West Maitland Dentistry Blog

So many patients suffer silently with dry mouth, often not even knowing they have it.  Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands don’t produce sufficient saliva to keep the mouth moist. This condition can lead to discomfort and various oral health issues. Persistent dry mouth can also lead to complications such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Understanding dry mouth and how to treat it is important in maintaining good oral health. In this blog we’re going to break down the causes and symptoms of dry mouth as well as how to manage it.

Causes of Dry Mouth

Several factors can contribute to dry mouth:

• Medications: Numerous prescription and over-the-counter drugs list dry mouth as a side effect, including antihistamines, decongestants, and medications for high blood pressure and depression.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, stroke, meonopause and autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome can lead to reduced saliva production.
• Cancer Treatments: Radiation therapy, especially targeting the head and neck, can damage salivary glands, resulting in decreased saliva production.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, chewing tobacco, and alcohol consumption can exacerbate dry mouth symptoms.
• Age: As we age our saliva production decreases.

Symptoms Associated with Dry Mouth

Common signs of dry mouth include:

• A sticky, dry feeling in the mouth
• Frequent thirst
• Sores or split skin at the corners of the mouth
• Cracked lips
• A dry, rough tongue
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Altered taste sensation
• Bad breath

Managing and Treating Dry Mouth

To alleviate dry mouth symptoms:

• Stay Hydrated: Regularly sip water or sugarless drinks to keep the mouth moist.
• Stimulate Saliva Production: Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can help stimulate saliva flow.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and visit your dentist for routine check-ups.
• Use a Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air, especially during sleep, can prevent mouth dryness.
• Avoid Drying Substances: Limit intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco products, as they can worsen dry mouth.

If these measures don’t provide relief, consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend saliva substitutes or medications to stimulate saliva production.

When to Seek Professional Help

If dry mouth persists despite self-care measures, or if you experience severe discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or signs of infection, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can identify underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatments to manage the condition effectively.

Understanding dry mouth and addressing it promptly is crucial for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.

Oral hygiene is a cornerstone of overall health, and choosing the right toothbrush is crucial for maintaining a bright smile. With a plethora of options available, particularly the mechanical (manual) and electric toothbrushes, many consumers often wonder which type is more effective. Additionally, understanding the differences between bristle types can further enhance your brushing experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both mechanical and electric toothbrushes and provide insights into the best bristle types to suit your dental needs.

Mechanical (Manual) Toothbrushes

Mechanical toothbrushes are the traditional toothbrushes that require manual movement to clean your teeth. They are typically affordable, widely available, and come in various sizes, shapes, and bristle types.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Manual toothbrushes are usually cheaper than electric options and don’t require batteries or charging.
• Travel-Friendly: Lightweight and compact, manual toothbrushes are easy to carry, making them ideal for travel.
• Variety of Options: Available in diverse bristle types, shapes, and sizes, manual brushes can be tailored to individual preferences and needs.

Cons:

• Technique-Dependent: Their effectiveness largely relies on the user’s brushing technique. Many people may not properly brush for the recommended two minutes or may not use the correct technique, leading to suboptimal cleaning.
• Less Consistent Pressure: Maintaining consistent pressure while brushing can be challenging, potentially leading to over-brushing or under-brushing.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes use oscillating, rotating, or sonic technology to provide a more dynamic cleaning action. Most come with built-in timers and pressure sensors, making effective brushing easier.

Pros:

• More Effective Cleaning: Research suggests that electric toothbrushes can remove plaque more effectively than manual brushes, thanks to their superior cleaning action.
• Built-in Timers: Many electric brushes include timers to ensure users brush for the recommended two minutes and sometimes even provide a reminder to change quadrants.
• Ease of Use: The automated technology and typically larger handles require less manual effort, making it easier for people with limited mobility, such as children or those with arthritis, to maintain proper oral hygiene.

Cons:

• Cost: Electric toothbrushes are generally more expensive than manual options and may require additional investment in replacement brush heads.
• *Charging and Maintenance: *They require charging or battery replacements and can be less convenient for travel, depending on the model.
• Which One Should You Choose? With all the options available it may be cumbersome to figure out which one works best for you.

Ultimately, the choice between mechanical and electric toothbrushes boils down to personal preference, budget, and individual needs. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

• Effectiveness: If you find it challenging to brush effectively for the recommended time manually, an electric toothbrush may be a better option for you.
• Budget: If cost is a significant factor, a high-quality manual toothbrush can still provide excellent oral hygiene when used correctly.
• Practicality: If you travel frequently or have a busy lifestyle, a simpler manual toothbrush may suit your needs better.

Choosing the Right Bristle Type

Regardless of which toothbrush you choose, the bristle type is essential for effective cleaning. Here’s a breakdown of common bristle types:

Soft Bristles

• Recommendation: Most dentists recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• *Benefits: *Soft bristles are gentle on the gums and enamel while effectively removing plaque and debris. They are less likely to cause gum irritation or wear down tooth enamel.

Medium Bristles

• Recommendation: Medium-bristled brushes may cause discomfort or gum recession for sensitive individuals and are generally not recommended for most patients.
• Benefits: They offer a bit more scrubbing power than soft bristles, but caution is advised if you have sensitive gums.  They may benefit patients that have limited mobility and are otherwise unable to properly brush their teeth.

Hard Bristles:

• *Recommendation: *Generally, hard-bristled toothbrushes are not recommended.
• Risks: They can be too abrasive, leading to gum damage, enamel wear, and increased tooth sensitivity. Opt for soft or medium bristles instead, even if you think you need something stronger.

Bristle Design

Some toothbrushes feature varying bristle heights, shapes or textures designed to better reach inter-dental spaces and gum line. When selecting a toothbrush, consider these specialized designs for added effectiveness.  A round brush head tends to brush more effectively than a rectangle.

Choosing between a mechanical or electric toothbrush and determining the right bristle type are fundamental steps in establishing an effective oral hygiene routine. Both types of toothbrushes can be effective when used properly, so select the one that best matches your lifestyle and preferences. If choosing an electric toothbrush consider finding one with a pressure sensor to avoid gum recession. Remember, regardless of the toothbrush you use, it’s essential to maintain proper brushing techniques, brush at least twice a day, and visit your dentist regularly for optimal oral health. A bright smile and healthy teeth await you—we hope this helps you make the right choice for your brushing journey!

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about a condition that is often overlooked—but potentially life-threatening. Oral cancer affects thousands of people every year, yet with early detection and proper care, the chances of successful treatment increase significantly.

What Is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer refers to cancer that develops in the tissues of the mouth or throat. It can occur on the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat). Like other cancers, it occurs when cells mutate and grow uncontrollably.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is crucial, so being aware of the signs can make all the difference. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

• Persistent mouth sores that don’t heal
• Red or white patches inside the mouth
• A lump or thickening in the cheek
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaw or tongue
• Chronic sore throat or voice changes
• Numbness in the tongue or other areas of the mouth
• Swelling in the jaw or neck
• Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional or your dentist immediately.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop oral cancer, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood:

• Tobacco use (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• HPV (human papillomavirus) infection
• Prolonged sun exposure (especially to the lips)
• A weakened immune system
• Family history of cancer
• Age (more common in people over 40)

How Is Oral Cancer Diagnosed?

Your dentist plays a key role in early detection. During regular dental checkups, dentists perform oral cancer screenings by examining the mouth, tongue, and throat for any irregularities. If something suspicious is found, a biopsy or further testing may be recommended.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type, location, and stage of the cancer, and may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted drug therapy
• Rehabilitation, including speech therapy or reconstructive surgery

Early-stage oral cancers have a much higher survival rate, which is why prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Prevention Tips

While not all oral cancers can be prevented, you can lower your risk by following these tips:

• Avoid tobacco in all forms
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Practice safe sex to reduce HPV risk
• Eat a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet
• Wear SPF lip balm for sun protection
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and screenings

Final Thoughts

Oral cancer is serious—but it’s also highly treatable when caught early. Awareness, education, and routine dental visits are your best defense. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, consider scheduling an oral cancer screening today. Your health—and your smile—are worth it.

When it comes to dental health, sugar often finds itself at the center of the discussion. While we all love sweet treats, understanding how sugar impacts our teeth is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between sugar and dental health and how sugar affects your teeth.  We will explore how it contributes to tooth decay, and share some tips on how to protect your pearly whites.

The Science Behind Sugar and Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities, is a common problem caused by the interaction of sugars with the bacteria in our mouths. Here’s how the process unfolds:

• Bacteria Formation: Our mouths are home to numerous types of bacteria, some of which thrive on sugars. When we consume sugary foods and drinks, these bacteria feed on the sugars and produce acids as a byproduct.
• Acid Attack: The acids produced by these bacteria start to attack the enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of our teeth. Each time we eat or drink something sugary, our teeth are subjected to this acid attack for about 20 minutes or more.
• Demineralization: If the acid attacks persist and exceed the natural remineralization processes of our saliva, the enamel begins to demineralize, leading to the formation of cavities.
• Cavity Development: If left untreated, the cavity can expand deeper into the tooth, affecting not only the enamel but also the dentin and pulp, potentially causing pain and requiring dental intervention.

The Culprits: Where We Find Sugar

Sugar is not just found in obvious treats like candy and cookies; it lurks in many unexpected places. Here are some common sources of sugar:

• Sugary Beverages: Sodas, sweetened teas, and fruit juices are often high in sugars that contribute to tooth decay.
• Processed Foods: Many processed foods, including bread, pasta sauces, and salad dressings, contain hidden sugars.
• Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates break down into sugars and can be a hidden source of an acid attack. Check out this study for more information: The Impact of Carbohydrate Quality on Dental Plaque pH

How to Protect Your Teeth

While sugar is a significant factor in tooth decay, there are steps you can take to protect your teeth:

• Limit Sugar Intake: Be mindful of how much sugar you consume daily. Opt for whole foods and healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yogurt instead of sugary treats.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help wash away food particles and sugars, reducing the amount of time that sugar stays in contact with your teeth.
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss. Regular brushing removes plaque that can lead to decay.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist for professional cleanings and early detection of potential issues.
• Limit the Time Consuming Sugary Treats/Drinks: Try to drink/eat sugary treats at one sitting. Limit the amount of time the sugar is in your mouth to 10-15 minutes.  Avoiding snacking on sugary items will help reduce the amount of time the bacteria has to feed off the sugar.
• Use a Straw: When drinking sugary beverages, use a straw to minimize the contact between the drink and your teeth.
• Chew Sugar-Free Gum: After meals, consider chewing sugar-free gum. This can stimulate saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids.

For more information on what cavities are and how they form check out our previous blog: What are Cavities and How to Prevent Them.

While sugar might make our favorite treats irresistible, it’s essential to recognize its impact on our dental health. By making informed choices and practicing good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the occasional sweet treat without compromising your smile. Remember, a healthy mouth not only contributes to a beautiful smile but also plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Stay vigilant, and give your teeth the care they deserve!

As parents, witnessing the growth of our children can be both exciting and sometimes a little nerve-wracking. One of those significant milestones is when baby teeth start to become loose and eventually fall out, making way for adult teeth. But when it comes to handling loose baby teeth, many parents wonder: Is it okay to wiggle and pull loose baby teeth out? Let’s delve into this question and explore the best practices surrounding this important rite of passage.

The Natural Process of Losing Baby Teeth

Children typically begin losing their baby teeth around the age of six. This process can last for several years, with children losing up to 20 baby teeth by the time they reach their early teens. It’s a natural transition, and most children will experience wiggly teeth during this phase.

To Wiggle or Not to Wiggle?

Many parents are faced with the dilemma of whether to encourage their children to wiggle their loose teeth or if it’s better to leave them alone. Here are some factors to consider:

Encouragement vs. Pressure**  Wiggling is encouraged as a way to help children understand the natural process of losing teeth. It can be a fun and engaging way to help them reduce any anxiety about the tooth falling out. However, it’s essential to avoid putting pressure on them. Allow your child to decide how much they want to wiggle their teeth.

Assessing Looseness**  If a baby tooth is only slightly loose and your child isn’t feeling any discomfort, it’s generally safe for them to wiggle it. If, however, the tooth is still firmly in place or if it causes pain, it’s best to leave it alone. Encourage patience and let nature take its course.

Gentle Pulling**  If a tooth is extremely loose, some parents might consider gently pulling it out. If you do choose to go this route, here are a few guidelines:

• Hygiene: Ensure that hands are clean before touching the tooth. After all, proper oral hygiene is crucial, even at this stage.
• Pain Check: Ask your child if they experience any pain. If pulling out the tooth seems to cause discomfort, it’s best to leave it in place.
• Smooth Movement: If your child is ready to have the tooth removed, make sure to grasp the tooth gently and wiggle it alongside a firm pull. Avoid forcing it out.

Visit the Dentist**  If there’s ever a doubt or concern about a loose tooth, it’s a good idea to consult your child’s dentist. They can provide guidance and ensure that everything is progressing normally.

The Emotional Aspect

For many children, losing teeth can be a bittersweet experience. While they might be excited about the arrival of the Tooth Fairy, they could also feel nervous about the process. Here, your role as a parent is crucial. Reassure your child that it’s a normal part of growing up. Share fun stories or experiences about your own lost teeth to make the process less intimidating.

To answer the question of “is it okay to wiggle and pull loose baby teeth?”, yes it is perfectly fine for children to wiggle loose baby teeth as long as they are gentle and comfortable. You can encourage them to explore their loose teeth, making it a fun and normal part of their childhood. Gently pulling out a tooth can also be okay if you follow precautions and ensure your child’s comfort. Ultimately, maintaining open communication with your child and staying attuned to their comfort levels is key.

As parents, watching our little ones grow can be a joy. Losing teeth is just one of the steps on their journey to adulthood, and with your loving guidance, it can be a memorable experience for both you and your child!  For more insights on improving the oral health of your child check out another one of our blog Healthy Teeth, Healthy Kids.

As the calendar flips to a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the past and set goals for the future. While many people focus on fitness and financial resolutions, it’s crucial not to overlook your oral health. After all, a bright smile can boost your confidence and overall well-being! Let’s explore some New Year’s resolutions that can help you improve your oral health throughout the year.

1. Commit to a Consistent Dental Care Routine

One of the simplest yet most effective resolutions is to establish a consistent dental care routine. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes and floss daily. This regularity removes plaque and prevents cavities and gum disease. Consider setting a timer or using an app to remind you to stick to your brushing schedule.

2. Choose the Right Tools

Invest in a high-quality toothbrush (manual or electric) and fluoride toothpaste. If you have concerns like sensitivity, enamel erosion, or gum disease, consult with your dentist about specific products that can suit your needs. And don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.  This electric toothbrush is a great value to improve your oral health.

3. Eat for Dental Health

This year, make a resolution to improve your diet for better oral health. Limit sugary snacks and beverages, which can lead to tooth decay. Instead, opt for tooth-friendly foods like crunchy fruits and vegetables, cheese and nuts. The vitamins and minerals in these foods will not only benefit your overall health but also contribute to strong teeth and gums.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health and aids in oral hygiene. Water helps wash away food particles, reduces acidity in the mouth, and encourages saliva production, which is crucial for neutralizing harmful bacteria. Make it a point to carry a water bottle with you throughout the day!

5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol

If you smoke or use tobacco products, consider quitting this year. Smoking is linked to gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. Additionally, limit your alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking can lead to dental problems. Seek support through cessation programs or professional counseling to help you achieve a tobacco-free lifestyle.

6. Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups

Many people neglect routine dental visits, often due to busy schedules or dental anxiety. Make it a goal to schedule regular check-ups, ideally every six months. Professional cleanings and exams are vital for catching issues early such as gum disease and cavities. This prevents serious problems down the line, and ensures your smile stays healthy and bright.

7. Educate Yourself About Oral Health

Knowledge is power! Dedicate time each month to learn more about oral health. Read articles, watch videos, or even attend workshops related to dental care. The more you understand about good oral hygiene practices and the importance of oral health, the more motivated you will feel to take care of your teeth.  Finding a dentist and dental hygienist that educates you and allows you to ask questions about your oral health is important.

8. Be Mindful of Stress

Stress can lead to anxiety-driven habits such as teeth grinding or jaw clenching, impacting your oral health. This year, resolve to adopt stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, yoga or simple breathing exercises. Keeping your stress levels in check will help you maintain not only better mental health but also a healthier smile.

9. Set Up an Oral Health Tracker

Turn your intentions into tangible goals by creating an oral health tracker. Write down your daily dental care habits, dietary choices and dental visit experiences. Tracking your progress can motivate you to stick with your resolutions and celebrate your achievements.

10. Promote Oral Health for Your Family

If you have kids, encourage them to develop good habits early. Teach them the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Engage in fun activities related to dental care. For instance, you could create a family challenge to see who can brush their teeth consistently for the longest period or learn more about dental health together.

A Healthy Start for a Bright Future

As you embark on this new year, remember that your oral health is a vital aspect of your overall wellness. By incorporating these resolutions into your daily life, you’ll not only enhance your smile but also pave the way for a healthier future. Embrace the possibilities of the new year and make 2024 the year your oral health shines!

Here’s to a bright, healthy smile in the year ahead! 🦷✨

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time for fresh starts – and your smile deserves one too! January is all about building healthy habits, and oral health is a great place to begin. A healthy mouth supports your overall wellness and helps prevent problems before they start. Here are some simple, dental tips to kick off the year with a healthier smile.

Refresh Your Daily Oral Care Routine

If your brushing or flossing habits slipped during the busy holiday season, now is the time to reset.

• Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Consider adding a fluoride mouth rinse for extra protection

Pro tip: January is a great time to replace your toothbrush or electric brush head if it’s more than 3 months old.

Schedule Your Dental Checkup

New year, new calendar – perfect timing to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning. Regular visits allow us to:

• Catch cavities early
• Monitor gum health
• Screen for oral cancer
• Keep your smile clean and bright

Many dental insurance plans reset in January, making it an ideal time to use your benefits.

Set Dental Resolutions You Can Keep

Instead of big, overwhelming goals, try simple dental resolutions that are easy to stick with:

• Floss at least once a day
• Drink more water and fewer sugary beverages
• Wear your nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth
• Quit tobacco use or take steps toward quitting

Small changes can make a big difference over the year.

Watch Out for Hidden Sugar

Holiday treats may be over, but sugar still sneaks into everyday foods like flavored coffee drinks, sports drinks, and snacks. Excess sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria and increases your risk of tooth decay.

Choose tooth-friendly options like:

• Water or unsweetened tea
• Cheese, nuts, and crunchy vegetables
• Sugar-free gum with xylitol

Remember: Oral Health = Overall Health

Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Gum disease has been associated with conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation. Taking care of your teeth and gums helps protect more than just your smile.

Start the Year Smiling

January is the perfect time to invest in your oral health. Whether it’s improving daily habits or coming in for a checkup, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Here’s to a healthy, confident smile all year long – happy New Year! 🦷✨

Halloween is quickly approaching and you may be wondering if there is a way to eat candy and still keep your mouth healthy.  According to The Economics Times, the average American consumes 3.4 pounds of candy on Halloween.  That’s a lot of sugar!  This year don’t trick or treat without reading about the best and worst candy for your mouth.

The Bad Treats

Sticky

Sticky candies get stuck in the little grooves in teeth.  These types of candies are harder to remove since the grooves of the teeth are very fine.  Also since they stick to the teeth they stay in the mouth long after the treat is swallowed.  This allows more time for the cavity causing bacteria in your mouth to feed on the sugar.

Hard

Chewing on hard candies can crack your teeth.  Just like sticky candies, sucking on hard candies allows more time for the sugar to hang around your mouth.

Sour Candy

Sour candies tend to contain acidic ingredients.  Too much acid in your mouth can lead to enamel demineralizing or eroding of the enamel.  Also the cavity causing bacteria in your mouth thrive in acidic conditions.

The Good Treats

Xylitol

Xylitol is a type of sugar that the bacteria in your mouth cannot digest.  Chewing on xylitol gum can help stimulate your saliva glands as well as help pick up any sticky pieces of candy or food from the crevices in your molars.

Nuts

Finding candy with nuts can break up the amount of sugar you are eating.  These types of candies also tend to be less sticky and less sugary than the sticky, hard types.  Remember to avoid these though if you have a nut allergy or wear braces.

Dark Chocolate

When sorting through the Halloween candy this year, try to choose dark chocolate over the sticky, hard, sour candies.  Although chocolate does have sugar in it, the consistency of it tends to not last as long in your teeth or get stuck as much in the teeth’s grooves.

Dark chocolate is a great option due to having less sugar and containing polyphenols that help decrease the cavity causing bacteria in your mouth.

The Tricks

If you are eating candy, try eating it with a meal.  Also try to limit snacking on candy throughout the day and opt for eating it in one sitting.

Also, wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating anything sugary or acidic.  This is because the acid produced by the sugar eating bacteria can start softening your enamel, the hard outer layer of your tooth.  Waiting 30 minutes allows the enamel to harden back and lessens any damage done by brushing.

Instead try drinking a lot of water to get rid of the acid and chew on sugar free gum that is sweetened with xylitol.

If you are more interested in learning about healthier foods check out our previousblog on foods that are good for your mouth.  We hope these best and worst candy list will help make figuring out which treats to eat a lot easier!

Summer is upon us and in the midst of vacations and different schedules dental care is sometimes last on our mind.  We have 5 dental tips for the summer to ensure that your oral health is on track!

Drink Plenty of Water

This may seem like a no brainer but dehydration is common during these hot months.  Dehydration can lead to dry mouth.  Not having enough saliva in your mouth increases your chances of getting a cavity.  For more information about the effects of dry mouth check out the American Dental Association’s website.

Limit Sugary Drinks and Foods

Nothing beats an ice cream cone or popsicle on a hot summer day but make sure to limit sugary or acidic treats.  If eating something sugary try drinking water afterwards to rinse off the sugar.  After eating or drinking anything acidic wait 30 minutes before brushing so that you don’t brush off the weakened enamel. Drinking water, brushing and flossing after a sugary meal decreases chances of developing cavities.

Stick with Your Routine

Another dental summer tip is sticking to your routine. Vacations often disrupt normal day to day routines.  Make sure that you keep your and your children’s oral health routines. This includes brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing regularly and visiting your dentist routinely.

Protect Your Lips

Part of your oral health is taking care of your lips.  Too much sun exposure can increase your chances of skin cancer.  Decrease your chances of developing skin cancer with the use of a lip balm with sunscreen, avoid the sun and visit your dentist routinely for an oral cancer screening.

Make Your Back to School Appointment

With the busy end to the summer and getting prepared for the beginning of the school year it can be easy to overlook the kids six month check ups.  Be sure to schedule your child’s appointment early to ensure the kids have a clean bill of oral health for the school year.

Follow these dental tips to make sure your mouth remains healthy over the summer!

TMJ disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat. To make it even more difficult the symptoms can fluctuate depending on levels of stress.  If left untreated the over use of the jaw can lead to severe headaches, worn down teeth, fractured teeth, jaw pain and even lockjaw.  Although some patients may find relief with treatment for TMD pain with common devices like an occlusal guard, there are other procedures for those that don’t.

What is TMJ?

TMJ is short for the temporomandibular joint.  This joint acts like a hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. The TMJ and your muscles work together to open and close the mouth.  TMD is short for temporomandibular joint disorders.  This term is used when there is dysfunction in the joint and often stress is a major factor in this disorder.

What are signs of TMD?

• Jaw or muscle pain
• Popping or clicking of the jaw while opening/closing
• Headaches
• Limited opening of the mouth
• Lockjaw
• Earaches/ringing in the airs
• Neck and shoulder pain

The first line in treating TMD pain is typically with an oral appliance like an occlusal guard or splint that prevents wear on your teeth and forces your jaw into a relaxed position.  Sometimes though this may not be enough to lessen the symptoms, especially if you cannot control your clenching during the day.  This is when a neurotoxin such as Botox® and Xeomin® may provide some relief.

What are the common side effects?

Common side effects are usually at the injection site and typically go away within a week.  These side effects can include:

• pain
• bruising
• headache
• redness
• swelling
• muscle weakness

More severe side effects are rare but can include:

• flu like symptoms
• an uneven smile or frozen smile
• temporary eyelid droop
• nausea
• respiratory infection

Normal functions such as drinking, biting, eating, swallowing are left unaffected.

Dr. Dhaliwal is certified in the treatment of Botox/Xeomin® for TMD.  To see if this is a treatment that may help you givecall for a consultation.

Sources

Pihut, M., Ferendiuk, E., Szewczyk, M. et al. “The efficiency of botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of masseter muscle pain in patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction and tension-type headache”. J Headache Pain 17, 29 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-016-0621-1

Siphai Calis, A., Colakoglu, Z., Gunbay, S. “The use of botulinum toxin-a in the treatment of muscular temporomandibular joint disorders”. Journal of Stomatology, Oral and Maxiofacial Surgery, 120, 4 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jormas.2019.02.015