Cleaning Your Teeth & Gums
The ADA recommends the following for good oral hygiene:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every three or four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn toothbrush won’t do a good job of cleaning your teeth.
- Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Tooth decay–causing bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can’t reach. This helps remove the sticky film on teeth called plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
- Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
Antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes reduce the bacterial count and stop bacterial activity in dental plaque, which can cause gingivitis, an early, reversible form of periodontal (gum) disease. ADA-Accepted antimicrobial mouth rinses and toothpastes have substantiated these claims by demonstrating significant reductions in plaque and gingivitis. Fluoride mouth rinses help reduce and prevent tooth decay. Clinical studies have demonstrated that use of a fluoride mouth rinse and fluoride toothpaste can provide extra protection against tooth decay over that provided by fluoride toothpaste alone. Fluoride mouth rinse is not recommended for children age six or younger because they may swallow the rinse. Consumers should always check the manufacturer’s label for precautions and age recommendations and talk with their dentist about the use of fluoride mouth rinse.
Talk to your dentist about what types of oral care products will be most effective for you. The ADA Seal on a product is your assurance that it has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness. Look for the ADA Seal on fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, interdental cleaners, oral irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products.
Source: Ada.org
Periodontal disease associated with a higher risk of breast cancer
It is a well-known fact that oral hygiene relates directly to one’s overall health. Of the bacteria that thrives in the mouth, certain strains that cause periodontal disease have also been linked with pneumonia, prostate cancer, stroke and diabetes as well as breast cancer.
In a study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, a survey of 3,273 subjects found that women with chronic periodontal disease – which was indicated by missing molars – had a higher incidence of breast cancer.
By the time individuals with advanced periodontal disease have their teeth fall out, their body’s blood supply is infested with bacteria. According to the Karolinska Institute, which conducted the study, this bacterial infection can prompt the development of a co-infection of the Epstein-Barr virus and the cytomegalovirus. These viruses work together to suppress the body’s immune responses, which may in turn lead to incidences of breast cancer.
Periodontal treatments and screenings can help delay and halt the progression of advanced gum diseases. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that regular dental checkups can help one assess if a visit to a periodontist is needed.
Source: DentalPlans
CDC oral health division remains intact
November 11, 2011 — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will retain its Division of Oral Health (DOH), according to a story in ADA News.
Earlier this year, the CDC came under fire after announcing a restructuring proposal that would have folded the division into the Division of Adult and Community Health.
The ADA, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry, Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID), and a group of former chief dental officers of the U.S. Public Health Service all sent letters to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and CDC Director Thomas Frieden, MD, MPH, voicing their opposition.
In each case, the authors emphasized that if the consolidation occurred, oral health would inevitably become less of a priority.
“Dissolving one of the separate dental divisions from the department would only seem to decrease and take away from highlighting the importance of preventing and treating oral disease,” the ADA letter stated.
“Such organizational changes would diminish the visibility of oral health at CDC during a time of critical need for public health leadership less than a year after the Department of Health and Human Services announced and began to implement a department-wide oral health initiative,” the letter from former chief dental officers of the U.S. Public Health Service stated.
Source: drbicuspid.com
About the American Dental Association
The not-for-profit ADA is the nation’s largest dental association, representing more than 156,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public’s health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA’s state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive. The ADA Seal of Acceptance long has been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The monthly Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) is the ADA’s flagship publication and the best-read scientific journal in dentistry.
Source: Perio.org
Signs and Symptoms of Dry Mouth
Signs and Symptoms
At some point, most people will experience the short-term sensation of oral dryness because of nervousness, stress or just being upset. This is normal and does not have any long-term consequences. But chronic cases of dry mouth persist for longer periods of time. Common symptoms include trouble eating, speaking and chewing, burning sensations, or a frequent need to sip water while eating.
“Dry mouth becomes a problem when symptoms occur all or most of the time and can cause serious problems for your oral health,” explains Dr. Matthew Messina, ADA consumer advisor. “Drying irritates the soft tissues in the mouth, which can make them inflamed and more susceptible to infection.”
According to Dr. Messina, who practices general dentistry in the Cleveland area, without the cleansing and shielding effects of adequate saliva flow, tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease become much more common. “Constant dryness and the lack of protection provided by saliva may contribute to bad breath. Dry mouth can make full dentures become less comfortable to wear because there is no thin film of saliva to help them adhere properly to oral tissues,” he adds. “Insufficient saliva can also result in painful denture sores, dry and cracked lips, and increased risks of oral infection.”
Source: Perio.org
Dentists, Pharmacists Raise Awareness of Medication-Induced Dry Mouth
More than 500 medications can contribute to oral dryness, including antihistamines (for allergy or asthma), antihypertensive medications (for blood pressure), decongestants, pain medications, diuretics and antidepressants.
CHICAGO—August 11, 2011—Leading dental and pharmacy organizations are teaming up to promote oral health and raise public awareness of dry mouth, a side effect commonly caused by taking prescription and over-the-counter medications. More than 500 medications can contribute to oral dryness, including antihistamines (for allergy or asthma), antihypertensive medications (for blood pressure), decongestants, pain medications, diuretics and antidepressants. In its most severe form, dry mouth can lead to extensive tooth decay, mouth sores and oral infections, particularly among the elderly. Nearly half of all Americans regularly take at least one prescription medication daily, including many that produce dry mouth, and more than 90 percent of adults over age 65 do the same. Because older adults frequently use one or more of these medications, they are considered at significantly higher risk of experiencing dry mouth.
The American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) and the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) are collaborating to expand awareness of the impact of medications on dry mouth, a condition known to health professionals as xerostomia.
With regular saliva production, your teeth are constantly bathed in a mineral-rich solution that helps keep your teeth strong and resistant to decay. While saliva is essential for maintaining oral health and quality of life, at least 25 million Americans have inadequate salivary flow or composition, and lack the cleansing and protective functions provided by this important fluid. “Each day, a healthy adult normally produces around one-and-a-half liters of saliva, making it easier to talk, swallow, taste, digest food and perform other important functions that often go unnoticed,” notes Dr. Fares Elias, immediate past president, Academy of General Dentistry. “Those not producing adequate saliva may experience some common symptoms of dry mouth.”
Source: Perio.org
Does whitening toothpaste actually whiten teeth?
Whitening toothpaste can whiten teeth slightly by removing surface stains, such as those caused by drinking coffee or smoking. Whitening toothpaste can also be used after a bleaching treatment to help maintain results. However, whitening toothpaste can’t change the natural color of teeth or reverse discoloration caused by excessive exposure to fluoride during tooth development, penetrating surface stains or decay.
To remove surface stains, whitening toothpaste may include:
- Special abrasives that gently polish the teeth
- Chemicals, such as sodium tripolyphosphate, that help break down or dissolve stains
When used twice a day, whitening toothpaste typically takes two to four weeks to make teeth whiter. However, new research shows that whitening toothpaste containing the chemical blue covarine can make teeth appear immediately whiter. After use, blue covarine adheres to the surface of the teeth and creates an optical illusion that makes teeth appear less yellow.
Whitening toothpaste is generally safe for daily use, but excessive use might damage tooth enamel. If you’re considering using a whitening toothpaste, look for a brand that has a seal of approval from a reputable dental organization — such as the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, which indicates that the toothpaste is effective at removing surface stains and reducing tooth decay. If you’re not satisfied with the effect of whitening toothpaste, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about more effective tooth whitening options.
Source: Mayoclinic.com
Steel tongue studs may have added risk
Not only do oral piercings offer dangers like chipped and fractured teeth, damage to the gums, periodontal disease and problems with speech, swallowing and chewing, the studs themselves could be harboring oral biofilm—increasing risks for infection.
Researchers in Austria studied 85 people with tongue piercings. After examining the participants’ oral health, they randomly assigned each participant with sterile studs made from four different materials: stainless steel, titanium and two kinds of plastic. Participants were examined again after two weeks.
Scientists found that although the participants’ piercing channels had low bacterial counts, studs made of steel seemed to promote development of a biofilm—a thin layer of microorganisms that adhere to the surface of a structure. Types of bacteria associated with staph infections were found on the steel and titanium studs, leading researchers to conclude that metal studs increase risks for complications if a piercing channel becomes infected.
The ADA cautions against oral piercings —including those of the tongue, lips, cheeks and uvula— because they can interfere with speech, chewing or swallowing. They can also cause complications like excessive drooling; infection; chipped or cracked teeth; gum injuries; uncontrolled bleeding; damage to fillings; nerve damage; and hypersensitivity to metals.
Source: Colgate.com
Top 10 Worst Excuses for Not Brushing and Flossing
CHICAGO – December 23, 2002 – Good at-home oral hygiene is recommended by the American Academy of Periodontology to ensure a beautiful smile, and prevent periodontal disease, which is the major cause of tooth loss in adults.
“It’s important to practice a meticulous at-home oral care routine of daily brushing and flossing to ensure your teeth will last a lifetime,” said Gordon Douglass, D.D.S., and president of the American Academy of Periodontology. “Although periodontal disease can’t always be avoided, proper oral hygiene is the best means of prevention.”
The American Academy of Periodontology challenges the public to quit making excuses for not brushing and flossing and to start off the New Year by incorporating a daily routine of brushing and flossing. By doing this, you will reap the rewards for years to come.
- My hands are too big and I have no dexterity
- The floss pushes the food down further into the pocket
- My gums bleed
- I get my teeth professionally cleaned twice a year, so I don’t have to brush and floss
- It takes too long
- It gets in the way of my sex life
- Losing teeth is part of aging
- My teeth are too tight for the floss
- I’m afraid of damaging my gums when I floss
- I went hiking and forgot to bring floss
- – for people with dexterity problems, power floss holders may be useful.
- – floss cleans about 30 percent of the tooth’s surfaces, and its primary function is to remove the invisible film of bacteria that constantly forms between the teeth, causing plaque.
- – in the mildest form of periodontal disease called gingivitis, gums redden, swell and bleed easily. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene and can be reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
- – If plaque is not removed, it can turn into a hard substance called calculus/tartar in less than two days. It’s so hard that it can only be removed by a professional cleaning. Daily cleaning will help minimize calculus formation.
- – Thorough brushing and flossing take about ten minutes. This is less time than shaving or applying make-up.
- – research suggests periodontal disease can pass through saliva. This means that common contact of saliva from kissing may put your loved ones at an increased risk for contracting periodontal disease.
- – this is definitely not true. More people are keeping their natural teeth longer with brushing and flossing. And, make sure that you’re using the right equipment. The AAP recommends a soft-bristled toothbrush that doesn’t have bent or frayed bristles. Brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle in a gentle circular motion several times using short, gentle strokes. More about keeping a healthy smile for life
- – people with tight spaces between their teeth may prefer a polymer floss that’s been ADA approved.
- – that’s why technique is so important. When flossing, gently insert the floss between the teeth using a back-and-forth motion, guiding the flossing with your forefingers. Guide the floss to the gumline and curve the floss into a C-shape. Slide it into the space between the gum and tooth until you feel light resistance. Repeat this process between every tooth and don’t forget the back sides of your teeth.
- – One possibility for people without access to floss may be to chew on sticks. Dental researchers have studied the periodontal status of Sudanese populations who use Miswak chewing sticks and found that their periodontal health status was comparable to Sudanese toothbrush users.
- Source: Perio.org
Periodontal disease associated with a higher risk of breast cancer
It is a well-known fact that oral hygiene relates directly to one’s overall health. Of the bacteria that thrives in the mouth, certain strains that cause periodontal disease have also been linked with pneumonia, prostate cancer, stroke and diabetes as well as breast cancer.
In a study published in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, a survey of 3,273 subjects found that women with chronic periodontal disease – which was indicated by missing molars – had a higher incidence of breast cancer.
By the time individuals with advanced periodontal disease have their teeth fall out, their body’s blood supply is infested with bacteria. According to the Karolinska Institute, which conducted the study, this bacterial infection can prompt the development of a co-infection of the Epstein-Barr virus and the cytomegalovirus. These viruses work together to suppress the body’s immune responses, which may in turn lead to incidences of breast cancer.
Periodontal treatments and screenings can help delay and halt the progression of advanced gum diseases. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that regular dental checkups can help one assess if a visit to a periodontist is needed.
Source: DentalPlans