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Gum disease
In Health

Gum Disease – A Hidden Heart Risk

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A healthy heart and a healthy smile may not seem to go together for many people. But shockingly, a new study shows a strong link between gum disease and heart health. In fact, people with gum disease are a lot more likely to have heart trouble.

A Lake Bluff dentist knows how important it is to take care of your teeth, so make an appointment today! 

Understanding gum disease – what is it? 

Periodontal disease, which is another name for gum disease, is an illness of the gums that cover your teeth. A buildup of plaque, a sticky film that has germs in it, is to blame. 

Plaque can turn into tartar (calculus) if it is not cleared by cleaning and brushing. This might make the gums swell and bleed because it irritates them. Gum disease can hurt the jawbone and even cause you to lose teeth in the worst cases. 

The connection between your gums and your heart

More research needs to be done to find out exactly why gum disease may damage heart health. There are, however, a few major theories.

Bacteria in the bloodstream

If you have gum disease, bacteria can get into your system. These germs can spread to the heart and other parts of the body. 

Once they get there, they can make inflammation and plaque buildup in the vessels worse. Plaque buildup can make the arteries shrink, which raises the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Chronic inflammation

Gum disease is a long-term inflammatory problem. This means that the body’s defenses are always working to get rid of the gum infection. 

Other parts of the body, like the blood vessels, can also be affected by this long-term inflammation. This swelling can hurt the blood vessels and raise the risk of heart disease over time. 

Heart Risk

How to protect your heart health with healthy gums

Taking care of your gums is a good way to protect your heart health. Here are some important tips:

  • Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day.
  • Every day, floss to get rid of plaque and germs that are stuck between your teeth.
  • You should see your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. They can look for signs of gum disease and treat it if it is found.
  • Eat well and stay healthy. Your gums will stay healthy if you eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods.
  • Do not smoke. Both gum disease and heart disease are more likely to happen if you smoke. 

What role does diabetes play? 

Gum disease is more likely to happen to people who have diabetes. This is because having high blood sugar can make it harder for the body to fight off sickness. Diabetes can also hurt the blood vessels in the gums, which makes them more likely to become inflamed. 

The link between gum disease and pregnancy

Women who are pregnant can also get gum disease. It has been shown that women with gum disease are more likely to have kids who are born early or with low birth weight. This is most likely because gum disease makes the body swell up. 

What is the treatment for gum disease? 

If you have gum disease, your dentist will probably tell you to get your teeth cleaned by a professional to get rid of plaque and tartar. If the problem is really bad, you might need periodontal treatment, which cleans deeply around your teeth and gums. Sometimes, surgery is the only way to get rid of gum disease. 

There is a very strong link between gum problems and heart health. Gum disease and heart problems are less likely to happen if you take care of your gums and go to the doctor regularly. Remember that a healthy smile means you are healthy all around.

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Sensitive Teeth
In Health

Sensitive Teeth? Discover the Ultimate Solutions for Enjoying Every Meal!

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Sensitive teeth do not mean you must struggle through every piece of your favorite dessert. Whether the food is spicy, cold, sweet, or acidic, taking care of your sensitive teeth will give you back the self-assurance to eat comfortably. 

Adopting the right dental care suggested by Monterey Park dentist could provide comfort from teeth solutions. From practical, expert-tested solutions, we focus on overcoming tooth sensitivity with utmost effectiveness. This blog aims to provide practical solutions for sensitive teeth without major dietary adjustments.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Before we talk about how to make eating with sensitive teeth more comfortable, it might be helpful to understand why it is happening. Dentin hypersensitivity, another name for this dental ailment, is characterized by pain and discomfort in the teeth when hot, cold, sweet, or acidic meals are consumed.

When the tooth’s dentin layer is exposed, this kind of sensitivity results. Tiny tubules that link to the pulp are present in this layer. This exposure stimulates the nerves inside the tooth, which results in pain.  

Which foods and drinks trigger teeth sensitivity?

The foremost step to finding the correct solutions to eat comfortably with sensitive teeth is understanding which foods and drinks trigger teeth sensitivity. Here’s an overview of certain foods and drinks that could lead to discomfort or pain in your sensitive teeth:

  • Ice creams and cold drinks are certain cold foods that can trigger
  • For hot foods, avoid coffee and hot soups as they can cause sensitivity
  • Citrus fruits also trigger sensitivity; such foods could be tomatoes
  • Candy and sugary drinks
  • Highly processed foods with refined carbohydrates

Other food triggers include curds, pickles, and even vinegar-based foods.

Sensitive Dental Care: Tips for comfortable eating

Teeth sensitivity could make your preferred supper a terrible event. Here are some ideas to assist you with some alleviation from the same discomfort of eating:

The very first tip is to maintain good oral habits, such as brushing with a soft toothbrush after meals and using a dentist-prescribed paste.

Avoid consuming very hot drinks such as coffee and foods with high sugar content. Wait for the beverage to cool down a little before consumption.

You can also adopt the right dental products and tools, such as a nighttime mouthguard and desensitizing mouthwashes and floss. These can help provide relief over a period of time.

Another tip is to get professional treatments for root canals and gum grafting that can help eliminate the pain and reduce overall sensitivity. 

In addition to these, some of the best tips are to bring in minor and smart changes in your diet such as consuming milk and cheese to neutralize the acid in your mouth and eating more fibres to lower the overall sugar content.   

What is the relation between gum health and tooth sensitivity?

Sensitive-Teeth

Following the tips can surely help you feel comfortable while eating with sensitive teeth; however, to better understand, you need to have a firm understanding of the relationship between your gum health and tooth sensitivity.

Here’s what all gum health is related to the sensitivity of teeth

  • Gum recession
  • Gingivitis
  • Enamel erosion
  • Gum infection

These complexities of gum health could also contribute to tooth sensitivity. Hence, taking good care of your gum health could also bring comfort.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sensitive teeth can be painful and a constant struggle. Hence, with certain tips and diet management, you can significantly decrease discomfort and enjoy your favorite meals without hesitation. We hope the tips help you get relief from tooth sensitivity and relish your meals without worrying about the pain in the future.

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Invisalign aligners
In Health

Caring for Your Invisalign: How to Keep Your Treatment on Track

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Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. While Invisalign offers many benefits, including convenience and aesthetics, proper care is essential to ensure optimal results and maintain the longevity of your aligners. In this article, the dentist in Plymouth, MN, and their team of orthodontists will provide a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Invisalign.

An introduction to Invisalign 

Invisalign aligners are a revolutionary orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable, and custom-made aligners to straighten teeth. Made from a flexible and comfortable plastic material, these aligners are designed to gradually shift teeth into their desired position, achieving a straighter and healthier smile. 

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, allowing wearers to confidently smile and go about their daily lives without the hassle of bulky hardware. With Invisalign, patients receive a new set of aligners every one to two weeks, each adjusting the position of their teeth until the final result is achieved. This innovative treatment offers a convenient, and effective solution for you to improve your dental alignment and enhance your overall appearance.

Caring for your Invisalign aligners

Here is a comprehensive guide on how to care for your Invisalign aligners for optimal results. 

Cleaning your aligners

Cleaning your aligners regularly is crucial to prevent bacterial buildup and maintain oral hygiene. Here are some tips:

  • Rinse with lukewarm water: After removing your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove any loose debris.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Gently brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning solution.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or hot water, as they can damage your aligners.
  • Soak in cleaning solution: Soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning solution or a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for 15-30 minutes.

Oral hygiene practices 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential while wearing Invisalign. Here are some tips:

  • Brush and floss regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day to prevent plaque buildup.
  • Use a fluoride mouthwash: Use a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.
  • Avoid sugary and acidic foods: Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods, as they can contribute to tooth decay and erosion.

Handling and storing your Invisalign aligners

invisalign

Proper handling and storage of your aligners are crucial to prevent damage and maintain their effectiveness. Here are some tips:

  • Handle with care: Handle your aligners with care, avoiding bending, twisting, or forcing them onto your teeth.
  • Store in a protective case: Store your aligners in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage and loss.
  • Avoid exposure to heat: Avoid exposing your aligners to heat, such as leaving them in a hot car or near a heater.

Additional tips for usage

  • Wear your aligners as directed: Wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours a day and switch to a new set as directed.
  • Attend regular check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your orthodontist to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  • Be patient: Be patient, as Invisalign treatment can take several months to achieve desired results.

Bottom line 

Invisalign aligners provide you the freedom to enjoy optimal teeth alignment most aesthetically due to the clear trays used during the orthodontic correction. Caring for your aligners is a crucial part of the process to enhance the result. Caring for your Invisalign requires attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene. By following these tips, you can ensure optimal results, maintain the longevity of your aligners, and enjoy a healthy, straight smile. Remember to always consult your orthodontist if you have any questions or concerns about caring for your Invisalign.

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