As a parent, you want your child to be as healthy as possible. Part of being a healthy kid involves having a healthy mouth. While oral health issues aren’t extremely common in children there is one condition that happens frequently and that’s childhood dental caries.

Dental caries is known as the scientific term for tooth decay or cavities. It’s caused by specific types of bacteria that produce acid and destroy the tooth’s enamel and the layer under it. Caries from the most easily in places such as:

• Cracks, pits, or grooves in the back of the teeth
• In-between teeth
• Around dental fillings or bridgework
• Near the gum line

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent diseases in children under six years old and is referred to as Early Childhood Caries (ECC). While this disease is preventable, a child is five times more likely to be diagnosed with ECC than asthma. If a child younger than six has already developed two or more cavities, ECC will be considered present.

Risk factors for Severe Early Childhood Caries

Severe early childhood caries can be easily prevented but there are some risk factors involved with the disease. They include:

• A child who has not yet visited the dentist
• Going to sleep with a baby bottle filled with fruit juice or milk
• A child who does not have their gums wiped or teeth brushed before be

Sugar is a huge risk factor for childhood caries. The sugar from beverages and food coats the teeth. That’s why it’s important that a child drinks plenty of water and has a good tooth brushing routine to wash away any sugar.

Preventing Dental Caries in Children

As a parent, there are many things you can do to help prevent childhood caries.

Visiting the dentist

Visiting the dentist regularly is the best way to prevent dental caries in children and avoid other serious dental issues. It’s recommended that a child visits the dentist before they turn one or when their first tooth erupts. After a child’s first visit, regular dental check-ups should be scheduled once every six months.

Dental care at home

Practicing good oral hygiene at home is another way to prevent childhood caries. Clean a child’s teeth in the morning at night and start teaching them good teeth brushing and flossing techniques. Ask your dentist for the best methods for checking your child’s teeth at home.

Nutrition

Good nutrition is an important part of ensuring that your child has healthy teeth. Young children should be provided with a balanced diet filled with essential vitamins and nutrients. Be sure to limit over-consumption of sugary juices and foods as they can lead to decay after a child’s teeth start growing.

With these practices, childhood caries can be easily prevented.

Childhood Caries Treatment

The most common treatment for childhood caries are fillings which can be easily done by a general or pediatric dentist. If extensive work is needed, a dentist may need to administer sedation to put the young child at ease while work is done. However, this is only done in more severe cases. Cavities and caries can be painful so it’s essential to have them treated right away.

Frequently Asked Questions on Dental Caries in Children

What causes early childhood caries?

Childhood caries is caused by certain types of bacteria that live in the mouth. Bacteria stick to plaque in the teeth and feed on what you eat, especially sugars. Children with diets higher in sugar may be more likely to develop childhood caries.

How can you prevent early childhood caries?

Childhood caries can be easily prevented. Adopt a healthy, balanced diet for your child and limit starchy and sugary foods. Also, develop dental hygiene habits early by brushing your child’s teeth and wiping their gums. Visiting the dentist regularly is another sure way to help prevent childhood caries.

Is it necessary to fill cavities in baby teeth?

While baby teeth aren’t permanent, they are the teeth your child will have for many years. If you’re child experiences caries or cavities, your dentist will fill them accordingly. The primary teeth help adult teeth come in properly, so it’s important that your child’s baby teeth are as healthy as possible.

One medical condition that is often seen in those who often feel stressed is canker sores. Anyone can be affected by canker sores and they are inconvenient and can be painful. They often appear on the outside of the mouth on the lips. Sometimes they are even called stress sores.

While it’s not quite understood why people develop canker sores, stress or anxiety may have a role in the cause of these mouth sores. This article will lay out the connection between stress and canker sores and what you can do if you believe your canker sores are caused by stress.

Can Stress Cause Canker Sores?

Canker sore outbreaks seem related to physical or emotional stress.

There have been small studies done to look at the role stress, anxiety, and depression play in the development of canker sores or recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), which are canker sores that form often.

Researchers from a study from the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine determined that there appeared to be a link between canker sores and stress.

A small study in Contemporary Clinical Dentistry evaluated the psychological profiles and salivary cortisol levels that indicate stress of people with RAS. The researchers were able to conclude that the levels of anxiety and depression were higher in people with recurring canker sores.

While stress, anxiety, and depression can cause canker sores there may be other causes for why you’re experiencing canker sores. They include:

• Minor mouth injuries
• Toothpaste and mouthwashes containing lauryl sulfate
• Food sensitivities
• A diet lacking vitamins and nutrients
• Allergic reaction to certain bacteria in the mouth

What to do if you have canker sores caused by stress

If you’re experiencing canker sores due to stress or anxiety, learning to manage your stress may be able to help you avoid a flare-up. Managing your stress will also help you way beyond your oral health.

One way to reduce stress is through deep breathing. If you’re feeling tense deep breaths can help calm you. Along with this, meditation can help ease your mind. Sometimes, you may have a lifestyle that keeps your stress levels consistently high. This may call for making lifestyle changes like cutting back on your workload of getting help at home. It’s best to consult a medical professional before you make any major lifestyle changes or if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

It’s also important to know how to treat your canker sores when they break out. It’s a good idea to call your dentist if you begin getting them more frequently or they become larger than a centimeter. Your dentist can recommend treatments to ease your discomfort. Keep up your daily oral hygiene habits and consider adding mouthwash to your routine.

Frequently asked questions- Canker sores and Stress

Can stress and anxiety cause canker sores?

Canker sores can be caused by a number of factors. Stress and anxiety can cause canker sore outbreaks more frequently.

Do canker sores come from stress?

There is no clear reason why one may develop canker sores. However, high levels of stress may be the reason that you are getting mouth sores.

How do you stop canker sores from stress?

If you’re experiencing stress sores on your mouth, try reducing your stress levels. This can be done with meditation practices and deep breathing techniques. You can also work on making other lifestyle changes such as reducing your workload at your job. Talk with your dentist or visit a therapist to see what you can do about reducing your stress and preventing canker sores.

Awake Bruxism – Everything You Need to Know About Daytime Teeth Grinding

Bruxism is a common dental condition in people of all ages, affecting most people during the night while they’re sleeping. A less common form of bruxism is awake bruxism, which is less common among the general public. Much like nighttime bruxism, it involves the constant grinding or clenching of your teeth and affects around 10 percent of the population. Awake bruxism can lead to more serious conditions such as enamel degradation, tension headaches, jaw pain, and sometimes broken teeth. That’s why we’ve compiled research and have broken down all the information to help you if you’re living with this condition.

What causes awake bruxism?

There are a few different reasons you may be experiencing awake bruxism and what might put you at risk for the condition. They include:

Stress: Increased anxiety or stress can lead to teeth grinding. You may also experience awake bruxism due to anger, frustration or tension. Awake bruxism is unusually common in those with high-stress careers.

Medications: Awake bruxism may be a side effect of some psychiatric medications such as certain antidepressants.

Drugs and Other Substances: Many drugs and substances may increase your risk of developing awake bruxism. This includes smoking tobacco, drinking caffeine, consuming alcohol, and using recreational drugs.

Awake vs. nighttime bruxism

Awake and nighttime bruxism are classified similarly but are different as they operate through different mechanisms. Those who suffer from awake bruxism are not necessarily more likely to suffer from nighttime bruxism and vice versa.

Since awake bruxism occurs during the waking hours, it makes it much easier to diagnose than nocturnal bruxism which occurs during sleep. As mentioned, daytime teeth grinding affects 10 percent of the general population while nighttime bruxism affects only 5 percent. However, awake bruxism may not actually be more common than nighttime, but it is easier and more often diagnosed.

Treatments for awake bruxism

If you grind your teeth and are living with awake bruxism, there are things you can do to stop it. Some remedies may work better than others depending on the underlying cause of your teeth grinding symptoms.

Talk with your dentist or doctor to help guide you to your best solution for ending your bruxism.

Reductive coronoplasty: This is a dental procedure that may be used to reshape or level the biting surface of your teeth. If your teeth grinding is caused by crowded, misaligned, or crooked teeth this may be effective.

Biofeedback: Biofeedback is a technique designed to help people become aware of their awake bruxism and work to eliminate the behavior. A therapist will teach you how to control your jaw muscle through visual, vibratory, or auditory feedback from electromyography. However, research has shown that the effectiveness of biofeedback may only be short-term.

Stress-reduction techniques: Since it’s common for awake bruxism to be caused by stress and other mental health issues, stress-reductions techniques may help in some cases. Common techniques include meditation, yoga, talk therapy, and exercise. Try different methods to see if any benefit you.

Muscle exercises: Tongue and jaw muscle exercises can help you relax the jaw and facial muscles and maintain proper alignment of your jaw. Talk with physical therapists to see what exercises to try.

Awake Bruxism & Dementia

Neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease put people at severe risk for awake bruxism. If you have a loved one so suffers from Alzheimer’s or dementia, be sure to check if they have developed awake or nighttime bruxism and find ways to help them.

You can begin by talking to your local dentist about a mouthguard to help minimize the grinding. A teething ring may also help.

Talk with their primary healthcare doctor to check their sugar levels. Sometimes, if sugar levels are high, the teeth grinding can be worse.

Frequently asked questions about awake bruxism

What do I do if my child has awake bruxism?

Bruxism is a common condition among young children. Most children will outgrow the conditions and while it affects more children during the night, some may be affected by awake bruxism. If your child develops a form of bruxism, talk with your doctor about different techniques to help control it. You may also consider using a mouthguard to help relieve the grinding. If left untreated, bruxism can cause future damage to your child’s jaw and teeth.

Why do I grind my teeth during the day?

There may be a few reasons why you’re grinding your teeth during the day. The most common cause of awake bruxism is stress and other mental health issues. If you’re feeling stressed, tense, or even anxious, consider different relaxation techniques and talking to your doctor or a counselor to find methods to relieve your teeth grinding symptoms.

How can I stop grinding my teeth in the daytime?

If you’re experiencing awake bruxism, there are some methods you can try to stop grinding your teeth during the daytime. Talk to your dentist or doctor about what might work for you. Some common remedies include mouthguards, therapy, and stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and exercise.

It’s not just doctors who specialize in certain areas. Dentists also specialize in certain fields, with one of which is the study of endodontics and endodontic therapy. If you are not acquainted with this subject of dentistry, it is the focus of the roots of the teeth and the area under them. When there is a serious infection under a natural tooth and you are in need of treatment, it’s likely that you are going to need root canal therapy. Thanks to the developments of technology and the American Dental Association, a structure has now been established making up of three sections for when treatment is necessary, including extractions, endodontics, and implants.

The 4 Secrets to Successful Endodontic Procedures

We will jump right in with the four secrets. Then, we will go into more detail about why these factors increase the success rate of endodontic procedures.

1. Address any potential concern as soon as you notice it
2. Choose a qualified endodontist to perform the treatment rather than a general dentist
3. Following treatment, maintain a thorough oral hygiene procedure
4. Don’t put off seeking professional assistance

Anytime your dentist tells you that you are going to need a root canal, it is due to the fact that it is currently the only way a tooth that has developed a disease in the pulp can be saved. It is entirely possible for bacteria and infection to exist and remain both under the root and in the root itself. Instead of having to lose the entire tooth, a root canal is essential in order to save it.

Almost every endodontic specialist tends to have a hectic schedule. Usually, when an affected person requires a technique that falls underneath the subject of “end dentistry,” your regular dentist will supply you with a referral to an endodontist. If you ever experience abscesses or require some kind of root canal therapy, this is the expert that you will need to see.

Keep in mind that a lot of dental insurance plans only cover a selected number of endodontic procedures, so you need to make sure that your funds are in order earlier than your appointment. Keep in mind that an expert who performs the root canal only gets rid of the dead and infected matter that is currently in the canal area of the tooth. Once they are decontaminated, a filling is positioned into the whole area. It is up to the patient to obtain a crown from their regular dentist in a separate procedure.

The tooth that was cleaned by the specialist is now dead. There will be no sensation, ache, or soreness due to the fact the nerve tissue has been completely removed along with the infection. Many remedies that are carried out by this kind of expert are typically painless.

To not have therapy (when there is a cavity or infection in a tooth) allows the infection to spread and can lead to the eventual loss of the infected tooth. Pain, swelling, and different signs of infection can present themselves and make living with the infection unbearable. Endodontics is often the last alternative before an extraction, which can lead to misalignment and trouble with your bite.

Keep in mind that it is viable for teeth to have more than one root canal. If there is an infection in any of the canals of the tooth, all of the canals need to be cleaned in order to prevent further infection. If any of the root canals are neglected, or the procedure is not a success, another remedy is needed. Often, teeth that have endured a root canal may benefit from the extra help of a crown. Dentists suggest that a crown is placed soon after a root canal procedure as the tooth is often weaker once the pulp and root have been extracted.

Endodontics Treatment

Many people have their own negative thoughts about endodontics and the painful experience that it includes a lot of tools made of steel that are inserted into the mouth. In actuality, the procedure is nowhere near as painful or as daunting as people think—it is basically a straightforward dental procedure that concentrates on the tooth’s pulp.

The term “endodontics” derives from the Greek word endo, which means “internal” and codons meaning“tooth.” Problems related to tooth decay are improved or even eliminated through this procedure. Any genuine dentist will tell you that there are numerous levels of tooth decay. When the decay reaches an intense level, this technique becomes a necessity.

Initially, the decay usually starts at the enamel, which requires minor restorative procedures. Most people are either not made aware of the decay at this stage or do simply put off treatment, thinking that it may go away. By the time the decay reaches the dentin and the pulp, it causes extreme pain, and endodontic procedures are required to stop infection. The pulp, or the root, is the living section of the tooth. Blood and nourishment to the tooth maintain its health. As this treatment offers the whole elimination of the pulp, it is also recognized as root canal treatment.

Various Reasons for Root Infection

There are multiple reasons why infection of the root occurs. In most cases, it happens because due to trapped debris or inadequate cleaning and maintenance. Most people get rid of a slight toothache through antibiotics, rarely bothering to go to a dentist. As a result, the teeth begin to decay and, by the time a dentist has been consulted, it is often too late. Aside from cavities, accidents can also damage teeth, calling for root canal treatment. Furthermore, constant restructuring of a tooth can also severely weaken it, leaving it exposed to additional decay. If complicated dental procedures are not carried out correctly, they may actually cause more harm than good, leading to further complications.

Any teeth that become infected need immediate attention—however slight the initial ache might be. Once the decay starts, it spreads and if professional attention is not sought,it may additionally also harm the surrounding teeth.

Don’t Put It Off

If you put off seeing a specialist, your situation will most certainly worsen over time. Initially, the ache and pain will increase. The decay and bacteria will head toward the nerve of the tooth and that will lead to more pain. Over time, the bacteria will spread into the root and later into the bone structure underneath it. When this happens, not only does the ache become worse, but the tooth might be at risk of extraction. You may also lose one or more teeth this way.

Instead of putting it off, make an appointment with an endodontic expert today. Find out what they can provide to get your oral health under control again. By doing so, your mouth will feel much better and so will your general quality of life. Most people will need a root canal at some stage in their lives. By getting this treatment underway, you will not have to fear about different health-related conditions anymore.

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You had impacted wisdom teeth and you had the surgery to have local anesthesia and remove them. The thought of wisdom tooth removal is painful enough, right? However, you expected a normal recovery period (who wouldn’t), but instead, you have increased pain in the extraction site and in other areas of your mouth. You return to your dentist for a follow-up appointment and it is determined that you have sustained nerve damage and infection and you are maybe thinking that the wisdom tooth wasn’t worth pulling after all.

However, it actually sounds worse than it is because any nerve damage that occurs is usually not permanent. Read on for what to expect and treatment options.

Types of Nerve Damage

First, it is very uncommon to suffer any nerve damage from the removal of an upper wisdom tooth. Almost all cases of nerve damage occur when the lower ones are extracted. This is due to the connection of nerves to the jaw and the neck.

Inferior Alveolar Nerve (IAN)

This is a nerve that runs through the mandible (your jaw) and the nerves for your lower teeth are connected to it.

Depending on how impacted your wisdom teeth are, your dentist or oral surgeon may have to cut fairly deep to be able to fully extract the wisdom teeth. Therefore, there is a risk in damaging this nerve during extraction.

What to Look For

If there is damage to the IAN, any pain you feel post-surgery will not be confined to the back of your jaw. Instead, you may notice pain throughout your lower jaw and teeth as well as your chin and lower lips. Sometimes it manifests itself, not in pain, but in strange sensations, like a burning or tingling feeling.

Severe cases may result in difficulty chewing and/or speech impairments. If you notice any of these symptoms, you need to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately for an emergency appointment.

Trigeminal Nerve

This is a bigger nerve that controls sensation to the teeth, gums, tongue, lips, and eyes. Damage to this nerve (called trigeminal neuralgia) can be more widespread and the symptoms of damage are slightly different from that of the IAN.

What to Look For

If you are experiencing trigeminal neuralgia, you may have some of the same sensations as if your IAN is damaged. However, with trigeminal neuralgia, even gentle air currents or your hair brushing against your jaw can cause discomfort or severe pain. Yes, the area can become that sensitive.

Some people who have suffered from this type of damage have also reported a persistent, unrelenting pain that is not unlike a migraine, but with the addition of shar,p shooting pains all over your face. Still, others have reported a loss of feeling in the face or forehead areas.

Lingual Nerve

This is a branch of the trigeminal nerve and supplies sensation to your tongue. With advanced technology and practices, damage to this nerve is extremely rare in cases of wisdom teeth extraction.

What to Look For

Most symptoms of damage to this nerve will occur in the tongue itself. You might realize that you have an altered sense of—or complete loss of—taste. You may feel tingling in your tongue or it might become numb. Severe damage may cause pain or a burning sensation. Impaired speech and drooling are other signs.

All of these sound quite scary,right? In actuality, the chances of nerve damage occurring are pretty rare. If you do suffer from any of these, there are courses of treatment depending on the location and severity of the damage.

Severity Levels

Regardless of which nerve is damaged, there are generally three ways that the damage and sensations proceed:

Transient

In a majority of cases, the symptoms will resolve on their own in a short period of time.In this case, “short” is defined as anywhere from one to several weeks.

Persistent

This classification is used when symptoms last for longer than six months but are eventually completely resolved.

Permanent

This term is used when there is a partialor complete loss of feeling and sensation, or if the symptoms are only partially resolved.

Treatment for Nerve Damage

It must be said that most nerve damage will resolve itself over a period of time. In addition, it might be good to keep in mind that while some of the symptoms may be distressing (yes, it might be tough to shave if you’re experiencing these issues), they are not permanent.

Time is of the essence when it comes to treatment of any possible nerve damage. Your dentist or oral surgeon will be able to give you a better sense of the severity and how long you can expect to experience the symptoms.

Unfortunately, once this is determined, there is not a lot that can be done except to learn how to cope, at least for the time that it will take to determine if the damage is transient or persistent. Your dentist may prescribe painkillers or antidepressants during this time.

If there are signs of the damage being persistent, laser treatments may be used to restore at least some of the sensation. The highest rate of success (defined by full recovery) occurs when this step is taken within three-four months of the initial injury.

There may be cases where surgery is an option to repair nerve damage; however, this must be weighed carefully, as surgery can produce its own complications. This is why most dentists will want to wait for awhile before suggesting surgery.

Build Healthy Nerves

While there may not be specific treatments for post-surgery nerve damage, there are some steps that you can take that may help you in the long run. Building a healthy nervous system, including through diet, can actually alleviate damage. In some cases, it can even encourage natural repair of the damage.

Just a Reminder

Having your wisdom teeth extracted is a traumatic experience for your body. Suspected nerve damage can certainly add to that trauma. Nobody wants to suffer longer than they have to.

In addition, nerve damage can be scary, to be sure. The discomfort, the feeling of not being able to control your facial features the correct way, and the odd sensations can all be difficult to get used to. And let’s not forget the drooling and speech impairments that others will probably find hilarious.

However, it bears repeating that, in the majority of cases, these symptoms are temporary. Talk to your dentist, who will give you exactly the information you need to get through the inconveniences and come out healthy on the other side.

How long does dental implant pain last? Put simply, it is around ten days. Ten days can feel like an absolute lifetime if you are in pain. But ten days is also the tiniest blip on the radar when it comes to radically changing your smile with dental implant treatment.

Remember, the average person will live for approximately 27,000 days, give or take a few, so what are TEN days for the healing process in the grand scheme of things?

If you can bear that in mind, it may make your recovery from implant dentistry including a tooth replacement and that dreaded local anesthetic just a little bit easier. Ten days is likely the longest period you will experience pain after the implants are placed in your mouth, and if the pain continues past this healing time and or the pain medication isn’t working, it is likely the sign of an infection or more serious problem that should be addressed with your dentist right away.

We will take a look at what you can expect after the procedure and also warning signs that should NOT be ignored both during and after healing. Dental implants can make a tremendous difference in your appearance and confidence, but as with all procedures there are, of course, some risks involved and you should expect some degree of pain while recovering.

First, we will take a quick look at how the dental implant process works.

Dental Implants: An Overview

The dental implant itself is not a tooth—it is a metal post that acts as a root for an artificial tooth. During this procedure, your own roots are replaced with these metal posts.

Depending on several factors, the procedure may require several different stages over a period of several months.

First, the damaged tooth or teeth are removed, and then your jaw will need to be prepared. If your jawbone is not hard or strong enough the dentist may need to do some bone grafting to prepare it, in which case that process will happen on its own ahead of the dental implant surgery. If your jawbone is hard enough as it is, you may be able to have it prepped during dental implant surgery.

The surgeon will cut open your gum and drill holes into the bone, to create a place for the metal post to be inserted, which will now act as your “root.” If you just got a little queasy while reading “drill holes into the bone,” you should know there is anesthesia involved and it is rather painless!

This part of the process requires time and patience.Once those posts are inserted, they must grow into the jawbone. This can take several months. Because you will have a gap where the tooth is missing, your dentist can provide you with a temporary denture for cosmetic reasons.

The abutment attached to the post can either be done during the implant surgery or in a separate procedure later once the post has grown into the jawbone. The abutment is visible, which is why some people prefer to separate these processes, so they do not have it showing during the months where the post is growing into the jawbone.

Once the abutment is attached and the gum has healed, the artificial tooth is placed. The artificial teeth can be removable or fixed, depending on your preferences and budget.

So…How Painful Is all of This? And How Long Will the Pain Last?

You can expect some pain in each phase of the procedure, but the primary focus for most is the recovery from the actual placement of the dental implants. And here’s what you can expect:

– You will have some minor bleeding

– Your face and gums may swell and bruise

– You will have pain where the implant was placed

The bottom line is: don’t book a tropical vacation immediately following the procedure, or schedule a photo shoot to update your dating profiles. Plan for downtime instead!

While no two individuals will have the exact same experience, the general rule of thumb is that the pain should subside after ten days. If it does not, that may be the sign of an infection, which you should discuss with your dentist right away.

In addition to following the dentist’s instructions on pain medications, you can also do yourself a BIG favor by taking good care of your oral hygiene after the procedure and using these methods to cope with any pain and discomfort: 

1. A Salt Water Rinse: A warm rinse can both help with the pain and also work to prevent infection.

2. Ice Packs: Applied to your cheeks, these can help reduce the pain as well.

3. Go for the milkshake: Cold, soft foods are going to be your best bet as you recover. This is no time to order a steak!

4. Rest! Nothing helps your body heal more than adequate rest.

Whatever you do after a dental implant procedure, DO. NOT. SMOKE. This is one of the worst things you can do in terms of risking infection, not to mention the rest of your body will thank you for not smoking!

There are a number of signs to look out for when it comes to infection after dental implants. These should be addressed immediately with your doctor:

– Fever

– Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth

– Throbbing pain that won’t go away

– Redness or puffiness in the gums

– Excessive bleeding

– The implant wobbles or feels loose

Your dentist can treat an infection quickly, but time is of the essence. If left untreated, this kind of infection can actually have an impact on other organs and cause some serious health complications.

Maintain good oral hygiene (oh, and did we mention NOT SMOKING??) is one of the best things you can do to prevent infection and minimize pain after dental implant surgery.

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They are a virtual leftover of a previous age, a time when we didn’t have the convenience of modern, softer foods or the everyday utensils we now take for granted. When we were literally eating twigs and berries, we needed some pretty strong teeth to thrash and gnash our way through our daily diets. But now that we as humans enjoy a much more sophisticated dining routine, these teeth have become function less and, in some cases, a nuisance! This is why most people have them removed in their teen years.

Wisdom teeth are not an exact science, however. Not everyone gets them, or the same number of them, and they don’t always appear at the same age. What we do know is that MOST people will have them by around the age of 20 and will develop between one and four of them. A small percentage of the population will develop “normal” wisdom teeth that function alongside their other teeth and do not present any complications. For the majority of us, however, we will need to have them removed—and preferably sooner rather than later! But is wisdom tooth removal really necessary? Read on. 

What Is an Impacted Wisdom Tooth?

When most people think of wisdom teeth they think of the word “impacted,” though they may not know what it means. An impacted wisdom tooth is one that is prevented from fully erupting in the mouth because it is blocked by other teeth—this is known as imp-action.

A wisdom tooth can be partially impacted (where a portion of it has broken through the gum and is visible) or fully impacted (where no portion has broken the gum).

It is often the case that a fully impacted wisdom tooth presents no complications, but a dentist will still recommend removing it to avoid complications in the future.

The older you are, the more difficult it can be to recover from oral surgery. This is why your dentist or oral surgeon will recommend wisdom teeth removal in the teen years or early 20s. In these years, the roots of the wisdom teeth are not fully embedded, making them easier to remove. As we age, the bones in our mouth will become harder. This means the older you are when you have wisdom teeth removed, the more difficult the process and recovery may be and the higher the chance or damaged teeth and gum disease prior to surgery.

Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

There are some common signs indicating complications and infections from impacted wisdom teeth, which may mean it is time (or past time!) to have them removed.

The three primary signs that occur with impacted wisdom teeth are

– Pain (sometimes even with strong pain medication)
– Swollen, tender gums (which may also bleed)
– Swelling of the jaw

Damaged or cracked teeth, especially molars caused by impacted teeth

In addition to these signs, patients may also experience the following symptoms with impacted wisdom teeth:

– Bad breath and/or a bad taste in the mouth
– Earache

– Swollen glands

– TMJ issues and headaches

If you have experienced any of these issues, you should report them to your dentist immediately.

Reasons You May Need to Have Wisdom Teeth Removed 

Once you have experienced wisdom teeth warning signs, you may need to remove them for any of the following reasons. 

Overcrowding 

Your wisdom teeth may overcrowd your mouth, affecting the other teeth around them. This is not only painful but can also make your teeth crooked, becoming a cosmetic concern. Removing the wisdom teeth will ensure there is enough space for your remaining teeth—the ones you use! Eliminating the overcrowding issue will also increase the chances you can clean and care for your teeth properly.

General Pain

If impacted wisdom teeth are causing you pain, removal will certainly provide relief! A dentist can evaluate whether or not wisdom teeth may be the source of the pain and recommend whether or not the extraction will help.

Pain While Eating

Nothing can ruin the joy of a delicious meal like pain while eating! Sometimes food can get stuck between gums and teeth in an overcrowded mouth and this may be another reason to consider wisdom teeth extraction.

Sinus Problems

It is not at all uncommon for dental issues and sinus issues to be interconnected, especially when you consider the proximity of your upper jaw to your sinus cavities! When your teeth and roots grow, they can actually push against and create pressure on your sinuses.It’s one of the less common complications, but it can all happen with your upper wisdom teeth: the presence of sinus pain and pressure.

Cysts

Cysts, which are basically sacs filled with fluid, can form next to your wisdom teeth. When they are left untreated, cysts can do a tremendous amount of damage to your bones and roots. They can also become tumors.

More Cavities

If you already struggle with cavities, wisdom teeth certainly aren’t going to help you! The presence of wisdom teeth can make cleaning more difficult, which means more bacteria and a greater chance of cavities.

Swollen Gums

When a wisdom tooth begins to erupt, it can result in a flap of gum tissue by the tooth that can trap bacteria. This area can then become inflamed and swollen, and it can also happen even if your wisdom teeth are still fully impacted.

While the process of removing wisdom teeth may seem intimidating, it is a common and relatively easy procedure with minimal recovery time. When compared to all of the painful complications described above, you may find it easier to stomach the idea! The most important thing to bear in mind is the need to speak to your dentist right away if these signs occur. Leaving infections untreated could lead to much more serious problems that require more than just a wisdom tooth extraction to address.

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Gum disease is a serious problem for many Americans.In fact, nearly half of all adults 30 years or older suffer from gum disease such as gingivitis, as well as damaged gum tissue and bleeding gums—and still won’t visit their dentist!However, on top of improved oral hygiene to minimize disease-causing bacteria, there are some easy practices you can adopt for better gum health and periodontitis issues, as well as kicking bad breath into touch, including some tried and true home remedies!

If periodontal disease (gum disease) persists for too long, you may face painful dental work or other complications from infection. So, it’s best to address this early on and take care of your gum disease with some relatively easy and inexpensive things you can try at home. Your teeth—and your checkbook—will thank you for it! Your dentists will probably give you a pat on the back, too.

How Does Gum Disease Cause Loose Teeth?

While a child is thrilled to announce a loose tooth, anticipating an upcoming visit from the tooth fairy, an adult finds the occurrence alarming, unsettling, and even embarrassing. Many are stricken with fear that this is a sign they will lose all their teeth or that they are aging more rapidly than their peers.

However, a loose tooth can be tied to dental habits and hygiene even more than aging. If you have developed periodontal gum disease, this may be the root cause of your loose tooth (pardon the dental pun).

How it happens

If you do not maintain healthy brushing and flossing habits, plaque develops. That plaque contains bacteria and it sticks to your teeth and hardens.

The hardened plaque is known as tartar and tartar will cause your gums to actually pull away from your teeth. Subsequently, there are “gaps” left where your teeth and gums have separated and they can easily become infected. Then the infections will eventually give way to bone and tissue deterioration, which will cause the teeth to loosen.

If you are experiencing loose teeth and have other symptoms of gum disease, you can try these at-home remedies to try and restore your dental health. So, what are the best home remedies to fix loose teeth from gum disease? Read on.

1. Amla Powder

Amla powder, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is used to support connective tissue and acts as a healing and regenerative agent for your gums. You can mix a teaspoon of the powder in a cup of water and rinse with it, being careful to avoid food or drink for an hour following the rinse.

2. Calcium and Vitamin D

These won’t come as a surprise to most readers: calcium and vitamin D are commonly recommended to maintain strong bones and teeth. Adding these supplements to your routine, provided you also maintain good dental hygiene, may result in improved tightness in your once loose teeth.

3. Garlic

Well…don’t plan on kissing anyone after this treatment, but it is certainly worth a try! Garlic is touted for its fantastic health properties and can even be used to treat gum disease. You can place a thin sliver of garlic between the infected gum and your inner cheek and the garlic will act to rid your gums of harmful microbes. Leave the garlic in for as long as you can stand it! And perhaps plan to serve an Italian meal to your family that night, since you will already smell like garlic.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide

It’s likely you already have hydrogen peroxide in your medicine cabinet, so this is another easy at-home remedy for loose teeth caused by gum disease. By swishing a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in your mouth for a minute, then following with a freshwater rinse, you can remove the bacteria around the loose tooth. Follow the rinse with regular brushing, and doing this daily should improve your gum health, which can in turn address the loose tooth.

5. Mustard Oil and Salt

This one might require a trip to the store.Almost every household will have salt on hand, but you may need to purchase mustard oil. Once you have your two ingredients, you will mix a teaspoon of salt with a few drops of oil to create a paste. Then you will gently massage the paste on the infected gums for a few minutes, before rinsing your mouth out with warm water.You can do this once a day for a few days and then follow up every few days to strengthen loose teeth.

6. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is incredibly popular and thought to address a wide variety of ailments. You can swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15–20 minutes, BEFORE brushing your teeth. The oil helps to clear up buildup on your teeth and it absorbs impurities.Think of it as an all-natural cleaner for your mouth, addressing bacteria and strengthening your gums (which will, in turn, help to restore the tightness of the loose tooth). Oil pulling can be done twice daily, and while it can take some getting used to, once you make it part of your normal routine you won’t mind it at all. For some people, the shower is the best time to swish the oil in their mouths, which serves as a great window of time to do something for 15–20 minutes.

7. Turmeric and Black Pepper

Turmeric is another wildly popular home remedy, and it can be mixed in equal parts with black pepper powder and rubbed on infected gums. (We didn’t say some of these methods won’t make you sneeze!) Once you have massaged the mixture on your gums for a few minutes, rinse your mouth out with fresh water. A daily application will make your gums healthier and stronger, which, in turn, should address loosened teeth as a result of gum disease.

8. White Oak Bark Powder

Another popular natural remedy to address gum disease and loose teeth is white oak bark powder. If you take a tiny amount of the powder (think no more than a pencil eraser) and massage it directly on the affected area, it will work as both an antiseptic and astringent; it can stop your infected gums from bleeding. Just be sure to rinse your mouth out with fresh water afterward.

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What Is an Endodontist?

It’s pretty obvious what a dentist is, so we are skipping straight to the explanation of an endodontist. You might have guessed from the title that an endodontist has something to do with root canals, in which case you would be correct. In fact, endodontists only perform procedures on the roots of teeth, or root canal therapy. It’s very much like that of a surgeon. Once they have completed the standard training, they go on to choose and study a specialty. In the dentistry world, everyone will start off by training as a dentist. Some will then continue as a dentist, and some will choose a specialty. Endodontists will need to receive an additional two years minimum training at dental school and beyond focusing purely on root canal therapy.

What Is a Root Canal?

It’s always been a dreaded procedure for many patients. The thought of drilling down into the root of a tooth and into the dental pulp by even the nicest of oral surgeons is a daunting thought for most of us. The other alternative treatment is a complete tooth removal which is why most people just suck it up and opt for the root canal. The procedure is needed when a cavity gets so big that it reaches the root of a tooth. Inside the root is a nerve which is where the pain often comes from. Anything to do with nerves is usually painful, which is why the dreaded root canal is feared. A root canal involves drilling into the root of the tooth and extracting the nerve. (The thought of that alone will cause many readers to wince.) Once a passageway to the infection or cavity has been created, a specialized cleaning fluid is used to clean the canal of the root. The fluid will kill the infection almost immediately as well as removing any debris. Once the fluid is in place, the nerve will then be removed. The hole will then be filled and sealed with dental filling and a temporary crown. A follow-up appointment is usually required to remove the temporary crown and replace it with a permanent one. This is often the last option in trying to save a tooth from a cavity. The entire procedure is, of course, performed under anesthetic and, if done correctly, there should be no pain during the procedure. Some tenderness may arise for a short while once the anesthetic has worn off.

Why Visit an Endodontist Instead of a Dentist for Root Canal Treatment?

For a start, an endodontic specialist is an expert in root canal treatment so that dental implants can be avoided. They have extensive knowledge of teeth roots and have undergone specialized training. Endodontists typically do not perform any other procedure unrelated to the root of a tooth. Because of this, they are very meticulous in the way that they perform the procedure. Aside from their expertise, endodontists have access to high-tech tools and equipment t perfect their endodontic procedures. Such tools are rarely found in the general dentist’s surgery. Most of the time, it’s not worth it for a dentist to invest in this type of equipment. On average, a dentist could perform one root canal treatment a week, whereas an endodontist could perform up to 25 procedures. Not only does the specialized tools enable an endodontist to perform the procedure more precisely, but it also allows them to get a clearer picture of the tooth root during the endodontic surgery. Before an endodontist moves onto filling the hole, they will perform more digital imaging to ensure that the infection and the canals have been cleaned properly. In doing this, the success rate of the procedure increases. Dentists, on the other hand, will have a much more limited visibility of the tooth’s root. On top of an endodontist’s in-depth knowledge on tooth roots, they also have advanced training in pain management.

Signs That a Root Canal Treatment Is Needed

Because the root of a tooth isn’t visible—or at least it definitely shouldn’t be—diagnosing the need for a root canal treatment can be quite difficult. You can’t see it and so you just have to ensure that you inform your dentist of any symptoms that you have had. The thing to remember when looking out for signs that a root canal treatment might be needed is that the symptoms are usually consistent but not constant. Most people experience intermittent pain, and others experience a more prolonged pain. One sign is that of tooth sensitivity. Sharp pain when consuming something that is hot or cold could be an indication that root canal treatment is needed. However, this could also be caused by a loss in mineral which can be built back up again. The throbbing of a tooth is also something to look out for.In some cases, it might even feel as though your tooth has its own heartbeat. Because the pain comes and goes, you might find that you feel more uncomfortable during the night when you are asleep. It’s not unusual that people wake up in the middle of the night with severe pain in their tooth when root canal treatment is needed. If there is a nasty infection in a tooth’s root, then you might find that the gum tissue surrounding that tooth becomes slightly inflamed or tender. In some cases, a gum boil may even develop.

In the event that root canal treatment is needed, it’s always best to go to an endodontist if possible. If you were in the hospital and you needed to have brain surgery, you would get a brain surgeon to do it rather than a general surgeon or a heart surgeon. It is exactly the same when it comes to our teeth. There are many horror stories that go around about root canal treatment and some of these could be due to having the procedure carried out by someone who isn’t experienced in that field. Going to a specialized endodontist instead of a dentist will give you the best possible treatment for your root canal procedure.

There is a lot of depth in dentistry and, because of this, there are professionals that focus on specific dental procedures. If your dentist has mentioned a possible referral to an endodontist or a periodontist, then this article will help to bring you some clarity. Below we have outlined the differences between the two along with precisely what you can expect during a visit.

What Is an Endodontist?

Tooth concerns do not stop with what is visible. Below the gum line is our precious tooth roots and the health of them are vital for the sustainability of the teeth. When it comes to maintaining the health of the tooth root, it quickly becomes tricky. The visibility is often low and the pain is much higher. Endodontists are still dentists; however, they have advanced training focusing on the tooth root canal and treatments. They generally have an additional 2–3 years of training centered around the treatment and health of the tooth root. The majority of people visit an endodontist for root canal treatment. While dentists themselves are also trained to perform root canals, it is worth seeing an endodontist if you have the chance.

Why Should You Visit an Endodontist?

While visiting an endodontist isn’t essential in regards to root canal treatment it is much more beneficial. Because of their advanced training, endodontists are able to evaluate the condition of the tooth root thoroughly. The equipment that they have is generally top of the range and include things like 3D imaging. Most of the time dentists do not have access to this type of equipment which means that they aren’t able to precisely diagnose a condition with the tooth root as well as an endodontist can. As you have probably heard root canal treatment can be very painful. Because endodontists specialize in root canal therapy, they have the techniques and tools to limit the pain as much as possible. As far as pain management goes in dentistry, endodontists are considered experts. Even patients that struggle with numbing medication are no match for the training of endodontists.

What You Can Expect from an Endodontist

The very first thing that an endodontist will do during an appointment will be to evaluate the condition of the tooth root. This endodontic therapy will be carried out by using 3D imaging and digital radiographs. This will enable them to explicitly examine the root and root canals to identify any concerns. Once the endodontist has administered the numbing medication, they will then use what’s known as a dental dam to single out the tooth which is receiving the treatment. A dental dam is essentially a small sheet of latex which also protects the surrounding teeth. Due to their specialized profession endodontists stay up to date with the latest treatment techniques and equipment.

What Is a Periodontist?

Like endodontists, periodontists undergo advanced specialty training. You may be familiar with periodontal disease which is a severe form of gum disease. As the name suggests, a periodontist specializes in the health and treatment of gum tissue. Aside from treating already established gum disease they also aide the prevention of gum disease. Again, like endodontists, periodontists also undergo an additional three years minimum of training. They are experts in everything gum related and help to treat gum inflammation as well as gum disease. Nowadays, almost all tooth conditions can be repaired or treated and if they can’t then there is always the option of dental implants. In receiving dental implants, an appointment with a periodontist will most likely be requested. This is because their expertise is used to establish the specific placement of the dental implants. Most of the cosmetic dental procedures available require good gum health however severe gum disease can cause gum recession. In severe cases, gum tissue may need to be rebuilt before further treatment can be administered. This is known as cosmetic periodontal treatments. If gum tissue is damaged beyond repair and cosmetic periodontal treatment is needed, then the damaged gum tissue will need to be removed first. It goes without saying that if this is necessary, then you will want to have an expert in charge of the treatment. For those that already have dental implants, a periodontist has sufficient training in repairing them and maintaining the health of them.

The Benefits of Visiting a Periodontist

Visiting a periodontist is beneficial in many ways. Their advanced training means that you will have the best treatment options available. Periodontists also have access to the latest techniques and equipment. Most of the time, those with extreme cases of periodontal disease will visit a periodontist. However, you don’t necessarily have to have gum disease in order to visit one. Periodontists are incredibly knowledgeable in preventing gum disease and those who wish to do so can seek advice from them. The periodontal treatments that are available are much more extensive than those of an endodontist. Some examples of procedures include scaling, implant placement, gum disease treatment, damaged tissue removal, and much more. An appointment with a periodontist begins with a thorough examination as well as a medical and dental history review. Medical history is an essential factor to consider when treating periodontal conditions as pregnancy, heart disease, and diabetes can all affect the health of gum tissue. From there the periodontist will check for signs of gum disease and gum recession. In the event of the formation of gum pockets, the periodontist will take an X-ray to examine the condition of the tooth root. This will help them to establish the best possible treatment plan for your condition. Regular appointments with a periodontist will likely be necessary for those with severe gum disease.

Both endodontists and periodontists do not perform any other treatments that are unrelated to their specialties. This enables them to be the best that they can in their chosen field. While dentists are also capable of performing a majority of the treatments, a much higher success rate comes from using a periodontist or an endodontist. Most of the time, your dentist will refer you to an endodontist or a periodontist if they feel that you will benefit from it more. Otherwise, you can always contact a periodontist or endodontist personally to see if they can help.