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. read more
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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.
Routine dental cleanings are essential in maintaining good oral health for life. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you should visit your dentist for a teeth cleaning twice a year (at least every six months) to make sure that your teeth and gums are both healthy. During your dental visit for a professional cleaning, you should be able to learn more about how to take care of your dental health, as well as the benefits of preventive dentistry.
Reasons You Need Preventive Care
1. It helps prevent gum disease.
A dental cleaning is essential in ensuring that your oral health and your smile are in great shape. A professional cleaning can help remove plaque, tartar, and food debris that can cause inflamed gums and loose teeth. A cleaning can determine if you are in the early stages of gingivitis or have any gum infections that can affect your dental and overall health.
2. It helps prevent tooth decay.
Dental cleanings remove plaque and calculus that can often lead to cavities. When plaque deposits remain on teeth for extended periods, they can weaken tooth enamel leading to decay. A professional cleaning will help remove these catalysts and restore your oral health. Typically during their professional cleaning, patients will also receive a fluoride treatment, which helps decrease the risk for tooth decay.
3. It helps prevent bad breath.
Professional teeth and gum cleanings will help remove food and plaque debris that also contributes to halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath. Oral bacteria can produce foul smells that are found on the gums, teeth, and tongue.
4. It is cost-effective.
A dental cleaning is the simplest and most cost-effective treatment to help maintain your dental health. A cleaning is also usually accompanied by a diagnostic examination that evaluates for cavities and gum disease and ensures any existing fillings are in tip-top shape. Those who usually neglect their oral health and routine visits will have long-term higher costs and time spent in the dental chair.
5. It impacts our overall health.
Our dental health and overall health are directly related. Research shows that oral bacteria responsible for gum disease, can enter your bloodstream through your gum tissue and affect other parts of your body. Gum disease is linked to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and pre-term birth weight. A dental cleaning can prevent chronic inflammation, which can impact several medical conditions.
6. It helps educate patients.
A regular visit to the dentist involves more than simply cleaning your teeth; it informs you about what is going on in your mouth. It gives you an opportunity to learn, ask questions, and address any concerns you may have. It is also a great indicator of general health and can show signs of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and sleep disorders. Routine dental exams and professional cleanings can prevent many of these health problems, and also identify them for better management. The dentist’s goal is to educate you on your oral health and help you establish a “dental home” so you feel confident and comfortable during your visits and healthy for a lifetime.
Author: Dr. Erica Anand is a pediatric dentist in private practice focused on preventative dentistry including SDF, SMART fillings, and myofunctional therapy. Read more on her author page.
It might be hard to believe that the year is coming to a close, but that means Open Enrollment is back again and it’s time to start shopping for insurance while you can. What is Open Enrollment?At the end of every year, a period known as Open Enrollment begins. This year, it will run from November 1, 2023 to January 15, 2024. But if you want to be sure that you’ll have health insurance coverage on January 1, you’ll need to be enrolled in a plan by December 15. If you live in a state that has its own health insurance exchange, it’s important to confirm when Open Enrollment will take place, as the dates might be different. For example, you might live in a state where the deadline to sign up is in December or you might have until the end of January. Planning ahead for Open Enrollment can help ensure you won’t be caught by surprise by any deadlines—the last thing you’d want is for this period to pass you by before you have a chance to get insurance or switch to a plan that suits your needs better. What can you do during Open Enrollment?Whether you’re working off the federal exchange or a state exchange, Open Enrollment is a time when you can focus on making sure your health insurance needs and preferences are met. During the year, if you’re uninsured and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may need to wait until Open Enrollment to search for a plan that works for you. So, rather than risking going without health insurance this coming year, it’s a good idea to enroll in a plan while you can.On the other hand, if you’re currently insured, this period is your chance to look for another plan and make a switch if you haven’t been satisfied with your existing plan. Or, you can simply use this time to renew your plan if you’re happy with it. What if you receive financial help through a subsidy? Open Enrollment is the period during which you’ll need to update and confirm your personal and financial information. Doing so will determine if you still qualify for the same amount, if you can get more or less, or if you no longer qualify for the assistance.What if you’re already covered?Because plans may be added and removed each year, you might want to shop around to see what’s available from the insurers in your state. Who knows, you might find something that’s better than what you currently have!If you’re insured and you like your existing plan, confirm that the same policy will be available next year. Also, details about coverage and out-of-pocket costs might change from one year to the next, so see if the plan will still suit your needs and budget. If everything looks good, you might be able to just let it renew automatically.Open Enrollment for dental and vision insuranceIn addition to shopping for medical insurance, you can look for dental plans on the Marketplace during Open Enrollment. You might come across medical insurance plans that provide some dental coverage for both children and adults, rather than just for kids. Or, you might be able to find stand-alone dental plans, but you might have to purchase a health plan at the same time. What about vision insurance? Like dental coverage, health plans on the Marketplace might include vision benefits for children, but it might be harder to find plans that also provide those benefits for adults. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to find stand-alone vision plans on Healthcare.gov. With dental and vision, you don’t have to limit yourself to Open Enrollment!If you’re finding it hard to get the right dental or vision plan, and you don’t want to feel rushed by the Open Enrollment period, don’t worry. You can enroll in, change, or cancel dental and vision insurance all year long. Let’s say you want to look into dental or vision insurance that will cover your whole family. Well, you can do that by using online comparison tools that give you details about multiple providers at once, or you can go directly to a provider’s website. Here at Spirit, we offer a variety of plans to suit everyone’s needs and budget, and you can enroll whenever you’re ready. Shopping for insurance doesn’t have to be complicatedOnce you know how Open Enrollment works, and once you realize that you have more flexibility when it comes to buying dental and vision insurance, the stress of signing up for the ideal plans may decrease. Start browsing the options available in your area so you can make the right choice for the coming year. Sources:https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/dates-and-deadlines/https://www.healthmarkets.com/resources/health-insurance/open-enrollment/https://www.healthinsurance.org/open-enrollment/https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/dental-coverage/https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/vision-or-vision-coverage/
Every baby is unique, even when it comes to teething. Generally, you can expect that your child will start teething around the age of 6 months, but it might happen earlier, such as around 4 months. And, as more teeth grow in, your baby might experience teething symptoms until the age of 2.
How can you tell if your baby is teething? Symptoms vary, but they typically include crankiness and irritability, along with drooling. Your child might also cry more, and might want to chew on things in an effort to get relief from sore, swollen gums. Also, you might notice that your baby’s appetite decreases, and his or her temperature might rise slightly, but not enough to be considered a fever.
When your precious son or daughter is uncomfortable because of teething, you want nothing more than to eliminate that discomfort. With the tips below, you can do just that, and before you know it, you’ll see those adorable little chompers whenever your little one smiles.
How to Soothe a Baby That’s Teething
There are a variety of ways to soothe your teething baby, and they include:
Wash your hands, and then gently massage your little one’s gums using circular motions with your finger. Alternatively, you can try using wet gauze instead of your finger.
Gently apply a clean, cold washcloth to the gums, or let your baby chew or suck on it while you supervise. Start by soaking the washcloth in water. Then, wring it out and let it sit in the refrigerator until it’s nice and cool before giving it to your child.
Put a metal teaspoon in the refrigerator until it’s cool to the touch. Then, you can gently place it on your baby’s gums to massage them.
Purchase a teething ring or teething toy that’s designed for babies, and be diligent about keeping it clean so your child can chew on it for relief. You might also be able to place it in the refrigerator to provide cooling relief but read the label carefully to be sure it’s safe to do so.
As an alternative to a cold washcloth or spoon, you can try giving your child some fruit that has been chilled in the refrigerator, as long as he or she is already used to eating solid food. You can use a mesh feeder, placing the fruit inside, so your little one can chew on it.
Note: You might be wondering if teething bracelets and necklaces are a good option for teething relief. The answer: not really. Experts recommend steering clear of these products, which are a choking hazard.
What About Medications for Teething Babies?
Should you give your baby medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to provide relief from teething discomfort? Well, it’s best to consult your child’s pediatrician for the answer to this question because some remedies are not recommended.
For example, it isn’t a good idea to give your baby a medicine that contains lidocaine or benzocaine, and even herbal and homeopathic remedies might not be appropriate. Your baby’s doctor can direct you to the best and safest remedy so you can rest assured you’re making the ideal choice.
It’s Time for Your Baby to Meet the Dentist!
Once you see your baby’s first tooth erupt, it’s time to make an appointment with a dentist. That way, your child’s mouth can be examined by a pro, and you can get advice on oral care for babies so you can help ensure every tooth grows in perfectly.
Thankfully, It’s Temporary!
It might be a difficult time for you and your baby, but teething symptoms often decrease and resolve after a few days, particularly when the tooth starts erupting from the gums. By being patient, and by comforting your child with the suggestions above, you can make teething a less intense experience. But if you’re noticing that your strategies aren’t working, consult your baby’s dentist or physician for personalized guidance.
Sources:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/teething-101-4-pediatrician-approved-ways-to-soothe-a-teething-baby/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/teething/art-20046378
https://www.pampers.com/en-us/baby/teething/videos/how-to-soothe-a-teething-baby
Your vision is so very important, so taking care of your eyes as you get older should definitely be part of your wellness routine. But what steps can you take to keep your eyes healthy?
It Starts with Seeing an Eye Doctor on a Regular Basis
Whether or not you’re experiencing symptoms or having issues with your vision, it’s a great idea to see an eye doctor on a regular basis, such as annually. He or she will have special tools and instruments that can look at the interior structures of your eyes, such as your retinas, to be sure everything is healthy. These exams can also spot eye problems in their earliest stages so you can treat them right away.
Take Steps Daily to Protect Your Peepers
In addition to being examined by a pro, there are steps you can take every day to maintain the health of your eyes, such as:
Eat right and take supplements – Foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats are considered beneficial to the eyes. Consider decreasing your intake of unhealthy foods, such as those that are high in saturated fat, and reduce your consumption of alcohol as well. You can also talk to your eye doctor about taking a high-quality supplement that contains nutrients known for supporting the eyes (such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect the eyes from blue light).
Get plenty of exercise – Leading an active lifestyle that includes exercise isn’t only important for your overall health, it’s also great for your eye health. That’s because working out can help improve circulation that delivers oxygen to the eyes and helps eliminate toxins.
Wear sunglasses and other protective eyewear – You don’t have to stare directly at the sun to damage your eyes. The sun’s UV rays are capable of doing harm. In fact, your risk of conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts might increase if you don’t protect your peepers with high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. And don’t forget to wear safety glasses when you’re playing sports or working in an environment where you’ll be exposed to materials that can get into your eyes.
Protect your eyes from blue light – Devices like your smartphone and computer give off blue light that can be harmful to the eyes, and staring at screens for too long can cause eyestrain. Consider taking frequent breaks to look at something in the distance for a bit (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds). You can also try minimizing glare, wearing glasses that filter blue light, and blinking frequently. Plus, it’s wise to keep the top of your computer screen slightly below eye level, and at least 20-24” away from your face.
Ditch the cigarettes – Here’s yet another solid reason to finally quit smoking: this unhealthy habit can raise the risk of eye problems like optic nerve damage, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Yikes!
Get enough rest – A lack of good quality sleep can take its toll on your eyes. Who knew?! If you’ve developed symptoms like dry eye or eyestrain, it might be because they aren’t getting the rest they need. By simply getting more hours of sleep, you might notice that your eyes feel better during the day.
Take care of your eyes if you wear contacts – If you wear contacts, talk to your eye doctor about the best ways to take care of them so you can avoid complications. For example, taking them out before going to sleep is wise, as is making sure you store them in a clean case.
Worried About the Cost of Eye Care? Spirit Can Help!
In addition to dental insurance, you can also get vision insurance from Spirit. That way, you can rest assured that you’ll be covered when you need to see the eye doctor for an exam or a new prescription for glasses and contacts. With the right plan, you won’t have to worry about missing out on the care you need to keep your eyes healthy, no matter your age.
Sources:
https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/keep-your-eyes-healthy
https://www.bausch.com/vision-and-age/20s-and-30s-eyes/healthy-eyes
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/good-eyesight#1
https://visionsource.com/blog/sleep-and-eye-health/