20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile (Part 4)

 

Hot drinks

Your hot-drink habit may be one reason your teeth look a little dingy.

"Black tea and coffee contain stain-promoting tannins that lodge into the pits and grooves of the tooth enamel, producing a rough, stained surface, which is sticky and can retain decay-producing bacteria," says Halpern.

Consume such beverages in moderation, drink more water every day, and add milk to your coffee or tea to help neutralize the acids, says Perle.

Aging

As you age, you're more susceptible to decay near old fillings or root surfaces unprotected by receding gums. But there's no reason you can't keep your teeth. Oral disease—not aging per se—is the danger.

Bumping up your fluoride protection is key. And if you have arthritis, there are dental products that can make brushing and flossing less painful.

"Seniors who brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste or use fluoride rinses or gels regularly have fewer cavities," adds Meinecke.

Birth control pills

Because oral contraceptives mimic pregnancy, they can also lead to gum inflammation and infections, including gingivitis.

Additionally, some studies have shown that women who use birth control pills may have more trouble healing after tooth extractions and are twice as likely to develop painful dry sockets where the tooth used to be.

If you use birth control pills, it's not a bad idea to discuss their effect with your dentist before major procedures.

Not flossing

Although many of us are much more diligent about brushing than flossing, they are equally important.

"Flossing every day is one of the best things you can do to take care of your teeth. It's the single most important factor in preventing periodontal disease, which affects more than 50% of adults," says Meinecke.

Flossing helps remove plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums, and gives you a brighter smile by polishing the tooth's surface; it even helps control bad breath.

20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile (Part 3)

Candy

Contrary to what mom said, sugar won't directly rot your teeth—but the acid produced when you eat sugar and carbohydrates can.

"Naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth devour sugar, creating acids that attack tooth enamel, which can lead to decay and a host of other problems, including gingivitis and cavities," says Halpern.

The worst thing you can do is leave sugar lingering on your teeth and gums. Eating any amount of candy and brushing and flossing immediately is actually less damaging than not brushing after eating one piece before bedtime, says Halpern.

If you can't brush after a snack attack, eat cheese or yogurt, or chew sugarless gum to boost saliva flow and neutralize acids.

Puberty

The hormonal surge that occurs during puberty can cause more than acne—it can also result in swollen gums that are more sensitive to plaque. This can lead to gum infections, gingivitis, and mouth sores, say Halpern.

"But typically the gums only respond in such a manner if hygiene care is poor," he adds. Make sure your teen brushes and flosses daily, and sees a dentist regularly.

 

Dry mouth

A dry mouth isn't just unpleasant, it's bad for your teeth. Saliva washes away cavity-causing bacteria and neutralizes harmful acids.

"Without saliva, you would lose your teeth much faster—it helps prevent tooth decay and other oral health problems," says Meinecke.

Drink lots of water, chew sugarless gum, use a fluoride toothpaste or rinse, and consider over-the-counter artificial saliva substitutes. See your doctor if it's a frequent problem.

Dieting

Restrictive diets and poor eating habits can deprive you of the vitamins and nutrients necessary for a beautiful smile.

It's especially important to get enough folate, B vitamins, protein, calcium, and vitamin C—all of which are considered essential for healthy teeth and gums.

"Poor nutrition can affect your entire immune system, increasing your susceptibility to many disorders and infections, including periodontal disease," says Halpern.

20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile (Part 2)

Wine

Wine drinkers beware: Regular wine consumption can harm tooth enamel.

According to Halpern, wine's acidity can dissolve the tooth structure, and both red and white wine can increase dental staining. Still, you don't have to give up your regular glass of vino to save your smile.

"Enamel erosion develops when wine drinkers swish the wine, keeping it in constant contact with the enamel, so instead, take small sips and rinse with water when you're done drinking," advises Perle.

Pregnancy 

It's especially important to take care of your teeth and gums when you're expecting, since studies show a link between untreated gum disease and pre-term and low-birth-weight babies.

"Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy, particularly surges in estrogen and progesterone, can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to gingivitis (red, swollen, tender gums that are more likely to bleed) and put you at risk for infection," says Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson, Gigi Meinecke, DDS, FAGD.

If you have morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water or rub your teeth with a paste of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid caused by vomiting, since it can lead to tooth decay.

Diet pills

Even though they may seem like a quick way to trim your waist, diet pills can also be a fast track to gum disease and tooth decay.

"Like many over-the-counter and prescription medications, diet pills decrease salivary flow, which causes dry mouth and puts you at risk for gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and discomfort," says Halpern.

Bottom line: A balanced diet and exercise are the safest way to lose weight and protect your smile.
 

Teeth grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can affect your jaw, cause pain, and even change the appearance of your face.

"People who have otherwise healthy teeth and gums can clench so often and so hard that over time, they wear away their tooth's enamel, causing chipping and sensitivity," says Halpern.

Stress and anger can increase nighttime teeth grinding. "Finding ways to alleviate these feelings can help, but it's also important to see your dentist, who can recommend solutions like a custom night guard," advises Perle.

20 Things That Can Ruin Your Smile (Part 1)

Your smile is one of your best assets. Here's how to keep it sparkling.

Healthy teeth, healthy smile?

Your smile is one of your best assets, so, of course, you want to keep it sparkling.

But even if you brush, use white strips, and visit your dentist twice a year, it may not be enough.

Here are some factors that can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, and put a serious damper on your smile. 

Sports drinks

In the last decade, sports beverages have become increasingly popular, but they aren't great for your teeth.

"Scientific research has found that the pH levels in many sports drinks could lead to tooth erosion due to their high concentration of acidic components, which could wear away at the tooth's enamel," says David F. Halpern, DMD, FAGD, president of the Academy of General Dentistry.

Additionally, these drinks are often high in sugars that act as "food" for acid-producing bacteria, which then sneak into the cracks and crevices in your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay. 

Bottled water

Tap water often contains fluoride—about 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their water supply.

However, most bottled waters contain less fluoride than recommended for good oral health (it will be listed as an ingredient on the label if it is an additive).

"Fluoride makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before damage is even visible," explains Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson, Charles H. Perle, DMD, FAGD. "Studies have confirmed [that] the most effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation."

Diabetes

Diabetes reduces the body's resistance to infection, so you're at a risk for gum disease. Brushing, flossing, and monitoring your blood sugar can help.

"Diabetes is directly related to periodontal disease, so seeing the dentist and having your triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular basis is also crucial," stresses Perle.

Perle also points out that research has shown that diabetics can reduce the amount of insulin they need to take by maintaining good gum health.

Tobacco

Smoking turns your teeth yellow, but it can be much more damaging than that.

"Using any form of tobacco can harm your teeth and gums in a number of ways," says Halpern.

"It can cause throat, lung, and mouth cancer, and even death. Additionally, the tar from tobacco forms a sticky film on teeth, which harbors bacteria that promote acid production and create irritating toxins, both of which cause gum inflammation, tooth decay, and loss."

Study Models and Wax Ups

Quite often, a patient will have dental problems that require a more detailed analysis in order to determine possible solutions. Teeth can be directly examined, but because of the limitations imposed by the tongue, lips, cheeks, and the small angle of sight from the front of the mouth, the ability to provide an appropriate treatment plan can be compromised. As more teeth are missing and more teeth shift from where they belong, especially in cases where the problem has been in existence for many years, more options for treatment become possible. This can be the case for extensive dental treatment or for only a few teeth that need restoration. 

Plaster Study Model

Study Models:
We will need to make study models (impressions) of the teeth, and we will also make a registration of how the teeth meet, in order to help plan treatment. We will be able to see things on the models that we cannot see clinically. We can also work with the models of your teeth between appointments. And that's a definite convenience for you! The models will show us many factors, especially in tooth movement, such as whether teeth have moved, how far they have moved, how they may have affected other teeth, as well as other considerations. If you are planning on fixed bridges or crowns or removable bridges (partials) to replace the missing teeth, the design must be exact from the moment treatment starts for the best result.

Wax Ups
The diagnostic wax up gives us a record of what you want so we can begin the process with your ultimate results already known. We use a diagnostic "wax up" to help us (and you) visualize possible changes to the shape and alignment of your teeth. The wax up shows teeth and gum tissue, usually in white plaster with white wax added. The original study models provide a three-dimensional look at the "before" condition of your teeth, and the wax up will give a three-dimensional "after" picture of what your teeth, replacements of missing teeth, etc. will look like when the treatment is completed. The wax up is often used where there are moderate to significant cosmetic changes to be considered. In conjunction with the wax up, it is possible to have the before picture converted to a digital image and then computer modified to show an "after" image. The digitized picture will have your lips, cheeks, gum tissue, and face visible and in proper color.

Diagnostic Wax Up

The wax up is valuable for you too. You will be able to judge the proposed changes and approve them. If you don't like them, it is relatively simple to have the wax up changed for a different look. The model shows your new smile in its natural color and translucency. We can also see how your new smile will improve any bite problems you may have. With the diagnostic model you are empowered to preview, give suggestions, make changes, and approve your personal “Smile Plan” before any procedures are begun. Not only can you see the excellent quality of the esthetic changes in your new smile, the model also assures you that your restorative work will function well when chewing or talking.Once the wax up is approved by both you and us, it will be used as the foundation for the anticipated treatment. The better a treatment is planned, the better the chance of a successful result.

There is an additional cost for either the study models or the diagnostic wax up. Fees for the study models are fixed. Fees for the diagnostic wax up depend on the number of teeth that are being modified. For an extensive "makeover" a fee of several hundred dollars is possible.

If you have any questions about the need for or use of diagnostic study models or a wax up, please feel free to ask us. 

Five Daily Tips for Perfect Oral Health

You only have one set of adult teeth so it’s important to care for them on a daily basis. If you find the normal habit of brushing too boring, mix things up by trying out these new tips. Take a few minutes each day to make dental care a fun way to take care of yourself.

Floss, Floss, And Floss Some More!
This is a tip you may have heard regularly from the hygienist, dentist, or doctor, but outside of their offices you may struggle to put it to practice. To find out the reason behind the reluctance to floss, make the decision to floss easier:

• Buy silk floss – it’s softer on your gums and makes the activity more enjoyable
• Put floss near your computer or TV at home so you can clean your teeth during commercials or productivity breaks
• Floss gently so your gums don’t bleed

Brush with Some Help
Brushing too vigorously can actually damage your enamel and irritate your gums. You can brush in gently, short strokes or let a professional do the job. There are dentist recommended electric toothbrushes that will handle the details and even alert you when you’re applying too much pressure. Consult your dentist to see which toothbrush they recommend for your teeth.

Indulge in Brand Name Products
Walking through the oral health care aisle, you’ll see any number of brightly coloured products, each with their own features and benefits. Shake things up and try something new as an incentive to continue brushing and flossing:

• Products containing fluoride will strengthen your teeth
• Anti-bacterial products remove germs that damage your teeth and gums
• Specially shaped tooth brushes can reach areas that are difficult to get to

Treat Your Gums to a Massage
Massages can be therapeutic for the muscles, and the same can be said about the tissue lining your teeth. Massaging gums increases blood flow to the area, which is great for tissue health and fighting infections. Do so gently and with clean fingers. For a special treat, invest in a soft rubber tipped massaging tool.

Keep your Things Clean
Germs are bad for your teeth and breath, so the last thing you should be doing is reintroducing them back into your mouth. Wash brushes and cups regularly with hot soap and water. This is important for gums that are in bad shape as they split easily.

9 Things To Consider Before Treatment Begins

As you consider having extensive dental treatment, it may be beneficial for you to review the following points: 

1. Time Commitment. Because of the nature of dental appointments, it may be necessary for you to take some time off work. A few longer appointments are generally more efficient and less inconvenient than many short appointments. This will minimize your time in the office. Usually, the best time to have a long appointment is in the morning. Once the treatment has begun, it needs to be completed in a timely fashion. If treatment is delayed or missed, it could change the proposed treatment plan. This could adversely affect the total cost to you.

2. Dentistry is both an art and a science. In complicated and technically difficult cases, and because of our high standards, it may prove necessary to redo a portion or go back and retake impressions or remake crowns, etc.

3. Make certain you are aware of what treatment is required and the goals of the treatment. If you do not understand why we have made a particular recommendation or treatment sequence, or the length of treatment required, please ask us for clarification before treatment begins. It is possible that previously undetected dental problems will be discovered once tooth preparation has begun. When this occurs after the treatment plan has been developed, you will be immediately informed.

4. You should be comfortable with all financial arrangements before any treatment is begun. Pre-estimates sent to insurance carriers can help approximate your out-of-pocket costs. Establish your dental budget. This will determine how much and how quickly treatment can proceed. Understand that you, and not your insurance carrier, are ultimately responsible for the total cost of treatment. If you would like to have more treatment than you can easily afford at one time, the dental procedures can be done in phases over months or years. This will also allow you to use your insurance benefits to the maximum permitted. Payment is expected as work is completed.

5. Thorough oral self-care is very important, both at the beginning of treatment and afterward. The better your oral health is, the easier the restoration process will be. You may be asked to use an antimicrobial prescription mouth rinse from 2 weeks before we begin treatment until after all restorative treatment is completed. Please follow these instructions.

6. While dental restorations function well for years of service, nothing lasts forever - not us, not dental restorations. We use the best available dental materials and techniques, but the reality is that some restorations simply last longer than others. With today's longer life span, the restoration might even wear out! The better you maintain your dental restorations, the longer they will last. Just as with anything else, proper maintenance is required.

7. Before beginning treatment, understand clearly what will be required of you for daily oral self-care, your periodic professional dental hygiene recare appointments, and the limitations of the restorations and dental prostheses you will receive. This means that you must brush and floss your teeth as instructed every day. When extensive dentistry is completed, a 3- to 4-month interval for periodic dental hygiene recare appointments is strongly advised.

8. Dental restorations are subject to the same physical abuse as natural teeth. Whatever oral habits will break a natural, undrilled, undamaged tooth - such as chewing ice, biting fingernails, hard objects, etc. - will probably be able to break a restoration as well. Expansion and contraction for hot liquids and cold foods can cause damage, as can the wet, dark, bacteria-filled oral environment of the oval cavity.

9. If you have ever considered whitening your teeth, the time to do it is before dental restorations are placed in teeth that are visible when you talk or smile. If you are interested in tooth whitening, ask us now!