases, you may need only minor bone grafting, which can be done at the same time as the implant surgery. The condition of your jawbone determines how you proceed.
Placing the dental implant
During surgery to place the dental implant, your oral surgeon makes a cut to open your gum and expose the bone. Holes are drilled into the bone where the dental implant metal post will be placed. Since the post will serve as the tooth root, it’s implanted deep into the bone.
At this point, you’ll still have a gap where your tooth is missing. A type of partial, temporary denture can be placed for appearance, if needed. You can remove this denture for cleaning and while you sleep.
Waiting for bone growth
Once the metal implant post is placed in your jawbone, osseointegration (oss-ee-oh-in-tuh-GRAY-shun) begins. During this process, the jawbone grows into and unites with the surface of the dental implant. This process, which can take several months, helps provide a solid base for your new artificial tooth — just as roots do for your natural teeth.
Placing the abutment
When osseointegration is complete, you may need additional surgery to place the abutment — the piece where the crown will eventually attach. This minor surgery is typically done with local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
To place the abutment:
Your oral surgeon reopens your gum to expose the dental implant
The abutment is attached to the dental implant
The gum tissue is then closed around, but not over, the abutment
In some cases, the abutment is attached to the dental implant metal post when the post is implanted. That means you won’t need an extra surgical step. Because the abutment juts past the gumline, however, it’s visible when you open your mouth — and it will be that way until your dentist completes the tooth prosthesis. Some people don’t like that appearance and prefer to have the abutment placed in a separate procedure.
After the abutment is placed, your gums must heal for about two weeks before the artificial tooth can be attached.
Choosing your new artificial teeth
Once your gums heal, you’ll have more impressions made of your mouth and remaining teeth. These impressions are used to make the crown — your realistic-looking artificial tooth. The crown can’t be placed until your jawbone is strong enough to support use of the new tooth.
You and your dental specialist can choose artificial teeth that are removable, fixed or a combination of both:
Removable. This type is similar to a conventional removable denture and can be a partial or full denture. It contains artificial white teeth surrounded by pink plastic gum. It’s mounted on a metal frame that’s attached to the implant abutment, and it snaps securely into place. It can be easily removed for repair or daily cleaning.
Fixed.In this type, an artificial tooth is permanently screwed or cemented onto an individual implant abutment. You can’t remove the tooth for cleaning or during sleep. Most of the time, each crown is attached to its own dental implant. However, because implants are exceptionally strong, several teeth can be replaced by one implant if they’re bridged together.
After the procedure
Whether you have dental implant surgery in one stage or multiple stages, you may experience some of the typical discomforts associated with any type of dental surgery, such as:
Swelling of your gums and face
Bruising of your skin and gums
Pain at the implant site
Minor bleeding
You may need pain medications or antibiotics after dental implant surgery. If swelling, discomfort or any other problem gets worse in the days after surgery, contact your oral surgeon.
After each stage of surgery, you may need to eat soft foods while the surgical site heals. Typically, your surgeon will use stitches that dissolve on their own. If your stitches aren’t self-dissolving, your doctor removes them.
Results
Most dental implants are successful. Sometimes, however, the bone fails to fuse sufficiently to the metal implant. Smoking, for example, may contribute to implant failure and complications.
If the bone fails to fuse sufficiently, the implant is removed, the bone is cleaned up, and you can try the procedure again in about three months.
You can help your dental work — and remaining natural teeth — last longer if you:
Practice excellent oral hygiene. Just as with your natural teeth, keep implants, artificial teeth and gum tissue clean. Specially designed brushes, such as an interdental brush that slides between teeth, can help clean the nooks and crannies around teeth, gums and metal posts.
See your dentist regularly. Schedule dental checkups to ensure the health and proper functioning of your implants and follow the advice for professional cleanings.
Avoid damaging habits.Don’t chew hard items, such as ice and hard candy, which can break your crowns — or your natural teeth. Avoid tooth-staining tobacco and caffeine products. Get treatment if you grind your teeth.
Ready to rediscover your smile? Explore the benefits of dental implants with a personalized treatment plan to restore your confidence and oral function. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us on Instagram.
Congratulations on your pregnancy! As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s important to remember that your oral health plays a vital role in your overall well-being and even your baby’s health. Let’s explore how you can prioritize your dental care, and embrace this exciting chapter with confidence and a radiant smile! We know full well that there can be a LOT of questions surrounding pretty much everything and your pregnancy — so don’t forget that Dr. Youngquist will take his time and get all your questions answered with great care.
Effects of Pregnancy on Oral Health
Pregnancy can be a vulnerable time for the oral health of both mother and baby. It’s vital to practice excellent dental hygiene during pregnancy.
Many women experience dental problems while they’re pregnant. A mother’s oral health also is a strong predictor of how her child’s oral health will be.
Being vigilant about your dental care can keep you and your baby healthy.
How Does Pregnancy Impact Oral Health?
Your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. These changes can lead to dental problems if you aren’t vigilant about oral hygiene.
Factors that can impact oral health during pregnancy include:
Hormonal fluctuations
Changes in eating habits
Morning sickness
Neglect of oral hygiene
Many women don’t realize the necessity of good oral health during pregnancy and tend to neglect dentist visits. Studies show that more than half of women did not see the dentist during pregnancy.
Other women may experience increased fatigue or tenderness in the gums and may avoid cleaning their teeth as a result.
However, it’s essential to continue practicing diligent oral hygiene and to visit the dentist during pregnancy. It will help manage any dental conditions that might arise and ensure good dental health for your child.
Common Dental Conditions in Pregnancy
Pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing certain dental conditions. Hormonal, habitual, and physical changes can all affect your oral health.
The most common dental conditions that occur during pregnancy include:
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is characterized as the inflammation of the gums. It’s a reversible early stage of periodontal disease. Your dentist or dental hygienist can treat it with a professional teeth cleaning.
Between 60 and 75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis.The hormone changes associated with pregnancy can increase inflammation in the body. You might notice your gums becoming red, swollen, and tender while pregnant.
Left untreated, gingivitis will advance into the later stages of periodontal disease, which can result in permanent bone loss. It can also lead to preterm birth or low birth weight.
Cavities
Cavities form due to a buildup of plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. It’s common for pregnant women to develop cavities from frequent snacking due to cravings or increased appetite.
However, untreated cavities can have a negative impact on your child’s dental health. If you have untreated cavities before pregnancy or develop them during pregnancy, the decay-causing bacteria can transfer to your baby after birth.
Transmission can occur through direct contact, such as sharing utensils or kissing your baby on the lips. Research shows that children are three times more likely to develop cavities if their mothers have high levels of untreated tooth decay.
To prevent the spread of cavities from mother to baby, your dentist will recommend restoring them as soon as possible. Basic dental procedures, such as fillings and crowns, are safe during pregnancy.
Loose Teeth
Some women experience loose teeth during pregnancy, which is usually nothing to worry about. Estrogen and progesterone can loosen the bones and ligaments that keep your teeth positioned correctly.
After pregnancy, your teeth should not feel loose anymore. However, if a tooth falls out while pregnant, it is typically due to an underlying untreated dental condition, such as extreme decay or periodontal disease.
Dental Erosion
Around 70% of women experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, usually in the first trimester.5 There is nothing to worry about as long as you practice good oral hygiene.
However, prolonged vomiting can expose your teeth to high amounts of stomach acid. Stomach acid can wear away at your tooth enamel, causing dental erosion.
It’s crucial to keep your teeth clean and healthy if you experience a lot of vomiting and morning sickness during pregnancy.
Keeping Your Oral Health Intact During Pregnancy
There are several ways to ensure good oral health during pregnancy, including:
Regular Teeth Cleanings, X-Rays, and Dental Exams
Teeth cleanings, x-rays, and dental exams are safe during pregnancy.
You should still visit your dentist every six months to receive preventive care. Depending on your situation, a dentist may even recommend more visits while you are pregnant.
Dentists recommend scheduling appointments before the third trimester if you need restorative work done.
For invasive procedures that involve sedatives, such as dental implants, it may be best to wait until after you give birth. Teeth whitening, clear aligners, and cosmetic treatments should also be scheduled after your baby arrives.
Food Choices and Nutrition
Abnormal and unhealthy food cravings are normal during pregnancy.
Even so, eating enough healthy foods throughout pregnancy is vital to keep your teeth healthy and help your baby’s teeth form properly. This includes a mixture of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and unrefined grains.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), your baby’s teeth begin developing under the gums between the 3rd and 6th months of pregnancy. Eating a nutritious and balanced diet can help them form correctly.
Practicing Good Oral Hygiene at Home
The best thing you can do to keep your teeth healthy during pregnancy is to care for your teeth every day. You should:5
Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss at least once daily
Rinse your mouth with baking soda and water after vomiting
Avoid food and drinks high in sugar
Drink fluoridated water
Keeping Your Baby’s Oral Health Intact After Pregnancy
It is equally important to keep your baby’s oral condition healthy. Understanding how early experiences impact your child’s dental health will help you ensure their positive development.
Preventing Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
A baby’s first tooth erupts no later than 1 year of age.
Excessive bottle feeding or allowing a baby to drink from a bottle in bed can result in tooth decay. If the substance in the bottle is anything but water, the front teeth will bathe in it, ultimately causing cavities.
To help prevent tooth decay, dentists recommend utilizing these tips:
Visit a pediatric dentist regularly — Your child will need routine teeth cleanings and exams after their first tooth erupts
Check for decay — Routinely check newly erupted teeth for signs of decay, such as tooth sensitivity and light brown spots on the enamel
Use fluoride — Give your baby fluoridated water to drink, and brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste
Clean their gums — Wipe your baby’s gums after breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
Practice good bedtime habits — Never send your baby to bed with a bottle
Cut back on sugary drinks — Beverages that are high in sugar, like fruit juice, can promote tooth decay
Breastfeeding and Dental Health
Breast milk contains sugar, which can contribute to tooth decay. Always wipe your baby’s gums with a soft washcloth after breastfeeding. Cleaning the gums helps reduce the chance of cavity formation once primary teeth grow in.
Breastfeeding during the first year of life has a few oral health benefits, including:
Reduces the risk of baby bottle tooth decay
May promote the development of a better bite, reducing the need for orthodontic treatment later in life
Embrace a healthy pregnancy with a healthy smile! We offer specialized care and guidance to discuss your unique needs. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us at Instagram.
Ever flinch when you bite into an ice cream cone? Or wince when a gust of cold air hits your teeth? Teeth sensitivity can be a real zinger, causing sharp pain that shoots into the nerve endings. Don’t worry, though! There are ways to chill those sensitive nerves, from fluoride and special toothpaste to dental bonding that strengthens your smile. Questions? We are always here!
Teeth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity can occur when you consume hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air. Pain can be sharp, sudden and shoot deep into tooth nerve endings. Treatments include fluoride, desensitizing toothpaste and dental bonding.
Overview
What is teeth sensitivity?
Teeth sensitivity usually occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth — the dentin — becomes exposed. This can happen due to erosion (wear and tear) and gum recession (when your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots).
Teeth roots, which aren’t covered by hard enamel, contain thousands of tiny tubules leading to your tooth’s center (the pulp). These dentinal tubules (or channels) allow stimuli — for example, hot, cold or sweet food — to reach the nerve in your tooth, which results in the pain you feel.
Dental sensitivity can also be a symptom of other issues, including cavities, gum disease or a cracked tooth.
Possible Causes
What causes sudden tooth sensitivity?
Many factors can lead to the development of sensitive teeth, including:
Brushing too hard: Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause the dentin to be exposed. It can also cause gum recession (when your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth).
Gum recession: Some people are genetically prone to thin gum tissue. Other people develop gum recession as a result of periodontal disease. With gum recession, your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots.
Gum disease: Inflamed and sore gum tissue may cause sensitivity because of the loss of supporting ligaments, which exposes the root surface that leads directly to the nerve of the tooth.
Cracked teeth: Chipped or broken teeth may fill with bacteria from plaque and enter the pulp, causing inflammation.
Teeth grinding: Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
Teeth whitening products: These products are major contributors to teeth sensitivity. If you want to brighten your smile, talk to a dentist about teeth whitening for sensitive teeth.
Age: Teeth sensitivity is highest between the ages of 25 and 30.
Plaque buildup: The presence of plaque on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.
Mouthwash use: Some over-the-counter mouthwashes contain acids that can worsen teeth sensitivity if you have exposed dentin (the middle layer of the tooth). The acids further damage the dentin layer of the tooth. If you have dentin sensitivity, ask your dentist about the use of a neutral fluoride solution.
Acidic foods: Regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles and tea, can cause enamel erosion.
Recent dental procedures: People can get sensitive teeth after fillings, teeth cleanings and dental restoration placement. Sensitivity caused by dental procedures is temporary and usually disappears in four to six weeks.
Does a sensitive tooth mean infection?
Not always. Sometimes, teeth sensitivity indicates tooth erosion (wear and tear) or gum recession. But it can also mean that you have a cracked or infected tooth. Infection-related tooth pain may be dull and achy or sharp and throbbing.
If you have severe teeth sensitivity that doesn’t go away, call a dentist right away for further instructions.
Care and Treatment
Can sensitive tooth pain go away?
Yes. In some cases, teeth sensitivity goes away on its own — especially if it’s due to a recent dental procedure, such as a filling or root canal. If you have teeth sensitivity that lingers and doesn’t go away, talk to a dentist. You might have worn enamel or exposed teeth roots. In these cases, you might need treatment to address the issue.
How do you stop sensitive teeth pain?
Treatment depends on the cause. If you develop lingering teeth sensitivity or discomfort, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll need to rule out any serious conditions so they can recommend appropriate treatment.
To reduce your risk of teeth sensitivity caused by normal wear and tear:
Use desensitizing toothpaste: There are several brands of toothpaste for sensitive teeth. With regular use, you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. You may need to try several different brands to find the product that works best for you. Another tip: Spread a thin layer of the toothpaste on the exposed tooth roots with your finger or a Q-tip before you go to bed. Be sure to use fluoridated toothpaste.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Continue to follow proper brushing and flossing techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of your teeth and mouth.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: This will result in less toothbrush abrasion to the tooth surface and less irritation to your gums.
Watch what you eat: Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure. They may also aggravate the sensitivity and start the pain reaction.
Use fluoridated dental products: Daily use of a fluoridated mouth rinse can decrease sensitivity. Ask your dentist about available products for home use.
Avoid teeth grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth, use a mouth guard at night.
See your dentist regularly: Get routine professional exams, cleanings and fluoride treatments.
If you still have discomfort, talk to your dentist. There are some dental procedures that may help reduce sensitivity, including the use of:
Dental bonding to cover exposed root surfaces.
Fluoride varnishes applied to the exposed root surface.
Dentin sealers applied to the exposed root surface.
When to Call the Doctor
When should I see my dentist for teeth sensitivity?
Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you have teeth sensitive to:
Cold.
Heat.
Sweets.
What questions should I ask my dentist?
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Do I need treatments to address my sensitive teeth?
Are there treatments that can prevent teeth sensitivity in the future?
What over-the-counter products do you recommend?
How often should I have teeth cleanings?
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Several different factors can cause teeth sensitivity, including worn enamel, exposed roots, cavities, cracks and even recent dental procedures. Whether you need treatment depends on the cause. You can address mildly sensitive teeth with desensitizing toothpaste and good oral hygiene. Severe teeth sensitivity caused by gum recession, cavities or cracked teeth may require treatment. Your dentist can help determine what’s causing your sensitive teeth and recommend treatment to address the issue.
Don’t let teeth sensitivity steal your smile. We offer gentle care to ensure your sensitivity treatment fits seamlessly into your life. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us on Instagram.
Occasional, moderate drinking can be part of a healthy lifestyle. Heavy alcohol consumption, however, is associated with several short- and long-term problems. Alcohol can affect the health of your liver, your brain, your blood sugar—and your mouth.
How Alcohol Affects Your Dental Health
Alcohol and the body
While moderate alcohol consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle, alcohol isn’t generally considered healthy. Part of its mixed reputation comes from both the short- and long-term effects it has on your body and your health, from your brain, to your blood sugar, to your liver.
But what are the effects of alcohol on your gums, mouth tissues, and teeth?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines moderate alcohol use as one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men. The CDC considers heavy drinking to be more than eight drinks a week for women, and 15 or more for men.
Gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth sores are all much more likely for heavy drinkers, and alcohol abuse is the second most common risk factor for oral cancer.
What about the teeth?
People who have alcohol use disorder tend to have higher plaque levels on their teeth and are three times as likely to experience permanent tooth loss.
But are moderate drinkers at risk for serious tooth and mouth disease? There isn’t much conclusive medical evidence. Dentists say that they see the effects of moderate drinking regularly, however.
Staining
“The color in beverages comes from chromogens,” explains Dr. John Grbic, director of oral biology and clinical research in dentistry at Columbia’s College of Dental Medicine. Chromogens attach to tooth enamel that’s been compromised by the acid in alcohol, staining teeth. One way to bypass this is to drink alcoholic drinks with a straw.
“If you have a preference for mixing liquor with dark sodas or drinking red wine, say goodbye to a white smile,” says Dr. Timothy Chase, DMD, of SmilesNY. “Aside from the sugar content, dark-colored soft drinks can stain or discolor the teeth. Remember to rinse your mouth with water between drinks.”
Beer is only marginally better, according to Dr. Joseph Banker, DMD, of Creative Dental. “Beer is acidic just like wine. That makes teeth more likely to be stained by the dark barley and malts found in darker beers.”
Dryness
Banker also notes that drinks high in alcohol, like spirits, dry the mouth. Saliva keeps teeth moist and helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the tooth’s surface. Try to stay hydrated by drinking water while you drink alcohol.
Other damage
Tooth damage related to alcohol is increased if you chew the ice in your drinks, which can break your teeth, or if you add citrus to your beverage. The American Dental Association notes that even a squeeze of lemon could erode tooth enamel.
One studyTrusted Source did conclude, however, that red wine kills oral bacteria called streptococci, which are associated with tooth decay. That said, don’t start drinking red wine just for this reason.
If you want to improve your smile, Palisades is here to help you decide the best way to achieve it. Commit to your dental well-being. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips on general dentistry, follow us on Instagram.
Indulging your sweet tooth doesn’t have to be a threat to your dental health. Discover how you can enjoy the sweetness of life and the holidays while safeguarding your precious smile. Together, we can ensure the well-being of your precious smile.
Sugar Habit? How to Curb It and Prevent Tooth Decay Symptoms
Who doesn’t love the rush of sugar a fizzy drink or a piece of candy offers? Most people consume a fair amount of sugar each day. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, you should limit added sugars to 10 percent of your daily calories. However, many people’s added sugar intake exceeds this limit. Unfortunately, consuming high quantities of sugar can result in tooth decay symptoms, such as dental caries (commonly known as cavities), gum recession, and tooth sensitivity. The good news is that you don’t have to cut out sugar. By just cutting back on the amount of sugar in your diet, you can avoid having tooth decay.
How Do Sugars Cause Tooth Decay?
Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on the surface of your teeth. When you consume sugary foods or drinks, the bacteria in plaque will produce acids. These acids will attack your tooth enamel. The stickiness of plaque keeps these acids in close contact with your teeth, ultimately destroying your tooth enamel. This is when cavities can form.
If plaque stays on your teeth, it hardens into tartar, which can cause gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease.
Which Sugars Cause Tooth Decay?
When sugars are added to foods to sweeten them, they add calories but don’t add any nutritional value. They are known as added sugars, unlike the naturally occurring sugars that exist in fruits and milk. Foods like candy, cookies, cakes, and muffins not only offer no nutritional value, the high amount of sugar they contain can adhere to your teeth, resulting in tooth decay. Sugar-containing drinks, including sodas, juice, sweetened coffee, or tea, are also very harmful because they provide a constant sugar bath for your teeth.
You might wonder if all types of added sugars cause tooth decay. For instance, you might be curious if dextrose (a type of sugar that comes from corn) is bad for your teeth. The answer is yes. While refined sugar found in candy or sweetened cereals is typically the most harmful, all added sugars can create plaque and cause tooth decay. This is especially the case when they’re consumed in excess.
Tips to Prevent Tooth Decay
Swap Added Sugars with Natural Sugars. While it might be nice to treat yourself now and then with a dessert, try to reduce the number of times in a day or week that you consume added sugars. Replace them with fruit. Remember that unsweetened cranberries, raspberries, and blackberries have the lowest amount of sugar, while mangoes have the highest.
Check the Food Labels. Don’t forget to check the labels on everything you buy so that you can avoid foods with high quantities of added sugar. Since ingredients are typically listed in order of weight, if a type of added sugar is listed as one of the first few ingredients, it’s likely that that food is high in sugar and should be avoided.
Have a Good Oral Care Routine. Along with paying attention to your diet, it’s also essential to follow a thorough oral care routine to prevent tooth decay naturally. If you don’t brush regularly, plaque builds up on your teeth, increasing your chance to experience tooth decay. That’s why it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth with floss or another type of interdental cleaner.
Sugar can be hard to avoid, but paying close attention to what foods you’re buying and eating can help you stay away from tooth decay. Avoid added sugars and instead, have some raspberries for dessert. And of course, maintaining good oral hygiene will leave you with a healthy mouth for many years to come.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
Cheers to a December filled with laughter, joy, and a healthier, happier you! Commit to your dental well-being. Schedule your dentist appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more tips from Palisades family dental, follow us at Instagram.
Do you ever experience an unexplained salty taste in your mouth that lingers throughout the day? The sensation of a salty taste in your mouth can be perplexing and, in some cases, quite bothersome. While it’s not an uncommon issue, it may leave you wondering about the underlying causes and potential remedies. Let’s explore effective ways to relieve it, helping you regain the fresh, balanced taste you’re accustomed to.
Have other questions about your oral health? Our team is here to take care of ‘all the things’ for your whole family. Dr. Youngquist and his team care about you having the very best dental experience: seamless and comfortable — with any of your concerns carefully addressed.
You may have a salty taste in your mouth for a variety of reasons. Some are benign and nothing to worry about, but others are more serious.
You may notice this taste even when you haven’t eaten or when you first wake up. Other symptoms, such as the sensation of a dry mouth, may accompany it.
6 Potential Causes of a Salty Taste in Your Mouth
Aside from eating something salty, here are possible reasons you may have a salty taste in your mouth:
1. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a relatively common condition. In addition to a salty taste, your mouth may be dry. Your saliva may also be thick, stringy, and sticky. You may also notice:
Bad breath
Hoarse voice
Sore throat
In most cases, the solution for a dry mouth is as simple as staying hydrated. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can make your mouth dry. You may be dehydrated when you first wake up in the morning.
However, xerostomia can also be caused by smoking, certain medications, and some less common health conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome. Talk to your doctor or dentist if you frequently experience dry mouth symptoms.
2. Dehydration
Moderate to severe dehydration can cause more than an altered feeling and taste in your mouth. If you’ve lost a lot of water through sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, you may also experience:
General uneasiness (malaise)
Difficulty thinking or focusing
Severe thirst
Weakness
Dizziness
Dehydration can lead to hypernatremia (high blood sodium). This may cause a strong salty taste in addition to the above symptoms.
You can prevent dehydration by consuming an adequate intake of water and electrolytes. But if you’ve lost a significant amount of water and can’t think or move normally, see a doctor immediately.
3. Post-Nasal Drip
If you have a cold or seasonal allergies, you may have post-nasal drip. This occurs when mucus buildup from your sinuses goes down both your throat and nose.
This mucus can then get into your mouth, which can taste salty. This isn’t anything to worry about on its own. Just continue to rest and drink fluids if you have a cold.
Certain foods, irritating chemicals or nasal sprays, and cold temperatures can also cause post-nasal drip. However, see a doctor if you have symptoms of a severe infection or allergic reaction, such as:
Difficulty breathing
Green or yellow mucus when you cough or blow your nose
Blood in your mucus
Severe coughing
Sinus-related or cold-like symptoms that last more than 10 days
4. Blood in Your Mouth
Having blood in your mouth can produce a salty or metallic taste. This could happen due to an oral injury or a nosebleed.
You can usually stop a nosebleed or minor oral bleeding quickly. Applying pressure with your hands or a compress may be enough. However, see a doctor if you:
Have a nosebleed lasting 20 minutes or longer
Have frequent nosebleeds without an apparent cause
Become lightheaded, dizzy, or unable to concentrate
Are coughing up blood
5. Oral Infection
Oral bleeding or a general foul taste may be caused by an oral infection, such as:
Gum disease (bacteria inflaming the gums)
Oral thrush, an oral yeast infection
Oral human papillomavirus (HPV)
See your dentist or doctor if you have persistent burning pain in your mouth, hoarseness, or a change in the appearance of your tongue or gums.
6. Nutrient Deficiency
Having a lower-than-healthy amount of certain nutrients may cause a salty or metallic taste in your mouth. Some common nutrient deficiencies that can affect your taste buds include:
Vitamin B12, found in meat, eggs, and dairy
Vitamin B9 (folate), found in legumes, dark leafy greens, and eggs
Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, tomatoes, and potatoes
Zinc, found in meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, and seeds
It can take years for a nutrient deficiency to develop and cause symptoms. In addition to a salty, sour, or metallic taste, you may also notice:
Fatigue
Confusion
Irritability
Irregular heartbeat
Numbness in your extremities (hands, feet, lips, tongue)
Treatment for a deficiency may involve getting a shot or oral supplement of the nutrient in question. To avoid nutrient deficiencies, try to maintain a balanced diet. Dietary supplements are also available over the counter (OTC).
Other Causes
Less common causes of a salty or otherwise altered taste include:
Sjögren’s syndrome, an immune disorder that affects your tear ducts and salivary glands
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
Certain medications, especially those that cause dry mouth
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
A leak of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) due to an injury, surgery, or another cause
When to See a Doctor
A salty taste in your mouth usually isn’t a sign of anything serious. But you should let your doctor know if you have:
Long-term changes in your sense of taste or how your mouth feels
Noticeable changes in the appearance of your mouth, gums, lips, or tongue
Blood in your mucus
A sore throat or sinus symptoms that last more than 10 days
In rare cases, there may be a medical emergency causing your altered taste. If you have difficulty breathing or standing up, or if you’re in severe pain, see a doctor immediately.
How to Treat This Condition
A salty taste in your mouth may not need treatment beyond drinking water. A dry mouth due to mild dehydration may be the cause. In cases of severe dehydration, IV hydration may be required.
However, more specific or severe causes will require different treatments. These may include antibiotics, antihistamines, or vitamin injections.
Can You Prevent a Salty Taste in the Mouth?
The easiest way to avoid an unexpected salty taste is to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Also, avoid excessive nose-picking to avoid causing a nosebleed.
Experience the relief of a fresh, balanced taste. Explore our tips and tricks for achieving and maintaining a healthy mouth and teeth. Schedule your appointment today at 801-756-1009. For more teeth whitening in American Fork, follow us at @palisadesdental.
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.