Dentistry is a branch of medicine that focuses not just on the teeth, but on the whole oral cavity including the tongue, salivary glands, jaw, and neck. Dentists also work hand-in-hand with other medical professionals as some oral issues are linked to more serious disorders.
Do you practice good techniques when you brush your teeth? You should be gently brushing, using back-and-forth motions while holding your brush at a slight angle. Aim the bristles on your toothbrush toward the area where your teeth meet the gums, and don't forget your tongue!
While the dental hygienists working in some dental offices still use metal tools for cleaning teeth, the 21st century has brought change. Now, ultrasound and even lasers can be used for this process.
If you are using one toothbrush container to store toothbrushes for multiple people in your home, it is important that the toothbrush container is set up to keep the toothbrushes separate from each other.
When signing up for health insurance, have them include dental insurance to cover you and your family. Every policy, no matter its costs, covers periodic visits, examinations, and cleanings.
Regular, daily flossing of your teeth is the best way in which to prevent gum disease. Be sure to floss at least once every day and remember to brush at least twice a day. Incorporate a mouth rinse into your oral regimen for a cleaner, healthier mouth and a younger-looking smile.
It is important to make sure that a toothbrush is stored properly while it is not in use. A closed container is not recommended because it does not allow the toothbrush to dry.
Sugar damages teeth because it feeds bacteria (those germs have to eat something) which, in turn creates an acid that eats tooth enamel. Candy is not the only source of sugar; some dried fruits, like raisins, contain a higher percentage of sugar than drugstore candy.
Bad breath is very common, but most people tend to ignore and dismiss it as nothing too serious that would require immediate treatment. Dentists can diagnose halitosis or bad breath and see if they’re linked to underlying ailments and diseases.
Should a toothbrush always be replaced after a bout of cold or flu? Not necessarily. If the toothbrush is more than 3 months old than it should be replaced. However, a new toothbrush can be sterilized with boiling water or a run through the dishwasher.
While studying to become a dentist, taking business and business-related courses is also recommended if you plan to run your own dental office.
Take your time while flossing your teeth not only to ensure that you are removing all of the food items but also to help ensure that you do not damage your gums.
Do you brush your tongue? One major cause of bad breath is bacteria buildup on the tongue. Removing plaque with a tongue scraper or even simply just brushing it with your toothbrush will help fight bad breath. Do this daily for maximum care.
There was a time when it was believed kissing a donkey was a sure cure for an aching tooth. However, we prefer to use a more modern approach to dealing with this type of dental problem.
Take the time to brush your teeth properly. It is not something that should be rushed. Generally, it is recommended that you spend approximately two minutes brushing your entire mouth.
Are you worried about getting to sleep the night before a dental appointment? There are sedations that can be prescribed to relieve anxiety and help you get to sleep. Your dentist will let you know if it’s safe to drive to your appointment or if you should get a ride.
Intrinsic discoloration occurs below the surface of the teeth, and can be caused by a childhood illness, medications, aging, tooth trauma, or infection. Whitening for intrinsic discoloration requires professional assistance.
You might be surprised to know that tooth decay, also known as cavities, is the second most common disease in the United States. The common cold is the first.
When a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it causes all sorts of problems. Aside from significant pain, there is also the possibility of infection, swollen and/or bleeding gums, and bad breath. As such, surgical removal of the tooth is the only solution.
If your face bled whenever you washed it, you'd call the doctor, right? The same goes for your gums. If they bleed when you brush, you need to make an appointment to find out why.
Bruxism (teeth grinding) is a common disorder that affects both young and old, and it can lead to or aggravate TMJ symptoms. Up to 33% of children grind their teeth while they sleep and roughly 25% of adults do so as well.
The first time you meet someone, you notice each others' eyes first, followed by the teeth and then the hair. While there's not much that we can do for your eyes, we can make sure your teeth and smile are attractive and memorable.
