Spirit Dental Resources

Does your tongue ever feel sore? That’s definitely no fun! But if you understand what could cause the soreness, you can then take steps to make your tongue feel better, and perhaps even prevent that soreness from recurring. Here are some of the main reasons why people experience soreness in the tongue. If your symptoms are severe, they aren’t going away, or you aren’t sure about what’s causing them, be sure to consult with your dentist. You Bit or Burned Your Tongue Trauma is one reason why tongue soreness occurs. Let’s say that you accidentally bit down on your tongue while eating. Hey, we’ve all done it! Soreness afterwards is normal. But before you know it, it will go away, which is good news. Other forms of trauma include burning your tongue by eating or drinking something that’s too hot, especially if the burn causes a blister. Ouch! Once your tongue heals up, though, the discomfort should go away. There’s Inflammation or an Infection Certain infections might lead to a sore tongue. One example is oral thrush (a.k.a. a yeast infection in your mouth). How does this type of infection occur? Put simply, there’s a certain amount of the Candida fungus in your mouth, but when there’s an overgrowth of it, such as when your immune system is compromised, that’s when it’s considered an infection. You’ll likely notice white or yellow patches in your mouth, such as on your tongue, and this is when your dentist can step in and help by prescribing an antifungal medication that will get that fungus under control. Inflammation may also cause your tongue to feel sore. The term for inflammation of the tongue is glossitis, and there are three types: acute, chronic, and atrophic. What could cause this? Well, there are many causes, such as allergic reactions and underlying health problems, so your dentist will need to work on figuring out the cause to determine the appropriate treatment.   Plus, if the taste buds or the papillae on your tongue become swollen or enlarged, you might feel discomfort. Many factors can lead to swollen taste buds, such as acid reflux, GERD, food allergy or sensitivity, injuries to your tongue, sour or spicy foods, smoking, and infections. If the issue doesn’t resolve on its own in a few days, it’s a great idea to let your dentist know.  You’ve Developed Sores on the Tongue Pain on a particular spot on your tongue might indicate that you have a canker sore, which appears as a round or oval spot that’s yellow or white in the middle and red around its border. There are a few reasons why these sores develop. For example, they might be caused by certain foods, or they might develop when you accidentally bite your tongue. Hormonal changes, stress, and anxiety may even play a role. Thankfully, they typically resolve on their own.   Another type of sore that can cause tongue pain is the cold sore that can develop when you’ve been infected with the herpes simplex virus. Unlike canker sores, these are contagious, so take care to avoid spreading the virus to others. But, wait, don’t cold sores appear on the lips? Yes, but the herpes virus can also lead to blisters on the tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks, or roof of the mouth too. Talk to your doctor or dentist about the best strategy for treating sores when they occur, and preventing future outbreaks. What Can You Do About a Sore Tongue? • Talk to your dentist about over-the-counter medications that would be a good idea for controlling the pain in your tongue. • Avoiding alcohol and quitting  smoking is wise if you have a sore tongue. When it comes to foods and drinks that are best avoided, they include anything that’s hard, spicy, acidic, salty, or hot, as these can further irritate an already uncomfortable tongue • You might discover that switching to a toothpaste that doesn’t use sodium lauryl sulphate (also known as SLS) helps your tongue feel better. • Although brushing your tongue is part of a smart oral hygiene routine, be gentle and use a soft bristle toothbrush. Don’t Be Afraid to Talk About Your Tongue! Again, these are just a few of the potential causes of a sore tongue, so if you’re experiencing symptoms that aren’t going away, it’s best to see your dentist to figure out why. Also, if your tongue changes in appearance, or if it’s often sore or painful and you don’t know why, don’t be afraid to talk openly with your dentist about it. Although there are many causes of tongue soreness that will resolve on their own, there are also more serious conditions, such as cancer, that can lead to sores, lumps, and pain. One final note: by signing up for the right dental insurance, you never have to worry about being able to afford checkups that include taking a look not only at your teeth and gums, but also at other areas of your mouth, including your tongue. Sources: https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/sore-tongue#mouth-ulcers https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/sore-tongue https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319699 https://www.medicinenet.com/sore_tongue/symptoms.htm https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-or-white-tongue/ https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320684 https://www.healthline.com/health/swollen-taste-buds#causes https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/oral-herpes#1 https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-sores-and-infections/herpes-on-the-tongue https://www.healthline.com/health/glossitis#treatments  

Incorporating the use of a mouthwash into your at-home oral hygiene routine can be a great way to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, and your breath fresh.  But because there are so many different mouthwashes out there, how can you decide which one is right for you? Well, you can consider your specific needs and oral health goals, as well as the ingredients in various types of mouthwash, to narrow down your options. Check out our short guide below as we break down the best mouthwash for you. Do You Want to Freshen Your Breath? Bad breath is a common problem, so don’t feel bad if you find that you have some level of halitosis. You can work with your dentist to figure out the cause of your bad breath if it’s difficult to get rid of on your own. But the right mouthwash might be all you need to avoid embarrassment if a serious problem (like gum disease, for example) isn’t to blame. A basic mouthwash, sometimes referred to as a cosmetic mouthwash, might be good enough to mask bad breath. However, an antibacterial mouthwash can go further by targeting the nasty bacteria that can lead to off-putting breath.  Want to Keep Your Gums in Tip-Top Shape? Speaking of gum disease, if you’ve been diagnosed with gingivitis or more advanced gum disease, a mouthwash might be part of your dentist’s recommendations. And using the right mouthwash might even help prevent gum problems before they develop or recur. Mouthwashes that contain stronger ingredients, such as chlorhexidine, might be recommended if you need to combat existing gum problems or you’re at a greater risk of developing them. On the other hand, if your aim is mainly to prevent gum issues, even if your risk is average or low, you might be just fine using mouthwashes that boast antibacterial, antiplaque, or antimicrobial benefits. Are Your Teeth Too Sensitive? Tooth sensitivity is no fun at all. First, it’s a great idea to consult with your dentist to determine if your sensitivity is due to a problem like a cavity or an infection. Then, you can discuss toothpastes and mouthwashes that are designed for sensitive teeth.  The right mouthwash, when used consistently, might be able to reduce the amount of sensitivity that you experience. Your dentist may recommend one that includes ingredients that are capable of boosting the strength of your enamel, while also numbing the tubules in the dentin of your teeth. When searching for a mouthwash made for sensitive teeth, you can look for ingredients like potassium nitrate, sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, calcium phosphate, and potassium citrate. Are You Experiencing Dry Mouth? Dry mouth has a range of causes, so once again, it’s a great idea to talk to your dentist to figure out what’s causing this uncomfortable condition. Then, you can search for a mouthwash that can help bring about some much-needed relief.  Anyone with dry mouth shouldn’t use a mouthwash that contains alcohol, as that ingredient can make your mouth even drier. Yikes! So the first step is to search for an alcohol-free mouthwash. If that isn’t enough, though, there are mouthwashes that are specifically made for those with dry mouth, such as products that contain xylitol. Shopping by Ingredients Rather than shopping by condition, you can also shop for the right mouthwash by narrowing your choices down to the ingredients that you want to take advantage of, and the ones you want to avoid. Fluoride: If your goal is to take an additional step towards keeping tooth decay at bay, a mouthwash that contains fluoride might be right for you because it can support strong enamel. But if you’re using a fluoride toothpaste, this might be overkill. Your dentist may only recommend fluoride mouthwash if you have a higher risk of cavities, if you have dry mouth, or if you wear orthodontics, as a few examples.  Hydrogen Peroxide: This is an antimicrobial ingredient that might help whiten your chompers and keep your gums healthy. Therefore, mouthwashes that contain this ingredient often claim that they can do things like whiten teeth and freshen breath.    Chlorhexidine: Your dentist might recommend a mouthwash containing this ingredient if you need something that will work on killing bacteria that could lead to gum disease. But if you want a mouthwash that will freshen your breath, this isn’t the best choice. It might cause side effects, so only use this type of mouthwash under the guidance of your dentist, and only use it as directed.  The Best Mouthwash for You Is Out There! Shopping for the ideal mouthwash for your unique oral health needs involves a few steps. To start, have your teeth and gums examined by your dentist so you’ll know whether you need to go with a particular mouthwash to help prevent or treat certain conditions. And if your teeth are healthy, you can discuss your options with your dentist as well. After getting some professional advice, once you head to the store, it’s a matter of reading labels to check for claims and ingredients that match your needs.  Remember: just because you’re using mouthwash doesn’t mean you can skip brushing and flossing. Instead, this is a product that’s meant to be used in combination with other simple daily steps that can help keep your pearly whites bright and your gums strong.  Sources: https://www.verywellhealth.com/which-type-of-mouthwash-works-best-4126424 https://www.stonewalkdentistry.com/resources/choosing-best-mouthwash-different-types-how-to-pick/ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/how-does-mouthwash-work https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-sensitivity/how-does-mouthwash-for-sensitive-teeth-work https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-mouth/expert-answers/dry-mouth/faq-20058424 https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dry-mouth/how-alcohol-free-mouthwash-for-dry-mouth-provides-relief https://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/101/using-mouth-rinses.aspx https://www.verywellhealth.com/which-type-of-mouthwash-works-best-4126424 https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/teeth-whitening/best-whitening-mouthwash https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/hydrogen-peroxide-gums-and-teeth-treatments    

It’s that time of year again: Open Enrollment has just past, but that doesn’t mean you’ve missed the opportunity to sign up for dental insurance. That’s why we’ve put together a list of things you should know!Things can get complicated and confusing when shopping for insurance, but we’ve got you covered with some information to clear things up and help you get started.How to Use the Marketplace to Buy Dental InsuranceHow can you find the right dental insurance plan? Well, you can start by looking in the Health Insurance Marketplace during Open Enrollment.There, you can purchase health insurance that comes with dental coverage. If you find a health insurance plan that suits your needs and budget, and it also provides some level of dental coverage, the nice thing is that you’ll only be required to pay one premium to get all of that support whenever you see your doctor or dentist.As an alternative, you can also look for stand-alone dental plans on the Marketplace, but you can only purchase one of these plans if you’re also signing up for a health insurance policy at the same time.With a stand-alone plan that’s separate from your health insurance policy, you’ll have separate out-of-pocket costs, such as a premium. But you might discover that these plans provide more comprehensive coverage, as well as a bigger network of providers, that may help you save more money in the long run, especially if you see your dentist regularly or need expensive treatments.What to Expect from the Health Insurance MarketplaceAs you look through your dental plan options on the Marketplace, you’ll notice that there are two main categories to choose from:Low coverage – You’ll enjoy a lower premium, but the tradeoff will be a higher copay and deductible. High coverage – You’ll pay a higher premium, but you’ll be able to enjoy a lower copay and deductible when you see your dentist. What about adult coverage vs. child coverage?Dental coverage is considered essential for kids. So, if you’re enrolling in health insurance for your child who’s 18 years of age or younger, dental coverage, either through a stand-alone plan or a health insurance policy, has to be available. This doesn’t mean you actually have to buy it, though.When it comes to adults, because dental coverage isn’t considered an essential benefit, insurance companies aren’t required to offer it.The Perks of Choosing a Stand-Alone Dental Insurance PlanSure, you can sign up for a health insurance policy that includes some level of dental coverage. But these types of plans might be out of your budget, or they might not give you the amount of coverage that you require for your oral health needs.Also, if you ever want to change or cancel your dental plan in the middle of the year, you can do so at any time if you have a stand-alone plan. This won’t affect your health insurance coverage.On the other hand, if you’re getting your dental coverage through your health insurance plan, you’ll need to meet certain requirements to be able to cancel outside of Open Enrollment. Basically, if a specific life event qualifies you for what’s known as a Special Enrollment Period, you’ll be able to pick new health insurance, whether it includes dental coverage or not. However, you won’t be able to get a stand-alone dental plan from the Marketplace under these circumstances.   Do You Have to Wait Until Open Enrollment to Buy Dental Insurance?The answer is no, but there are some things to consider:Open Enrollment is great for setting aside time to look at the insurance you have, or don’t have, and then finding the plan that will fill in any gaps in coverage. Plus, certain dental plans might only be available during this time period, so it’s worth taking a look if you’re interested in getting new, or better, coverage.If you aren’t happy with your current health insurance, now is the time when you get to switch to a better plan. When it comes to dental insurance, however, you don’t need to wait until Open Enrollment to make your decision. That’s because you’re allowed to purchase stand-alone dental insurance at any time throughout the year.   Ready to Shop? Check Out Spirit Dental!Whether you used Open Enrollment to remind yourself of the need to purchase dental insurance, or you decide that you want to wait until the middle of the year to get the coverage you desire, Spirit Dental has your back with affordable plans to suit every budget. Unlike dental insurance that comes bundled with health insurance, Spirit plans offer stellar perks like $5,000 annual maximums, three cleanings per year, and dental insurance for major restorative care. And you can sign up whenever you’re ready, as well as cancel at any time!   When shopping for dental insurance, you can do it all on your own, contact an insurance agent for assistance, or contact insurance providers like Spirit directly for personalized support. Once you have the right plan in place, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to see your dentist whenever necessary to get the care you need to maintain a healthy smile.    Sources:https://help.ihealthagents.com/hc/en-us/articles/360009936634-Is-There-an-Open-Enrollment-Period-for-Dental-or-Vision-Insurance-https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/dental-coverage/https://www.healthcare.gov/apply-and-enroll/how-to-apply/  

A dental infection is never predictable, and it can cause severe pain when eating, as well as sensitivity to heat or cold. Some patients will develop an abscessed tooth, which sounds scary, but it is very treatable to save your tooth and alleviate your discomfort.  A dental abscess is a localized pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It typically results from severe tooth decay, but can also result from a cracked tooth or trauma to the mouth.  Common Signs of a Dental Abscess 1. Pimple, Bubble, or Fistula on Gum If you observe a pimple or bubble on your gum near your tooth, the closest tooth may have an abscess. This bubble is also called a fistula because it is a sinus tract that traces from the infected tooth root to the gum, draining pus, exudate, and bacteria. An abscess will usually appear at the root tip of a tooth.  2. Pain Many people with a dental infection or abscessed tooth will experience severe pain, but some are completely unaware they have an abscess. This could be because the fistula is draining pus, which relieves pressure from the abscess. Some individuals will also experience a dull or chronic ear pain that resembles an ear infection. This is because pain and an infection from your tooth can radiate to your ear or neck.  If you have pain when chewing, any sensitivities to temperature changes, spontaneous pain at night, or unexplained ear or neck pain, you may have a dental abscess and require dental attention. 3. Swelling A dental swelling can be localized to the site of an infection or generalized resulting in facial cellulitis. A large facial swelling can be dangerous and can spread quickly to your face, eyes, neck, and throat. A dental infection that causes swelling and obstructs your breathing and swallowing can be life-threatening. 4. Malodor A dental abscess can cause a bad taste in your mouth because of the bacteria and draining pus. You may experience a foul odor that has a metallic or salty taste.  5. Pus Commonly a dental abscess is filled with pus, which is composed of bacteria and dead tissue and cells. Pus presents as a thick residue at the site of infection and will usually resolve when the abscessed tooth is treated. Treatment for a Dental Abscess An abscessed tooth is usually treated with root canal therapy. A root canal treatment has to do with removing the pulp of the tooth, which is made up of nerves, blood vessels, and tissue. The pulp chamber and canals are then cleaned, disinfected, and filled to prevent bacteria from entering. Sometimes, teeth simply cannot be saved. If you have a dental abscess on a tooth that is severely decayed or cracked beyond the point of restoration, or if you experience intense pain, you might want to consider an extraction as it would help to alleviate pain and prevent infection.  Get Pain Relief Quickly If you experience any signs that may indicate an abscessed tooth, it is important to seek dental care immediately to avoid further medical and dental complications. Going to the dentist quickly will help relieve any pain and infection, and significantly improve your long-term outcome. Dr. Erica Anand is a pediatric dentist in private practice focused on preventative dentistry including SDF, SMART fillings, and myofunctional therapy. She also writes professionally in the dental industry, working with marketing and consulting firms. Her extensive education includes treating children with special needs, dental phobias, and oral rehabilitation under general anesthesia. She maintains memberships of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and New York State Dental Association, and is an American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Candidate.  Learn more about Dr. Erica Anand on her website.  

Are your teeth stained, yellowed, or darkened? If so, it is time for you to renew your smile with a teeth-whitening treatment. As more over-the-counter teeth whitening options become available on the market, many people are considering to whiten their own teeth from the comfort of their own home instead of paying for a professional. Whitening your teeth at home presents a convenient and low-cost way to help brighten your smile, but also it could also danger your oral health. Are You a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening? Not everyone’s teeth can be whitened to that celebrity-white smile. Some people are born with a darker or more natural yellow color. This could be the result of genetics or medication use. Typically, at-home whitening products will only help remove surface stains and not deeper, more challenging discolorations. These treatments won’t be effective because they bleach only the outermost layer of the tooth, the enamel. Properly and safely exposing your natural and lightest enamel shade requires a professional in-office whitening session. Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products Many companies claim they have the most productive and cost-effective way to help whiten teeth. In fact, these products, which may include whitening gels, strips, or toothpaste, may include peroxide components that help lighten teeth. Some are more abrasive than others and can cause many negative effects. However, because at-home whitening is so convenient and easily accessible, many people will overuse these products.  Charcoal whitening products are a good example of an at-home whitening product. Charcoal toothpaste became popular over social media, where many celebrities and influencers claimed they quickly got whitening results. However, charcoal’s extreme abrasive properties can cause severe wear on enamel. The American Dental Association has not found evidence that charcoal is safe or effective to whiten teeth. Problems with Overuse of At-Home Whitening The excessive use of dental whitening can severely damage your teeth and gums. Safe and effective teeth whitening should be under the supervision of a dental professional. If not, overuse of whitening products can lead to the following problems: • Increased tooth sensitivity: While initial sensitivity may be considered normal, excessive dental whitening can lead to long-term sensitivities while eating and drinking.  • Inflamed and bleeding gums: Excessive use of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide can cause ulcerated gums, pain, and inflammation. Gingival sores often make it uncomfortable to eat and speak. • Translucent teeth: It is common to get a translucent appearance of enamel when you overuse whitening products. This is because peroxide can erode enamel, typically around the incisal edges of teeth. • Enamel wear: Using abrasive whitening products can erode enamel and make teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.  Safe Dental Whitening Options Patients who want to see dramatic, long-lasting results have several safe and reliable teeth whitening options. A professional in-office whitening with an experienced professional will offer custom whitening trays that fit well and help you whiten safely. For the best whitening results, consult with your dentist to ensure you are in good dental health and develop a treatment plan that is suitable for your needs.  Dr. Erica Anand is a pediatric dentist in private practice focused on preventative dentistry including SDF, SMART fillings, and myofunctional therapy. She also writes professionally in the dental industry, working with marketing and consulting firms. Her extensive education includes treating children with special needs, dental phobias, and oral rehabilitation under general anesthesia. She maintains memberships of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and New York State Dental Association, and is an American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Candidate.  Learn more about Dr. Erica Anand on her website.

You have probably heard that gum disease is directly related to our overall health. Chronic gum inflammation is never healthy for anyone, but it can lead to further medical complications for people who are immunocompromised with issues such as diabetes or heart disease. There are two types of commonly recognized gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease. It is important to recognize early signs to address the condition and find appropriate treatment options.  Common Signs You May Have Gum Disease Gum disease derives mainly from poor oral hygiene and the accumulation of plaque on teeth. Untreated, plaque and calculus accumulations will cause inflammation of the gums and deeper pockets filled with bacteria. Resulting bone and tissue loss will ultimately lead to tooth loss. Gum disease can range in severity, but many people will experience early symptoms of bleeding gums and inflammation. Other common symptoms that may indicate you have gum disease include: • Swollen and red gums • Bad breath • Plaque build-up on teeth • Shifting teeth • Loose or missing teeth • Gum recession • Painful biting and chewing Treatment for Gum Disease Your dentist will diagnose gum disease through a clinical examination and dental X-rays. Your hygienist will also measure your gum pocket depths, which is an important indicator of bone loss. Deeper pocket depths (usually more than 4 mm) indicate periodontitis and require a more challenging dental treatment.  Treatments for gum disease depend on the severity of the issues with your dental health. Gingivitis can be managed at home by: 1. Brushing twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste: It is important to brush your teeth, gums, and tongue with a soft-bristle toothbrush. 2. Flossing daily: Flossing helps remove food and plaque debris that are key components in causing tooth decay and gum disease. 3. A healthy diet: Eating and drinking a well-balanced diet is beneficial for your dental health and overall health. Drinking a lot of water and eating hard, crunchy vegetables will help keep your mouth hydrated. If gingivitis progresses to periodontal disease, the condition is irreversible and is associated with bone and tissue loss, and often tooth loss. Fortunately, options exist to treat advanced periodontal disease and help maintain gum health.  1. Professional cleaning: Routine teeth cleanings by your dental professional will remove plaque, calculus, and food debris above and below the gumline to help prevent tooth decay and maintain optimal gum health. A cleaning is also educational because your hygienist can inform you of areas of your mouth that need improvement and any adjuncts to help maintain your dental health such as an oral irrigator or prescription toothpaste.  2. Scaling and root planing: This is a professional, deeper cleaning that is usually done with local anesthetic. Root surfaces below the gumline are cleaned of calculus and bacteria to reduce and eliminate as much inflammation as possible in the gum tissue. Smoothing the roots allows the gum tissue to properly attach to teeth and maintain stability.  3. Oral antibiotics: Antibacterial medication may be administered sub-gingivally to help control the inflammation and bacterial build-up. 4. Surgical treatment: Sometimes surgical treatment is necessary to maintain teeth and bone function. This may include bone and tissue grafts, or flap surgery to repair affected tissues. A bone graft will help recover lost bone and prevent teeth from shifting or becoming more mobile.  Good Hygiene Practices Excellent gum health is critical to your overall health, and periodontal maintenance helps you maintain your gingival health after your treatments are complete. The easiest way to prevent gum disease is to follow good oral hygiene habits. Brushing twice a day and flossing will ensure no food and plaque debris sits on teeth overnight. Visiting your dentist or periodontist regularly will determine how often you require dental cleanings and whether you need to take any other preventive measures. Dr. Erica Anand is a pediatric dentist in private practice focused on preventative dentistry including SDF, SMART fillings, and myofunctional therapy. She also writes professionally in the dental industry, working with marketing and consulting firms. Her extensive education includes treating children with special needs, dental phobias, and oral rehabilitation under general anesthesia. She maintains memberships of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and New York State Dental Association, and is an American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Candidate.  Learn more about Dr. Erica Anand on her website.